Building on the success of the first two generations of Golf, Volkswagen released the updated Mk3 Golf to the United States for the 1993 model year. This version of the car ran through 1998 and provided drivers with a fun, practical and understated compact hatchback with European refinement.

The new Golf was slightly larger, a bit more aerodynamic, and delivered more power as it aimed at a wider audience in the crowded compact market. It did this while not losing any of its traditional enthusiast appeal. Standard cars built for the U.S. market were powered by a 2.0-liter SOHC four-cylinder engine that made 115 horsepower and the engine could be paired with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. Buyers could opt for either two or four doors. MSRP initially ranged from $10,560 to $11,600 depending on body choice.

For enthusiasts, Volkswagen made its famous GTI hot hatch even hotter when it introduced the V-6 powered GTI VR6 in 1995. The car’s narrow-angle 2.8-liter six-cylinder churned out 172 horsepower and a distinctive engine note. Zero-to-60 sprints were completed in 6.7 seconds, which isn’t fast by today’s standard but stood out at the time. Special editions included the 1995 City, the K2 and Trek Editions, the Wolfsburg Edition, and the multi-colored 1996 Harlequin, of which 264 were made.

By the time production ended in 1998, the Volkswagen Golf Mk3 had helped modernize the model without losing the qualities that made it a worldwide favorite.