2020 Volkswagen Golf GTI Review | Buy Now or Wait for 2021 Volkswagen Golf?

[@aerojb]

The best part of the VW logo hatch opener is that the backup camera resides inside of there, too, and it stays CLEAN. So great.

[@stephenhendricks103]

Some additional info about the GTI. () When VW does a generational change in the GTI, they often skip a model year, at least in the US market. I owned a 2013 GTI, the last model produced before assembly shifted to Mexico. There was no 2014 model. But US dealers put a 2014 sticker on the last MK6 models sent to the US to have a "new" 2014 model in the showroom. The 2020 (US) model is much the same. They're identical to the 2019 model (with some trim reshuffling) to enable VW dealers to have inventory prior to the introduction of the MK8 GTI that won't appear in the US until the Spring of 2021 at the earliest. () VW has long been challenged to sell their Euro-spec vehicles in the US where consumers want larger, cheaper vehicles than consumers in Europe. Thus, the European Passat was replaced by the American assembled US Passat that was larger and less expensive than its European counterpart. The Tiguan was dropped in the US and replaced by the current much less expensive and larger than the first generation Tiguan still for sale in Europe. The Touareg was replaced in the US by the Atlas, a vehicle that isn't even for sale in most of Europe. Same story with the current Jetta, larger than the last generation and not even for sale in Germany or most of the rest of Europe. As far as the Golf is concerned, VW has decided not to sell most versions in the US for the foreseeable future. The exceptions are the GTI and Golf R, both relatively strong sellers but significantly less expensive in the US than in Europe.The MSRP of GTI's and Golf R's in the US are much, much lower than the same models in Europe. A top trim Autobahn GTI in the US has an MSRP of about $38K and can often be purchased for around $32K. The current exchange rate puts the price of Autobahn's in the UK and Germany at over $50,000. That difference has to come from somewhere so fewer individual trim levels and individual options are offered in the US. That reduces production costs with fewer trim levels, a practice followed by KIA and Hyundai to contain costs. And the digital cockpit offered on the GTI in Europe isn't available in the US. Likewise, the dual port injections on the GTI in Europe is missing in the US version. The Golf R in Europe has a sunroof option missing in the US. Etc. etc.

[@kapii86]

so im a young buyer looking to purchase a gti but I don't see much point in waiting for the 2021, because it's kinda hideous. should I wait a bit anyway, go with the 2019 gti instead, or get the mk7.5 s trim level? I would have to figure out pricing and talk to the dealership nearest to me but I reckon I could get an s trim 2020 for close to 25k, an se for 27, and the autobahn for around 31k?

[@stephenhendricks103]

@@kapii86 One correction. The MK7.5 GTI includes vehicles designated in the US as the 2017-2021 model years. The years since 2019 the DSG from six to seven speeds but were otherwise nearly identical. It's all rather confusing because the US typically get a refreshed version of the GTI about a year or more after Europe and when VW introduces a new generation of the GTI (e.g. the MK8) they typically refrain from any significant changes in the last year of the previous generation. Instead, they simply set a production date after which models of the previous generation are designated as a new model year. That was true when the MK7 replaced the MK6. There was no 2014 MK6 model. Its designation was determined simply by the date a particular vehicle was produced. The same has been true of the most recent MK7.5 GTI's. VW stopped producing them some time ago and shifted production to the MK8. But we won't see the MK8 until the 2022 model year. I don't consider the MK8 GTI shown in photos and available now in Europe to be "hideous" but I doubt I'll be replacing my 2018 Autobahn GTI with the MK8, at least not for a couple of years after it appears in the US. As far as current pricing is concerned, I'd say you're estimates of what a 2020 GTI would run are about right.

[@Charles_Mulberry_7977]

The name Golf has nothing to do with the game of golf. Golf Strum is Gulf Stream in German and that is what the Golf is named for. Like Jetta, Corrado and Passat it was named after a force of nature. The Golf ball was added to the GTIs as a design feature. www.thecarconnection.com/news/1125478_how-the-volkswagen-gti-got-those-plaid-seats-and-golf-ball-shifter

[@lawrencedavidson6195]

Thanks, i never knew that.

[@maxwellwellmax878]

lets not forget Scirocco!!!!!

[@maxwellwellmax878]

@kp11111111 He mentioned the Corrado but missed Scirocco, just pointing it out :o)

[@eppyz]

No mention of the adjustable cargo floor in the trunk or how the rear shelf can be stored under the storgae floor in the back. Very cool features that are often overlooked.

[@gooeykev]

Have a 19’ VW GTI Autobahn pure white definitely a fun little hatchback, inspires confidence when you’re playing around and tryna push through corners. In my opinion the ride quality is way better than any other hot hatch in the segment. Suspension isn’t too stiff even in sport mode, steering is also great too doesn’t feel too light or too heavy or too electronic it’s just right.

[@chrispeck9941]

Said the exact same thing. Mk7.5 is so good as it is that waiting for the mk8 is pointless considering you can get a better price on the mk7.5. Mk8 will grow on everyone over time though...

[@alexinaviation]

I got the 2020 VW GTI S 6 speed manual for 72 months 0% APR. amazing deal, love this car and can feel good about the price. Tune-ability is crazy. If you get the APR stage 1 with no mods you’re getting 318 WHP and 383 WTQ which is nuts. If you get supporting mods like the turbo muffler delete, inlet hoses, intake, blow off valve you might have a little more power.

[@jonathangallegos6342]

I got the same deal too, it was a no brainier! I love it bro! Incredible how much power you can make on these!!

[@scratch1200s]

@@jonathangallegos6342 which trim level? I’m thinking about getting one too. Does it make power all the way to redline? Does it suffer from rev hang, like the si and wrx?

[@jonathangallegos6342]

@@scratch1200s I just got the s model in manual but I still have no regrets I love driving it everyday! I love The quality of the car as a whole! Yes it makes power all the way to the redline 6k but no more after that and it cuts off at about 7.5k. It does have a bit of rev hang not gonna lie but I hear you can fix that with a tune. I say go for it man you will not regret it! It it helps at all the turbo spools up really quick man! It’s nice as a daily especially! Also like others are saying it takes very well to mods man and can handle a decent amount of power easy!

[@jonathangallegos6342]

@@scratch1200s P.S in my opinion it looks way better than the SI or WRX LOL. And I’m coming from Honda’s! Shit I still have my B swap civic in the garage I love that thing!!! Lolol hope this helps!

[@scratch1200s]

@@jonathangallegos6342 thanks for those words. I think it is definitely better looking than the civic, for sure. Now, I’m amped up to test drive a gti sometime soon! I’ve never owned a vw, but I’ve been eyeing them for a while. How is maintenance on these? Also, how are the headlights at night? My old ‘11wrx had terrible headlights. Anyway, I’m not ready quite yet, but I’m hoping there are some good vw promotions on the outgoing gti and golf r. I’ll have to wait and see what those final numbers look like though.

[@pistolpete6321]

Fantastic review, I have the 2016 GTI and it’s been a great car, can’t wait for the 2021 update!

[@bonifaciomagdiwang1697]

2021 Golf gti Mk8 model. i dont like the looks. I will keep my Gti Mk7.5 is the Best looks

[@pistolpete6321]

jansen melo I agree about the outside but the inside looks like a big improvement, what do you think?

[@bonifaciomagdiwang1697]

@@pistolpete6321 yes is beautiful inside and very nice. but in my personal opinion is to futuristic. I liked the old one dashboard in my Mk7.5

[@paulkelsey2458]

Maybe a weird matchup, but what would you suggest, a mk7.5 gti or b8 S4?

[@2004cyrus]

Loved seeing this 2020 GTI review especially since I want to add another VW to my stable! I have a 2019 Tiguan SE and now it’s time for a pocket rocket and I love the GTI and it’s plaid seats too! Thanks for bringing this review to us Pony Boy I enjoyed it! I’m subscribed! Stay Goooold!!!

[@goldpony]

Thanks! 😁

[@g__e__o]

Pocket Rocket would be an up! GTI or a Polo GTI :)

[@2004cyrus]

g e o this is GTI - what am I missing ?

[@g__e__o]

@@2004cyrus Sorry Joshua, I'm just teasing you. In Europe a Golf is definitely not considered a "pocket". :) An up! GTI or a Polo GTI would be better fitting as a pocket rocket, but I know that the car sizes are way bigger over there!

[@joshwizzy8401]

Would any of you gift me a used car... I need it badly

[@R-nn7pk]

Hi does this 2020 gti have a remote start?

[@brandonmcfarland5200]

I Loved That Golf GTI!!

[@sak1339]

Is it possible to replace the halogen headlights with LEDs or is the size/electronics not comaptible?

[@YaleReinstein]

2020 has the exact same technology and design as the introductory 2015/2016 models... mk8 design look like a huge step backwards for VW. I went for a slow Mazda that feels more like a boat, but at least it has a more modern interior and sound system, and hopefully a bit more reliability. No winning today!

[@stephenhendricks103]

@Private Eyes The difference between the 2018 and 2019 GTI's was mainly in the introduction of a 7 speed DSG to replace the 6 speed version. There is no difference between the 2019 and 2020 models except date of assembly and some reshuffling of features on various trim levels.

[@stephenhendricks103]

@Private Eyes I'm afraid you got me, buddy. I have the same 2018 GTI as you do. I have to admit, though, that I'm not a wheel connoisseur and cannot even recall the name of the wheels on my car. As long as they're alloys and round, I'm satisfied. Even worse from a GTI lover, I have to admit that I hate plaid seats. I much prefer the black leather in my Autobahn. :)

[@davidnilles3117]

I wonder why VW refuses to put the digital dash in their cars headed to the US......

[@stephenhendricks103]

@Private Eyes ROFL... The digital dash isn't missing from the US version of the GTI because of "US regulations." You might want to avoid any salesperson/dealership who dishes out such bilge. In fact, the "de-contenting" of GTI's stems from the fact that Americans are unwilling to pay the price Europeans readily pay for the vehicle. While a top trim Autobahn can usually be had for about $32,000 ($6K or so less than MSRP), a comparable Autobahn in Germany and other European markets has an MSRP of $54,000 at current exchange rates.

[@stephenhendricks103]

@Private Eyes Same here. While the digital dash is appealing eye candy the conventional cockpit display provides the same information with a less colorful display.

[@YasumotoUS]

@@stephenhendricks103 wow. that's an eye-popping price point for the European GTIs. It is worth noting that the formerly offered US-spec Golf R had the digital instrumentation at a bargain price point of around $40k.

[@BostonAutoBlog]

Why did Volkswagen go back to offering halogen headlights for the S trim when LED dynamic lights were standard for the 2019 model year? I had to do a double take because the 2020 S trim looks like a Mk7 rather than a Mk7.5.

[@goldpony]

No clue... but definitely a fun car to drive as I know you know! Haha

[@BostonAutoBlog]

@@goldpony Without a doubt the best daily driver for the price. I think from a comfort perspective people could make the argument that the Mazda3 hatchback is better, but in terms of driving dynamics the GTI is the best option to go with at or below $30k.

[@jralphroman]

In 2019 LED lighting was only standard on the rabbit edition and up definitely not the s model

[@BostonAutoBlog]

@@jralphroman you're correct. The halogens make the GTI look so dated.

[@stephenhendricks103]

The answer is pretty easy to find. US spec GTI's are severely price challenged compared to European spec vehicles. VW repeatedly shuffles features and trim levels for the US in order to meet a price point.

[@liangqingyinvl]

how can i remove the mirror and put it back on?

[@Deetroiter]

When did GTI's start using 87 regular fuel??

[@bertito43]

2019. Apparently for maximum HP gains premium is recommended

[@ciscohour5884]

The channel along the weatherstripping on the rear hatch has already started to rust on my 2019. Working with VW now to get this resolved. Very disappointed.

[@madcowusa4277]

I have a touch of this horrible failure around the windshield of my Chevy pickup. It's 38 years old now and sits outside full time near salt water coastal western WA, but I sympathize with you. Original engine and transmission have no issues however. Paint is decent too. The really funny part is they tell me these old square body pickups are appreciating due to collector interest, LOL.

[@jeffancelet7366]

Why does this 2020 have different wheels than the other 2020s?

[@marktepper3440]

You said regular octane. I thought it was only 93 octane?

[@kiwiinterstates3190]

It is approved to run on 87 however might reduce power output slightly

[@markday5797]

I've always used SHELL 93 octane in my MK7.5. I'll NEVER burn anything less than 93 oct. if I can help it.

[@richardmcmahon5733]

Kind of sucks when in Australia we get full Autobarn for 30K US with the Audi virtual dash and the other extras. Why in the US do they not give that for free, like we get in Australia, love my Autobarn GTI.

[@Ulvaeus]

Makes sense to buy one of these now rather than wait. Most of the bugs have been worked out and its reliability is at least average. My 2018 has been virtually flawless. The new MK8 is essentially the same car (same Chassis with a few tweaks and 20 extra horsepower) and I don’t love the MK8 buttonless interior.

[@stephenhendricks103]

@Private Eyes I think the confusion may result from the fact that VW frequently shuffles and reshuffles their trim levels and features from year to year in US spec vehicles. 2019 was an especially confusing (US) model year in which Dynamic Chassis Control was offered on the less expensive "35" limited edition but missing on the Autobahn. (I suspect it may have been the result of supply chain restrictions.) The so-called 2020 version has rectified that oddity. Furthermore, compared to Europe (and even to Canada) US spec GTI's often have fewer features and individual options. Canadians, for example, has numerous color choices in 2018 and 2019 compared to the US. Most differences have to do with cost cutting in the US models compared to Europe in order to make GTI's price competitive in the US.

[@ArnelZapataJr]

I'll wait like 4 years and trade in my Honda for a used '21 or '22 GTI.

[@kapii86]

don't, the mk8 is the ugliest gti to date

[@ArnelZapataJr]

That's why I'm skipping the mk8 because they messed the look up. So I'm waiting until the next version.

[@davidpessot8894]

I have a 2019 VW GTI SE Autobahn trim and I only have single climate control.

[@Shady4526]

Is that something to complain about? It's a small car

[@madcowusa4277]

Sound like a first world problem, lol.

[@dy8863]

Fake engine noise is a huge plus?

[@Dan330i]

I hope 2021 or 2022 have like 250 HP AND MAYBE A 8 speed

[@bryangreen9163]

Them glasses are just for being high AF on camera

[@Snip59]

Of course im saying the price of each and the Lexus F Sport is better in all rounds my friend has the Golf GTI Top of the range and is far from happy already has problems with the car.My Lexus of course is A1 Style Performance cut above the rest the after sales service is unbelievable .Of course it comes down to what you like and want the GTI in Australia the reviews are terrible and the complaints are over the top.This is true as there are many online with NO help from Golf at all.

[@deanmarr785]

no

[@Snip59]

@Pilot almike yes the Golf is

[@LiLgPnoy15]

I like your review, but getting this car in an automatic is so not cool.

[@slash11lipo]

If you ever drove the DSG you would probably change your mind. I have always been a manual guy and drove both the manual & DSG before buying and ended up getting the DSG.

[@eklektikTechno]

I somewhat agree but I’ve been driving manual for 21 years so I’m much older then you probably,..and I also live in Chicago which is stop and go traffic plus the e-ways get grid lock often , so mines is a DSG because I have rare occasions of a open clear run.

[@slash11lipo]

@@eklektikTechno I started driving in 1976 so I have a few years under my belt.

[@yunior12]

Wait....

[@franklahaye1438]

2020 gti is same as 2019 . It's a mk7.5. mk8 will be out later say 2021

[@xFlared]

The new 2021 GTI looks puke worthy.

[@williamferreira2834]

Congratulations but the Golf R would be more interesting

[@goldpony]

True... I'll definitely try to drive that one soon! 😁

[@80s_Boombox_Collector]

The R is way overpriced. And given that the GTI already has a limited slip, there's no point to AWD unless you live in the north.

[@stephenhendricks103]

@@80s_Boombox_Collector I disagree to some extent. With real world pricing in the high $30K range, the R is reasonably priced. However, if one doesn't plan to do track days with an R, a Stage I tuned GTI comes close to the performance of a Golf R in real world driving. When I replaced my MK6 GTI in 2018 I gave serious consideration to the R. But at that time I got a GTI Autobahn DSG for $32K compared to the best deal I was offered for the R at $40K. That $8000 difference was a bridge too far for me.

[@garyjinks7482]

@@stephenhendricks103 great price, an autobahn below $36K is here in California. $32 gets an SE here.

[@stephenhendricks103]

@@garyjinks7482 The differences depend on region and supply/demand issues. When I bought my GTI about 18 months ago, R's were as rare as hens' teeth here in the Pacific Northwest. The best price I could find was MSRP and there were only 5 Golf R's available within 500 miles of Seattle. The one R available without a "market adjustment" second sticker over MSRP was sold within 24 hours of its delivery to a customer who traveled a thousand miles to purchase it. GTI's on the other hand were relatively plentiful and I was able to buy the color I wanted at about $6K less than MSRP. I checked asking prices for R's and GTI's a couple of months ago and the situation was completely reversed. Very few Autobahn GTI's all at MSRP or above and a fairly large supply of R's in the Seattle area with discounts a couple of thousand dollars under MSRP. Timing is important. :)

[@Shivam-o2ee]

Hi

[@madcowusa4277]

Good God these prices. I buy 3 bedroom houses that rent for $1200/month for the price of one of these . You do the math. Sorry I looked, back to reality for me.

[@harlanfraker8368]

You buy houses for $35k?

[@marsan7291]

Do you work at McDonald's?

[@80s_Boombox_Collector]

Needs a restyle bad. And not just a new bumper. A whole new body. Something a little less boxy, ya know? And please get a new wheel designer. Flush wheel surfaces are so 1992.

[@stephenhendricks103]

Thankfully, VW pays very little attention to folks like you.

[@80s_Boombox_Collector]

@@stephenhendricks103 Because they're clueless

[@stephenhendricks103]

@@80s_Boombox_Collector Or perhaps because they design the Golf, GTI, and Golf R for those who appreciate a classic and highly functional design rather than for those who think vehicles should resemble Hot Wheels toys.

[@christopherevasin4142]

why change something that’s perfect? just purchase a different vehicle if you want a different vehicle lol.

[@80s_Boombox_Collector]

@@christopherevasin4142 Perfect? Lol, I've never owned a car that I felt was "perfect". The GTI is a great all-around car, but the styling could be a lot more interesting, in my opinion.

[@Snip59]

NO style has not changed the body shape in years not worth it would rather buy a Lexus better value and style.

[@stephenhendricks103]

Not attracted to classic design apparently.

[@ronniefranks4351]

I can’t get past the butt-ugly corporate Lexus grille. Ugliest grille on the market. Absolutely stops me from owning a Lexus.

[@Snip59]

@@ronniefranks4351 if that stops u from buying s Lexus,Golf has NO style interior has been the same for years the hole car looks like a match box toy.

[@Snip59]

They sell these in Australia not worth the money at all style has never changed 55,000 Aussie dollars not worth that at all.

[@nsbioy]

If people buy it, it's worth the money

[@2004cyrus]

Kawasaki 59 59 I love that the style hasn’t changed? Change isn’t good for the sake of change: change can be very bad. Change needs specifics...as in what kind of change?

[@Snip59]

@@2004cyrus over priced for what u get better off value wise a lexus

[@Snip59]

@@2004cyrus Cosmetic changes needed look at the Lexus F Sport Excellent indeed and at the same price the Golf is sorry I'll have the Lexus

[@2004cyrus]

Kawasaki 59 59 if you want a Lexus which is Japanese and not anything like a Volkswagen is not a sensible comparison! You are obviously lost and not a target audience for Volkswagen. Talk about comparing something that’s similar to Volkswagen. You are comparing blueberries and bananas.

[@unive184]

Don't bite your fingernails!

[@CBRENTD]

This is not a 2020 GTI.

[@SaraK_69]

You have progressed so well on these videos going back to 2017 all the way to 2021!