2020 Volkswagen Golf GTI - Amazing Hot Hatch from VW

[@853massey]

Love how they still use analog dials on the gauge cluster. #vwlove

[@spinnetti]

Climate control is perfect. 3 knobs always better to me.

[@superwiseman452]

Also, what's great is you can very quickly toggle between S and D transmission modes by simply pulling back on the shifter. You can do this very quickly. S gives you basically faster gears keeping the engine close to the power band.

[@DriversOnly]

Nice tip!

[@patrickorahilly2862]

Bring back the 72K warranty!!!

[@oneofthosecreativetypes24]

The warranty is gone for 2020? I was finally going to buy a GTI....but now I won't. Had a bad BAD experience with VW Passat....(newer, no warranty). Love the GTI....but don't trust VW anymore. :(

[@TheAlienman123]

Most people that buy a gti end up getting a tune for it which ends up voiding the warranty anyways

[@ciscohour5884]

@@oneofthosecreativetypes24 Find a 2019 CPO car. You'll get the remaining 6 yr/ 72k plus another 1 yr 12/k. It's a no brainer over buying a 2020.

[@lethalpenguin61]

@@ciscohour5884 there is one near me for 24k only 9k miles... tempted

[@Bigstevesmb]

I would like the 6 speed manual please.

[@DriversOnly]

Me too :).

[@frankmylar-law1462]

I agree. Need a 6-speed manual!

[@JJH-jc1fg]

fre d I mean the shifts are stupid fast with that DSG, but yeah manual is hella fun

[@GUITARTIME2024]

@@JJH-jc1fg rev hang

[@3653john]

Can’t wait to see the manual reviewed!

[@superwiseman452]

BTW - If you want the full HP, and more noticeably the low end RPM torque, make sure you use 91 fuel. The GTI works fine with 87, but turbo boost is reduced to avoid engine knock, hence the lower torque and HP.

[@boxcpl]

You sure about that. It feels like it is discussed a lot on vwvortex that it isn't the case. But I'm happy to be proven wrong.

[@affinity3281]

@@boxcpl There is almost 0 difference between 91 and 93, but there is a difference between 87 and 91. I run 87 because I have a long ass commute and the savings are worth it to me. I spend $3500 a year on gas. It's definitely not as quick with 87 octane. VW states in the manual 91 is recommended to get the stated hp/tq figures.

[@superwiseman452]

@@boxcpl Yes, I read the VW Vortex article. Spark timing is only part of it. And spark timing doesn't change the HP much. Intuitively, reducing the boost does: less boost = less air = less fuel (air mixture) = less HP.

[@boxcpl]

@@superwiseman452 thank you both for informing me

[@eklektikTechno]

I just purchased a black one S model. I’m an older GenX driver and really appreciate how mature, fun and practical these are. I’m also a Chicago resident and know the area you were in and that is a slightly rough patch before the 55 exit which I’m going to test mines on :)

[@nsbioy]

Needs a manual transmission and plaid seats. I actually like the manual controls in the GTI, having used the same setup for 2 years.

[@DriversOnly]

Why do you like manual controls?

[@nsbioy]

@@DriversOnly I can operate the knobs completely without looking at them and I know how warm or cold the setting is and where the airflow is directed. Totally cool. The only time I look at controls is for a/c switch, heated seats, and defroster. I do like the automatic climate in my Mustang, but do not like it in my '12 CX-9.

[@cdpgbc-mw2kz]

nsbioy. Canadian viewer. i second your opinion on the manual trans, plaid seats and manual controls.

[@chandlerguilfoyle3066]

This is the Autobahn trim not SE. This has a sunroof, the Autobahn wheels, LED lights and the leather seats.

[@luisjurado2210]

The SE edition have all that

[@mkviis]

Worth every penny. The best thing about it, it is FWD ❤️

[@corinecornacchio5875]

Volkswagen Golf GTI in red that is my favorite all time hatchback

[@superwiseman452]

BTW by the S version - it's got everything needed, for a lot less. I got a 2019 brand new GTI S for $26k (!) plus tax and title. No brainer - I absolutely love this car. Puts a smile on my face every time I drive it. It doesn't wear off.

[@DriversOnly]

Nice! It's an amazing car.

[@affinity3281]

I bought a used 2018 GTI SE for $23k with 14k miles. The LED headlights and keyless entry/start were a must for me. Also I have a sunroof, E-LSD, and a gorgeous fingerprint magnet infotainment screen. 14k miles was nothing to me, I do double that in a year. I got plaid seats too that was also a must.

[@superwiseman452]

BTW - under the trunk floor board is PLENTY of room to mount an amp and other accessories.

[@doob5427]

I actually prefer the climate control nobs . . .

[@superwiseman452]

Auto climate controls SUCK. Much prefer what is there - just dial it up if you're cold, dial it down if you're hot.

[@rubenTR309]

auto control in my ford = full blast lol

[@karl2004rex]

Editing of vids is getting good! Quality info on so many vehicles!

[@DriversOnly]

Thanks Karl!

[@jasonlau]

Nice job. Keep it up. I enjoyed watching your review. Looking forward to the manual review.

[@DriversOnly]

Thanks Jason, appreciate it. As soon as it gets nice out :).

[@aliexheuser1761]

Why is the gauge cluster not digital?

[@CoralSea]

Is Golf GTI reliable in general? Will it last 10 years/100k miles without major repair?

[@SamWiiseG-]

For sure! Had mine for about 6 years and it's an amazing car

[@stephenhendricks103]

Good to see the GTI review. Some corrections or different perspectives. () When VW introduces a new generation GTI, e.g. MK6 to MK7, MK7 to MK8, etc, there is typically a lag of about a year in terms moving to the next generation, at least in North America. Thus, when the MK6 production was coming to an end in late 2013, there was no actual 2014 model available for North America. This causes a problem for dealers so VW simply designated MK6 vehicles produced after a particular date as "2014" models. They were unchanged from the 2013 version. Much the same pattern exists for the so-called 2020 model in the US. Other than shuffling a few options around and consolidating eliminating the SEL trim with its features added to the SE trim, the GTI is unchanged for 2020. In fact, the Autobahn trim level versions are totally identical for 2019 and 2020. () As noted in the video the 2020 GTI loses last year's 6 yr/72K warranty, replacing it with 4 year/50K warranty and two years of complimentary maintenance. Whether this is an actual loss from a consumer point of view is questionable. Obviously, no 2019 model has yet taken advantage of the extended period and won't until at least the fifth year of ownership of more than 50K mileage. And since there are no changes between 2019 and 2020, owners can be comfortable that if their 2020 model lasts for 50K miles, it will be equally reliable in the fifth and sixth year. Furthermore, from a cost of ownership perspective the two years of complimentary service is probably more valuable than a warranty that may or may not be needed four or five years from now. On the other hand, if one is especially risk averse, there are numerous 2019 models still available on dealer lots with the longer warranty. Pay your money and take your choice. () A minor note. The video refuses to the Autobahn as an option package. That's not technically true. It's a separate trim level above the SE. Several of the Autobahn features can be added as an option to the SE trim level but not all. Specifically, the "Experience" package includes upgraded Audio and dynamic chassis control, each excellent upgrades but the dual zone climate control cannot be added to the SE trim.

[@DriversOnly]

Stephen thanks for tuning in. For 2020 the Autobahn is not a trim level, its an option package you add on the SE. And as for 2020, yes there were changes but minor. As for your comment on whether losing 2 years of warranty is an actual loss on the consumer, of course, it is. Why would anyone want to lose two years of bumper-to-bumper warranty? 2 years of maintenance is not more valuable than 2 years of warranty.

[@nsbioy]

Maintenance for the GTI is $100 per year for the first 2 years. This is how much the annual services covered by the plan actually cost at a dealer. A warranty is much more valuable than $100 per year. This move by VW to shorten the warranty is a bad decision by VW Corporate

[@stephenhendricks103]

@@nsbioy The extended warranty has any value at all only if it's used for repairs. Otherwise, a warranty of 10 miles and two weeks is just as valuable as a ten year/100K warranty. A rational computer calculates the value of a warranty for an expensive repair multiplied by the likelihood of such a repair after the warranty expires. If one expects to replace a car after four years of ownership, a longer warranty has no value, whatsoever. And if the estimate of an expensive repair actually occurring after four years is low, say a 5% chance, the value of the warranty is substantially reduced. The bottom line is that manufacturers would not offer warranties of any kind if they expected, on average, to have to redeem them. That's no different from any term insurance policy. That doesn't mean a warranty is a bad idea from the point of view of a consumer's peace of mind. But it does mean that (on average) the price a consumer pays either in premiums or initial purchase cost will be more than it costs the insurer to pay to redeem it. I agree that VW's decision to reduce the warranty coverage was a bad corporate move from a public relations standpoint. But the value of two years of maintenance available to every purchaser has to be compared to the relatively rare case of requiring a repair in the fifth and sixth year of ownership. As I pointed out in the original post, if you're "risk averse" and want to sacrifice the cost of scheduled maintenance in the first two years of ownership in favor of an unknown benefit five years from now, go for it and buy a 2019 model.

[@stephenhendricks103]

@@DriversOnly I don't know where you live but in the US a 2020 GTI Autobahn is a separate trim level according to VW's "build and price" website. The only "option" for the SE trim level is the "experience" package that adds DCC and an upgraded Fender sound system. www.vw.com/builder/tab/trim/model/golf-gti/ As for a comparison of two years of scheduled maintenance to the value of a warranty for years five and six the relevant calculation is as follows. Assume the value of 2 years of service and maintenance is $300 in today's dollars. Putting that $300 in a CD at 5% interest will yield a total of $404 in future dollars over six years. Compare that to the value of a warranty in years five and six. If you replace the vehicle after 4 years, the value of the extended warranty period (years 5 and 6) is literally $0. You would be far better off saving the initial two years service and maintenance costs. But in the alternative, assume you keep the vehicle for another two years, years five and six VW's 2019 warranty. Say you're concerned about $1000 covered repair bills in years five and six. But you have to take into account how likely that is. In fact, it's relatively rare. Let's say it's 5 out of 100. And that's a generous estimate. Since 95 out of 100 owners don't experience such an issue, that makes the estimated value of such a warranty for an individual consumer 5% times $1000. In other words, it's a $50 benefit But say you're especially risk averse and you want to be sure you don't have to pay $2000 in years five and six of ownership. That makes the value of the warranty $100 in years five and six. Or say you believe you're REALLY unlucky and the chances of experiencing $2000 in repair bills is 1 in ten. Again, that makes the extended warranty worth $200. To make the extended warranty worth as much as saving $300 in scheduled maintenance for two years., you would have to believe your chances of repairs of $4000 in years five and six are about 1 in ten. That is an outrageously pessimistic view and a good reason to avoid purchasing the vehicle in the first place. People buy warranties (and insurance) because they're especially concerned about the impact of rare calamitous events. Warranties aren't provided by manufacturers out of the goodness of their hearts. They're good for public relations but they wouldn't be offered if they weren't profitable for the insurer.

[@nsbioy]

@@stephenhendricks103 the warranty, just like insurance, have value by giving a piece of mind. For the manufacturer, there is also a cost associated with it. My guess is that the manufacturer pays more than $200 per vehicle for warranty repairs for vehicles in years 5 and 6. The maintenance plan for the same time is $200 retail, meaning it costs the manufacturer $50 at most. Warranty is much more expensive, and more valuable than the maintenance plan. This is my guess, but one can probably check how much customers spend on repairs of vehicles in years 5-6.

[@AudiophileTubes]

Great review! I was ready to get a GTI, but the warranty reduction killed it for me. I thought they still had a 72K warranty on the car. Considering it's reliability is not as good as the plain Golf, the 72K warranty would have given me more peace of mind to justify the purchase.

[@joelell1]

Any reasons to go for the 2020 over a discounted 2019 with the longer warranty?

[@jralphroman]

Dont think so....you also get more of a discount on the 2019s...its a no brainer

[@DriversOnly]

2020 has more standard safety features and wifi plus 2 years of maintenance free. If you are leasing, 2020 is a no brainer. However, if you plan on keeping the car for at least 6 years, 2019 might be the way to go.

[@MichaelNJohnson]

I would avoid the 2019. www.reddit.com/r/GolfGTI/comments/b9cpb7/possible_2019_6mt_stall_issue_your_feedback/

[@dylanepling5067]

Was wondering why the driving portion of the video looked so familiar until I realized I take those roads every day. Awesome video! Haha.

[@DriversOnly]

Haha nice :)

[@Ch12iSx727]

which trim levels includes adaptive cruise control?

[@pacoboss6865]

Reliable Car ?

[@southshore74]

You sure got some bad info from somebody. The Autobahn Trim is available for 2020.

[@Incomudro1963]

I've got an early 2015 GTI brought new when it debuted. Great car! Well done review!

[@DriversOnly]

Thanks! Still love it?

[@Incomudro1963]

@@DriversOnly Oh yes! 40,000 and the only issue has been on coilpack failure. The car is so versatile, I've brought home items as large as a 4 burner gas grill, lawnmower, and bathroom vanity - in their boxes. The car will fit 4 adults, has front wheel drive when it snows, and great power and handling for fun. And you don't see them constantly either.

[@klemzale5370]

@@Incomudro1963 I have the same car, i wish it had Performance package, but then again, Its very difficult to get a non crashed or totalled GTI here, so i went with the first honest and great condition car, which doesnt have PP. Next car is most probbably an Audi, with quattro and same engine remaped to 300hp, as i do wish a bit more raw power. Not going to remap this one, because it allready can not put the power down on winter tires and slightly wet roads (basically 1/3 of the year) Otherwise good car, no complains, just a bit in the expensive side when bought second hand, let alone first hand. Greetings from Europe, where the GTI starts at 34 000€ now when its in its final edition years. Mk 8 GTI is probbably gonna start at 38K+

[@Incomudro1963]

@@klemzale5370 My car is non PP, an SE model. It was 100% stock until right around this time last year. Now it rides on Neuspeed Wheels and Continental DWS06 tires. It's got a jb1 piggyback tune, and a couple of subtle cosmetics like a Dutch Parts front splitter, Maxton roof spoiler, black mirror caps (the car is silver) and dynamic turn indicators in the mirrors. I still give the car a look back everytime I leave it.

[@Pearl3Drummer]

Nice review. Any idea if the new golfr will have sunroof option?

[@DriversOnly]

No clue right now....

[@Bawla187]

I doubt it. I'm not sure why VW think we don't like sunroofs in our Rs 🤷🏾‍♂️

[@Volkswagen_electronic]

I love Volkswagen golf

[@resjon7981]

I have one in manual, very nice to drive even in heavy traffic.

[@ango10_]

Hello viewers, I am deciding between the 2020 Golf GTI and the civic type r and am struggling to choose one. You guys can reply stating why and I am also curious to see which one is faster 0-60 and 1/4 mile so if you know, feel free to let me know.

[@Alfra1324]

The Type R is faster it has more horsepower, but if you want an all around and more mature hatchback go for the GTI! I own an mk6 bought it brand new and to this date it still puts a big smile every time I drive it!!!! Enjoy!!!! 👍🙏🏻

[@Silentdeath1194]

Gti vs Veloster N. Can't decide

[@martinn4186]

Which mode were you in when you were driving on that rough stretch on (what I assume is) the Tri-State?

[@DriversOnly]

Just normal mode.

[@plato801]

Interesting that my gti mk7.5 is more modern internally. Fully digital display and wire handbrake.

[@stangtrax]

This is a 2020? This looks exactly like my 2019 GTI SE.

[@DriversOnly]

To see where this VW Golf GTI ranks, check out: driversonlyrankings.com/

[@simonassouline45]

My friend has 2019 GTI, been in it countless times! Best Performance and Aesthetically Vehicle in the World, I was a Master ASE and Master Toyota Technician for 20 Years, so I should Know! Better than Honda and Toyota High Performance cars! Unbelievable Vehicle is what the Volkswagen Golf GTI Is! Try turning at a right or left turn at 90 degrees at 40 miles per hour without sliding out!

[@teeduck]

Simon Assouline this vs Audi TT or A5?

[@simonassouline45]

Volkswagen Golf GTI is the Best, Audi TT and A 5 are Junk! Expensive to Repair and Fall Apart!

[@teeduck]

@@simonassouline45 thanks. Man I always thought Audi was the Cadillac of VW. Good to know.

[@footbollpro]

They still haven’t showed the mk8 gti only mk8 golf in Europe. We’re all extremely anxious I think it will look like shit but I hope I’m wrong.

[@subvet3668]

Their new warranty 4/50K coverage is garbage and they know it. They don't even list it anywhere on their website. Even the much more reliable Asian automakers offer powertrain up to 5/60K and Korean 10/100K. They did that to save money pure and simple. Two years of free oil changes for the loss of 2 years and 22,000 extra miles of bumper to bumper coverage is a terrible trade off.

[@varsity2845]

People that buy these and don’t put a simple stage 1 tune are missing out.

[@affinity3281]

Stage 1 = new clutch. No thanks to that headache. It's fun in its factory form.

[@varsity2845]

Affinity that’s why I got the DSG 🤣

[@CravenTheDarkLord]

Subscribed :)

[@Alfra1324]

Bring back the 2 door! Please VW!!!!!

[@housepianist]

No. The 2-door model always has odd proportions. The 2-door looked like it was 2/3 Golf and 1/3 Polo. The 4-door is way more balanced. No one bought the 2-door for good reason. RIP 2-door. I hope VW never brings it back.

[@AudiophileTubes]

YES, I agree! The 2 door GTI looked a LOT more sporty and aggressive than the 4 door, which looks more like a family sedan! The 4 door GTI is more practical, but not by much. If they bring it back, I just may buy one. BTW, I miss my 337 2 door GTI. The sexiest, hottest looking GTI ever!

[@saurabhkoparkar751]

Really well-made honest review, very helpful. Have this GTI, love it. Keep it coming!

[@DriversOnly]

Thanks! Will do :).

[@Rachman01]

My 2016 SÉ looks exactly the same with all of the same features AND the longer 6 year warranty. I feel like I got the better car buying the older model somehow?? Lol. Oh and I think the mk 7.5 look way better than the new mk 8s I’ve seen!

[@Bawla187]

Wait I thought the 2018-2019 has active info digital dash? Other than the radio screen being larger, 8hp and mine being 6spd manual, that looks the same as my 2017 SE model🤷🏾‍♂️ I don't think that's a 2020 or even 2019 model.

[@DriversOnly]

Could be part of the autobahn package for 2020 but not standard. Just because it looks the same doesn't mean it is the same as your 2017. This is the car tested: www.vwofchicagoland.com/inventory/new-2020-volkswagen-golf-gti-2-0t-se-fwd-4d-hatchback-3vw6t7auxlm000548

[@affinity3281]

Not in the USA. Only the Golf R. Maybe 2020 is different but the digital dash was not offered in 2018-2019. It looks different from a 2017. The front and rear bumper are different, and the wheels were not offered before 2018.

[@Bawla187]

@@affinity3281 yeah of course the front end and head lights are different. I was referring to the digital dash mostly but you're right, only the R.

[@gloombastic]

Love that car!!

[@BenHayat]

So, is this still the MK7?

[@DriversOnly]

Yes

[@eddiemk7418]

7.5, to be absolutely correct.

[@jpw5722]

Great car

[@icannotfly]

be careful with that camera setup - if the A-pillar airbag goes off, the camera is going to go flying into your face

[@DriversOnly]

Let's hope that never happens

[@MrBlueSky0220]

Isn't this the 2019 mk7 ?

[@DriversOnly]

It's the 2020 MK7 GTI

[@Jlaynas]

@@DriversOnly whens the 2020 MK8 coming out?

[@DriversOnly]

@@Jlaynas 2021

[@502Chevy]

Good review! Sub’d

[@user-cj7dv2kc6d]

Ain't that a 2019 model?

[@DriversOnly]

No

[@LiLgPnoy15]

Yo man, stick shift is the best. Automatic in a GTI should be illegal. And those paddle shifters are a serious joke.

[@DriversOnly]

I agree! Can't wait to test out the mk8

[@w00t777]

I guess the GTI is considered a warm hatch these days

[@Dziricani]

GTI stick shift-----> Hot Hatch GTI automatic----> Cold Hatch Excellent video quality!

[@DriversOnly]

Haha! Yea can't wait to test out the stick shift in the summer.

[@mikew3752]

Have you driven the DSG? It may not be as engaging (no first hand comparison, so conjecture), but it's faster. And VW has done a very good job programming it. I have an R with DSG, and very impressed. Put the tranny in Sport mode, and it just goes. Never felt the need to take over shifting with the paddles... I'm hoping to drive a manual this summer to make a direct comparison, though... But it definitely is a Hot Hatch regardless of tranny. If it was an actual automatic, I'd be more inclined to agree with you, though.

[@jmml1]

Omg, this still has the analog cockpit and handbrake, in Europe the gti is more modern

[@affinity3281]

The electronic parking brake is arguably not an upgrade, but it is a space saver, and it is more modern. The digital dash would have been cool, but have to cut costs somewhere I guess, the GTI is already overpriced in the US.

[@joelyelcanio]

Your reviews are very delightful. No perfect hot hatch came once R32 left. Please VW, don’t kill the new R.

[@DriversOnly]

Thanks

[@honda116969]

Having a spare tire almost makes me want to trade in my Honda Civic SI & by that GTI... Except I can buy a spare tire for like 350 bucks but sounds like a rip-off to me. fuck Honda im a little bit salty about that. Nice review BTW

[@DriversOnly]

Haha! Yea I don't know why Honda removed the spare tire in the SI. Both are great cars but I feel the GTI is a class above the SI. It's faster, more upscale inside, amazing steering feel...but it does cost significantly more.

[@Just-a-Guy1]

No backup camera in a $33,000 car? Are you kidding?

[@affinity3281]

Where did he say that? My 2018 GTI has a beautiful backup camera. It's hidden in the VW emblem. It's been law for almost 10 years now that all new cars have backup cameras.

[@DriversOnly]

There is a backup camera

[@Just-a-Guy1]

@@DriversOnly It wasn't shown or mentioned in the video. Sorry for the confusion.

[@Just-a-Guy1]

@@affinity3281 I was confused because he didn't mention or show it in the video.

[@duckie231]

You like Lagrange Rd huh? Lol

[@eddiemk7418]

Thought I was the only one who recognized the street lol

[@El_ven1]

Ugh.. Is this car modern? Does it have that like display thing that shows how far you are from a car in front of you?! Is they're the dashboard modern like theres a map there, your speed, fuel, all that stuff??? THIS IS NOT THE 2020! That literally a 2019 Volkswagon Golf R. I looked at photos and compared them. 2020 Is the one I want. Like so much better. (My opinion :) )

[@teeduck]

Why push button start? Why? Stop it.

[@supererikman5331]

once again, European version looks better than the US version, why do they look more dated here

[@sporopeza]

My 2017 GTI Puts out 337HP

[@Rocanala]

Nice try. That’s not a 2020

[@jayczyzyk9707]

gd rev the 2020 gti will have 300hp

[@opadilla123]

Gti kind of dated for 2020 and those wheels suck , gulf R looks much better

[@nsbioy]

A 20 dollar bill looks much better than a $10 one

[@jayczyzyk9707]

very poorly build and reliability

[@nsbioy]

Tell this to my absolutely flawless '17 GTI for 2 years 4 months and counting. If that's poor reliability, I'll take two.

[@Alfra1324]

Hahaha! My 2012 has performed flawlessly! 70000 miles and still puts a smile on my face!!!!

[@hillbillysportsman5818]

This car is known for Poor reliability. I wish it wasn’t true as a former VW owner.

[@jayczyzyk9707]

@@nsbioy check jd power consumer reveiws

[@jayczyzyk9707]

@Ian Stevenson had a 17 dusaster