Verdict
C
BHP
178 bhp
0–60
7.4 s
Top speed
144 mph
MPG
27 mpg (US)
Used
$600-$3,800
Strengths
- Original premium hatch
- 1.8T quattro is properly hot
- Build quality
Weaknesses
- Cabin shows its age
- Small interior
- Mk4 Golf cousin issues
Notable tech
- First premium hatchback
- Quattro option on hatchback
- PQ34 platform shared with Mk4 Golf
- 3-door only until 1999
Common issues
- Coil pack failures on 1.8T
- Airbag warning lights
- Rust around rear arches
Engine derivatives
US-spec trims and engines offered across 8L's life. Click any two rows to compare them side-by-side.
1.6 SR petrol
BHP100
Torque145 Nm
0–6011.6 s
Top116 mph
MPG (US)32 mpg
DriveFWD
Gearbox5MT
1.8 petrol
BHP125
Torque170 Nm
0–6010.4 s
Top120 mph
MPG (US)30 mpg
DriveFWD
Gearbox5MT
1.8T 150 petrol
BHP150
Torque210 Nm
0–608.6 s
Top134 mph
MPG (US)31 mpg
DriveFWD
Gearbox5MT
1.8T 180 quattro
BHP178
Torque235 Nm
0–607.4 s
Top144 mph
MPG (US)27 mpg
DriveAWD
Gearbox6MT
1.9 TDI 90 diesel
BHP90
Torque210 Nm
0–6013.5 s
Top109 mph
MPG (US)44 mpg
DriveFWD
Gearbox5MT
1.9 TDI 100 diesel
BHP100
Torque240 Nm
0–6011.5 s
Top117 mph
MPG (US)47 mpg
DriveFWD
Gearbox5MT
1.9 TDI 110 diesel
BHP110
Torque235 Nm
0–6011.0 s
Top121 mph
MPG (US)44 mpg
DriveFWD
Gearbox5MT
1.9 TDI 130 diesel
BHP130
Torque310 Nm
0–609.6 s
Top130 mph
MPG (US)46 mpg
DriveFWD
Gearbox6MT