The similarities cease faster than the GTI during emergency braking when one considers their respective MSRPs. Porsche posts the Panamera’s entry point at $88,000. A turbocharged version is pegged at a whopping $155,000.

Pricing like that makes the turbocharged DSG-equipped GTI a steal with an opening bid of $29,875 for the 5-door model. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com)

Pricing like that makes the turbocharged DSG-equipped GTI a steal with an opening bid of $29,875 for the 5-door model (even less for the 3-door version). Add every available option package and the GTI’s still well below $40K at $37,455.

So in short, yes, the GTI could certainly serve as the poor person’s Panamera. I say that tongue-in-cheek of course; the two vehicles are world’s apart—or are they? Perhaps the VW GTI is the frugal, sensible, enlightened person’s Panamera.

I certainly enjoyed my time behind the GTI’s wheel, and it seems my wife did as well. I also enjoyed the vehicle’s impressive fuel economy, which is rated at 8.7L and 6.3L/100km city and highway driving respectively. Another point to VW; I doubt the Porsche is anywhere near that stingy with fuel. Unfortunately though, both vehicles prefer premium juice.