Is the 2019 Volkswagen GTI Still the Perfect Hot Hatch?

[@charlesyoung9980]

It's that Tornado red paint that adds the 8 horsepower.

[@mohda.9420]

Am I the only that really dislikes that colour? Idk it makes the car look cheaper to me.

[@mohda.9420]

@The night Rider Ah is that so? I actually wasn't aware. Also its kinda grown on me a small bit since I wrote that comment anyways lol

[@PsychicMedium4747]

GTI one of the best cars in the world...premium built quality, fast, germanic...a blast to drive

[@993mike]

The single nicest thing you can do on these is install the GIAC ECU & DSG software - total game changer on power, throttle response and transmission operation. Also, a larger rear sway bar and Michelin Pilot 4 S’s make a world of difference as well.

[@stephenhendricks103]

I own a 2018 DSG Autobahn GTI. It replaced a 2013 model, the last MK6 built in Germany. Some comments. () Price and Content. North American owners of GTI's have long complained that the US spec version of the vehicle lacks features available on the GTI in Europe. The digital cockpit, for example, though originally promised for the US in 2019 is available only in Europe. The Euro spec version of the GTI includes dual injection and a slightly higher HP rating. Furthermore, a number of features (e.g. DCC, leather upholstery, adaptive cruise control, panoramic sunroof, navigation, upgraded audio, etc.) are individual options in Europe. In the US they're only available (or not) in particular trim levels rather than as individual options or packages. Thus, in Europe a buyer can add or reject individual options to customize their specific configurations, an alternative not available in the US. Why the difference? There's a simple answer. VW has found repeatedly that US consumers resist paying what Europeans willingly pay for VW's. Their response has been to offer larger, cheaper versions of their vehicles in the US or in the case of the GTI, limit available features and combining features into different trim levels to contain production costs. For example, a DSG GTI in the UK configured as closely as possible to the Autobahn US trim (albeit with features like the digital cockpit not available in the US) has an MSRP of slightly more than $50,000 (!) at current exchange rates. That's compared to about $38,000 in the US, an MSRP that as Sofyan notes is often discounted significantly. For example, I purchased a fully loaded Autobahn with several dealer installed options about a year ago for $32,043 plus TTL. That vehicle had a sticker over $38,000. It made the GTI about $10,000 less than the best offer I received for a Golf R. (That difference may well have changed with the wider availability of the Golf R this year and the fact that at least here in the Pacific Northwest Autobahn GTI's are in very short supply.) () GTI versus Jetta. Sofyan notes that the newest generation Jetta has some features that the GTI lacks. A difference he attributes to the Jetta being a newer design. It's somewhat more complicated than that, I think. VW has expanded and updated the Jetta line-up in the US while discontinuing exports of the basic Golf to the US. They're obviously putting more eggs in the Jetta basket, a vehicle that's not even sold in Germany. They've taken the engine and drive train of the GTI (along with a number of other features) for the GLI version. It's an obvious effort to make a splash with the Jetta and accounts for including features like the digital cockpit. Hopefully, it doesn't represent a long term plan to phase out the GTI in the US and is simply an effort to broaden the appeal of their already best-selling Jetta. Personally, I prefer the versatility and iconic status of the GTI but for those looking for an affordable European compact sports sedan the GLI deserves a close look. () The MK8 GTI. I doubt we'll be seeing the MK8 GTI (or Golf R) in the US until the 2021 model year. Skipping a model year between GTI generations isn't a new practice for VW. They did the same when the MK6 was replaced by the MK7 generation. (There was no 2014 model in the US.) As far as its features are concerned there's still much unknown but a clue may be the GTI TCR where the 2.0L turbo engine sees a HP increase to 290. Torque in that engine is unspecified. Interestingly, the HP rating is about the same as a current GTI with a Stage I ECU tune from APR. That tune requires no additional mods for a DSG GTI but it does require a tougher clutch and/or periodic replacement in the MT version. And on that point it's perhaps noteworthy that the GTI TCR is not offered with an MT in Europe. () 6 speed DSG vs 7 speed DSG. My 2018 GTI has the previous generation 6 speed DSG. VW added a seventh gear for 2019. Sofyan isn't the first to have minor complaints about the behavior of the new transmission. That's not unusual for a new transmission from any brand. It often requires a while to work out kinks in the real world and implement software changes to address them. I would say, though, that I've never found the hesitation Sofyan mentions in either shifts or turbo lag in my GTI. If there is a verifiable issue I wouldn't be surprised to see VW address them even if they don't say much about it.

[@martini1591]

This guy gti's

[@stefankoles]

Omg dude you should make a KZbin channel to review cars... You got this.

[@stephenhendricks103]

@@stefankoles Not good looking enough for KZbin but I appreciate the comment. :)

[@wolfsburggti4476]

Thanks for the info I read the whole review

[@mewdotkai]

Thanks for the insight into the differences between US and EU markets. Pretty interesting!

[@KandiiLoverr]

i love how consistently you upload! you're an awesome reviewer 😀

[@davidjym]

Car reviewers should stop creating the impression that more space is better. Get a mid size vehicle if space is an issue. This Golf is already quite large for a 'compact' car .............

[@dlg5485]

Nonsense. Sofyan just said at the top of this video that the Golf is the smallest car in the class, by a large margin, so to call this car "large" is ridiculous. Obviously, a lot of buyers in this class still prioritize cargo capacity. It irritates me to no end when people try to project their own preferences onto others.

[@YasumotoUS]

@@dlg5485 Right on. Standing next to the GTI, it is definitely a compact vehicle and is dwarfed by most modern offerings. And yet, that storage capacity, yo! It is amazing.

[@davidjym]

@K Dash yes, it's good to know to cargo and interior capacity of the vehicles, but people can't say one car is better than the other just because it has larger interior volume ....

[@akapanky]

Totally agree.. cargo area is obviously still a factor otherwise buyers would turn to a sedan vs the hatchback.. I fit a chair and matching storage ottoman in my golf r along with my full wardrobe and some living room decor when my fiance and i relocated to CA from the midwest.. very versatile

[@bobbowie9350]

more space in the front of the car is a figment of the imagination

[@97I30T]

The new great falls green metallic color looks amazing on this car.

[@vclue846]

Kent proud owner of that color

[@everydaybodybuilding2282]

@@vclue846 same just got it last weekend at 25k miles. Had to drive to PA to get it. Can’t stop looking at the color. So perfect on the GTI. gonna keep this car forever lol.

[@alexcoyg3281]

I like Gti very much, once you drive it, it is hard to get it out of your head and no cars except for Wrx in the price range is as exciting to me.

[@dlg5485]

I love your new rating system. At first I thought it might be a bit forced with the REDLINE acronym, but it really works and is informative. Great job!

[@myemail6048]

Is that complicated to do without voiding warranty? I don’t like the synthetic sound either!

[@pt6134]

I have what some may consider the ideal GTI. Just 23k miles, SE, Stage 1, summer tires, roof rack with carbon mountain bike on top. I like it. Have a baby now and am outgrowing it. I think a lot of people love these for 2-3 years then they need a change or it becomes a bit underwhelming. Great commuter though. Still get 30mpg with around 300 wheel hp.

[@bish71]

Peter T what color?

[@stephenhendricks103]

Traded my 2013 MK6 Autobahn (last GTI built in Germany) for a 2018 model last year. Total of about 70K miles 35K of which with a Stage I APR tune. I didn't tire of my 2013 model and it certainly wasn't "underwhelming." Nor did it have a single issue of reliability. However, I have a teenage daughter who is starting to drive and I wanted the various safety and driver assistance features the new model offered when she began sharing it. My Mexican built GTI on the MQB platform somewhat is more rigid and "tighter" overall than the MK6 but it retains everything I loved about my 2013 model.

[@bish71]

@@stephenhendricks103 I just bought a 2017 Autobahn with Performance Pkg a few months ago and I'm absolutely in love with it. It's my first VW and I'm hooked. My next car will be a Golf R for sure! Mine has a CAI and Borla S exhaust so APR Stage 1 is next.

[@stephenhendricks103]

@@kcsellingpage653 That's not unusual. Perhaps a slight exaggeration but not much.

[@StaneDaynus]

Kareem Hassan Turbocharged cars typically benefit greatly from a tune. CAI and Exhaust are typically necessary for stage 1, however.

[@SaraK_69]

The sounddoktor is not "fake" engine noise. It's an electronic resonator that amplifies 100% sound coming from the engine using reverberation off the windshield. The reason VW and Audi use the Sounddoktor device is because it saves money rather than putting in expensive pipes to resonate the sound from the front intake manifold.

[@derekjlight]

I disabled mine. Ironically the engine sounds better without it.

[@rambow70]

Stage 2 APR is like $1,500 for the tune and the catted downpipe and you’re making 330hp and 370 lbs/ft of torque comfortably. Not a bad value for sure. Love my Mk7

[@audieconrad8995]

Have a '17 with Unitronic stage-1+ cranking (on paper) 310 hp/345 ft.lb.. No additional hardware (at this point) except DKM stage 2 clutch. Gobs of power, exceptionally quick and plenty of top-end pull. What a hoot.

[@Sijray21]

I also had a mk6 gti (2dr 6spd). I sold it recently and I really miss it. It really was a great car, especially for the price. The Rabbit trim really is the best value for the current mk7.5

[@Fly2kill1]

Jason R that’s what I got. I wanted a blue one but had to settle for white. It’s 1 of 500 so that’s cool.

[@subie0455]

@@Fly2kill1 I too opted for PW instead of CFB, but I was close to choosing the latter.

[@DJPleasureSeekingMissle]

That Volvo in the background though 😎

[@alibasha3136]

yab I notes too

[@Yondaily]

DJ Pleasure Seeking Missle they will poop 💩 the vw GTI ANYDAY

[@emphase6]

@@Yondaily double the price, but those are 2 of my favorite cars..the S60 and the GTI!

[@volkswagengolfgti4740]

@@Yondaily *You dare misjudge me*

[@north5103]

Ik that S60 was so nice looking

[@NoZenith]

You can run the GTI on any octane fuel in the US. Premium gets better fuel economy and wakes the car up a little once it re-tunes itself (the fuel management system recognizes different octane fuel automatically and accommodates for that)

[@whydidyouresign]

Well, mine's a '15 6-speed SE purchased new a couple of years ago. I added an APR stage 2 package and a new South Bend clutch. It's been my DD the entire time and I'd give it another point in the real world usage category. But that's me. Yes, the GTI is the sweet spot and I love mine.

[@swanblake]

Totally agree the the Rabbit edition is the value. Just make sure you get it before the warranty goes back down

[@diegorivera23]

Superb video. That camera coming down from the sunroof is just brilliant. Just what I need to decide myself into buying the GTI. Congrats man, keep it up.

[@Jacobk66]

Thanks for mentioning that it does get heavy discounts as pretty much all reviewers don’t talk about that!

[@rubendawn7478]

You laugh at launch, that"s your seal of approval!!! Best car reviews in YT. You really know what you are talking about!!! Thank you.

[@artagain8977]

The turbo went on my 2013 (only 68k miles too). Thankfully I purchased an extended warranty so it was covered.

[@greggf6831]

As a GTI owner, i ask is this a reliable car or does it break frequently? Thanks

[@SychicGamer]

Gregg F if you take care of your preventative maintenance (oil changes, etc.) strictly on time and not being lazy about that, and also as long as you’re not constantly driving like a maniac 24/7, it is a *very* reliable car. Specifically, get one 2013+. 2008-2012 had timing chain tensioner issues but for 2013 they used new revised tensioners that fixed the issue. But ya, generally pretty reliable as long as you are a responsible owner

[@calliad]

Great review I currently have a 15 and previously had an 11. The MQB platform and the fit and finish are impressive even to this day love getting in my car ans going to work or for a long drive. I'm in the same boat as you what is the next gen going to offer and improve seems like in the past every major change comes from platform change which most likely will be the mk9.. Definitely hard to find something I like better than the gti.. Thanks for all the great reviews keep em coming!

[@Krauser1226]

Over 80k miles on my 2 door 2015 Mk7 GTI and I'm still in love with it. Just a great car with not a single issue. Being APR tuned and making over 300 WHP definitely doesn't hurt either, but as a daily it's pretty much a perfect car.

[@alengreen589]

hello to you from germany, this car cost`s in germany with no options 36000 $, and go to 100 km/h in 6,5 sec. thank you sofyan you do a great job.

[@stephenhendricks103]

And in comparable trim to the Autobahn that Sofyan reviewed, the price is over $50,000 at current exchange rates.

[@bullsfan2021]

I've noticed the production quality of your reviews as gone waaay up recently with all these unique shots. keep it up!

[@andrewstrong9680]

From the DC area here - on nice days I'll go for drives on the same roads you are on! My favorite route is from Seneca rd to beech mill, left at the french restaurant. Perfect for testing out new cars!

[@pbentsonable]

This has features the GLI doesn’t and vice versa. Top models should have everything that vehicle offers.

[@sporopeza]

LOLOLOLOL my 2017 GTI puts out 297 HP with no bolt on's. one simple COMPUTER tune was all I needed. These car reviewers aren't allowed to tell you the real truth. FACT:The GTI EA888 Engine is engineered to handle 500HP.

[@JoseMartinez-jw2dy]

What's wrong with today's makers.this looks same as 5 years ago or more

[@pbentsonable]

Jose Martinez the new 2021 is super ugly and basically looks the same too.

[@JoseMartinez-jw2dy]

Simmer pete. Yep i like this cars.i had a 97 very fun car and fast.that was back then can't imagine now.but style they suck .come on something new

[@pbentsonable]

Jose Martinez yeah make a be hatch outta the Q3 or Tt designs.

[@jarrodwood3693]

The regular VW Golf is coming back as a Value Edition in 2020, which is similar to this year’s SE. There was a press release a few weeks ago.

[@alphatrion100]

Civic type r all day

[@gregblack8550]

Sorry but yes , on every account yes .Can hardley be argued with really. Every single metric is better on the R. And I’m not a Honda fanboy at all but the performance is better all around by a lot. But also the car as a daily works well for comfort. And the dependability puts it a mile more ahead. No way I would rather have a VW. Our 2009 Passat is a pile of junk.

[@tonychau1983]

Too bad it's so ugly

[@alphatrion100]

@@tonychau1983 Not the 2010 fn2 euro model i own. Its beautiful

[@tonychau1983]

@@alphatrion100 thought you talking about the most recent type r

[@alphatrion100]

@@tonychau1983 the latest one is probably better and faster But im not ready to get rid of mine yet because i just love it so much. And yes its prettier than the new car.

[@liampattison26]

Loved the video but if you guys invested in a polarising filter and getting the exposure right it'll go a long way (a lot of the shots seem a bit over exposed). I take photos of cars and honestly exposure and a polarising filter makes so much of a difference I couldn't not believe.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

One thing about the EA888 is the APR tunes available allow it to make EASY power, a lot of power.

[@mohammadkamran5862]

I find if you want to put your foot down. Just quickly tap the paddle to shift down first then floor it. 👍 Otherwise the DSG will feel slow to shift and pick up.

[@drumflip1253]

Have a cornflower blue rabbit and love it. Great daily driver.

[@danielmedrano9360]

Drum Flip Deep Pearl black over here

[@MrTARIQSs]

Drum Flip Best color ever period.

[@jeffheck5559]

Sorry but my 2016 GTI S 6spd manual checkered seats two door in silver is the perfect GTI hatchback. Sneaky fast, amazing cornering, good gas mileage, quiet interior, cannot be driven slow. I wanted red but they were out so got silver at less $. The more I see the red the more I’m glad I got silver. The cops love red cars. Such a fun car to drive, enjoy yours!

[@chadm1346]

I test drove a 2019 GTI and felt that tremendous lag that you mentioned and it's part of the reason I went for the Veloster N The salesperson wanted me to test the acceleration merging onto the highway. He said "now mash the gas pedal!". I pressed it all the way to the floor and nothing happened for, what I felt, was a considerable amount of time. It was enough time for him to say "go ahead press it" then the car accelerated. Looking back I should have given the manual a chance.

[@turbos7780]

chad m the n sounds way better too between the 2 tho i went for a 3 door cooper s

[@gaochang784]

Were you doing it on comfort?🙈

[@miller1]

@@gaochang784 No, he was in neutral...

[@TheoIam]

When did the Doug score start. Great review.

[@LlyleHunter]

The Golf in both standard and GTI are my favorite compact cars and along with the 911 and Boxter are my all time favorite European cars. VW never lost the original recipe and the make me feel like I’m driving in Europe.

[@effend446]

Another reason the Golf R is more expensive is because it is actually built in Germany. Whereas the GTI is built in Mexico.

[@jasonmotanky73]

no I think the 2019 is back in Germany. not 100 percent sure tho

[@flacjacket]

@@jasonmotanky73 I dont think so, all the MK7s built in Germany use an electronic parking brake, the '19 US market GTI still uses the mechanical handbrake.

[@MrTARIQSs]

@@jasonmotanky73 doubt it, notice how the hood doesn't have the black insulator like the euro-spec gti and the engine cover has the tsi logo in silver rather than red + manual handbrake instead of electronic one

[@MaxSpeedMike]

Not perfect, but close to it. You can get lightly used MK7s for a steal now, as well as a lightly used focus st. Both amazing cars

[@jonahhitchcock5821]

MaxSpeed Golf R getting even better on price everyday

[@gladdy02]

Yeah, these thing depreciate like crazy..what does that really say about the car though after the warranty period 🤔👎🏾

[@MaxSpeedMike]

@@gladdy02 haha that's for the buyer to figure out I guess

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Ford cars are going to be something of a relic sadly. Plan on an older interior design looking extremely old in a few years. Europe of course gets the all new Focus and Fiesta.

[@shvkap]

The mk8 looks like a rich kid's first car. I think Im still gonna go for the mk7.5 rabbit or SE

[@alextube1101]

20 year old info regarding the assessment of electrical longevity. I have had Mexican vws hit 400 000kms without major interventions. One of our mk5s actually did 368 000kms on the original clutch. The key is buying a mobile device enabled scan tool

[@brendanfogel4573]

I think air vents in the back row is the most underrated pro in a car

[@davidbrentdrums9890]

Brendan Fogel and rear seat map pockets on both seats! Rare for compact.

[@MichasTechTV]

The active Display is available in the euro models of the Golf . Also the Euro models also have an electronic parking brake.

[@stephenhendricks103]

As noted in another comment on this thread, VW routinely limits the content of US spec versions of the GTI in the interest of containing costs. In fact, VW generally find that Americans want cheaper and larger vehicles than the Euro spec vehicles that VW sells.

[@TheCarCrazyGuy]

Pretty much every GTI owner wants a Golf R, some get it some don’t. The Autobahn trim is just $6,000 less than the R. Shop wisely.

[@stephenhendricks103]

Not all. When I shopped extensively a year ago the best price for an "R" I found from any dealer within 500 miles of Seattle was $10,000 more than I paid for a fully loaded GTI Autobahn. (i.e. $32K plus TTL vs $42K.) At the time there were VERY few "R's" available in the Pacific Northwest (3 in the entire Puget Sound region) while GTI's were readily available. That situation is currently reversed. Very few Autobahn GTI's available while "R's" are discounted by about a thousand bucks under MSRP. In short price differences depend on location and timing. In addition, though, while the "R" is a magnificent vehicle the weight difference between the "R" and a GTI is about 250 lbs, the equivalent of putting an NFL linebacker in the back seat. On tight mountain roads where the additional HP of R can't be effectively used, the GTI is far more nimble. Then there's the available sunroof in the GTI that's absent in the R. Many may view that as a minor issue or may even prefer the R but in the Puget Sound area we can use every bit of sunlight in the dark, dark cabin of a Golf we can get.

[@97I30T]

The Car Crazy Guy I’d be fine with a GTI S. The S trim is such a bargain. You can get them for $25-26k after dealer discounts brand new and they come with those sweet tartan plaid seats. I don’t see the point of getting a higher spec GTI. The S trim is pretty decent.

[@sporopeza]

No thanks, I didn't want a Golf r. Fact: One simple $1700, stage 2 by APR makes 335 HP. By the way, this is a Audi engine. It's called the EA888 3rd generation. The pistons are rated for 500HP but Volkswagen marketed this car as a family friendly sports car. This engine is built to handle the power.

[@jareddrake619]

Kent... I got the S trim in the Great Falls Green for even less than that even... I specifically wanted the S trim in a manual... Apparently in the US they are having a hard time moving the base model in a manual... Most Americans seem to want to bigger 8" screen and sunroof... I can live without those... I told them I was cross shopping the Civic SI and they said they could match the lease offer... I like the SI and it's a great value... But I got the S trim GTI in a manual in the new Great Falls Green for the lease price as the Civic SI... Slam Freakin Dunk... Super happy with my S trim. Such Value

[@carsaregood911]

As a GTI and R owner I agree. When I only had my GTI I always wanted the R but couldn't afford it. Have noticed majority of GTI owners find excuses as to why the GTI is better lol.

[@David-cr3pt]

Still my favorite car!!!

[@greggf6831]

Hi David. How is the reliability in the GTI. Do they break frequently? Thanks

[@Alfra1324]

@@greggf6831 I will answer for you! I own an MK 6 that I bought in December 2011 as a 2012 model.To this day the car has performed flawlessly! I have 75000 miles and only a few things have gone wrong which they were covered by warranty! The first the water pump which is plastic! The HPFP that’s the fuel pump, it was covered by warranty, and the intake manifold which was covered by warranty! Of course I give good maintenance to the car! Some people say they are very unreliable which I don’t agree, I’ve had Golfs and GTI’s and to me they are the best cars I’ve owned!! Mine is a GTI S 2 door tornado red with manual transmission!! And to this date it still puts a big smile on my face!!! 😃

[@reuelbutler7626]

Love his videos he goes in depth keep up the good work

[@bullsfan2021]

I think you meant that there will be no GOLF R for 2020. But there should be a regular golf, e-golf, and GTI

[@GUITARTIME2024]

No regular golf is coming to America after this model year.

[@ashleyssingleton]

Omg this is great you been updating a lot of videos so I won’t be bored lol.

[@hazindu]

My first mod to my 2018 golf r was to remove the sound synthesizer.

[@eklektikTechno]

Forgot to mention the single load CD player in the glove box for us older Gen Drivers :)

[@mindspinn311]

GTI Mk8 will be 2022. We get the Mk7 until 2021. And the aggressive look you’re noticing vs the R is all down to subtle trim details and the lower grille being inverted on the GTI and not on the R, so the R is the same as the regular Golf.

[@Fly2kill1]

Since it runs fine on 87 it blew a lot of minds. But VWs power figures are from premium.

[@YasumotoUS]

Good point. And you likely want to feed the EA888 engine with the best fuel you can buy to keep it cleanly burning.

[@Fly2kill1]

YasumotoUS nah. Carbon build up is going to happen either way.

[@YasumotoUS]

@@Fly2kill1 Likely so. I have seen reference to mods such as an oil catch can to keep contamination from the turbo out of the intake. Still, EA888 operators are prolly faced with an intake service at some point.

[@brolyv5802]

Fly2kill1 my Golf 1.8T on premium gas can run with a GTI on regular gas. As always, VWs are designed to run on premium but oh wait, I see, they Figured it can run regular just to get by.

[@sporopeza]

One simple $1700, stage 2 by APR makes 335 HP. By the way, this is a Audi engine. It's called the EA888 3rd generation. The pistons are rated for 500HP but Volkswagen marketed this car as a family friendly sports car. This engine is built to handle the power.

[@wizeguiz]

Great Review! I have never owned a VW product (just Ford, Chevy, Jeep, Mercedes, and Subaru) so I might have to buy one next. I generally steer towards all-wheel drive vehicles so a GLI or Type R could be the one. I have around 3-4 years to decide which one will do.

[@stephenhendricks103]

The GLI does not offer AWD. It's drive train is the same as the GTI. If you mean a WW "Golf R" you'll have AWD but if you are referring to a Honda "Type R", it, too is FWD.

[@sheldonm3535]

Just get a tune. 8hp ain’t shit. I have the Cobb tune and it’s amazing mines a 2016 SE with PP. great car! I love mine as a daily. These cars look so good with no front plate. I have to rock a tow plate being in NY. Get a DSG tune it’ll eliminate any DSG lag. The sound you can eliminate it from the OBD Eleven. Mine came turned off and I bought mine as a CPO. Lol Dog bone insert helps a lot. I have the 034 M brand. It makes it put down powers even better and I have the electronic diff.

[@affinity3281]

I traded in my 17 muatang gt for a mazda 6 because my commute is super long now and i have a baby. Im trading my Mazda for a GTI in the spring. I miss having a 6MT and a GTI checks all of my boxes.

[@nicolasb5075]

6MT are having stalling issues. Check-out the NHTSA complaints and the thread on /r/golfgti.

[@alexanderchristie1492]

My family has an Eos with the 6 speed DSG. I only drive it on occasion, but when I do I notice the delay during a kick down. I think it has to do with the fact that the transmission has to change to another gear in the same clutch, which will take longer than just a regular shift up or down that just requires a quick clutch engagement. The DSG is a wonderful transmission, but it has a learning curve in order to drive it smoothly. Since I drive a Lexus most often and the Eos infrequently, driving the Eos tends not to be a smooth experience.

[@Imaginaryassshole]

Love my 19’ GTI SE manual. Wish I got a DSG though. After a while you get tired of stick shift and you just want to cruise.

[@TVinmyEye]

Id like to see a review on the 2019 Elantra GT N-Line hatch

[@pitomercado1]

My 2016 GTI S lease is about to end in a few months and I still LOVE this car. It is just a great drive. I'm just missing some of the technology advancements available today and LED lighting. I am thinking on buying it because no car in the market today seem interesting to me and most likely the MK8 will get to the USA on 2021. Any suggestions? I am a car enthusiast, but not a car expert.....

[@toddlack6023]

Pick up a used 2017 Sport. The headlights and brakes are great. The S trim is so basic you’re missing out what the car should be like.

[@treymetzger]

The dual clutch at the lower speed where you stomped it to accelerate probably still had more forward gears to go. So the second clutch had the next higher gear selected, but with the demand for a downshift, it had to drop that next gear and go to a lower gear, that’s the delay.

[@Joseph-vj9zw]

You mentioned turbo lag under 2300. This is not bad, when driving normally this keeps the fuel usage very low. I find mileage better than the listings.

[@jacobtruelove5332]

I have a 2015 with 65k and a stage 1 tune, no issues.

[@stephenhendricks103]

Had a 2013 with 70K when I sold it. Likewise, no issues whatsoever.

[@CM-cw8fe]

I’ve got a 2015 with 63k, next month will be 5 years with it...stage 1 since 20k and stage 2 since 40k, no issues whatsoever, carbon buildup is nonexistent. I’m glad I’m not the only one experiencing how great the mk7 is.

[@aerojb]

I disabled the fake sounds of the soundaktor within the first week of ownership. Love my DSG '17!

[@andreaguerra444_]

this is making me want a gti so much more

[@TheCarCrazyGuy]

I found and purchased a Civic Type R at MSRP. Wasn’t easy to find. The GTI is just too expensive. A year earlier I purchased a Golf R. Totally worth the price difference. Now I have two R’s. Why I’m called The Car Crazy Guy.

[@stephenhendricks103]

I can see the logic of your name. :) On the other hand, I purchased a fully loaded Autobahn GTI last year for about $32K plus TTL and never found a Civic Type R without at least $4000 added to the sticker price. As for the Golf R, the best offer I found within 500 miles of Seattle was $10,000 more than the GTI I bought.

[@somejackball]

why did they add 2 more doors? i thought the GTI was a 2 door

[@proboxpepper6752]

I have a 2017 golf 1.8t with apr stage 1, can't wait for the mk8.

[@IReahpZz]

Great sleeper! Not many people know about those 1.8s 😂👌

[@proboxpepper6752]

@@IReahpZz Thanks! Probably that's the reason why VW removed it from the lineup and gave us a 1.4t instead.

[@IReahpZz]

@@proboxpepper6752 haha nooo it was it's issues according to my son. He's actually got a stage 2 jetta 1.4tsi. 1.8 tends to pop under 100k. Carbon buildup came quick and wasn't as efficient. Plus the whole deisel gate bs made em want to slim there line up down. 1.8 was the lowest sold motor sadly

[@proboxpepper6752]

@@IReahpZz im at 32k miles with my golf, the only thing im worried is the water pump, carbon buildup yea probably gotta do mine at 50k. But i really like the efficiency of the 1.4t ive heard you can get 450mi per tank easily!

[@stephenhendricks103]

Cherish it. No Golf with the 1.8T engine in the US for 2020.

[@horatiotimewaster5755]

Nice review, but mine there is no turbo lag in mine. Fantastic engine.

[@HOTPLATEGAMING]

Horatio Time Waster You probably don’t know what turbo lag is

[@sporopeza]

One simple $1700, stage 2 by APR makes 335 HP. By the way, this is a Audi engine. It's called the EA888 3rd generation. The pistons are rated for 500HP but Volkswagen marketed this car as a family friendly sports car. This engine is built to handle the power.

[@jralphroman]

Not sure what year you have but I have a 2019, 7 speed and I definitely feel the turbo lag even while stage 2 tuned

[@exothermal.sprocket]

@@sporopeza You're probably talking about the Golf R, which has stronger internals.

[@andre26261095]

Your information is incorrect. The Golf R is getting discontinued not the GTI!

[@taiwilson8966]

until mk8

[@GxEditor]

Why was the dual clutch in the pre-facelifted GTI so much quicker than the current GTI’s now? Doesn’t make any sense

[@Treizez34]

good o'le 7 speeds suck whereas they used to 6 speeds

[@taiwilson8966]

@@Treizez34 gotta be the gearing/ or final drive

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Get an APR tune for that DSG.

[@sm1else]

Those wheels aren't on just the Autobahn. I think all trims have those wheels, including my SE. They are the evolution of the apple slicers of years past.

[@ryanjones8326]

it has a really solid thump

[@peterkian]

Very informative review. Thank you!

[@revistadearmas]

vw please dont screw the 2020 GTI , keep it small not like the new porky jetta.

[@myemail6048]

I like the rounded edges on the MK8. It resembles the MK6. I’ve always found the MK7 to be too boxy and a tad bland as a result. I agree with others that having all touch screen controls is a poor choice that won’t age well. I hope they improve the color selection for the new version. And I would really love to see the plaid interior available on the Autobahn edition! When will the MK8 be available in the USA?

[@michaelfedorsha8147]

Golf R runs the Quarter mile in 13.1 seconds. I'm sorry but it smokes that GTI. That's why someone would buy the R.

[@brendanfogel4573]

Michael Paul yeah but for the price, you can mod the gti and make it way faster than the golf r

[@michaelfedorsha8147]

@@brendanfogel4573 then you have car that voids warranty. So that becomes a moot point

[@michaelfedorsha8147]

A car that comes out of the factory that's really fast from stock is going to drive much nicer and not sound and feel like you're beating on it. Plus let's not forget the fact that you have AWD drive which is HUGE!!

[@nahavandi89]

What a beautiful town! Where is this? Thanks 4 the great video btw 😊

[@dtanguay634]

Should I wait for the MK8 GTI ?? Or just buy a MK7.5 as of right now ?🤔 I’m just not sure if they are still going to make them in manual ??

[@MrTARIQSs]

There's a spy shot of the mk8 regular base golf's interior and it had a manual, I guess they'll most likely keep it for the gti

[@michaelsnow3643]

Love the GTI and I loved my R when I had it. I thought I could live with the four doors, but couldn't so I traded it in on a coupe. VW, please bring back the two door!

[@stephenhendricks103]

Ain't happenin' , Michael. For some mysterious reason VW dealers object to 2 door GTI's sitting for months on their lots incurring flooring charges.

[@rgqban6380]

Is an issue with insurance in the USA one off the main reasons why there’s no coupe and also taxes.

[@coreychristianson2268]

I have a 2015 two door. I am 6’4” and love the bigger door. I sat in a four door and don’t know if I can live with that B pillar in my face. 80K on mine and not a single problem other than a power window switch I replaced myself. I love my gti, but I’m afraid it may be my last. Any tall drivers out there who get used to the four door?

[@bradr7719]

Would be nice if they also had a trim with vr6 to give us a little throwback but the 4cyls are taking over

[@stephenhendricks103]

You won't see the VR6 again. Period.

[@joshualand2053]

Not the issue thats its a manual with 0 to 60 times. Its the gearing being longer in the manual.

[@myemail6048]

I’ve seen several videos on how to disconnect the soundaktor which sends synthetic engine sounds through the speakers. People who’ve done so reported enjoying a much quieter engine sound.

[@MrTARIQSs]

Hey I noticed that the hood doesn't have that black insulation thingy like mine(Euro/Middle East-spec gti), I guess another cost-cutting measure for the US-spec gti?

[@gli.stephenmtl3749]

Would love if u can test a gli

[@blt338p]

Im so excited ill be getting a gti soon always wanted one. Ill probly go with the se trim bc of the leather seats, moonroof everything else i don't care for.

[@ArnelZapataJr]

What's the rating out of again? Great review though since I'm going to get a GTI next year!

[@jake1408]

Did you end up getting one?

[@maxbook534]

Which dealers in DC discount to around $30k? Most I’ve seen advertise dealer price of $33k-34k

[@mabze3]

Yes and it looks better than the new golf R

[@flacjacket]

Hard disagree, the R looks like a much higher end car than the GTI, it has a very Audi S vibe, the GTIs bumper looks cheap.

[@mabze3]

@@flacjacket The 7.5 golf r front bumper is the worst. They've ruined it! As for the gti is looks so much aggressive in my eyes. Though I do I like the golf r rear bumper.

[@dazza9859]

The digital display is available on the GTI in Europe from 2018 on.

[@vr6gls]

Am I the only person who can care less about cooled seats?🤔🤔 Not everyone wants a bunch of gadgets in their car. I care more about the overall performance and driving experience.

[@tonychau1983]

Go watch some other reviews all they talk about the gadgets heated steering wheels carplay etc.... and then a couple mins of the actually driving

[@97I30T]

The GTI S is the trim for you then. Plus you can get the S trim with those sweet tartan plaid seats.

[@rgqban6380]

You probably don’t have a problem with triple digits temps cause black leather get really hot and the cool seats are amazing at 1:00pm.🤣😂😅👌

[@vr6gls]

RgQban G. I live in Houston, Tx. It gets really hot and humid where I live. I still don’t care about cooled seats.

[@pandawillgames]

So he said GTI’s can run off regular gas, does that go for 2015’s as well??

[@jabv1992]

I dont think so i once put 87 octane on my GTI and i got a check engine light. Stayed on during the duration of the tank. As soon as i put 91 octane engine light turned off.

[@danielmad]

I believe the new GTI wont be hitting the NA market until maybe 2022, or 2021 the earliest. North America wont get the regular mk8 golf until 2021, usually a year after it's released in Europe in 2020, if North America even get the regular golf at all. It's also one the reasons we're not getting the Wolfsburg edition of the GTI next year, because it'll only be made available on the last generation year run in north america, so that's most likely happening in 2021.

[@stephenhendricks103]

It's a pattern reminiscent of the introduction of the MK7 version of the Golf (including the GTI) in the US in 2015. We saw no 2014 model at all. I'm somewhat more optimistic about timing than you are but I agree it will be at least late 2020 or the first quarter of 2021 before we see the MK8 in the US.

[@christopherdeming7929]

The hesitation in the transmission that you describe for the GTI is the same I experience in my A4 with the 7 speed. It’s particularly unnerving when you roll up to a roundabout to go through, you punch it and wait as a car bears down on you.

[@b286guy]

Christopher Deming Yes, I’ve experienced that with my A4 as well. I’ve found that putting the trans in sport mode solves that issue though. Reduces fuel economy a little, but the car is much more responsive.

[@christopherdeming7929]

b286guy I agree. Plus, blasting through roundabouts in dynamic is fun regardless.

[@mistamaog]

These are really easy to drive manual in, but I with the clutch had more weight and feel and heavier steering.

[@PKMNFan4664]

I want one of these... Would this be good to buy when I'm out of law school?

[@EastWood2004]

So the Mexican buit GTI is lower speced than sold in Australia. Here 180 KW and 370Nm torque. And it has electronic parking brake as standard.

[@gregholman2930]

Review the Subaru WRX! I have a 2016 that I purchased 1 month ago that handles like a true sports car, (1st 4 wheel drive car i've owned), & I love it! Although I don't notice a lack of power over 60mph, maybe that's why there's the STI option. Could you find a 2016 BMW 340i & feature that one as well?

[@97I30T]

Greg Holman I don’t really think that Sofyan reviews used cars anymore, sadly.

[@JacesOwnWorld]

I’ll have to say, the spec’d mpg #’s VW gives for this car are so off! They say 25city/31hwy, but I get much more than that in my MK7 GTI. The week I bought it new, I got 42mpg’s on my road trip, mixed with 70%hwy/30%city driving! Then in all city driving, I got 30mpg’s! I have since modded my GTI to where it’s now pushing 430 crank hp/420 crank tq, and I still get 27 city mpg/39 hwy mpg’s! VW has underrated their mpg’s on this car big time, just like they did with their stock power! Can anyone out there show me another car with my power levels, that gives this king of mpg’s? Because I don’t know of any outside of Tesla’s.

[@guse1219]

I think you answered your own question as to why the GLI has a few features the GTI doesn't...the GLI is cheaper, which is obvious as soon as you sit in it. It seems the toys are not what costs money...it's that more premium feel, which the American Jetta lacks, that costs money.

[@trufan7358]

The fake engine noise out the speakers is so stupid. Obviously, there’s a lot of manufacturers that do it... it’s just so dumb.

[@harrisonmcdowall2794]

Actually, it doesn't come from the speakers. It comes from vibrating the front windshield. You can also disable it.