HIGH & LOWS - Living WITH A MK8 VW GOLF GTI CLUBSPORT - 100% HONEST REPORT

[@malt2585]

Andrew, I’m really envious I just wish I’d put a bit more thought before I ordered the R which I should be getting in September, your club sport is a very nice car and I think it’ll become more desirable in the long term as everyone is going mad for the R which is only going to flood the market and drive the price down. I need to watch more of your videos before I order a new car again.👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@tommerriott5706]

Feb 21 GTI owner here, 5k miles, no software or electronic issues whatsoever. However, I do have squeaky suspension front and rear which is pissing me off no end. The infotainment is fine, I don’t have any issues using it or any of the buttons. Bear in mind that most reviewers have the car for a few hours, so that isn’t enough time to get used to something completely different. Im well used to it now and it’s really not a problem. The lane assist is bloody annoying, easily turned off though. Overall it’s hilariously good to drive and great fun, I’m really pleased with it, and with 19’s it looks superb. The base alloys were the worst standard wheels ever put on a VW.

[@KK-bk3zz]

I discovered this channel a few months ago: and, what an utterly brilliant find! I’ve thoroughly enjoyed watching all of the releases on the Golf 8 and Audi A3 Sportback. I’ve learned so much from the superlative format that covers all the vitals, including the distinctive fuel economy testing, and the idiosyncrasies of each model. The reviews are to-the point, brilliantly scripted and delivered and refreshingly honest! There’s nothing else that I’ve come across on YT (or anywhere else) that comes anywhere close to these reviews! They are just so dammed great! I’m even thinking of offloading my ordinary Golf 7.5 and getting a GTI. I think I may have caught the GTI bug here?! From your enthusiasm, encyclopaedic knowledge and nous. Actually, if I hadn’t discovered this channel: I’d probably have left the VW brand (soon) due to some of the cheapening, harsh cost-cutting inflicted on the Golf 8. However, your honest, balanced reporting: convinced me that what I may/will lose on the swings - I gain on the roundabouts! VW ought to be paying you (handsomely) - as you’re the best ambassador for the brand(s) that I can think of. In the most unusual (refreshing) way. And, not a whiff of the usual posse of motoring journalists’ faff, puff and copy-cat metaphors - just one great video after another. Many thanks for taking the time and (obvious) effort to make each one a masterpiece! It’s very much appreciated! 👍👍

[@MrAndyS]

Can't stop looking at the rear arch and the way they have designed the crease to blend into the door

[@Wolf-yw7en]

Haha! I saw that at first glance and cannot be unseen. Terrible design decision.

[@6th.replicant577]

Was contemplating a mk8 Clubsport, but then saw the new Cupra Leon 300: looks cool (eg, no upside-down headlights / sour face); same 300bhp engine; more rear legroom; better value; real buttons on the steering wheel. Hmm…

[@gaycha6589]

And no haptic steering wheel buttons

[@DM-fn7je]

My Golf Mk8 has been back to VW twice, the first time it had a coolant leak and the second it went back to the dealership for a update because it kept popping up with a battery issue. There is also a creaking from the rear that appears now and again. There has been a lot of faulty Mk8s in the first year of production which is a shame because it’s a good car to drive. It seems to me the new tech was rushed and not tested properly

[@danielrussell446]

Totally agree Dan how is it now

[@Shane-zx4ps]

That’s because they haven’t got the build quality of a Japanese car,

[@matthewsmith2787]

I did think it wasn’t that long from the launch of the 7.5 facelift then just a year later the Mk8 was announced.

[@matthewsmith2787]

@@Shane-zx4ps VW never really have had that true build quality, certainly not on cars of late

[@TassieLorenzo]

It's always risky to buy the first year of a new model, isn't it?

[@Scorpionbe]

Hi Andrew, thx for the review. I have myself a Golf Mk8 1.0Tsi and have the same issues. Only the cracking on the front, that maybe gti related. Sometimes i hear a light pop in the speakers on the front, when i start the car. The parking sensor issue started when i put my new 19 inch wheels from Gmp Italia on it. I never had that problem before that. But it will be pure coincidence I think. The car also has the version 1666, and wil not update, when you push it. It did before an update by itself, probably the 1666 version, but i was still learning the car then. And like you say it's all software related. I also have a T-roc and it's from 2018. Never had problems with it. I always been a VW fanatic, but never had these problems with a new car. Cheers Kevin, from Belgium!

[@danielrussell446]

Well done andrew a really good review I can agree with some points you made on the 8 I’ve had parking sensor issues the same mine has been not too bad compared to some it’s had two software updates and since it’s been on 1668 it’s been a lot more stable I had an issue with the rear left reading lamp coming on and flashing like a disco light I agree the build is very good and I have had no squeaks or rattles and the doors close with a nice thunk I miss the drivers glovebox and folding mirrors As a life trim I don’t have the haptic wheel and smart climate and so some things don’t apply to mine but I have had minor warning messages and most are linked to software I’ve also had reversing camera error too I wish they had tested the software better before release and I’ve had the same issue as you with losing primary user status and having my guest account only and after lots of shouting and swearing at the car and resetting it eventually worked lol The 8 is every inch a golf and puts a smile on your face and is just fun to drive and don’t regret having it

[@TheSam1911]

I have the entry level mk8 GTI (I love it) can I go straight from the 18inch Richmonds to 19s ? Or will this upset the ride quality ?

[@chris202094]

Have you had any issue with the boot liner becoming wet ? I have an r line and the boot floor does collect water ?

[@kierantilley2590]

I could tell that those touch sensitive buttons would become an issue, I think it let's down the mk8 interior slightly

[@kirk9899]

How do you like the sliders? Are all the slider features a hindrance adjusting the climate control, opening the moon roof and adjusting the radio controls?

[@Alex-wl1je]

My parking sensors have the same issue. It seems to happen when you park close to something.

[@volkswizard]

I thought that too - which means they fail when you need them 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@danielrussell446]

Yes mine have had the same Alex as well

[@Alex-wl1je]

@@volkswizard exactly. It's as if the car is prepared to blame you for reversing into something!

[@bellumsounds]

Had exactly the same issue with mine. Ridiculous tbh! Sort it out VW

[@BigSmoke146]

I don’t think it is related to how close you park to something. Mine have faulted on an empty parking lot with nothing around the car.

[@slen6293]

What’s the difference you notice between the 225 tyre width and the new 235? Is ride quality, handling or cabin noise impacted?

[@volkswizard]

Tricky as 225s are a distant memory now but the ride was just about OK on the 18s and is just about OK on the 19s - the Supersport tyres have a stiffer sidewall than the F1 Assymetric 5s so that probably kept things level. The handling is probably about the same as the Supersports are a good tyre and for a 225 they grip, I've got more rubber on the road & don't have very little trouble traction, in even in the damp (within reason) so if anything the 235 F1s are a bit better. Noise wise I think they are pretty similar. I was worried about mpg but I still top 40 mpg so can't complain. If I'd gone for 235 35 19 Supersports I'd expect the ride to be harder, the dry grip to be better, wet grip the same or worse and noise to be higher.

[@sitelford8469]

I'm on software 1666 on my GTI and touch wood had no problems. VW connect has a lot to do with VW servers, constantly going down

[@redauwg911]

have you remove the shipping rubbers from the front springs

[@volkswizard]

the dealer definitely did this pre-delivery

[@Bayne83]

Sadly wont be getting the Clubsport here in the US. I lost 400lbs of weight to improve and save my life. I think this time around I will get the Golf R as my celebration since we only have the GTI and R as our options here for the MK8 it seems

[@volkswizard]

Congrats on weight loss 🙌🏻 R is a great way to celebrate & well deserved 👍

[@Bayne83]

@@volkswizard Thank you and also Thank you for the amazing videos!

[@gazza2004]

Amazing video as always. I test drove a Golf R yesterday and on the way back to the dealership, a GTI shot up behind me. Assuming it was the base model I thought I'd leave it. Turns out it was the Clubsport and from a rolling start, they are very closely matched! I couldn't shake him. It also had DCC and after driving a normal GTI without DCC, it's night and day. I wouldn't buy one without it.

[@BM_PAZ]

What really irritates me: 1)when you turn on the steering wheel heating, the clima comes on the main screen and you have to manually return back to the original screen you were on. I don't get why it has to do that when the wheel heating symbol isn't even on that screen, it's on the dash. 2) When your mobile won't charge for whatever reason in the wireless charging bit, a pop up comes on the screen and stay there so once again you have to manually close that pop up. 3) Screen goes blank when Apple Carplay is on (sometimes). 4) Too easy to press the buttons on the steering wheel with the palm of your hands. Overall though the car is great to drive and very refined for a small hatchback, just feel there's too much tech for the sake of it.

[@volkswizard]

1) they don't all do this thank god! Mine doesn't but quite a few I've driven do 2) I think that clears on mine automatically 3) That happened once on day 2 and never since 4) I did that when I first drove a Mk8 but I honestly haven't done this for ages and never with this car.

[@rash81]

The charger heats my phone up to the point it’s too hot to hold in my hand.

[@BM_PAZ]

@@rash81 as does mine, in fact it got so hot that it split me phone case.

[@rash81]

@@BM_PAZ I am a little concerned of the charger being a fire hazard

[@rash81]

@@BM_PAZ have you taken the charger issue up with your VW garage?

[@Golfr2020]

I have a 2020 GOLF R 7.5. It also has electrical niggles. Seems to be an issue with VW. This should not be with such a high premium priced car. One expectsxthings to work. Mine was pre owned and cost me twice as as two previous brand new cars i had with no such problems. I don't think i be buying VW again. Lol

[@TheKayakCrew]

Thanks for the review. I’d head that there were lots of people having problems with glitches and bugs with the Mark 8 Golf, in particular driver assist features malfunctioning. Have you had any such problems with your Mark 8? Not sure if VW have ironed these problems out by now?

[@andrewmcivor42]

Another great video - honest & informative, as always👍. It's not made me want to buy a Mk8 (sorry🤣), but I certainly wouldn't pay the inflated prices for the R (as someone who would buy an estate, the GTi isn't an option). The old "GTi v R" discussion is an argument that goes on & on.... personally, I think they are chasing slightly different markets. The R, to me, is more of a "GT" type car - bit softer, bit more secure (AWD), whereas the GTi (particularly the Clubsport) has a harder "edge" to it. I'd always go for the R, as it has to do it all - get me to/from work in the winter (in the North of Scotland) on winter tyres, take a load of luggage (& our large dog!) away for a week, etc. The R in Estate form is the ultimate "do it all" car - even got a fridge freezer in the back of mine!! I can fully appreciate why you prefer the GTi Clubsport though, it depends on how you use it, I guess - I've no intention of doing track days, etc (nearest circuit to me is Knockhill, which is still an almost 300 mile round trip) - I don't overestimate my driving ability! The R flatters the average driver, which is another reason I guess you prefer the GTi - it's a bit more of a hardcore performance car. I wouldn't fancy 300 hp going through the front wheels only!

[@tredfxman]

Interesting you mention Goodyear Eagle F1, as iv been thinking bout them. If you have tried Michelin PS4, would you say Eagle F1's gives a more comfortable ride? Or did you only buy them for track use?

[@volkswizard]

There are a few derivatives of F1, the Assymetric 5 is a good all rounder with no track aspirations, I'd say similar to PS4. It's a comfortable tyre, plenty of dry grip and excellent in the wet.

[@ST-wi9eq]

under the list of annoyances, nothing about the media/climate control UI? Does that mean it's not all that bad and not getting on your nerves? Thinking about getting a MK8 but all of the touch sensitive pads, multiple screen presses just to access one particular feature, etc is a real turn off.

[@volkswizard]

They are fine once you get used to them, dare I say it they are better as there is now Smart Climate which will do what you want like 'warm hands' 'cool face' etc

[@Tom_banx]

Great video Andrew and as honest as ever... I’m totally sold and have my spec laid out in my head waiting to push the button in a few months! The software issues are a shambles and certainly should not be the case on a brand new Volkswagen. The Golf 8/ID.3 were delayed a long time (initially planned for early 2019 sales release!) due to them requiring dev work. VW set its software sights high without having the development capabilities to match them, with BMW i3 genius Christian Senger drafted in to usher things along. Board level decisions were made to release the cars before being right; VW deciding to take the hit at the dealerships with faulty cars rather than the whole group taking a massive and embarrassing fine for completely missing WLTP targets with an ageing model portfolio. The software wasn’t anywhere near ready even after the delays and plenty of heads rolled at WOB because of it, including Senger. Overpromising and underdelivering springs to mind. VW is now going BIG with software, understanding the capability requirements, and soon enough it’ll be a front runner I think. To be perfectly honest, I just think that these software issues on early cars will become the norm in a new era of ‘software orientated’ cars. Thankfully OTA updates are easy, quick and free (at the moment) unlike hardware woes. Word on the ground suggests that things are getting better on that front so brighter days are ahead. Is there anything from VW Accessories/Genuine Parts that would brighten those sills up a bit? An area which makes me regret having to sell my Up GTI! The CS/GTI door cards are a bit boring compared to R/R Line, clearly Wolfsburg thinks that this kind of chinsy glamour isn’t worth the spend to enthusiast GTI drivers, and the same applies to gloss black sills too... ‘talk softly and carry a big stick’ springs to mind. I’ve also noticed that gloss black Estorils are now an option on CS/R like in Europe, so there are a total of 4 wheel choices for CS.

[@jamesonezsin.silver6685]

My clubsport had 3 new windscreens and so many times they turned up with the wrong shield.

[@volkswizard]

That's not good. My windscreen guys are good, they just got unlucky

[@Mark41502]

Could you do a comparison video of the Golf Club Sport and the new Leon Cupra 300? On paper they look the same so it could be fun to se how they perform🏁

[@volkswizard]

Check out the Auto Express video of this on track plus Mk8 R

[@Mark41502]

@@volkswizard thanks👍

[@69Dobby]

Build quality !!! yeah yeah mk4 rusty wings mk5 rusty wings wait just wait.....

[@MeirCohen.kingbibi]

I sold my Volkswagen golf GTI (2021) after a month, i just didn't like it.

[@sakichugouken2474]

The older used to say: never buy a car within it's first year of release. Give the company time to fix all wrongs..

[@gunnargeroy8406]

I mean I agree it’s a dumb problem that shouldn’t happen but parking sensors? That’s not really a big deal in my opinion. Plus if it’s fixed by just a software update

[@wilber3762]

It’s good honest reviews like this that car enthusiasts need. I’m waiting before I commit to a new purchase but this all helps. Great stuff. Well done Andrew.

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Ian! I wouldn't let anything in this video put you off as the car hasn't missed a beat mechanically and its balance of economy and excitement is hard to beat.

[@r.serrano9377]

Well, you saved me from buying a club sport or an R. Sounds like too many malfunctions for me. What a shame, malfunctions vs performance.

[@cosmicheretic8129]

With the cost cutting materials and user interface, I won't be going with a mk8 at all unless they make a major revision for the 8.5. I'll just continue to mod my 7.5 GTI and enjoy it.

[@nickhickson8738]

I've had three Golfs in a row now including my current MK7 1.4 TFSI and I am so gutted to see what VW have done in the MK 8 iteration. The interior and no knobs instrumentation is appalling and its fine for this bloke to keep on about how well it drives but a car is more than that. I can't comment on the reliability issues as this might be a one off. I'm now looking at other makes that still retain sensible controls and a Ford Focus has these though not keen on 1 Litre 3 cylinder engines. One must compromise however.

[@matthewsmith2787]

Ford Focus is nicer car to drive, probably even better than the R and GTI Golfs. They are cheaper to run and service and probably more reliable

[@lubocheytanov7342]

That's a lot of issues in 2 months!! I have not stopped having problems with my Golf 7 Gti since I bought it. Its going to be a 135i for me next.

[@patrickbateman7122]

Better than a Clubsport S? hmmm

[@anUntouchable]

Great report mate, love your content on the GTI

[@volkswizard]

Glad you enjoyed it, thanks!

[@guycavaleri9519]

Well mate il explain 3 of the bad faults you've brought up as ive had all 3 issues on my MK8 GTI and its only 4 months old. front/rear sensor fault, no time frame on update ive been told, so how long is a piece of string and that fault does tend to spread in time to other sensors coming up failing on the screen. the noise from the front you hear is a mount i think the dealer told me, it needs to be refreshed with grease and packed up again, ive had that repair, went away and the mode button not working, you need the infotainment software update, ive had it, had no issue since

[@volkswizard]

Great info, thanks Guy👍

[@guycavaleri9519]

@@volkswizard no problem buddy, i couldnt find a thread online at all for the faults as the cars are so new and mine started back in Feb, better to inform others so people are aware, watch out for intermittent keyless entry fault also, just had yet another update for that (sigh) lol, i raised a complaint with VW and i now have the option to reject my car, i really dont want too but im seriously contemplating it

[@edwowen]

can you tell me which dealer fixed the suspension? Mine is clueless

[@guycavaleri9519]

@@edwowen ive since rejected my car & got a clubsport, ive had the same issue with the suspension again. Main dealer done it in Swansea but my clubsport is going back in on the 9th as its come back again as i believe it wasnt only the right front but the right side back now also, nightmare honestly, sick of taking the cars back and forth

[@edwowen]

@@guycavaleri9519 urgh. Not good. I know others with same noises. Doesn't bode well.

[@AgtX999]

You said you insisted on taking the car as it came off the transporter, no pdi done at all, so you can’t complain at all about some of these issues.

[@bettersteps]

Not sure if I like the styling of the MK8. I'm sure it will grow on me. But, those rims! Love them.

[@Ahmad-ck7lj]

Genuine Q, why didn't you buy the R version? Is it because of trunk capacity reason?

[@volkswizard]

I did a whole video on GTI CS vs R so the reasons are all in there, definitely not trunk capacity!

[@Ahmad-ck7lj]

@@volkswizard Just watched it, great stuff👍. Somehow the US and Malaysian version of the Golf Gti Mk8 models were lacking the red line on the headlights like in the UK and Europe. Any comment on that boss?

[@stalekristiansen2942]

What kind of rims are those? And what size Specs? I have an golf 8 Etsi with boring rims, and i want new ones, but i dont know what kind of rims that fit The golf 8 best visually.

[@Wootoast78]

Trade it in for a edition 45👍. I just spec'd one up on the VW website. Black with some options. Hundred pound under 50k. 🤪

[@volkswizard]

I paid £32k for my Clubsport and that sound quite different to nearly £50k for a car that I like less!

[@donaldstewart3799]

Have same problem with parking sensors also had the Death Star ie the red Intervention proactive occupant system light came for no reason for a few seconds, wipers parked are in service position when get in car sometimes, never used ACC read about so many problems on software 1666 on R-Line 2L 150.

[@davem1361]

DCC is a must tbh for a gti daily driver.

[@volkswizard]

Yep and just £720 on the 8.5 GTI and standard on the 8.5R (hallelujah!)

[@davem1361]

@@volkswizard like what you were sayin about 265ps being enough. mean how much power you realy need on a fwd,300 and up is realy 4wd territory🤜. Also im wondering about the seath depth on the base gtI counter the clubpsort..arre they identical and how tdo they compare comfort wise?

[@slen6293]

What was wrong with the build quality on your old TCR? I liked that car 👌🏼

[@volkswizard]

Creaking from back seats (sorry Julia) and like all Mk7s and 7.5s the carpet can slip out from under the drivers sill cover and leave a gap. Generally they are a bit creekier, also fake sound thing rattles - I hate it when it doesn't too!

[@LSD04]

@@volkswizard I have the issue with the carpet with my 7.5, kind of glad to know that it’s not because of some issue the previous owner had with it.

[@butchmeister80]

@@volkswizard my 7 gti makes a rattle on sport mode like vibration from noise.

[@shiugen676]

@@butchmeister80 Slightly same issue on 2019 Polo GTI

[@Treyy896]

The alarm issue also happens on my new a class too it’s been in the garage so many times too

[@markwatson4106]

Had mine for 2 months now coming from a 7.5 r. Lots more fun. Love it. Sounds like you do.

[@Ahmad-ck7lj]

In your opinion, the 8s GTI is much better than the 7.5R? Could you share with us why

[@markwatson4106]

@@Ahmad-ck7lj similar power with the clubsport but the 2 wheel drive to me is a lot more fun, playful and at times a bit “skitty” where the r is very predictable and dare I say a bit boring. Only better thing with the r is the simpler infotainment

[@harisdevedzic3167]

Listening how much problems ner cars have, especialy with electronics, makes me wana keep my Mk6 TDi as long as I can, it has 170k milles on the clock now, works just fine :D

[@JM00-v9c]

Yea that’s exactly why I didn’t buy a 45. If it was special like the ed30/40 I would have been begging them to take all my £££ 🤣

[@grahammusto7759]

Andrew, thanks for a very honest review. I drive a Mk 7 TDi 150 which is superb; good performance and great fuel economy. I always wanted a Mk 7 GTI and your video has convinced me to stay with my car. So many irritating faults which would drive me crazy.

[@volkswizard]

Having some time on mk7 era cars recently it reminded me how they just work so probably a good idea to hold onto them until they don’t which unlike Mk8 will be at the end of their life, not the start

[@honestreview1043]

Could you elaborate on why you have the car on pcp?

[@bertieblackman8791]

Because it gives you a car that’s more expensive than you can really afford as the monthly payments will be lower than HP or getting a loan etc.

[@bertieblackman8791]

@@andrewmontague2636 sorry I wasn't trying to imply it was a bad decision. My next car will be PCP

[@bertieblackman8791]

@@andrewmontague2636 I'm amazed you understood my reply with all those typos!

[@Alan-N]

I’ve had the same intermittent parking sensor error on a e1:5 tsi style 🤔

[@volkswizard]

It’s not unusual, how cars can be released like that I don’t know

[@matthewsmith2787]

If the electronic handbrake fails to release, is there some kind of emergency release button ?

[@chrismlarge1]

Great video. My 2020 Polo GTI has been flawless apart from a clock and trip computer that resets itself on almost a daily basis. Anyone else had this?

[@shiugen676]

Same car, it's going in 1 month for the arrival of the new R. Haven't had that issue on mine, the electronics have been flawless. Though do have creaking/squeaking suspension mount in the front right. They changed some parts was gone and then came back after a month.

[@g__e__o]

It is interesting to notice that even in european VW cars there have been some cost cutting measures. I dunno if it is because of the dieselgate or the eletric cars…

[@volkswizard]

Some of it is a push to make the cars lighter for emissions and also they go give us a lot of things now for free for which they have saved money elsewhere to fund.

[@matthewsmith2787]

I think cars are now focused more on tech, and less so on quality, where in the past, it was about nice interiors

[@patrickdaly5988]

It’s cost cutting. VWs bean Counters fingerprints are all over the new models. Buttons and dials are expensive to tool vs a single touch panel. It’s not just the interior. There’s some great videos detailing all the cuts on the 7.5 vs 8 out there.

[@gerardcahill3924]

Andrew, hope you got the same 0 to 60 time as Joe Achilles?

[@chrismoren1341]

I have a mark 8 Rline. 6 months old. I love it.

[@concussionshot2]

My golf mk8 R keeps sending up saftey warning beeps and codes nonstop while driving. Very annoying to say the least. Anyone have any ideas on how to subdue the saftey alerts? I have all assisted driving features turned off and the beeping alerts still persist constantly.

[@volkswizard]

What are the messages?

[@gtiak274]

Your TCR was a so beautiful GTI! 😍

[@volkswizard]

It really was and still is, with a good new owner now :)

[@davidorama6690]

I think you’re right about windscreens: weight saving, cost saving and embedding stuff in the glass all contributes to windscreens becoming consumables.

[@21marrakech]

i went thorought the playlists you've seemed to skip the mk6?! or am I missing something

[@volkswizard]

I've done a bit with Mk6 buy maybe not a playlist, definitely some Edition 35 content.

[@matthewsmith2787]

MK6 Golf is basically a Mk5 and never really sold well in the UK

[@jonnffc]

The wheels look great. Those Richmond are horrific 😏

[@volkswizard]

… and Richmond live on with 8.5 GTI including Clubsport - has to be to make you pay the £1250 to upgrade, just has to be 🤨

[@jonnffc]

@@volkswizard yes has to be. I can't believe anyone would think they look good.

[@Alan-N]

I had 3 windscreens on on my 7:5 in 42K & I don’t tail gate , strange

[@volkswizard]

I don’t tailgate either as I hate chips

[@matthewsmith2787]

Mine is the same, the glass must be rather thin

[@jwester7009]

I wish I had the money to buy a Clubsport or tcr but I might just be able to gather enough to get a used 2018 Polo gti. The only problem is that I think that car might be more of a comfortable daily driver just like the standard version of Golf mk7 gti. And if that's the case I think it's too much money for a small hatchback with some bling

[@volkswizard]

Save up and get a GTI Performance Mk7 as they are similar money and that is a proper drivers car.

[@davm2456]

I'm glad to say that my r-line, which I also got on 1st march and runs a different software build to your gti, hasn't had the problems you've described in this and previous videos. I have had one issue - even though I drive it everyday and have done same mileage as you, every few weeks it tells me that my we connect account hasn't been used for a while and it signs me out and asks me to sign back in. Not a big deal but a bit annoying. I've had a couple of ota software updates which have installed smoothly but I agree about the e-Sim often struggling to find an Internet connection depending where you are

[@volkswizard]

Believe it or not the We Connect account signed me out just after I stopped filming and sent me alerts saying I'd been disconnected or something like that (it's actually in the video what it told me on the App). I had to log in which was OK mainly because I've got my password stored on my phone for when I use the App. I'm sure there is some logic from VW but it's annoying as last night, if the car had been stolen I wouldn't have been able to track it.

[@x1pyroveride]

Those rims look great!

[@volkswizard]

Thanks man🙌

[@PhantomXIce247]

@@volkswizard what rims are they?

[@edwardkondek2548]

The stance on the front is way to high it looks like the dealer did not remove the shipping blocks in your front struts that’s were the creaking is coming from

[@craigevans8095]

I have a MK8 GTD and although I love it I’ve had numerous issues with parking sensor errors, light issue errors, SOS call system errors and the Infotainment system completely shutting itself down and rebooting mid journey. It’s been into VW this week and had a software update and the advice that VW are claiming they have been provided with by the VW tech people is that BEFORE I start the ignition I should put my seat belt on. If I start the car before putting my seatbelt on, after the sixth time (figure that one out) it will cause errors to load into the vehicles operating system. 2021 and this is VW’s solution.

[@colearcadipane7393]

What wheels are those!?

[@volkswizard]

Vossen HF-2 8.5 x 19 (it's mentioned in the video)

[@mark-lh1ur]

i liked my mk2 8v 15 years ago better than this ,even with over 90k miles on the clock sorry volkswizard.

[@ZackRichards98]

Hello where did you get the paddle shifters from as I believe they are only on the R ?

[@volkswizard]

From VW. £250 the pair

[@tonyga5]

What a dreadful looking interior dashboard. The Mk 7 is such a nicer looking car all round.

[@elliotwhittaker2556]

Hi Andrew, you mentioned ‘running-in’ early in this vid. I know modern cars don’t require as much running-in as years gone by so with that in mind, what would you recommend mileage wise and rev limits running the clubsport in? Thanks.

[@Gwynwills84]

Great review. 👍

[@volkswizard]

Glad you liked it Gwyn, thank you

[@MikeyG1611]

That clubsport S, did you buy that recently? As I'm sure that used to belong to the bloke on my road 😂

[@volkswizard]

No it's a press car so there will be plenty of GTIs with similar registrations

[@waquarahmad9447]

Bring it to the US! I’d easily go for this over the standard GTI or even the golf R

[@Rushton100]

Lovely car! but doesn’t bode well for VWs new electric line up when most of the things people are finding wrong are electrical niggles

[@danielrussell446]

You should see the software issues on the id3 owners page

[@nabilalexanderomer5327]

I think you got a cursed car there mate

[@SULKNATIONtv]

Love those Vossen wheels!

[@volkswizard]

Glad you like them!🙌

[@escos0410]

We’ve had the same issues with ours Iv phoned 2 tuning company’s and at least they gave my a viable explanation to the creaking which now when thinking about it make sense.

[@volkswizard]

What was the explanation Russell?

[@pes6616]

Yes! I watched the first video on it and I was wondering if you’d change the wheels.

[@stevemc4618]

Another good honest video Andrew..👍...your making 7.5 owners content with what they already have..

[@robtt997]

Andrew, see if you can get hold of the new 2021 Cupra Leon . Be very interesting to see how it’s stacks up against the Gti . Excellent report , as usual. Keep up the good work

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Rob. I’ve seen Joe Achilles’ review and Autocar headlines saying GTI beater but it’s unlikely to be sufficiently cheaper than a Clubsport to make up for it not being a VW. Rightly or wrongly VW is a premium brand and Cupra (it’s still SEAT) isn’t. I don’t really like the infotainment in Leon so it’d have to be good elsewhere and cheap to compete but you never know, it might be!

[@JimboJammy]

@@volkswizard infotainment in the new cupra 300 is the same as in the golf I thought unlike the regular Leon. But that's just going by what I've seen. Couldn't say for certain.

[@robtt997]

Evo magazine say the Cupra is a better steer than the Golf ! Game on .come on Andrew let’s have your view on the Cupra ….if you dare lol

[@billx4266]

Hi Andrew, is the clubsport S you own now, better then this car?

[@volkswizard]

Good question - all depends how you define better. As a daily car the 8CS is a far better all rounder and probably not much slower on road or track. But there is a point when driven beyond 9/10ths when the Clubsport S feels magical, more so on the road than track as it happens. I do miss the dynamics of the 8 CS and did some incredible ground covering all year round in it.

[@kevinandersson2133]

The color combo with reflex silver and antracite wheels is nice. My edition 35 with Watkins glen wheels has the same color scheme.

[@rob-890]

I would be very surprised if there was any squeaks and rattles coming out of a £40,000 car. Low standards

[@volkswizard]

The top mounts started to squeak around 10k milles. Suspension noise is not uncommon on Mk7 and 7.5. Was speaking to owner of brand new 911 Turbo S and he has suspension creak too

[@rich2579]

Beautiful car! My mk4 GTI was plagued with electrical/wiring headaches, I hope this isn't the case with the new mk8 models. I'm happy in my mk6 Golf R :D

[@jasonhoskins6418]

Once again great update Andrew .... just wondering on your views about sill protection I've got a moonstone grey car and think with such a large sill won't be long before scratching occurs... problem being they are not flat like the mk 7 and have a ridge !!!

[@volkswizard]

Get it protected Jason! I want PPF on all mine, might DIY it if I have to as doesn't need to be perfect. I think I've still got the factory protection on my sill but it's the passenger one I worry about ;)

[@malcolmscott4150]

Car looking good in silver Andrew and still stealthy compared to an edition 45 I think, with a good spec to suit your needs. Good choice on your tyres also as I read my tyre placard properly as fronts down to wear markers and the Michelin PS4’s I have aren’t the 4s I thought they were - oops but should’ve known as they weren’t that expensive but they are noisy. I’m deep into a cylinder 4 misfire and MAP/MAF sensor issue in the B200 Turbo which I’m sure will dent my wallet however it’s wafting ride and torque still entertaining:)

[@andersswedebear]

We had the same issue with the primary user on our mk8 eTSI. And it also went back to the faulty privacy setting (Which according to our reseller is a known problem at the time, it was in the fall at least.) We have gotten a software update since that and my girlfriend who is the primary driver of the car (I drive my mk 7.5 1.0 TSI which I am extremly happy with) hasn't complained anything about it for a while so I assume it works for her now

[@manama9119]

Nice wheels, are those stock?

[@volkswizard]

No! They are Vossen HF-2, 8.5 x 19 ET 45 - the stock wheels are hideous and I don't especially like either of the 2 optional wheels so decided to go my own way. Around half the price to replace of a VW wheel too if it gets damaged. Thanks

[@stonepope]

Great video, thanks. Do you use the adaptive cruise control at all? Just wondering if you have the issue we Formentor drivers have in that it slows the car down on the motorway/dual carriageway when overtaking cars. Seems its set up for LHD cars 🙄.

[@rash81]

Im having same issue with parking censors and I’ve just had it back from vw because of rattling front near side suspension when it is cold. Also the phone charger heats my phone till it is uncomfortable to hold.

[@andrewgill1749]

Another quality review Andrew. I hope that parking sensor intermittent fault gets resolved with a software update. I guess you will manage it until it’s due it’s first service? .. my 245 manual is coming in July , do you think the mk7 performance brake caliper GTI covers would fit? Disc size seems the same

[@gynads]

After watching all your videos several times I've finally put a deposit down on a Mk8 Clubsport. It's a fairly decent specced one - Oryx white -Discover pro - HUD - Winter pack - Digital key - Reverse camera - DCC - Estoril 19's So excited to get it. Thank you for your content.

[@mmiles9512]

It's terribly disappointing to hear about the top mount issue. I'm surprised you haven't heard about this plaguing the MQB platform ever since the first Mk7 release. Dealerships run you around in circles, even though there was an official VW defect notice published internally. It inevitably gets worse, and only aftermarket topmounts permanently fix the issue. This does seem to be a roll of the dice - some cars are completely unaffected, others are driving their owners up the wall! Looks like I'm getting the A45s.

[@MrHidinho]

they keep getting uglier. mk6 looks better than mk7 and mk8 🤦‍♂️

[@SAStepanenko]

Do the rear windows open all the way down in Mk8? Just drive the Octavia vRS and they do there, never thought of checking when test-driving the GTI...

[@TassieLorenzo]

Could the fabric section of the door panels be retrimmed with alcantara perhaps? :)