The shift throw on the stock GTI is a bit too long for most people's taste. Fortunately, there's a few ways to cure this.

I chose the Audi TT short shifter for the following reasons:

(1) It looks stock

(2) Approx 20% throw reduction

(3) It costs $30

The throw is noticably shorter, but it's not dramatic. For $30, I think it's a good deal. If you need a shorter throw, check out the DieselGeek short shift kit. It's got excellent reviews and promises a greater throw reduction, as well as an available side-to-side movement reduction feature. This kit is available from DieselGeek for about $125.

The Audi TT part is an OEM part, so it is available from your local parts counter or from VWParts.com online. The part number for 2002+ GTI is 8N0711051A. Make sure there is an 'A' on the end. Two write-ups on the installation procedure can be found here and here.