2018 Volkswagen GTI SE MK7.5 | Full Review

Here is a full review of the revised 2018 Volkswagen GTI SE MK7.5 with the DSG transmission. Here we go over the interior, exterior, performance specs and also I take the GTI out on the road to give you my first impressions! Special shoutout to Cherryhill Volkswagen for allowing me to provide this review to you guys!! If you like this video, please give this video a thumbs up and also Like, Share & Subscribe to JR14!!
Cherryhill Volkswagen 2018 GTI Current Inventory: www.cherryhill...
Cherryhill Volkswagen Located at:
2261 Route 70 West
Cherryhill, NJ 08002

[@Mk5forLife]

I love my tornado red 7.5 and this is my 1st vw ever,coming from a 2015 si,trust me when i say : I don't miss sheet from that car. I think this is the right generation to start on the GTI game.I got the SE and is so much for 28k,is way more than what i was expecting.Add a ECU piggyback for 450 bucks and boom....almost 300hp and over 305tq while keeping my 6 year warranty. (Car is FULLY STOCK)NO HARDWARE that is.

[@stephenhendricks103]

I've been driving for many, many years. In all that time I always had at least one manual transmission car in my garage until 2013 when I purchased a GTI with a DSG. After reading many comments from those who decry having anything other than an MT, I've concluded that almost none of those folks has ever driven a VW with a dual clutch transmission. First some indisputable facts. A DSG equipped GTI (or a Golf R) is significantly quicker than one with an MT. 0-60 is at least a half second or more quicker than an MT equipped version despite the weight penalty of the DSG. Second, if one tunes a GTI (or a Golf R), a DSG equipped version doesn't require periodic clutch replacements. How frequently those replacements are required depends on one's driving style and skill but what's not up for debate is that the DSG can handle a tuned GTI while a tuned GTI with an MT requires regular clutch replacements. But doesn't a DSG reduce driver "involvement" and ruin the driving "experience?" Those who make that claim apparently don't understand that a DSG can be driven in manual mode with all the requirements for shifts that an MT calls for. A selected gear is held all the way to red line. Manual upshifts and downshifts are virtually instantaneous, accomplished either with paddle shifters or the shift lever. To be fair, though, there is one "thrill" that's missing with the DSG; manual shifting to first gear or neutral when coming to a stop to avoid stalling the engine. If it's a big deal that the DSG does that automatically, I suppose an MT is preferable. Frankly, I've come to suspect that those who believe a DSG is an inferior transmission choice are more concerned with bolstering their masculine self-image than any actual advantage of a manual transmission. I'm old enough to remember when power power assisted steering and brakes were extra cost options and there were complaints in those days that "real men" didn't need those features. Deja vu all over again.

[@myjeanification]

Your correct sir...I'm a fan of manuals and have owned two Beetles both with manuals but the GTI is the one car I want an automatic in. It's faster and never boring like people seem to think.

[@riorompero1314]

Stephen Hendricks With a manual transmission you get the added driver engagement of a gear shifter and clutch pedal. Also they are cheaper because of most drivers buying the DSG. I got a hell of a deal on my mk7.5 gti with a manual transmission

[@stephenhendricks103]

@@riorompero1314 I hear a lot about "added driver engagement" with a manual transmission. But in fact the only additional "engagement" is that of my left foot. The DSG in manual mode enables use of the paddles or floor shifter just as with an MT. As noted above, the only "engagement" I'm denied is using my left foot when shifting to first gear while approaching a stop since the DSG does that automatically when the speed drops to about 3 mph. If that's a "thrill" you crave, I can understand a preference for a manual transmission. It's true, of course, that a manual transmission is a less expensive option both to purchase and to maintain. In return for that cost, however, one has benefit of significantly better performance in aggressive driving and a much more relaxing driving experience in stop and go traffic where the additional "engagement" of a manual transmission is hardly a thrilling experience. For me, the extra cost is well worth the price. YMMV .

[@_driver_]

Go to hell! 😂

[@richardmyles8237]

I bought the 2019 gti rabbit...and it is way better than my bmw 335 i. The GTI is handsome...balanced...and a great interior. I love VW brand.

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

This guy gives a great review. Two thumbs up!

[@JR14Channel]

Thank you very much! I appreciate the support man! Don't worry more reviews coming up very soon!

[@stephenhendricks103]

I can't compare the MK7.5 to the 7.0 version but I traded a 2013 MK6 GTI Autobahn/DSG (the last version built in Germany) for the same Autobahn 7.5 version (built in Mexico) in May of this year. Thought some might be interested in my impressions of each. Build Quality. Much improved compared to MK6. Significantly tighter, better suspension, altogether a more premium car. I put this down to the use of the MQB platform in the MK 7.x versions. Performance. Also significantly improved compared to the stock MK6. The MK6, however, had a Stage 1+ APR tune that significantly improved its performance. I haven't had the MK7.5 tuned but in stock form it's close to the MK6 tuned version. The R brakes in the 7.5 version are a significant improvement. Likewise the suspension is significantly better with the electronic LSD and customizable driving modes. Amenities. Much improved infotainment and larger screen in the MK67.5. Larger sunroof, as well. The MK6 had an opaque cover for the sunroof; the MK7.5 has a mesh cover. Some prefer the older design; I live in Seattle and appreciate the additional light in an otherwise dark cabin. Apple Carplay/Android Auto, nuff said. Safety/Convenience. Much improved with blind spot monitoring, rear camera, better and automatic headlights, and radar adaptive cruise control. Always thought the last was unimportant. Now I love it. Automatic dual zone climate control, another plus. Warranty coverage. The 6 year/72K warranty on the 2018 model is much better than the 3 yr/36,000 mile version on the MK6. On the other hand, I received free maintenance for the warranty period on the 2013 model. That wasn't available for the new GTI. I loved my 2013 GTI. The 2018 version has just about everything I loved about the previous car with some significant improvements.

[@andrewdisanto7305]

Coming from another mk6 own, I agree 100%. I love my 18 SE. Its an amazing car, and that lsd and brakes are fantastic. My only complaint is it seems to ride a little softer even in sport mode. I'm looking at springs to stiffen it up a bit. I can't wait to see what this car can do with a tune and some mods. I agree its almost as quick as my tuned mk6 was.

[@jasont42]

I’ve had my 2018 MK 7.5 SE in Great Falls Green w/ DSG since September and I’m still loving it ! Love the review. I get a ton of questions about it. I do use the premium fuel in it. I tell people all the time that it’s a whole different experience if you’ve never owned or at least driven one. They really are super practical cars. I’ve taken it down into Orlando, down I-drive and got some good, envious stares. Can’t say enough about this unbelievable machine. Be safe and have fun fellow GTI’ers !

[@heyitsme939]

I’ve got a 2018 dark iron blue GTI in the autobahn trim with the DSG. Love it.

[@lacrosse4higher]

Picking up my 7.5 next week I’m so stoked. First car I get to call my own😁😁

[@JR14Channel]

Congratulations! You are going to have a blast!!!

[@lacrosse4higher]

@@JR14Channel 4 days into owning it and yeah it’s amazing

[@koston777]

Another good thing about mk7/mk7.5 GTI is that it is very tune friendly. Nothing with just a tune it will make it another 50hp safely.

[@shaynesilvey7844]

3 Models for the 7.5 (great review, just correcting the beginning where you mentioned all "3" levels have the big brakes, lsd, and lights) S/Base: no "big" Golf R brakes, no LSD, no front led package SE: has R brakes, LSD, Lighting package + BSM, Sunroof, Leather, and bigger Media Screen Autobahn: SE Package+Driver Assistance ... Self park, adaptive cruise...

[@ER_aka_RAM]

Thanx for the thorough review! I just put down a deposit on an ‘18 SE, which has the leather upholstery (whereas I was contemplating an S trim with the Clark Cloth) ... stoked! 🤙🏽

[@JR14Channel]

Dude congratulations on your purchase on your GTI!!!!! You will definitely enjoy it trust me! And check out my Project MK7 build series if you are interested in modding your MK7.5

[@danielunverzagt6072]

@@JR14Channel I just got a 2018 GTI 7.5 SE with the clark cloth and a 6 speed manual. A reincarnation of my mk2 from college.........SO EXCITED

[@JohnnyBitcoin]

I got this exact car black 2018 se. have a tune and Michelins pilot sport S tires and black rims. It is beautiful and fast.

[@alanholmes2366]

I'm pretty sure I could go stage 1 APR tune and be in love. Only thing is with the new warranty being so long I would probably have to leave it alone until 70k...lol Great cars!

[@eppyz]

Wanted an SE mainly for the headlights but decided on an S for these reasons. 1. Plaid seats, to me? A GTI isn't a GTI without the Plaid😎 2. No Sunroof. We all know VW has issues with the plastic rails on these panoramic sun roofs which may lead to cracking and leaking 3. Price. Everyone pays a different price for their car but the only thing i really would want in an SE is the headlights so i can't justify the price especially with the above mentioned. Not to mention from a performance perspective the S is also the lightest. Some may argue this but i know people who spend thousands to shave off a tenth of a second here and there but having a lighter car usually equates to a faster car. Happy with my S and will source some aftermarket headlights when they are available. 👍

[@tippylosojos]

I had plaid in my mk 7 and now I have leather in my 7.5, I prefer the plaid

[@AlexD02]

Great review! This is the exact car I want to get in the near future. I’m tired of my manual MK4 that’s nearing 290,000 miles. Once I graduate college next semester, and start working, this will probably be one of my first investments. I have a decent credit score >750, so hopefully I can grab a deal before it’s too late. Thumbs up on the video. Some things that you said did get a little repetitive, but I enjoyed it either way.

[@JR14Channel]

Yes you will not be disappointed!!!

[@riorompero1314]

Alexander De La Cruz You can get a “new graduate” discount and a “first time buyer” discount. Save at least 1000 dollars

[@dylann8]

Well, did you end up getting one?

[@scotty88lp]

Just got a 2018 GTI s trim ....I might be a vw lifer!

[@richardmyles8237]

me too...i have gti 2019...vw for life

[@redouanedct1127]

And how come you guys don't have an active display?

[@JR14Channel]

US MK7.5 don't have an active display that is only for the MK7.5 Golf R in the United States!

[@stevehastings6802]

We get a better spec in the uk, the performance pack gives u 245ps, 7speed dsg, proper lsd and golf r brakes. Standard we get dynamic led tail lights and a digital dash. I’ve got the dynaudio sound pack too but I’m sure it’s probably the same as the fender.

[@stephenhendricks103]

Steve Hastings: A couple of points. You're correct that 2018 European spec GTI's have the 7 speed DSG and digital dash that are available only on the 2018 Golf R in the US. However, the lsd is available (at least on the Autobahn trim) in the US. Likewise, all US GTI's get the R brakes. I don't think the Dynaudio is the same as the "Fender" (really a Panasonic) but having heard only the Fender, I couldn't say which is a better sound system. US spec GTI's used to have Dynaudio so it may simply be a case of licensing issues for Dynaudio in the US that resulted in the switch. Or it could be that US spec is the result of cost cutting on the GTI. (See below) Finally the "dynamic tail lights" in Europe are the result of a bizarre "safety" regulation in the US that bans most progressive tail lights. As far as HP differences between the US and Europe, that's a complicated issue. It's true there are some internal differences in the E888 engines in the two markets. Euro spec engines, for example, have dual injection while the US has direct injection. It's a result of different emission regulations in Europe versus the US. There may be other differences, as well, but I suspect that much of the HP difference between the US and Europe results from different standard methods of calculating horsepower and/or differences in dynos. In any event, the difference in HP ratings does not seem to result in significant differences in performance. There are also a couple of other differences you didn't mention. 2018 European (and Canadian) spec GTI's have a large range of available colors not available in the US. That difference goes away in the 2019 models when the US has that option, as well. Further, there is a HUGE price difference in GTI's in Europe and the US. At current exchange rates, for example, a 2018 Autobahn edition of the GTI in GB has an MSRP of well over $50,000. Comparable trim in the US is about $37,000. And that explains in large part why the US spec GTI's are less fully configured. VW apparently feels (rightly so) that the GTI's reputation in the US would not support a $50,000 price tag while in Europe the GTI has a stronger reputation as a premium model.

[@brutack5804]

I have the exact same car but, with the leather trim. Also, stage 1 APR tune and DSG tune, the aerofabb lip coming in 2 weeks. I will post pics here once the lip is on.

[@j.a.g.8689]

Why would you buy an auto gti...

[@brutack5804]

@@j.a.g.8689 it's stronger, faster and much more reliable. Go stage 1 and peoples manual clutches have lasted only 2-3 weeks. It's a well known issue. I do love my manuals though.

[@riorompero1314]

Brutack I have the 6 speed autobahn in white silver. It’s a great car. Why would use throw away a 6 year/72000 mile warranty????

[@eval7952]

J.A.G. No more manual , I think .

[@brutack5804]

JR-14 has a video of his manual failing 3 weeks after tuning. I thought the same about my warranty but, APR was installed at the dealership so I kept my warranty intact. I have family that works there too. You can tune your GTI as well with APR+ (plus) and keep your warranty intact through APR. I highly recommend as that turns it into one hell of a fast and fun car!!!

[@WhenzLunch]

Hell yeah 🔥🔥🔥,. Congrats on hitting 8k

[@JR14Channel]

Thank you very much bro I greatly appreciate it. Still climbing up day by day!!!

[@Alan-N]

DSG all the way for me 👍🇬🇧

[@sylverdetective5547]

just got my 2018 SE picking up on 5/1, mine is a 6 speed though (:

[@LuisDaVa1]

Great video, review the new tiguan, new atlas, the new golf R and Arteon

[@JR14Channel]

Oh just wait until next week!!!!

[@Bawla187]

Another great video JR👍🏿

[@JR14Channel]

Thank you man I appreciate all the love and support that you have given me so far!!!

[@Bawla187]

@@JR14Channel dude your one of the reasons I bought my new manual 2017 MK7 SE instead of a used 2015 Infiniti Q50.

[@LEX46UFC36]

so , what is your choice now if you can start again? dsg or manual? (i want to buy a gti) tnx

[@reconbullet5449]

Here in South Africa, the 7.5 comes normal and performance but car play and virtual cluster is optional, but DSG is a standard, also there no handbrake where as it's a button with auto hold

[@pwdt4r313]

My 2019 rabbit edition has red GTI badges front and rear

[@TheJkrmenec]

I love both of my mark 6 manual GTI and my mark 7.5 manual GTI main differences is automatic lights and rear doors on 7.5

[@Alan-N]

No auto hand break in the US ?

[@NoZenith]

No! Winter e- brake turns here for another year or two 🤪

[@Tact-Mack0397]

Sick review !!

[@JR14Channel]

Thank you bro!!!!!!

[@unknown6073]

Just subscribed, saw you on the parkway

[@JR14Channel]

Oh wow which parkway did you see me on???

[@unknown6073]

Don’t remember, it was in the way to ct

[@eklektikTechno]

They actually gave this one the cloth in SE trim must be a 0 dollar option ?

[@JR14Channel]

Yea seems that way I really would have done the cloth seats lol

[@MR-lq4zv]

Killed the SE at 9:00

[@pinalloy6505]

God damn it has been 2 yrs already 🙏

[@HarryTwatter]

best part of the 2018 is the long bumper to bumper warranty

[@JR14Channel]

Yea it a shame that they only had it on 18-19 models

[@Exorcismer]

In norway we still have red gti badges, but we dont get fog lights

[@MR-lq4zv]

You're really close to the steering wheel and your knees are tucked against the dash . How tall are You?

[@JR14Channel]

Oh that’s because I was rushing the review because of the weather and I didn’t take the time to adjust my seat. I’m 5’ 11” and trust me you will have plenty of room

[@maz327]

Great review. I love my 2020 GTI TCR. Definitely wouldn’t recommend a GTI for a new, young driver though. It goes way too fast for an inexperienced driver. 😝

[@_driver_]

I really want one of these. I’m gonna wait till next year though.

[@JR14Channel]

I believe next year the MK8 GTI will be available for the year 2020

[@_driver_]

JR14 do you plan on keeping yours? I

[@robertdavis5714]

Good Job JR

[@eval7952]

Doesn’t the new headlights fit on older models ?

[@JR14Channel]

Nope Volkswagen was very smart about that. The Mk7.5 headlights look the same from a distance but, when you get closer you can see that they are slightly shaped differently at the side fenders and at the top of the front bumper. So in order for you to switch everything successfully you would need MK7.5 side fenders, front bumpers and the new headlights!

[@eval7952]

JR14 Thanks , I just got a 2015 two door, first thing I wanna do is switch the lights. Just don’t know which yet?

[@99SVTBolt]

I have one of those. 😎👍🏼

[@99SVTBolt]

Also, the rear spoiler on the MK7.5 is more aggressive than on the MK7

[@koston777]

99SVTBolt is it? i thought it was same as mk7

[@99SVTBolt]

LeeROBD Park a 7 & 7.5 side by side. You can see the 7.5 angles up more. Aerofab’s rear spoiler only fits the 7 and not 7.5

[@koston777]

99SVTBolt i see i see

[@NoZenith]

I thought it was only different on the rabbit special edition?

[@brianborbon8730]

The future is near

[@JR14Channel]

Lets go you dragging your feet!!!! Join the dark side with the GTI gang!!!!

[@wanabtkd]

Thinking of trading in my fiesta st for this anyone here go canyon carving? How’s the handling?

[@JR14Channel]

I can tell you that the MK7 and the MK7.5 GTI handle very well in stock form. And if you only start upgrading it, it just gets even better!!!!

[@brw9284]

Are you a Sales Rep @ Cherry Hill VW?

[@JR14Channel]

No I was able to review a few of their vehicles for my channel. But if you do need to speak to a sales rep, then I have a buddy that works there name Kyle. Tell him that I sent you!

[@99SVTBolt]

If you want the Fender system on a 7.5 SE, wait for the 2019 model. Had I known this, I would have waited. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@supahotfireOH]

When you have an autobhan 7.5 that doesn't come with fender system because the dealership sucks :)

[@anexpected494]

Just bought a vw gti 2018 autobahn not sure if its mk7 or 7.5 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@perfectlybalanced8995]

You have the 7.5 The 7 was produced from 2015 to 2017 while the 7.5 is produced from 2018 to 2021

[@zaydobaray3056]

Why do people prefer the cloth clark seats instead of the leather seats? Is it more easy to maintain or something else?

[@JR14Channel]

+Zayd Obaray well with the GTI, the cloth seats is extremely durable and they come with this amazing plaid design that from the original MK1 GTI.

[@zaydobaray3056]

@@JR14Channel which 2019 GTI trim models have the cloth option available?

[@JR14Channel]

+Zayd Obaray any trim level under the SE trim

[@lildill3816]

How tall are you?

[@mkviis]

My gti is 2019 and has different taillights. This kinda looks odd tbh

[@vr6gls]

It seems like VW cheapened the interior quite a bit compared to my 2016 GTI. 😢 My 16 SE even has the performance pack and DCC. An SE trim with DCC is a rare bird.

[@JR14Channel]

Same with my 2017. However, for 2018 the GTI SE does have the Driver Assistance Package, the New Full LED Headlights as well as the new LED Taillights all as standard equipment. The reason why I believe that they did this was because for the 2017 model, the SE was the better buy over the Autobahn consisting that the Autobahn only had the navigation, DCC suspension and parking sensors that were the extra features compared to the SE.

[@DavidFernandez-sc5ws]

18:53 This. I have driven a manual like to move my buddies car out of the way or mess around in a parking lot. But never shifted over 3rd and never on the road to get somewhere. This past Monday I drove 150 miles to pick up a Manual 2018 SE GTI and learned all the way back. If you are buying one of these cars. Part of you is a car enthusiast. Do yourself a life favor and get a manual.

[@JR14Channel]

I absolutely agree with this statement!

[@bonifaciomagdiwang1697]

So the 2019 GTI is the MK 8?

[@alj7094]

the 7.5 looks a lil weird... I like my mk7 much better.

[@redouanedct1127]

why aren't the new LED tail lights allowed in the USA? You guys have the most ugly tail lights. And by the way, GTI performance doesn't come with a silver badge in Europe. It's red...

[@JR14Channel]

I believe it has something to do of how the turn signals have to provide a certain amount of light for others to see.

[@JimJamDaMan]

A parent buying their kid a $30K car?!?