2021 VW Golf review - is it the best Golf ever? | What Car?

[@ewaf88]

Noting beats simple dials and buttons for AC and heating

[@forza223bowe5]

My fiesta, has very simple dials. Low tech, but works perfectly

[@ewaf88]

@@forza223bowe5 My friend got a company fiesta in 1978. A one litre engine - four gears and only one speed 90mph (indicated) It never went wrong. However no airbags no ABS no Traction control and we didn't have to wear our seatbelts. God knows what would have happened if we'd hit anything

[@forza223bowe5]

ewaf88 Mine dates from 2010, it’s so far been very reliable.

[@ewaf88]

@@forza223bowe5 Yes you probably have the 1.25 engine

[@forza223bowe5]

ewaf88 I do, yes

[@bigdhav]

This touchscreen trend needs to STOP.

[@lehelzelenka207]

It already did stop. It's just that VW is lagging in trends. Peugeot was ditching physical buttons and wanted to stuff everything into an infotainment submenu. Now they are reverting to physical buttons for AC controls. VW learns the hard way.

[@sugarrfree]

Ano mate, hate big tablets in the cars 🤨

[@forza223bowe5]

Touchscreens are not very hygienic either. What happens on a cold morning when you want to demist the windscreen and the screen freezes ?

[@piperbob2]

Touchscreens are dangerous to try to use, whilst driving.

[@forza223bowe5]

piperbob2 Can’t see how this passes safety tests

[@slapshot0074]

This current obsession with wholly impractical touch screens in cars has got to stop.

[@wakeupandsmellthecoffeetod9582]

Tesla started it...they think it looks cool. It is STUPID.

[@rich8305]

Get with the times and research before you criticise- voice control is part or the package

[@slapshot0074]

@@rich8305 the argument being because it's the current fad it must be great and we should slavishly praise? Funnily enough I know full well what is "in the package", and the availability of voice control (itself not for everyone) doesn't negate the criticism of touch screens in a car. No research needed. Thank you

[@rich8305]

Slapshot 007 have you tried it in person, probably not so carry on being a dinosaur

[@nayak4636]

Ok boomer

[@DanLMH]

Feel like the MK7 will end up being a 'modern classic' in a few years. Not loving the interior on this one 🙁

[@MacTechG4]

I think the value/desirability of any pre-8 gen Golf will go up, the Golf 8 has lost its way, much like they did with the “New Beetles” Mechanical controls that can be operated via muscle memory are far superior and *SAFER*

[@forza223bowe5]

MacTechG4 I wouldn’t be surprised, if the golf 8 is the last generation of Golf. I think VW will focus heavily on their ID range

[@MacTechG4]

@@forza223bowe5; At least in the US market, VW started cutting gorners on the Golf on the MkVII, at least on the TDI models... Production was moved to Mexico (probably for efficiency, the finished cars don't need to be sent via expensive ships from Germany, QC is no different between MX and GER) the TDI models had their rear suspension downgraded from Independent rear suspension to a simpler Torsion Beam, mainly to make room for the AdBlue Diesel Exhaust Fluid tank, (IIRC, the gasoline model MkVII are still IRS) for the US market, the last true "unadulterated" Golf model z9at least for TDI) was the MkVI

[@cengeb]

@@MacTechG4 ya just know where the button or knob is, this touch screen stuff is very UN German, non ergonomic...with mechanical knobs it's just right there, but it's probably now that everyone is going with this touch screen stuff, it's all about costs, cheaper over all as everyone uses the touch screen stuff, very non driver friendly though

[@cengeb]

@@MacTechG4 They moved all Golfs back to Germany...Golf R was always German...they where gonna do golf R in Mexico, but didn't. tiguans are from Puebla now, our 2013 is German, but Tiguan is selling, big time, so made in Puebla makes sense, I have never had issues with made in Puebla or compared to German, same standards, always good. Glad i got my Golf R 2019, with KNOBS!!! Stick of course!

[@Jaykae_t]

Manufacturers need to stop with all of these touch sensitive buttons, it's overkill in this Golf. Just give us physical ones ffs!!

[@KING0SISQO]

They don’t do it because they favour it. But sometimes they have to modernise to keep up with other cars. Why be behind when you can be in front because old customers say otherwise, when all they want to do is appeal to a larger audience. Sleekness sells. I agree I prefer the physical dials. But I do prefer the look. When I look at the golf 7 vs 7.5. The 7 looks dated. The 7.5 doesn’t look dated vs the 8. But the 7 completely does to the 8.

[@Jaykae_t]

@Jerry Rawlings i am the youth! I'm 22 lol

[@rich495]

Have you actually seen the car???

[@paulcfyeung]

@@rich495 yes we get it, you've seen it and the only person qualified to comment, despite other actual car reviewers (unlike yourself) all expressing similar comments about the styling and the touch screens

[@rich8305]

Paul Yeung so, adopting your mentality, all these people know what they're talking about. FYI I sell 15 brands of car, including Toyota and this car wins

[@archiebarber9802]

No physical aircon controls, so stupid

[@forza223bowe5]

What happens if the button freezes? It won’t be functional or it will be stuck on

[@cibulis5347]

@@forza223bowe5 What happens if whole screen freeze ? all system will be stuck on

[@forza223bowe5]

valdesas Yes. If the air con say is stuck on full blast, there is no away to stop it.

[@mathias61]

Not at all. Air control is very easy to use through screena too. Just go and test it in a real world too ;-)

[@patrickbateman6885]

mathias61 I think people have overreacted to it to much, I think there should be Buttons with it also able to work through screen

[@TheRustedPixel]

I've been watching tons of finacial videos about how they say never buy new cars, the lose value rapidly in 3 years, get in on the fourth year and you're not losing much. Why am I saying this? Well, I've been excited about the Golf mk8 for a while but after seeing this (and that odd face at the front and cheap plastic back on the infotainment system) I'm set on getting a 7.5GTi golf. That car is still extremely handsome with, a probably, better looking interior too!

[@klemzale5370]

And with DSG its pretty damn fast , and a great daily car Im loving my mk7 DSG, wish i could afford the Clubsport, or the newer TRC, but im still happy i got the mk7

[@DAZZER435]

Exactly what I am thinking, in manual with the performance pack.

[@klemzale5370]

@@DAZZER435 you really must test drive the DSGversionbefore you buy. Its soo much fun for me, and i drive it on manual only so its not boring to drive The shifting is amazing and it also makes the car quite a bit faster. Its my first DSG/auto and i will never drive manual again

[@DAZZER435]

@@klemzale5370 Okay, i'll give it a go on your recommendation.

[@rich8305]

Another person who hasn't seen or driven the car? It is an amazing design and well- built too. The tech is superb and the look of the car is a true positive move forwards for this iconic car

[@Elias_Giannakakis-GTI1985]

My daily driving car is a vw golf mk6 and one of its main advantages is that ,if needed , my 67 year old father can easily get in and drive it whithout the need of an "eurofighter typhoon" pilot licence.....just with an ordinary driving licence!!!!!! From what I see in the mk8 golf there is no way for an average "old" driver to enjoy this car. So my point is that vw golf was a car that everybody could easily drive, it gave every driver regardless of age the feeling of an easy car to live with ....now you have to adjust a great number of functions ,only to just get to start the car....

[@forza223bowe5]

Just keep your Mk6, they are the best golfs hands down. Mk8, is too complicated and will go wrong

[@DavGreg]

The simple truth is that if form follows function, no essential controls should be virtual on a touchscreen. As someone else commented, if your touchscreen on a Mk 7 freezes it impacts your radio. On this car it means most controls are screwed.

[@charles-davidberube1174]

The massaging seats are basic... Dude, it’s a freaking golf! Not a mercedes s class! What were you expecting? The simple fact that it has such a feature is amazing!

[@tartanwallpaper]

This review is a million times better than the Autoexpress review.

[@c-mt6294]

He didn’t comment on the removed gas struts for the bonnet or the lack of lining of the glove compartment , or the hard plastic on the doors in the back seat

[@rich8305]

No it's not

[@Horizon301.]

Big mistake with what they have done with the technology. It will alienate a lot of buyers given this car is typically bought by people of all ages and demographics, I can’t help but think that older people will be overwhelmed and rightfully so. The climate controls are the final nail in the coffin. The moment you can’t adjust the basics without using a touch screen is the point in which it’s a major distraction. The 7.5 quality looks better also, even the infotainment system looks shockingly bad in terms of its design and the UI. Also are there even two cup holders? On the pre production models there clearly isn’t

[@Nero200]

Chatta290 I totally agree mate... I’d have a 7.5 over that MK8 all day. That infotainment screen and climate control is overly complex just for the sake of it.

[@Horizon301.]

Nero200 yep definitely. Audi have gone that way with the new A6 but that’s okay, I don’t like it but it’s not a mass produced car to the same scale as the golf nor is it so widely appealing to many different groups. The A3 for example and the newer Q3 models and A1 still have the climate control dials that are physical. I’m hating these new cars, trying to use the new systems on the Audi’s is just like punching yourself. So counter intuitive even with the haptic feedback off, a simple dial is simply glorious. Who would have thought that this would be considered a luxury in this day and age over a crappy screen 😬

[@forza223bowe5]

Nero200 What happens if the screens go blank or freeze? It will be worthless

[@Horizon301.]

Forza223 Bowe doubt it will. VW’s now have screens and they are trouble free and the best in the business within the Marque along side bmw. The climate control integration though is just appalling.

[@Nero200]

Forza223 Bowe I know that’s what I’m saying...

[@bighes100]

Thanks VW...... i like the focus more now

[@forza223bowe5]

Focus has always been better than the golf, in my opinion. People buy golfs because of the VW badge, it’s nothing especial

[@xMyzaa]

@@forza223bowe5 but lets not forget about vw dsg auto's though, way better and smoother than a ford focus. And plus technology in this vw looks way too advanced just don't think a lot of people are ready for a change. A step to the future. Physical buttons are too old now.

[@HealthyMotherfcker]

Forza223 Bowe thats total bullshit, I’m sorry. The golf is a way better machine

[@69memnon69]

Good on the British for buying the focus that no one else wants.

[@bighes100]

Which is better and cheaper?

[@mutley66]

Somewhat difficult to operate a touchscreen safely whilst DRIVING. Its a car, not an ipad.

[@m80116]

They haven't gone for the WOW factor... they've gone to the EWW factor !

[@MrSupersixfour]

Have they ever lol

[@mickgordon5151]

It's not that bad for a cheep run a round,

[@rich8305]

It's the whole car which is spectacularly good in every respect

[@rich8305]

I know, what a great car BTW, it really is fantastic

[@rich8305]

But when you've actually experienced the car it is WOW...

[@johnparker4538]

As with many others I think they have destroyed the excellent internal ergonomics by going all digital. My mk7.5 1.5 turbo match run out model was packed with free extras so all I had to add was the rear camera (a must have add on). Pretty much the perfect all round car and I love it!

[@Incomudro1963]

I'm in the USA, I drove a MK6 GTI for 3 years, and have had my MK7 GTI since it debuted. I thought I would stick with the Golf platform when the MK8 rolled around - but they lost with that interior. VW used to lead the way in the interior dept., but Mazda (say Mazda 3) is miles ahead of them there now. My next car will not be a MK8 unless VW sees it's error and adds manual controls mid model, and ups the interior quality.

[@DavGreg]

USA as well. I bought a 2019 Golf Alltrack to replace a 2016 Golf hatch after seeing what the Mk 8 Golf would be. For the UK readers that means the 1.8 TSI and the DSG + 4Motion.

[@marshmallowpuff4899]

The Mazda 3 is a beauty

[@drsnowmon]

Mazda sucks it's not even in the same league as VW

[@GUITARTIME2024]

Golf Mark 8 not coming to USA

[@nzroversfan]

Years ago the next Golf always built on the last ones strengths and then made the oppositions job that bit harder. The Golf 8 hasn't done that and it looks as if those with a certain agenda have got their way. Hopefully the Golf 9 will return those winning attributes to VW.

[@zumik83]

No touchscreen wiper controls or turn signals ? I will wait for Golf 9 in that case !

[@shanecolton3500]

As a big VW fan this is the first proper review I've seen of the mk8. I've recently bought a MK7 GTD and in love with it. I am hugely disappointed in VW as they have moved away from the ergonomics that most love about the MK7. I can't stand the touchscreen temperature gauges and fidgety audio systems....one can get them on a Renault of a Toyota sure, But at least unlike most journalists who will try plámás VW just 'cuz its a VW'; fair dues to What Car for saying it as it is. However you have gutted me by revealing the harsh truths!lol

[@sweeperboy]

Shane Colton I love my MK7.0 GTD too, and I can see myself - all being well - keeping it until it’s 10 years old at this rate.

[@shanecolton3500]

@@sweeperboy Yea ano but to be fair I actually haven't seen a pic of the MK8 in a GTD so heres hoping we go back on our word!

[@sweeperboy]

Shane Colton True, I guess we should wait. But that touch screen to do everything, man... 😕 And it looks so far like it needs antidepressants, lol.

[@shanecolton3500]

@@sweeperboylol I actually could live with the looks easier than the touchscreen and to think that the VAG group had avoided going down the whole naf touchscreen route like Toyota PSA and the likes

[@RegistracijosKlaida]

I was choosing between peugeot 308sw, golf mk7.5 variant, corolla sw and maybe kia proceed. After test driving every car i decided to go with the golf as it fitted my needs the best. The dealer asked me if i'm in a hurry with the car - cause the mk8 is coming out on 2020. But as i saw first impressions of this car and saw that terrible infotainment system with all the touchscreens and touch buttons... oh you bet i was in a hurry just to get that mk7.5 :D Come on VW - even raising the volume looks over complicated and laggy. :D

[@magnuspersson1433]

So "build quality" in a car is judged by how the instrument panel feels to touch?

[@joelbrandon6807]

I know Im asking the wrong place but does any of you know of a tool to log back into an Instagram account?? I stupidly forgot my account password. I appreciate any assistance you can give me.

[@jaxtyngregory9808]

@Joel Brandon Instablaster =)

[@derekmoore5709]

No physical climate control knobs.... No purchase..... I'll buy a Ford Focus instead🚗🚗

[@DavGreg]

Good luck with that.

[@sugarrfree]

Nice 1. I like the look of the new focus. With nice big alloys it looks class

[@UserPauli2592]

I got the new focus for 2 months now as a company car and I'm happy with it. It's the 2l diesel automatic and some extras like the iLED lights and a few more extras Got 13.000 kilometres on it now within 2 months and no problems at all so far.

[@derekmoore5709]

UserPauli2592 Sounds nice , Are those new headlights any good , Was thinking about ticking that option box

[@miamimo70]

😳

[@kirnupiima]

Oh god. Was looking forvard to upgrading from my mk7, but apparently I can’t. Maybe in 2 years the folks at VW realise the huge mistakes they’ve made, and mk8,5 will look like a proper car again. This is just horrible.

[@KING0SISQO]

Even if they decided to do that. It’s take more than two years. They would make much changes mid cycle. But more intuitive. But considering this look is brand new. I doubt it will happen. How many years apart was the mk5 to the 7.5 where they moved from physical buttons to touch? That’s why I doubt they’d go back. And I can’t see them going back to buttons because less is more.

[@rich495]

God, it is so, so good and looks superb

[@rich8305]

Seriously? Have you seen or driven the car? A huge step,forward and improvement on the 7/ 7.5 Environmental improvements along with an amazing exterior and interior deliver a fantastic product I've driven the car at length and it is such a great car

[@forza223bowe5]

Rich Is there any road noise at higher speeds? My Mk7 is so loud on motorways

[@forza223bowe5]

KING0SISQO Unfortunately touch screens are becoming the norm, on a lot of products

[@simbagambe6926]

Golf reminds me of IPhone. People love to criticise it for the sake of it (rightly or wrongly) but we will see 1000s of these on the road.

[@edgimson5706]

Sheep.

[@gravemind6536]

The last good Golf was the MK5 the newer ones are simply not as well built and robust as the old ones. The MK4 was the best generation of Golf ever.

[@cmmats624]

@@gravemind6536 The look of the MK5 is the worst ever i think

[@wesleyjanse6600]

@@gravemind6536 I have a golf 5 and I can say it aint 'Well build'

[@gravemind6536]

@@cmmats624 The back end was alright I didn't really like the way the front end looked. Like I said I prefer the MK4.

[@Marre480]

So far What Car is the only reviewer that says all the truth, also things model/brand fans don't want to hear.... So disappointed seeing other reviewers skipping on negatives, particularly when testing car icons like the VW Golf.

[@madtvpt]

The outgoing golf is way more interesting than this one. Thumbs up for the review thumbs down for the car

[@forza223bowe5]

Mk6 golf is the best looking one, and well built and refined, even the mk7 is a downgrade

[@forza223bowe5]

Eze smallboy MK7 golf isn’t as reliable, and I doubt the MK8 will be any better

[@kasparszujs6397]

Is it any surprise that the BMW 1 series is going to be nicer? It costs like 30% more with similar options.

[@robertday8619]

Really, you sure about that! You're just going on list price and not real world prices you can get if you shop around.

[@IAMCRAIG1986]

Robert Day lol what else does he have to go off?! They are literally brand new on the market and can’t see discounts being offered just yet

[@Horizon301.]

In reality most of these cars are the same price pretty much. A3, 1 series, golf etc. The point is the VW typically had better standard equipment. Same reason most Asian cars no matter what price can easily be better equipped than an s class let’s say

[@Carrinthe]

Well I would buy a Mazda 3 in this segment,... wait, I did :) And I enjoy a nice central dail for the infotainment, a nice dial for volume and a dials for climate control. The interior is far nicer and reliability is far better. And fully packed it's cheaper too.

[@robertday8619]

@@IAMCRAIG1986 you're obviously not in the trade.

[@simonsurvives]

I like my MK6 because it looks the bollocks inside and out, everything is where it should be, the physical dials are much more convenient for me because I can adjust things as I'm driving rather than faff with touch screens, the gage cluster is pretty simple so I can't complain with that, not a fan of all the fancy heated seats and massage functions etc but that's more of a personal gripe so I can't take points away, carpeted door bins are nice for stopping things rattling about, USB C is pretty nifty to be fair, boot size is fine as it always was, overall design externally looks futuristic and kind of what I expected the golf to evolve too, overall it looks fine outside but the interior is chocked full of unnecessary touch screens and gadgets that most users would feel alienated by, 5.5/10

[@forza223bowe5]

Golf 6, actually feels like a solid, classy and refined car. This new mk8 one, feels cheap and nasty. It almost feels like it has been designed by an accountant

[@twistsouth514]

Forza223 Bowe well that’s because it has. VW are all about cost-cutting now so the bean counters are designing the cars.

[@DavGreg]

Used to own a 2011 VW Golf Mk 6 (German made US spec) and it was a better car than my Mk 7 Golf or my new 2019 Golf Alltrack in terms of quality of materials, switchgear and such. I enjoy my Mk 7, but loved that Mk 6. I will not be buying this video game with wheels.

[@Cee-Real]

Anybody who has a Golf 7 knows that on a cold morning the infotainment screen becomes a little unresponsive.. but the car is saved by actual dials and manual controls. I can already see the impending customer backlash for when this all digital car becomes unresponsive on cold mornings.. Even the most basic functions like headlights, climate control and heated seats need the touch screen.. And some might not care but they got rid of the hydraulic springs that keep the bonnet up without you having to use a manual stalk.. they also only seem to have one cup holder instead of two and also got rid of the little compartment you used to be able to store your glasses in. The Golf 7.5 will see a spike in sales.

[@blarkdexture8899]

I prefer the mk7

[@KruppMax]

Mk4 🖤

[@forza223bowe5]

I prefer the MK6 it looks more like a golf and is solid and classy and well made

[@tonyga5]

Worst interior dash ever. What were they thinking

[@Corsa15DT]

cost saving. that's all vw is thinking about.

[@forza223bowe5]

Corsa15DT VW once made solid and reliable cars. I drove a new 7.5 golf and it felt like a cheaper car, lots of rattles

[@Corsa15DT]

@@forza223bowe5 ny mk4 anf mk5 dashboards rattle too

[@rich8305]

Actually, best dash ever, seems so many people criticise without having seen or touched the screens- they are incrediblymgood

[@Corsa15DT]

@@rich8305 this car screams of cost savings. They removed the bonnet gas struts. They removed the multilink. They even removed the interior buttons, its utterly impractical to use tablet while driving.

[@naferemix]

That interior is disgusting. Even Renault are doing better with theirs.

[@forza223bowe5]

VW once had solid and timeless interiors, now they have got a interior which will age fast, it already looks dated

[@rich8305]

Wow, exactly how many miles have you driven in the car- I have and the interior is incredibly good

[@naferemix]

I was commenting on the appearance so my eyes qualify me for an opinion on that one

[@paulcfyeung]

@@rich8305 Zzz yes yes we get it, you've driven the car, now where's your professional review? If you're so good at this then why aren't your employed as a full time car journalist? Besides, the reviewer in this vid doesnt seem to agree with your assessment with the interior and he has definitely drive and seen the car! Lol

[@markh7288]

So sad to see such a wonderful car being diminished. What will the difference be to the competition now? Volkswagen get your act together! Seats alone will put me off buying an 8th Golf

[@rich8305]

You sound like another expert who hasn't even sat in let alone driven the car. I have and all these negative, inaccurate comments are so far off the pace. Amazing interior and such a good, well designed and high quality interior

[@markappleby8791]

@@rich8305 I am only responding to the review of the car. I currently drive the Mk7 and find it's seat to be marginal, in fact it is the most disappointing thing about the car. I also drive a Volvo, I much prefer to do the longer drive in the Volvo, because I don't have aches when I get out unlike the Golf! Otherwise the Mk7 has been a wonderful machine. I sat into a T-Roc a few weeks ago, I have never been so disappointed with a car. It could have been my first choice to replace the Golf, but it is a disaster inside. I think I'm going to replace the golf with another Volvo as my mileage is increasing. I have shown great loyalty to the Golf, I'd say that this is my 12th or so.

[@rich8305]

Get your facts together rather than make stupid statements based on what is obviously severely limited amount of experience leave your comments in the cupboard

[@markh7288]

Rich you are a troll!

[@forza223bowe5]

Rich High quality? The interior looks much cheaper and gone all flashy to hide its shortfalls. Step in a Mk7 or Mk6 golf and see how well put together this is

[@sigint99]

The cost cutting in the car is so obvious. VW have tarnished the Golf name.

[@dennischeng4391]

Aesthetically, MK7.5 is the pinnacle of all golfs.Thumbs up you agree.

[@gotnumpompalarim5123]

This is way better then the mk7. Looks very slick and futuristic

[@666DW]

I don’t know about the ‘best’ golf ever but I can tell you it’s the ugliest one!

[@DavGreg]

No the US made version of the Golf from Pennsylvania back in the 1980s was easily the ugliest Golf ever. The Mk 8 is second.

[@linushedwall9838]

Did you forget about the Mk5?

[@OdianosenIseyare]

I agree with you 100%. There's no way in the world I'll buy this contraption. It's the ugliest gold ever manufactured.

[@forza223bowe5]

Jerry Rawlings Mk6 golf was the sweet spot peak, mk7 is cheaper made than the mk6 and I suspect the mk8, will be even worse

[@pavlestojanovic7058]

For sure!

[@denizmustafa2477]

All Golfs are great and the new 8 seems to be nice. Always one of the best cars. Golfs have a special appeal. It is stupid to have so many ridiculous remarks against the new Golf instead of simple criticism. Like some try to brand the car like a failure, but some people simply need to try to come up with dislike when they are bitter that they cannot afford to buy the car.

[@paulcfyeung]

A great honest review, it reminds me of the previous shape corolla/auris and has lost a lot of its Germanic style. Seems rather underwhelming overall tbh.

[@rich8305]

Paul Yeung wow, another" expert" comparing the car to Toyota's? The car is amazing and such a good looking improvement on its predecessors, don't draw comparisons when you haven't seen or driven this fantastic car

[@paulcfyeung]

@@rich8305 in which part of my comment did you see me referring myself as the expert? 😂 and how exactly did I compare it to a Toyota? I said it reminds me of one. Unsure what makes you think your opinions on the styling is somewhat more valid than mine? 😂

[@rich8305]

Paul Yeung quite simply, I've driven the car at length and having also tried the Toyota, find your type of comments so strongly stated and quite frankly, ridiculous

[@paulcfyeung]

@@rich8305 again, I made no mention about the driving dynamics, and again, unsure how you opinions on the aesthetic would be anymore valid than mine simply because you've driven it? And which part of my comments did you find "strongly stated"? 😂 Who are you to even think your aesthetic preference is better than anyone? Peter Schreyer? Lol

[@rich8305]

Wow, we obviously differ. Interesting that 99% of the people I tested the car with were hugely impressed with this car. You?- when did you drive the car and what makes you think your opinion is worth anything? If you comment, make sure you are fully aware of the whole marketplace and hard facts before you start to touch the keyboard. Styling is personal taste for sure. I've seen and driven and like the car because in my opinion, it's good. Armchair experts are to be laughed at sometimes, this is one of those times

[@OscarLeeMX]

I love the granularity of the damping controls.

[@keithisaacs6092]

When they built the golf they made almost the perfect car good to drive comfortable and practical but the competition is much hotter now . Skoda is a much better built car with more space with better reliability and cheaper .

[@harrymurray-jones219]

Skoda is owned by VW so they use same mechanical components thus they are equally reliable.

[@keithisaacs6092]

@@harrymurray-jones219 skoda are much higher in the customer satisfaction survey than VW thats why i own one great cars.

[@Horizon301.]

Stanley Flooring it. Not quite. The Leon, golf and A3 for example are very much different. Very few parts you can see are shared. Most of these use their own suppliers.

[@forza223bowe5]

I think skodas use older VW tech, so it’s more proven and reliable.

[@zax331]

Keith Isaacs I heard that VW is going to lower the quality on Skoda because they are selling better than VW.

[@conordevery2306]

Very hard to see a reason to buy this over a focus or a scala.

[@rich8305]

Apart from' co's it's way better than either of them

[@johnora3857]

the grey-beige interior doesnt do that golf any favour...

[@zaori2785]

Thanks, this review seems honest to me. Most german reviewers overlook the crappy digital dashboard.

[@PixelBlack]

About the touch buttons; completely agree with you. The be able to turn on the heat without the need of removing my winter gloves during winter is a most. Do they think about those type QOL ?

[@rich8305]

Pixel Noir you just ask the car to turn the heat up and it does

[@grantduke8484]

No more front foglights?

[@mikewelch3747]

The only reason people like front fog lights is so they can drive around with them on in all weather just because it looks cool

[@forza223bowe5]

Should have, it’s a the law to have them

[@mcallard911]

Not even a physical button for the brightness of the dash !!! Since I drive a lot on Interstates (usa), I am used to the brightness button for quick changing depending on construction zone, traffic or pitch dark road. Will defitely keep my Golf 7. I want a car, not a another distracting touch screen tablet.

[@GarethAndersonUK]

This looks like the old Toyota Auris.

[@twistsouth514]

Looks like they spent so much time on the ID3 they forgot about the new Golf and had to throw it together quickly.

[@ADDG880]

TwistSouth agreed so many things seem like an after thought.

[@mihnealazar7039]

And the ID.3’s front looks kinda lame lol. Al least the headlights do. Also the interior doesn’t look to great, too much of a small display for the speed.

[@forza223bowe5]

ID 3 looks like a Toy car what a 5 year old designed

[@rich8305]

Expert comments from someone who OBVIOUSLY hasn't driven the car?

[@rich8305]

Forza223 Bowe and your comments come from a 3 year old

[@bigrigger3762]

Don’t think it’s as good looking as the out going model, and the exterior styling is so dreary to say the least, as is every new Golf that comes out. I think Ford are really on the money with the new Focus I personally think that’s a cracking looking car and I’m no Ford fan.

[@forza223bowe5]

I agree, and drives better

[@Chester8666]

Yep, got to agree with this also. Currently looking for a replacement for my MK7 Golf. I never thought I'd say this having been a long term VW fan, but I think its looking likely to be the new Focus...

[@forza223bowe5]

Chester8666 New focus looks decent, and probably can get some good deals on one

[@MIGerlag]

Agreed.

[@markusortmaier7174]

The focus is brilliant. But I would not buy one because of the 3 cylinder engines and the built quality is average but not more.

[@rich8305]

So many people making weird negative comments about a car they haven't even seen in person. Wake up- this car is incredibly good and honestly; looks nothing like ANY Toyota ever made- thank god...

[@forza223bowe5]

It just looks like a heavy refresh of the current mk7 model. No doubt they have cost cut with cheap, scratchy plastics.

[@aaronl88]

agreed. would much rather get a new mk7

[@adam-2011]

03:10 - it is confusing indeed. Concentrating on driving or concentrating on finding what you are looking for in that panel?? Choose wisely. Because unlike cats you have only one life to spend 03:45 - I didn't like that being not able to adjust the temperature level manually. They shouldn't have removed it. Because manually you could adjust it from 26 degree to 5 degree just in seconds. But now you should tap it don't know how many times while you're driving. It will cause distraction. Wheel adjustment would be better like in Golf 5. They had it there really good and now it's worse . Tap with two fingers to activate don't know what and tap with three fingers to do that and this, slide it up for another specs till you find what you want. How is this any different than playing with your mobile phone while driving??

[@mitchreeves1]

Looks like a Megane and an Auris had a baby, except this is duller and way more expensive. Won't last as long either.

[@RsDv5]

Last longer than a Megane easily. Potentially the Auris too, Toyota aren’t what they used to be but saying that neither are VW

[@ORMZBY93]

Compared to a Renault... Do you know anything about cars?

[@mitchreeves1]

@@ORMZBY93 yes I do know about cars Ryan. Statistically, French cars are more reliable than German cars and they have been for a few years now. Do you know anything about about cars?

[@TL-xw6fh]

Auris beats the pants of the Golf fit reliability, durability and economy. Why would anyone want the Golf when the latest Auris is so good?

[@rich8305]

Idiot

[@thomasj5083]

Why does every golf review talk about the "adaptive suspension" when almost nobody (except me) ever specifies it. Trying to find a used golf with that option is like looking for a needle in a haystack. It's been an option since the Golf 6 and is well worth the money, but a review should talk about the regular ride as even in "normal" mode the DCC still differs from the standard setup. VW Seems to love giving highly-specced unrepresentative cars to reviewers. We won't even talk about the hopeless torsion beam setup that comes with the smaller engines. It's like a different car - a significantly inferior one.

[@hadrien4089]

"It's certainly one of the most comfortable family car in its class" Citroen : Hold my baguett-

[@krystofjirasek7348]

Well, there isn't a car in this class in Citroën...

[@BrateTebra123]

Citroens today are far from comfortable

[@XxJay71xX]

@@krystofjirasek7348 Citroen C3... Also next year they're gonna show the new C4 and C5.

[@krystofjirasek7348]

@@XxJay71xX C3 is the B-segment, same as VW Polo, whereas Golf is the C-segment, same as C4, but at least in my country was C4 and C5 sold last in 2014...

[@XxJay71xX]

@@krystofjirasek7348 As I said, next year Citroen will present the new C4 and C5, hopefully not some "SUV-like" crap

[@manuelschulz5944]

Well done review. I don’t know how many German viewers you have but it would be great if you could state the efficiency factor/mileage also in liters per 100 km. Thanks!

[@rich495]

Completely negative review for what is a truly well conceived car. The new technology is happening, accept it and recognise how good this new tech is on the Golf. Confusing for the first 5 minutes; intuitive once the basics have been grasped. This car is superb

[@christian.j.bennett]

Hi Doug, about using the touchscreen controls for heating etc instead of dials. I've heard several presenters say 'why not have dials to turn' and that they don't like changing heating on the touchscreen.... A month into driving a car with touchscreen heating and I have to say it's no problem. I think people just hate change. Also the future is about saving the planet and not using excess plastic etc for dials. Also manufacturers want to be able to remotely update the car features and a static dial/knob cannot change whereas screen info / computer linked features can. Great presenting, like your style, thanks for the video.

[@sigint99]

Putting most or all of the functionality onto touch screens is a huge distraction when driving. Mazda did not go down this route.

[@christian.j.bennett]

@@sigint99 I was like you, I thought the idea was terrible. But I am now driving a car with it and love it. I think it is all about how the touchscreen is laid out and how responsive it is. It's like comparing the quality of an iPad versus a Kindle, depending which one you use they can give you two different experiences. Also don't forget this is all new tech, so in future the controls will be made even simpler and will be placed on larger more clever screens (maybe separate ones) so they feel natural to use. But ultimately I appreciate this is a personal choice, like Marmite, people will either love or hate, I don't think there is an inbetween :)

[@jonathanperkins4156]

I’m so glad I made the decision to get my 7.5 golf R this year . From early pics , I new this overly techy style wouldn’t work for me .

[@cengeb]

me too..I didn't really need to replace my 2016 GTI, but after hearing Golf R may be hybrid and adding electric motor, with more kick, but then no more stick!! That is the final nail, so I went with a 2019, golf R stick of course..now that I see this horrible dash controls, more glad than ever...KNOBS matter

[@Mirror1973]

Nicholos summers I’m following your lead

[@MS-tw3tj]

This is quite honest review. Good job.

[@doosrah8029]

Nothing tops the Mk7 ever since the Mk5 language design was released

[@Pete90125]

7.5 👍👍🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@richardfittonperkins1926]

It looks like a modern mk6 in a lot of ways. The 7 was elegantly understated and had that "just right" feeling. I'm sure they'll sell loads of them!

[@forza223bowe5]

Mk6 is the best golf, hands down

[@DavGreg]

Looks nothing like the Mk 6 Golf I owned. The Mk 6 was soft touch and real metal trim- this is hard plastic and fake metal. The Mk 6 also had great seats- the Mk 7 seats are not as good and these are probably even worse.

[@wakeupandsmellthecoffeetod9582]

They've gone to far with this. The greatest strength of vw golf has always been its logic and functionality...analog stuff...simple and direct. Now they've gone trendy and stupid. The obsession with touchscreen is insane. Look at the tesla model 3. Fast as a sportscar...with as much personality as a food blender...or a washing machine.

[@lyttonwilliams7161]

Does it come in a manual??

[@andrewmontague2636]

Can’t believe all of the negative comments. “The outside isn’t different enough, the inside is too different “. I wonder how many of these people are actually potential customers..? Also I think the reviewer is getting confused between build quality band material quality. I like it, I’ll have one

[@picklednick]

I watched three reviews on the golf 8 before this one... This is the best by far! Keep it up guys 👍

[@rwynne69]

I’ve got a MK7 and the Mk8 just seems like a step back. I think I will be going elsewhere for my next car

[@sugarrfree]

Ray Wynne focus?

[@forza223bowe5]

Mk6 golfs are much nicer, they seem more refined and solid. Went into a mk7 and more scratchy plastics and lot more road noise

[@seanlyons161]

I have a mk4 and they all seem a step back from that!

[@JackVinall35]

Sean your not wrong there mate, whatever happened to a good old manual gearbox in a golf which is common in the mk4 and generations before

[@rich8305]

I can definitely say, having driven the Mk8 for 3 hours in Germany, it is a huge and relevant improvement on the Mk 7.5 Great looking, amazing interior and so good in so many ways. Loads of inaccurate comments from experts who haven't seen or driven the car- very tedious to read

[@Ianmundo]

buttons and dials are vastly superior for HVAC and volume control

[@rain.0_0.]

Can't wait for the mk8 GTI and the mk8 Golf r

[@drwisdom1]

I got my first car, a used VW Fastback, in 1972. Since 1983 I have been driving variations of the Golf with manual transmissions (83 GTI, 88 GTI, 92 Corrado, 2004 GTI, 2006 GTI, 2015 Golf Sportwagen). While I only buy VWs, I just can't see myself buying a mk8 Golf or GTI. I want a manual, I don't want 4 doors, I want the same temperature controls I have used for decades, and I don't find the styling near as appealing as mk7 Golfs.

[@robtt997]

Hmmm as a Mk7 Gti owner I am not happy they have cheapened it . The extra tech doesn’t make up for that premium feel the Mk7 has . I was in a new Corolla the other day and that has proper bullet proof build quality. I hate the lack of buttons. Honda have just revised their Civic to bring buttons back after owner complaints! I won’t be getting another Golf .

[@forza223bowe5]

Even the mk7 model is a downgrade on the mk6

[@harrymurray-jones219]

The corrola has such dated feel on the interior and some por quality plastics. The infotainment system feels ancient compared to rivals....

[@2901gino]

Is this function for suspension adjustment (comfort or sport) coming in style edition for manual gearbox also? Thank you.

[@THEMIALOG]

Have to say usually I think your reviews are okay dude but this on you did awesome. Well done

[@amandareid3129]

Surely a wholly touch screen infotainment system is going to lead to more accidents as people concentrate on the screen than the driving!

[@2crytex2]

So happy this is coming out! MK7.5 might drop in price

[@forza223bowe5]

swansea007791 It’s very rare for a car to appreciate in value, especially a mainstream one.

[@forza223bowe5]

Wally DaFig I am not a hater, I actually have a golf thanks

[@JoeyMudflats]

Car2X - actually V2X, short for 'Vehicle to Everything' - is not proprietory to VW. Toyota in Japan have it, Cadillac in the USA have it, eventually it will link to highway infrastructure so that, for instance, motorway hazard warnings can be relayed right to your car's dash screen. It seems likely it will be fairly universally adopted quite quickly.

[@adrianady1986]

Any one knows if they plan in launching a GTD version?

[@TonyNeat]

I can't help but think VW have quietly discontinued the GTD. I've owned two of them as company cars and loved them both (apart from the ever increasing tax penalties). I recently needed to replace my last GTD and could not find a replacement mentioned anywhere on VW's website. Sad times but I guess the EU is encouraging (forcing) us to abandon diesel in favour of something hybrid. Shame, as I really loved my GTD

[@cameronm4201]

Tony Neat get a focus ST diesel

[@706oli]

So you cannot use a phone whilst driving and rightly so.! Yet manufacturers are allowed to produce cars, where to adjust anything it seems, has to be done through a touchscreen, thus taking your eyes off the road, making it more dangerous.!! It doesn’t really make sense.! Physical buttons and knobs, surely is safer.

[@piero2611]

So they want to charge you premium money and yet they can't be bothered to paint the underside of the bonnet or even fit a gas strut!!! Wtf I'm sure that infotainment is gonna be really safe to navigate through whilst driving 👏

[@timedestroyer92]

Touch buttons is less expensive to produce, that is why all manufacturers go for touch buttons. Then sell it at higher price. I have friends who produce the digital cockipit and infotainemt and they said that to me.

[@Kona88lyle]

Refreshing honest review. Prefer the previous mk.

[@rich8305]

Lyle Ramsey lousy, boyish review amazing car

[@sharoncoote7424]

really informative and well presented, thanks

[@Strand0410]

Nice car, but the touch buttons for climate control are madness. In what way does this improve the user experience other than aesthetics?

[@h3e44]

Watching this makes me appreciate my MK7 even more

[@sweeperboy]

HX Re agree!

[@rich8305]

You need to open your eyes and appreciate just how amazing this car is

[@forza223bowe5]

Looks very similar to the Mk7

[@964tractorboy]

Can you operate all the touch functions wearing gloves? I presume they're resistive, but nobody has said. A decent review from a guy who doesn't say "actually" every other word. Thanks for that!

[@ADDG880]

964tractorboy good point. I live in Canada and when it’s -40c outside I am not taking my gloves off

[@964tractorboy]

@@ADDG880 Or anything else. -40C? Ouch!

[@Tigerex966]

VW please bring back the buttons for volume and ac, that you can use without looking, with gloves, and no sub menu, they are much much safer to use, and cost less to replace then a whole screen that will die out and dim in a few years.

[@johnfrytey1331]

I like my mk7 gtd design 🙂

[@sweeperboy]

Darek Fryt I have one too, I’m not upgrading it for this...whatever it is!

[@RunDave]

My Golf has had software issues from brand new. Vw replaced the gateway and updated software at 1500 miles, but the problem still happens all the time

[@mattluxton]

Really not sure if I'll upgrade my mk7.5 for one of these... Awkward styling from certain angles inside and out. No physical controls inside is a big downside too. Surely VW could've supplied a much better colour combination for this review? Who on earth specifies that colour interior?? Yuk!

[@davisdesigns1153]

The mk7.5 is perfect in my opinion

[@mattluxton]

@@davisdesigns1153 I love mine. It does everything I need very very well and looks very smart

[@nosihleamandajili1203]

touch screen set up very well. I see many people complaining, there are physical buttons on the wheel for the ease of driving. Why would you even go anything close to the infortainment system while driving? even if its physical dials!!

[@castin5244]

Something just looks weird about the front. It almost looks upside down.

[@pavlestojanovic7058]

Headlights, yeah. Mk7 everyday all day.

[@rich8305]

Castin or, it actually looks really good

[@PartizanSRB]

Nice review, but when you compare Golf against BMW 1 Series or Audi A3 you need to tako into consideration that those cars are 7-10k euroes (pounds) more expensive than a golf, if you compare similar specs.

[@forza223bowe5]

No doubt it will sell well, despite its shortfalls

[@rich8305]

Forza223 Bowe what shortfalls. There aren't any

[@forza223bowe5]

Rich There is many. Of course, each to their own

[@joshuamitton95]

I agree with most people saying that touch controls for the climate control is stupid but, the sliding 'mechanism' looks better than having to attempt to touch a certain place on a screen.

[@boppzz]

I’m good with my 2003 Mk4

[@Corsa15DT]

0:26 wtf, did VW pull out the hood gas struts??? They had them since MK4.

[@Zero_Ninety]

Nice catch. This car reeks of cost cutting.

[@Corsa15DT]

@@Zero_Ninety Its these small things that separated Golf from the rest of the pack back in the day

[@DAZZER435]

Prefer the look of the 7.5 and the old infotainment system.

[@notursweetheart666]

don’t mind the looks of the mk8 and would like to test drive the mild hybrid. but after watching this, i really love my mk7 :) great interior quality for the price, but still practical controls and everything.

[@davisdesigns1153]

Looks like people are gonna be snapping up mk 7.5 while their still available

[@Pete90125]

Just bought one 9 weeks ago ,1.5 tsi 👍👍👍👍😃😃😃🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@forza223bowe5]

Love the MK7, feels like a proper golf

[@StevenV-o7t]

It’s ONE ! touch ! I think vw integrated new technology into this car very good. You don’t have to go trough menus just simply tap. I like it.