FIRST DRIVE: New VW Golf GTI Mk8 2020: In Detail, Interior, Full Driving Review (4K) | Top Gear

The new eighth-generation GTI has landed and Top Gear’s got its hands on one. It has an angrier face and the new interior has an allergy to buttons, but on paper it has a lot in common with the last one. We head to the Anglesey track to see if there’s any revelations in the corners and new magic in the chassis. Is VW’s new hot hatch really as sensible as it looks?
Is the GTI the ultimate hot hatch of the year, or is the GR Yaris? • FIRST DRIVE: Toyota GR...
Subscribe to Top Gear for more videos: bit.ly/Subscrib...
WATCH MORE TOP GEAR:
Top Gear Series 28: bit.ly/TGS28
Geneva Online Motor Show: bit.ly/TGGMS20
First Look: bit.ly/TG-First...
MORE ABOUT TOP GEAR:
Want to watch a bit of Top Gear on the internet? Welcome to the most comprehensive collection of official clips you'll find on KZbin. Whether you're searching for a caravan challenge, Ken Block in the Hoonicorn, cars versus fighter jets, Stig power laps or the latest Chris Harris Drives, you can find all the iconic films here.
Want to share your views with the team? Join our BBC Studios Voice: www.bbcstudios...
This is a commercial channel from BBC Studios.
Service & Feedback www.bbcstudios...

[@TopGear]

Is the GTI the ultimate hot hatch of the year, or is the GR Yaris? kzbin.info/www/bejne/h2GVeZ6Xbcmnp80

[@hmackprotection1]

“When did the world become allergic to buttons?” Exactly

[@LauchEleven]

Ever since touchscreens have become cheaper than buttons

[@Sixtoemo]

Since touchscreen are cheaper to make & on the whole more reliable. But a total pain the balls, and dangerous.

[@xFlared]

@@Sixtoemo I don't think touch is reliable. Electronics are generally prone to quick deterioration in outside environment and replacement of them could costs hundreds if not thousands of dollars in more luxurious brands. Buttons and a knobs in cars from 50 years ago function as they functioned back then without any replacement or maintenance. Of course the electronics that these buttons and knobs controlled failed for the same reason. Weathering and age. Be it power mirrors, power windows, power seats, or other stuff. This is why electric powered touch sensors are a serious issue when looking into long term.

[@Sixtoemo]

@@xFlared I'm not suggesting touch screens are particularly reliable, just maybe when you add up all the different switch mechanisms there are more potentials to fail. However if your touchscreen fails it's a big one. TBH I'm just purely guessing & have little economic costing evidence to back my argument up 😀

[@pumpum07]

This guy is a legend 😂

[@mircea_comedy]

Top gear will never be the same without Clarkson, Hammond and May!!!

[@mariohenriquedaluzdoprado4247]

Sad but true ...

[@brunobegic3841]

I feel like queen Elizabeth has changed more in the last 15 years than the Golf did. The mk5 was totally different to the mk4, but from then on they were all pretty much the same. Even the engine in the GTI has remained pretty much the same with only some changes in terms of the internals, improved heads and a slightly better turbo with each new model...

[@Daveks3]

Unpopular opinions, Looks terrible from the front, the inside has to many non buttons to accidentally swipe across on the steering wheel. And on UK roads those interior buttons are going to be to difficult to press on the move.

[@timmiekat6072]

True if I were looking at this car right now I'd get a full spec mk 7 facelift it's got the buttons and largely the same tech just less modern interior though I don't think if you get a highline with the led.running lights it looks less modern from the outside and it's cheaper you also get.the same engine options so I'd just get a slightly used mk7.5

[@Daveks3]

@@timmiekat6072 good choice 👌 much nicer then this!

[@AndorRadnai]

Hm. It looks better than the normal Golf, that is for sure, I am super happy about the manual still being there, especially with that tiny golf ball hint(!), but it is too big for my taste, and the lack of buttons is just criminal!!

[@m3rovingian]

How much oil does the engine burn every 1000km?

[@thedgopro6985]

Thank ypu for the review l am saving for a mk7❤️

[@azbavenger24]

Put 60k on my MK7 gti last year. Loved every single mile of it.

[@cb3298]

The LED strip at the front looks amazing at night

[@duainesimpson274]

Not really impressed with the Mark 8 😔 But I’m still a big fan of the Mark 5 & 7 Haven said that,! I’m always a true fan of the VW Golf.. 😃

[@kdubb81]

Bring back the VR6 and AWD!

[@rapgameoprahwinfrey]

I don't like the front grill going all the way across. The honey combs are too big, looks weird.

[@robz1471]

Was really hoping chris harris was going to review this but no

[@b5thomas7]

Let's extend the "Save the Manuals" campaign to include "Save the buttons"

[@AgentSmith911]

Yup, I love buttons because I can use my fingertips and muscle memory to feel and select what button to press without taking my eyes off the road. These touch pad surfaces are ridiculous.

[@jamesbaggaley1460]

This ^

[@FredericFreedom]

Yes please.

[@osman_0394]

Fr

[@effervescence5664]

Considering a Driver got into issues over the Model 3 touch screen in Germany I can see screens either going the wall of the mobile phone or accidents on the increase with more people having them.

[@longtailgt]

So it's illegal to use a phone while driving a car but it's perfectly fine to have so many screens with complicated settings that you need to take your eyes off the road to use?

[@anrque]

Also there is that recent German court finding about the screens in a Telsa qualifying as an "electronic device." So it is pretty dumb that this is the trend that auto manufacturers are moving towards. The judges in the German case are quoted (in translation): "The touchscreen ( permanently installed in the vehicle of the Tesla brand ) is an electronic device in the sense of § 23 Para, it does not matter what purpose the driver pursues with the operation. "The setting of the functions required to operate the motor vehicle via the touchscreen (here: setting the wiping interval of the windshield wiper) is therefore only permitted if the view is only briefly adjusted to the screen for road, traffic, visibility and weather conditions and at the same time a corresponding turn away from the traffic is connected."

[@38tech]

Thinking the samething. Its one of many reasons i will bot buy anything new.

[@killerkhalsa27]

In ontario, we cant use the infotiaintment of our cars while driving or even at a red. We will get the same ticket as being on our phone technically.

[@longtailgt]

@@killerkhalsa27 that is just beyond stupid. I fear for humanity.

[@KB-vu5xs]

@@longtailgt To be fair, putting giant displays in cars that are obviously going to be distracting was kind of stupid to begin with. What I don't get is why does anyone want a mediocre tablet that will be outdated in no time stuck in their dash? Physical buttons and dials are much better anyways, for usability and reliability.

[@caclavijo]

Center knobs and buttons save lives, touch screens don´t.

[@luisfabriciogarbato9656]

Agreed.

[@insayn7995]

True

[@carlosdeno]

Bang on!

[@isaiahdeshazier1520]

💯

[@santoast3018]

True but it looks cooler

[@MrFotzenjoe]

"when did the world become allergic to buttons?" THANK YOU !

[@ghostxfairy]

Not really a fan of the exterior but the real deal breaker is all those touch controls.

[@rossocorsa6577]

yeah everything is ugly

[@marnuscoreyempanadaslooseb6760]

No it really isn’t but yeah the touch controls I mean for me it’s yeah but nah and the chequered fog lights WHY?

[@ukdub]

Looks better with the option wheels and totally agree with the interior being a deal breaker

[@stevealford4121]

nolinagirlaSia.link

[@urvelocho4428]

I feel you dude

[@martinhanssson2397]

i would rather buy a two year old golf r for less money but that just me.

[@ado4683]

that's what I did never looked back :D

[@BiscuitsnTea]

its not just you

[@GG-gk7jn]

A Golf R and a GTi are totally different. GTI is definitely more fun than a R

[@martinhanssson2397]

@@GG-gk7jnthats not my point. gti is a car for people who want a fast car. but cant afford a golf r.

[@BiscuitsnTea]

@@GG-gk7jn and how did you reach to that conclusion

[@jayonefive234]

The MK8 is looking good but honestly, I think the pinnacle of the golf is MK7-7.5.

[@ABeans07]

This thing is beat with the ugly stick.

[@EGMedia1]

I thought the pinnacle was the Mk5 tbh. Incidentally the beginning of this 'generation'

[@845_Mk6]

Mk6 is fye

[@martythemk3fiesta59]

1-3

[@danir1p636]

Agreed.

[@Tejerinhez]

"When did the world become allergic to buttons?" 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@Dave-H]

Everyone: Please stop using shiney black finger print magnetic plastic in the interiors. VW: ok, remove all buttons

[@Karto86]

The tablets in cars needs to go, it's crazy how dangerous it is, without normal buttons.

[@arnabganguly]

Its a fad it'll pass and voice controls would be ushered in

[@SeanRosairo]

Honestly, glad Mazda went hard against that route

[@jano3681]

True... Last time ive replace my old (2 years) corolla fo new one ant they change touch buttons to knobs and finally its more safe to operate... Vw and audi needs to go back to knobs!!!

[@dgeviper]

And yet this is what people find so impressive about Tesla’s cars. I never understood it. In a Tesla you even have to go through menus just to use the A/C and open the sunroof.

[@robertnicholls9917]

@@arnabganguly I'm willing to bet designers, who tend to be car enthusiast, prefer analog details. BMWs iDrive was a good solution back in the day.

[@Bugside]

The lack of buttons is dumb: so you brush the fob in your pocket and the hatch opens, your palm slides against the steering wheel while turning the radio turns to max, you want to adjust something while driving, instead of touching it with muscle memory and feeling for it you have to take your eyes off the road and dive into menus And the fingerprints, fingerprints everywhere

[@Olliebobalong]

It’s haptic feedback; like the MacBook trackpads or your smartphone. You have to press it with the same force as a button.

[@blakeu8547]

@@Olliebobalong You can't feel the outline of the button though. The point being with actual buttons you can feel though outline whereas on this you pretty much have to look at it.

[@Olliebobalong]

@@blakeu8547 Yes you can. There is a recessed grove around each three buttons. I have one...

[@ryanmcqueen6909]

Oliver Newell that’s not what haptic feedback means on the VW. Not the same as Apples forcetouch which you are thinking of. The original statement made by the poster was correct. Apple you have to press with force which sensors measure before activating the function. VW haptic feedback just means when you tap the button you feel a vibration in your finger. The same as what the infotainment displays do in 2020/21 Audis. So you know the systems recognised your input.

[@shanekasbergen8052]

Bugside almighty I think this might improve your day. I said I think kzbin.info/www/bejne/an3WiYd5btWInpo

[@EGMedia1]

VAG won't be satisfied until there is a solid LED perimeter around every car they make.

[@thomasjohannesen1003]

It's called keeping up with current styling lol

[@EGMedia1]

Oh actually I could be on board with that haha

[@georgeroy9806]

@Blair Aquila RGB Bois

[@robbae9307]

I think the LED bar on the Porsche 911 looks good tho

[@cobygogarty7365]

Why did vaginas care at all

[@Srbandara]

This guy doesn't do enough reviews, he is exceptionally good.

[@jimj2683]

There are literally tens of guys just like him doing free reviews on youtube. Top Gear is just a waste of tax payers money in the age of youtube and free content.

[@maximderim]

These all-sensitive buttons are going to kill this Golf.

[@christ7864]

i don't get it with all these new cars. How long have people been saying get rid of distractions whilst driving, don't use your phone etc whereas now they're basically putting the equivalent of a smart phone in every dash board. Look at a Tesla, they've got a fucking tablet on the dashboard..

[@pileofwit]

It's the main reason I won't buy one, well that and the dumpy front end.

[@eponymous7910]

And (potentially) its occupants

[@tylerb3132]

I don't like the front end either, looks like one of those Toyota cars lol

[@EthanL21800]

@@pileofwit it looks like a crossover

[@Josh_0579]

I still prefer the Mk 7.5

[@sjbrown4145]

As do I my friend, that's why the 7.5 GTi performance is sitting on my driveway right now 😊

[@Josh_0579]

@@sjbrown4145 Congratulations you got the best Golf ever (except my Mk5 GTI ofcourse)

[@ashleybrassell2351]

You, and everyone else

[@jonathanperkins4156]

Same here , so glad I went with the 2019 Golf R . Follow my channel , more content coming soon .

[@matthewsmith2787]

I would take a Mk6 even

[@darrelradjendra3372]

Not gonna lie, the Mk7/mk7.5 has a better looking front end

[@Brimstoneandfire]

I think every Golf has had a much better face - even the Mk3!!

[@indigoprime3663]

I think mk5 was the last of the nice faces. Theyve done what Jaguar has done to the new F-type.... Just draw a horizontal line across its face!

[@daryncox]

It’s looks are growing on me and I expect to like it more in person but right now I prefer my MK7 and even more the MK7.5.

[@darrelradjendra3372]

@@V6R32 when i see an mk8 i dont even see a Volkswagen, they used to be simple and clean...

[@darrelradjendra3372]

@@Brimstoneandfire i know

[@Dluger123]

The touchscreen and all the silly buttons are a big issue, stops the driver concentrating on the job of driving. Very dangerous

[@Jake-ux7xp]

Mazda figured that out

[@TheFPSPower]

@@Jake-ux7xp And people called them idiots for not following the huge touch screen trend...

[@MSUSparty53]

The MK7 did it right. Give me android auto/apple car play on the touch screen for media and nav. Leave everything else as buttons

[@Dluger123]

Jake33 agreed, Mazda are brilliant cars with well thought out easy to use interiors

[@matthewsmith2787]

Give it a few months and there will be a total design of this ca

[@AN2Felllla]

Don’t like the direction the design is going in this one. Much prefer the looks of the Mk7...

[@bryce4479]

i agree 100%

[@Aziz-eq2kg]

Coming from an owner of the Mk7.5 the Mk6 is still my favorite

[@WildOne777]

I agree 100% too.

[@BlitzMekanika]

The lower nose is apparently more aerodynamic.

[@richardhoang6115]

This is so weird cause I really like this new GTI outer shell compared to the 7.5. It's the front bumper. I don't like the 8R compared to my 7.5R tho... Something about the front bumper puts me off

[@lijobeats]

Seeing this car, I want to never give up my mk7.5 GTI Performance....

[@AliasCafu]

Can't believe no one is talking about how ugly the front of the car looks. Did we spent all our hate on BMW's grills?

[@Jakerski]

Javier I’ve seen on in person and it doesn’t look that bad. The rear though is a no no for me. Yes, we will still hate BMW’s grills

[@owaizxalt2514]

Huh

[@owaizxalt2514]

Fuuny

[@marijobosnjak7259]

This front end is worse than BMW! The designer of the mk8 shold change the diler,this one gives him bad stuf!

[@NaveedAhmed-sy8zj]

The mk8 is definitely an uglier car at the front, but this GTI isn't that bad, compared to the standard spec mk8s

[@TheShootingBrake]

The point is to give you a “new car” without the advanced power, because we all know they are diverting massive resources toward the ID3/4. At least they still make the GTI.

[@arnabganguly]

@Standout Punch they're doing their part now atleast

[@HotHatchHero]

@Standout Punch Do you know how many companies were caught after VW. Mercedes-Benz, Renault, BMW, GM, Fiat-Chrysler, and Ford had been charged for diesel emission cheating since then.

[@AnissaEx]

@Standout Punch Old news. VAG is the largest auto manufacturer in the world and dieselgate is hardly a blip on their radar. Not too long afterwards their sales numbers actually went up. Any press is good press. Vw just makes great cars with lots of value for your money. I probably will never buy another new one though as they stopped bringing TDI's over here after 2015. I'll probably replace my '04 TDI wagon with 536K miles with a '15 Golf sportwagen once the old Jetta dies...which may be another 4-500K if I keep it well maintained as I have.

[@xIcarus227]

@@HotHatchHero they all cheated in one way or another, but not so blatantly or by such a wide margin like VAG did. Only MB was even remotely close to what VAG did. I don't understand why you're being apologetic on their behalf, this doesn't excuse the behaviour at all.

[@xIcarus227]

@@AnissaEx hardly a blip on their radar? You do realize that dieselgate is probably the main reason why they're saving costs where they can right now, right? Both the new Golf and A3 are in many ways downgrades over the previous generation. Both have been using the same platforms for ages, and the GTI/R have been using a 12 year old engine which still drinks oil and has an iffy timing chain. That's cost cutting at its finest. And if you live in the NA perhaps they're good value for money, but over in Europe they're quite overpriced.

[@Jenson589]

I’m a big fan of the golfs but this just doesn’t look the best and inside looks 🤢

[@xFlared]

Exactly. It's a plate of puked out fingerprint and scratch prone gloss and touch sensors. Looks like a toilet bowl.

[@owaizxalt2514]

Ye

[@future62]

"Full driving review" *never leaves race track*

[@kreiseltower]

I haven't heard anybody yet who thinks that this car is a improvement.

[@kraenk12]

Well but it is.

[@matthewsmith2787]

There was nothing wrong with the 7.5

[@bossgaming498]

@@kraenk12 This mk8 golf looks ugly. mk7 and 7.5 look way better.

[@arjunaiz80]

Front look ugl than previous model, not so improvement in term of exterior look.

[@lekokobloomberg-brin6576]

Did y'all see the m4 and m3😑

[@Daveks3]

The m4 and m3 are so ugly from the front! And this golf is the same! Looks only its makers could love! 🤢

[@kiakiller8363]

Yes its so Good

[@JG-ce6op]

I wish I could unsee them.

[@Navy1348]

This post is so telling on how bad the new M3/4 truly looks. It has made it to a VW Golf video 😂

[@buvva11]

Looks boring and cheap, the fog lamps copy Renault RS

[@steinerg.4539]

Well all the new headlights from renault are copied from the VW XL1🤷🏽‍♂️

[@MrRohanThomas]

Rear they copied from Astra K

[@hiiiofficial8306]

I like it it look expensive

[@S98-p3e]

I mean hooooow does it look cheap? where? have you seen the interior of the I30 N??Focus ST? Megane RS? LED light from latest technology. Not the best looking rims but they definitely not look cheap. tons of technology inside (not justifying the buttonless interior tho). idk how people see this as cheap.

[@pulanala1421]

True

[@andymofoincross]

Looks way too much like a corolla hatch for my liking

[@alanwayte432]

I think you need to visit an optician fella

[@andymofoincross]

@@alanwayte432 clearly I'm not the only person that feels this way, ^^ just saying.

[@maybe_methembe]

That corolla is okay-ish, looks pretty sporty for just a normal hatch

[@nirowat6048]

yes it does'nt look angry it looks sleepy

[@Jakerski]

Did you fall on your head? The Corolla hatch looks much better compared to the mk8 golf

[@stefanomormile]

@7:04 - GTI is the 911 of the hot-hatch... amazing sentence! you made my day... you won!

[@williambonsor3915]

It’s nasty cheap and tacky and those touchscreens are well ugly and yet it’s stupidly expensive🤮👎

[@darrelradjendra3372]

I know, and the front end jesus the mk7 and the mk7.5 is way better

[@darrelradjendra3372]

@Blair Aquila no stirring wheel, no acceleration pedal and no stick... Imagine that.. a nightmare I'd say

[@meganjay30]

Yea.. and same old shit as the last 10 years.. same engine and boring drive...

[@darrelradjendra3372]

@Blair Aquila what do you think, 2040 maybe?

[@meganjay30]

@Covert Cam just looks like a box like it did 20 years ago.....

[@SamAustin]

If it ain't broke dont fix it......updated tech, as complicated as it may seem, is what most drivers want so they will sell a hat full of these! I'll stick with my Mk7 Golf R thanks but nice review 👍

[@SamAustin]

@@ttggreen1 me too! The Mk8 GTi starts from just under £34k aswell which is a lot of money for 245bhp when you think about it 🤔

[@xIcarus227]

More like 'if it aint broke downgrade it'. Get real, this is a downgrade compared to the outgoing car in many aspects, the interior being the main one.

[@chengteh]

VW and most car companies lost me as a customer when they started removing physical controls for all these bullshit touchscreens. Is there a reason you can't have physical controls for common things, and a real gauge cluster? No thanks.

[@SteinOnkel]

Money. It is much, much cheaper to have one 7" touchscreen that can be programmed to have virtually limitless functions than it is to design, manufacture and install 50 individual buttons.

[@Clone-ro2xq]

It’s because of tesla just that in a tesla it’s better made

[@feixas6961]

@@Clone-ro2xq they're still dangerous, it's one of the reason I would never buy a Tesla, I really dislike that interior. No gauge cluster, no buttons, just the screen. I just hope having those kind of interiors becomes illegal, it's just as dangerous as using your phone while driving.

[@Clone-ro2xq]

Feixas it’s good then that will be self driving in the future

[@tbn22]

@@Clone-ro2xq No it won't.

[@steveh.3370]

Auto companies have predicted that future customers are millenials who are addicted to their smart phones. I test drove a three-door Mini Cooper yesterday that has aircraft-type toggle switches. I may buy one just because of those switches (and the three-doors).

[@dirrrrrrr]

Some Government needs to regulate the amount of screens on a car because not only is it annoying it’s straight up dangerous taking my eyes off the road to go into a screen to turn off traction control is no different than looking at my phone for text messages cars like the Mustang mach-e, Tesla model S and Y, and now the new Volkswagen Golf all suffer from this issue of taking your eyes off the road to do basic task on a touchscreen.

[@ToxicHorsePucky]

Front end looks like Steve Buscemi

[@eggman0291]

"How do you do fellow kids?"

[@ct4928]

😂😂😂 he s a good actor though...😛

[@ajaylad8168]

lolol

[@MrShazaamable]

Looks fine to me 👀

[@presentjr]

Just who are they targeting with this... VW is going backwards I'll just get the 7.5

[@abbouz5]

Really I miss the old top gear presentation, with my respect

[@carsaregood911]

Love my MK7 R even more after seeing this...

[@marijobosnjak7259]

Angryer face 😂🤦‍♂️ it look like frog at the front maybe angry frog! I think designer of the MK8 is on drugs. Mk7 and 7.5 the best💪🏻

[@castortoutnu]

Animations on a car's screen menu are as useful as lag.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

They're great for keeping one's attention on the tech longer, while hurtling along the surface of the ground at 88 feet per second.

[@Ianmundo]

really hard to get excited about this GTI when so VW many weird choices with the styling, but the “buttonless interior” OH HELL NAW

[@whatsappmeandrewcartwright457]

there is a gaining key on how to invest into crypto and earn huge....Are you interested?

[@crxtodd16]

"When did the world become allergic to buttons?" Tesla. When Tesla came. IT'S THEIR FAULT! 😉

[@stebo2984]

crxtodd16: the difference to tesla is that tesla can do such things very well and does not sell a beta version.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

A tech company trying to make a car. Now all the car companies are trying to make tech. What a screwed up world.

[@jameshiggins8257]

Tesla have done it properly. These guys haven't.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

@@jameshiggins8257 What Tesla forgets is they are a tech company trying to make cars. Dynamically, fit and finish, design architecture, they aren't that great. Just ask around KZbin with the pro shops that make their living on fixing things, correcting paint, maintaining vehicles.

[@david_thomson]

I own the GTI MK8 Performance (top level GTI trim in Canada). This car is a RIOT! SO fun to drive, turns on rails and knock you back in your seat acceleration. Its a hot rod disguised as a hatch. The touch buttons and touch screen are no issue at all. With an all LCD display, you set your dash "gauges" anywhere you want them, and display only the system information that's important to you. Heads up display shows speed, optional lane assist and navigation instructions. There's not much to do as your driving, and most controls are also on the wheel not just the dash touchscreen. Voice control allows you to change most settings without losing driving focus. If you set your climate control to auto you can individually control driver, passenger and backseat temperature zones. On my trim there are heated and air-conditioned seats. Lovely on your nethers. One of the features I really like is the built in dash phone charger and WIRELESS Android Auto = NO CABLES! I've had this car for 2 weeks now and love it more every day.

[@tobyclements3791]

Rather have a GR Yaris. £5k less with 20 more HP and four wheel drive!

[@feixas6961]

And isn't it going to be produced in limited numbers?

[@tobyclements3791]

Feixas It’s being produced as a part of the WRC homologation rules but now Toyota aren’t using it in the 2021 season. Probably won’t be a massive number produced!

[@brokula1312]

You do realise these are completely different cars aiming at different customers?

[@NEEL69P]

@@brokula1312 the toyota is better. The gti is ugly and underpowered when compared to the competition. Let's not talk about reliability in a few years time compared to toyota

[@brokula1312]

@@NEEL69P It's a best seller. Do you understand why? Still it's totally different car compared to Yaris. I can't believe I even have to explaining that.

[@qiangli4022]

One day, they'll start to charge you for every button you got in a car.

[@mindspinn311]

0:38 damn that’s a lot of dead bugs

[@pileofwit]

Those are actually a dealer option. The higher trim GTIs can run on bug blood.

[@rodrigofortis4013]

I got the SE Manual about 3 months ago and keep seeing all the reviews complain about the infotainment system and I truly don't understand why. It not bad at all! ones you set it all up to the desired options it all easy. You all sound like the people that where complaining about the touch screen cellphones. I do wish the climate control was lid tho. Over all good review.

[@ervin7178]

Mk7 had one of my favorite modern car interiors; cloth seats, physical controls, good build quality

[@GY9944]

Can we at least opt out of the front lightbar that makes the car look like a wide-grinning depressed robot with a unibrow?

[@EGMedia1]

Nein!

[@kdrguru]

Maybe un plug it or wrap it in black vinyl. It is ugly.

[@DimitriRiggas]

Imagine how much it costs to replace it 🤮

[@sly900000]

People every gen: 'This GTi is soo good o don't see how VW can make it better' VW: bet

[@robertjusic9097]

Its the oposite for mark 8 golf. It's basically a rebadged mark 7.5 with more modern but less quality interior.

[@friedensgabel]

The looks though.... I mean it still looks alright, but I vastly prefer the MKVII over this

[@anonlincracing2484]

1st Fwd car to have 0% torque steer. Unlike the last power wise if ur chasing that then u clearly don't look at reliability as ppl usually go with other brands chasing power not knowing they are actually mapped from factory. Everyone did the same with the Ford focus Rs its so much faster its so much better than the golf R , now look at how many focus RS are dead n how many golf R are still running 500 hp reliably with services every 3000 and rebuilds every 5k if you absolutely raping the engine. I see alot of tuned cars where I work and most of them are not VW and Seat hyundai & Mercedes. Mainly Ford some Bmws and audi..... because they are broke

[@robertjusic9097]

@@friedensgabel honestly i kinda like the clean but sporty look of the mk8. I think well get used to it.

[@conorf8091]

MK5 GTI still king for me. Mk5 chassis in general , or a mk5 with updated mk6 parts where possible ;)

[@ah4598]

I still have a MKV, cant believe its 15 years old, it still looks good compared to a lot of new cars coming out and while the stereo feels 15 years old the rest of the interior is classic and hasnt aged much at all. Ive had cars less old that felt embarrassing to drive because they got so ugly, but Im still happy with the MKV.

[@adamc2451]

They just really fell short with such an iconic car

[@user-wl2ve4ur2s]

They’ve ruined the gti and the those honeycomb lights 🙈

[@Rayyyy666]

Just imagine the old top gear reviewing this car 😔

[@dagnole]

Indeed. Sigh.

[@TheAlphaMing]

He does sound like Hammond though.

[@nfscamilo4]

Is it Green? No is red

[@catvideos3249]

Power!!!!!!

[@marcoslukaz5178]

just jeremy saying "utterly rubbish" to the virtual buttons

[@hypergram.]

"No Kimi, you will not have the buttons"

[@jstoli996c4s]

FOR WHAT???!!!! lol

[@MrG3ST]

just shocking to see the Manual Transmission, coming from a country where MT is non existent in the VW lineup

[@FretFreak02]

I’ve got a mk 7.5 golf with pretty much all options on it. Love the car to bits. I find the mk 8 truly beautiful as well I must say, inside and out. The mk 8 in GTI trims looks somewhat bigger than the 7.5, I like that. The only thing I don’t like is the secondary infotainment screen (with the navi/radio/etc). I don’t like those ‘stick it on the dash’ kinda screens. The integrated ones in the dashboard are nicer.

[@notvaas3093]

I love that everyone is shittin on this car, from 7.5 to this its a shame

[@henckeltv3213]

I am officially no longer dreaming of golf. (maybe an older version though)

[@Csl74csl]

that steering wheel grip at 6:18 🤕😱😤

[@anonino_sem_nome]

I thought I was the only one observing that

[@joshuuaaaa440]

Anything he says about how it drives I threw in the bin when I saw that clearly just reading the press sheets

[@simpslayer7839]

I don’t understand how VW came to the conclusion that R-Line should be faster than the GTI?

[@austinpriest185]

Do you know what a golf r is???? It’s always been the faster one.

[@uhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh8833]

Just got this car, the SE version. It is proper quick and almost feels luxurious like an audi. I can definitely tell you though, it has not lost the GTI charm. Its perfect!!!

[@phill-x8927]

Got mine today , outsanding daily driver . I like it a lot more than my mk7.5 even tough that was a non gti

[@r3games1985]

Test drove one and was sold instantly! Picking mine up in a couple days.

[@dongonzulman6478]

I bought a MK7.5 just yesterday. Boy am I glad I didn't wait for this one lol

[@wakeupandsmellthecoffee9827]

You'll be sorry in about 2 years ...lol

[@roquesolorio8842]

wake up and smell the coffee why so?

[@bcdrummer1962]

wake up and smell the coffee I’ve had my mk7 since 2017 not a spot of trouble, so I gotta call BS on you bro.

[@KilimitiFrriuuu]

Lower the music when he's talking man.

[@matthewp9015]

He said it was super windy and lots of banging from the shed, so the music was probably trying to hide it.

[@andy00grant]

Bring back buttons ban touchscreens. Awful features in a car unless on a poker straight bowling green smooth road.

[@AbcAbc-ox6pg]

It's not a drivers car anymore, it's a car for Playstation kiddies.

[@andy00grant]

@@AbcAbc-ox6pg only there now far to expensive for a massive amount of people to afford and even if you can afford 35 grand for it would you spend 35 grand on a fwd sub 300 bhp car? I certainly wouldn't.

[@matthewsmith2787]

I guarantee the insurance will be high if there loads of accidents due to its touch screen

[@WatchGeek]

I said it a million times and I'll say it again, HAVING TOUCH SCREEN EVERYTHING in a car is one of the STUPIDEST trends ever!! When you have physical buttons and switches, you get to know them and operate them without taking your eyes off the road!!

[@billwheeler2708]

I have the Performance GTI in canada.... I love it!!

[@quicknickdriver8510]

Remember driving 30!years ago when the only driver aids were your hands and feet? I agree that the adjustable dampers broaden the car’s usability, but perhaps the gti should just have sportier suspension as standard. I feel, for safety’s sake, that perhaps the seven prod sequences to change settings should only work when the car is stationary, to avoid lengthy periods of looking at the options rather than the road ahead. Let’s hope that manufacturers don’t lose sight of the joy of involvement with driving, in their quest for technological advancement.

[@ramaanomuravha8575]

Dsg 7 speed gearbox does it for me,south Africa approves,it looks ayoba😍😍

[@lekokobloomberg-brin6576]

South Africans can't wait for this car

[@ramaanomuravha8575]

@@lekokobloomberg-brin6576 most definitely

[@justplainnic]

if the previous gen is anything to go by, we'll only get the DSG in SA anyway. Pity, if I was in the market for one of these I'd like a manual.

[@Ozaneee]

I swear the trio would make a better review on it.

[@Quettesh]

Golf GTI review without Jezza is just not right.

[@mountains_and_moors]

@ Quettesh - come on, Jezza is now an OAP playing around on his oversized allotment growing potatoes. In his day he was great, but an old man now 😕

[@sanelezondi3886]

The Golf 7 is the "modern classic" they failed with the 8

[@deanwheatley8414]

I think it funny how in the past reviewers have complained about not enough buttons on steering wheels and why the normal buttons haven’t changed to something more futuristic. Now Volkswagen have given them both and they still aren’t happy. Making reviewers seem like Karen’s of the car industry.

[@r3games1985]

They are. Reviewers don't like the buttons but the owners do.

[@basithph8958]

I have to say the new GTI is pretty cool and I’m happy to see this one with a manual transmission This would be a great car to drive especially as a daily!

[@hondansx1000]

I've always though the GTi is one of the few cars that looks good in red

[@JG-ce6op]

@@stevehines5256 I didn't know the Mk6 could be had in torado red!

[@rejusubash5297]

I hate the fact that new cars don't have buttons! These touch screen could never replicate the same feeling of clicking a button.

[@Pascal61]

At this point i just think they want to kill the line. And Just make buyers go for the ev lines.

[@inesjoao1001]

THE RICH GET RICHER BY SPENDING LIKE THE POOR AND INVESTING AND THE POOR GET POORER BY SPENDING LIKE THE RICH AND NOT INVESTING..

[@joanamiguel244]

This is very correct. To the newbies, you should also note that this data is worthless without an existing understanding of data analysis, translation and interpretation, so a fundamental comprehension of these concepts is necessary in order to develop your own strategy and techniques..

[@anapedro7597]

Trading systems allow you to limit the factor of emotional influence on decision-making, as well as to give the trade a certain degree of systemic character

[@ritaricardo7419]

Bitcoin and Forex trading it's a trading platform were you invest with a minimum capital, you predict the outcome of foreign currency if they will either fall or increase, it's like you are placing a bet, but the good thing is that you are knowing the outcome before you predict, that's why profits returns are always on the high, but by doing this, you need an experienced account manager who can help you with the basics and trades for you..

[@mariagoncalo8309]

The reason people failed to succeed is because of discouragement from family and friends how do you know if something is real when you're yet to give a try?

[@mariagoncalo8309]

Bitcoin is the most profitable investment online if only you trade with a professional broker..

[@unidentified5251]

I like your honesty especially on the interior. Most other reviews going "oh this interior is brilliant" to please VW.

[@matthewsmith2787]

VW need to hear some home truths

[@Shane-zx4ps]

Buy a civic type R and don’t be fooling yourselves in still thinking the golf is still the best hot hatch out there.

[@ryadhasanahmed5443]

Truth brother, Civic Type R FK8 ftw🙌

[@M1911jln]

The Civic Type R is just so ugly.

[@ryadhasanahmed5443]

@@M1911jln more engaging to drive and less dull than this boring VW,

[@Shane-zx4ps]

M1911jln . So is the golf, at least the type r will give you the drive of your life

[@andrewmontague2636]

I’d rather have a controversial Mk8 Golf than the Type R. I’m sure it’s dynamically brilliant but it looks as if it was designed by a 9 year old.

[@muhammadfiroz9727]

Am I the only one that got triggered by all the bugs on the intercooler?

[@kaankaya5273]

Am I the only one disturbed by the exposed radiator? I think it looks horrible

[@valiantone395]

Intercooler and yes it looks cheap and hollow

[@kaankaya5273]

Valiant One Intercoolers are usually on top of the engines. I’m pretty sure that is the radiator, behind the honeycomb style grill

[@karlodidak9400]

too many buttons, too many screens, give me the older one

[@tynewlin]

Is he really using old Hammond jokes? 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@guilleber9826]

It looks kinda like a T-ROC....

[@steeldevil98]

Erm no it doesn't

[@guilleber9826]

Look at the back of the car, then look at t-roc

[@steeldevil98]

@@guilleber9826 you do realise the t-roc is based on the mk7 golf

[@guilleber9826]

@@steeldevil98 Yup I do, but hey it's my opinion, if you don't think that way it's your problem

[@RvBDonut]

@@guilleber9826 I agree with you, it got the same taillights as the T-roc and imo they dont fit the golf.

[@jesse.vr6]

it's actually not that bad looking on the exterior, interior is trash though.

[@ParagonCarsLondon]

why you'd have this over a Cupra i just don't know.

[@StevenWalker-ns5ii]

Space, practical use, comfort, resell value, rear doors etc not everyone is doing donuts in a car park or racing at traffic lights

[@oleksandr6187]

@@StevenWalker-ns5ii they are almost the same cars

[@mikejgray]

​@@StevenWalker-ns5ii The Leon Cupra is just as large if not larger (not even the ST version), is holding value well enough, and comes with 3 or 5 doors. I don't think many are buying Cupra's for their donut capability, either. Also, looks are of course subjective, but my vote goes to the Cupra every single time. Source: I own a Cupra 280.

[@e.heckscher1576]

U.S. residency?

[@StevenWalker-ns5ii]

@@mikejgray I don't live in Europe so Seat is not a common or respected brand whereas Volkswagon retains its value

[@mikem314]

I know that the GTI will still be popular regardless. Having owned a MK 7 then went into a F30 BMW 330i enjoyed the GTI the most. Looking to get a MK7,5 R next.

[@wakeupandsmellthecoffee9827]

Agreed. I have an F30 330i M Sport with adaptive M suspension etc...that car is nowhere near as exciting as a MK7.5 GTI let alone this MK8. People shout about RWD...comparing it with FWD...they have to drive to believe. Most people commenting on youtube vids don't even drive or test drive these cars. I have test driven lots of cars from any manufacturers including the top end ones of the Germans. For everyday road use, a VW Golf GTI is about as good as one can get.

[@jehadwadi4554]

Your 330i is better than a golf R. I had a GTI sold it for a 328 f30, when it got totaled i got a 440i. Get an m340i or S5 something 6 cylinder

[@carsaregood911]

@@jehadwadi4554 An M340i is better than an R, not a 330i lmao

[@jehadwadi4554]

immi for me its better because it’s a bigger car and has enough power plus the golf r has a really stiff suspension

[@jstoli996c4s]

Do it! The GTI is a really fun car to drive, but the R is next level. I know because I made the jump - Mk6 GTI to Mk7.5 R.