Volkswagen Golf 7.5 GTi Performance - Review and Test Drive

Welcome back to The Car Diaries, and after much delay we are back with Episode 3, to be very quickly followed by episode 4,5 and 6 in the next couple of weeks!
Again, thank you to everybody who has subscribed, liked and commented on our previous videos. At time of writing we have a solid 80 Subscribers so we can genuinely say that we appreciate each and every one of you!
So, episode 3 is all about Craigs brand new Volkswagen Golf Mk7.5 GTi Performance. As you'll see in the video Craigs only owned the car for a couple of days, and there are some big plans coming (Unless I persuade him to buy that upgraded supercharger for his elise cup...) so make sure you are subscribed to keep up to date with everything that's going to be happening whilst we move back into car season.
If you have any questions at all then feel free to ask them in the comments below.
Oh, and make sure to follow us on our instagrams, hopefully our history of posts should give you some idea of the future video content we'll be publishing here...
@TheCarDiaries
@CraigHandley5
@MrMattWheeler
The new GTI is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine (TSI) with 220 PS (162 kW; 217 hp). In the GTI Performance version, the engine’s maximum power is boosted to 230 PS (169 kW; 227 hp). Both GTI models develop a maximum torque of 350 N⋅m (258 lbf⋅ft). The standard GTI accelerates to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 6.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 152 mph (245 km/h). The GTI Performance has a top speed of 155 mph (249 km/h) and takes 6.4 seconds for the sprint to 62 mph (100 km/h). Despite its performance, it is in insurance group 29E - five groups lower than its predecessor.
Both versions of the GTI are equipped with a Stop/Start system and fulfill the EU-6 emissions standard that takes effect in 2014. With a six-speed manual gearbox, they attain the same low fuel consumption value of 47.1 mpg‑imp (6.00 L/100 km; 39.2 mpg‑US) (CO2 emissions of 139 g/km). This means that the latest Golf GTI offers an 18 per cent improvement in fuel economy compared to the previous model. With the optional six-speed DSG gearbox, the two GTI models achieve fuel consumption figures of 44.1 mpg‑imp (6.41 L/100 km; 36.7 mpg‑US) (equivalent to 148 g/km CO2 for the standard GTI and 149 g/km CO2 for the GTI Performance).
Buyers who opt for the £980 Performance pack gain not just an extra 10 PS of power, but also upgraded brakes and a limited-slip differential. The front differential is a new development, dubbed VAQ. This provides more neutral and agile driving behaviour and allows higher speeds to be carried through curves. The system consists of a multi-plate coupler between the differential cage and right driveshaft, which controls locking torque electro-hydraulically. Visually, vehicles with the Performance pack are distinguished by ‘GTI’ lettering on the front brake calipers, black mirror caps, and red GTI badges on the front and rear.
As well as high performance, a high level of safety equipment comes as standard in the Golf GTI. On top of high passive safety levels - thanks in part to a passenger cell made from high- and ultra-high strength steels - active safety features include the Automatic Post-Collision Braking system, which automatically applies the vehicle brakes after an accident to reduce the chances of a second impact; the pre-crash system, which tensions seatbelts and closes windows and the sunroof if an accident is likely to improve the effectiveness of the airbags; Front Assist, which warns the driver in the event of coming too close to the vehicle in front, can prime the brakes, and operates at speeds of up to 99 mph; City Emergency Braking, which can automatically brake the vehicle at speeds below 18 mph; Automatic Distance Control, a radar-operated cruise control that maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front; and seven airbags as standard, including one for the driver’s knees.
In countries like Mexico, the GTI version is only available with the 5-door body style, with no plans to introduce the 3-door body.
On September 21, 2018, Volkswagen announced it will make "Rabbit Edition" GTI's for the 2019 model year. The Rabbit Edition will feature a LED lighting package, "Vmax" spoiler, 18-inch "Pretoria" alloy wheels painted in gloss black, and red tags embroidered with the VW Rabbit logo on the seat.

[@TheCarDiaries]

Welcome back to The Car Diaries, and after much delay we are back with Episode 3, to be very quickly followed by episode 4,5 and 6 in the next couple of weeks! Again, thank you to everybody who has subscribed, liked and commented on our previous videos. At time of writing we have a solid 80 Subscribers so we can genuinely say that we appreciate each and every one of you! So, episode 3 is all about Craigs brand new Volkswagen Golf Mk7.5 GTi Performance. As you'll see in the video Craigs only owned the car for a couple of days, and there are some big plans coming (Unless I persuade him to buy that upgraded supercharger for his elise cup...) so make sure you are subscribed to keep up to date with everything that's going to be happening whilst we move back into car season. If you have any questions at all then feel free to ask them in the comments below. Oh, and make sure to follow us on our instagrams, hopefully our history of posts should give you some idea of the future video content we'll be publishing here... @TheCarDiaries @CraigHandley5 @MrMattWheeler The new GTI is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine (TSI) with 220 PS (162 kW; 217 hp). In the GTI Performance version, the engine’s maximum power is boosted to 230 PS (169 kW; 227 hp). Both GTI models develop a maximum torque of 350 N⋅m (258 lbf⋅ft). The standard GTI accelerates to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 6.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 152 mph (245 km/h). The GTI Performance has a top speed of 155 mph (249 km/h) and takes 6.4 seconds for the sprint to 62 mph (100 km/h). Despite its performance, it is in insurance group 29E - five groups lower than its predecessor. Both versions of the GTI are equipped with a Stop/Start system and fulfill the EU-6 emissions standard that takes effect in 2014. With a six-speed manual gearbox, they attain the same low fuel consumption value of 47.1 mpg‑imp (6.00 L/100 km; 39.2 mpg‑US) (CO2 emissions of 139 g/km). This means that the latest Golf GTI offers an 18 per cent improvement in fuel economy compared to the previous model. With the optional six-speed DSG gearbox, the two GTI models achieve fuel consumption figures of 44.1 mpg‑imp (6.41 L/100 km; 36.7 mpg‑US) (equivalent to 148 g/km CO2 for the standard GTI and 149 g/km CO2 for the GTI Performance). Buyers who opt for the £980 Performance pack gain not just an extra 10 PS of power, but also upgraded brakes and a limited-slip differential. The front differential is a new development, dubbed VAQ. This provides more neutral and agile driving behaviour and allows higher speeds to be carried through curves. The system consists of a multi-plate coupler between the differential cage and right driveshaft, which controls locking torque electro-hydraulically. Visually, vehicles with the Performance pack are distinguished by ‘GTI’ lettering on the front brake calipers, black mirror caps, and red GTI badges on the front and rear. As well as high performance, a high level of safety equipment comes as standard in the Golf GTI. On top of high passive safety levels - thanks in part to a passenger cell made from high- and ultra-high strength steels - active safety features include the Automatic Post-Collision Braking system, which automatically applies the vehicle brakes after an accident to reduce the chances of a second impact; the pre-crash system, which tensions seatbelts and closes windows and the sunroof if an accident is likely to improve the effectiveness of the airbags; Front Assist, which warns the driver in the event of coming too close to the vehicle in front, can prime the brakes, and operates at speeds of up to 99 mph; City Emergency Braking, which can automatically brake the vehicle at speeds below 18 mph; Automatic Distance Control, a radar-operated cruise control that maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front; and seven airbags as standard, including one for the driver’s knees. In countries like Mexico, the GTI version is only available with the 5-door body style, with no plans to introduce the 3-door body. On September 21, 2018, Volkswagen announced it will make "Rabbit Edition" GTI's for the 2019 model year. The Rabbit Edition will feature a LED lighting package, "Vmax" spoiler, 18-inch "Pretoria" alloy wheels painted in gloss black, and red tags embroidered with the VW Rabbit logo on the seat.

[@AM7151]

Do you still own this mate and if so how do you rate the car im looking on picking one up soon?

[@techyd8411]

Recommend sitting a notch or three closer to the wheel

[@stevejwwright]

Getting my Isaac Blue GTI Performance DSG on Monday, cant wait, nice entrance music to the vid by the way, in hell ill be in good company!!! The Dead South...

[@edinburghgus8379]

I picked up mine recently (245 Performance, 5dr, white, manual) and like the video says the performance is surprising. I’ve had a Leon Cupra and an M135i in recent years and it flows better than either. The diff and the reasonably supple suspension are perfect for our roads.

[@TheCarDiaries]

I completely agree - glad your enjoying yours too! We’ve just posted a GTI Vs R video which you’ll probably like! I’m still glad I went with the GTI!

[@georgewhiteford9869]

I have just taken ownership of a pre-reg GTI Performance in indium grey metallic and standard 18” wheels. I think the colour really complements the red gti badging. I have only had it for 4 days and covered just 100miles. Really pleased with the handling and performance but I’ve found the standard sports suspension makes the car a bit jittery on some surfaces at low speeds. I didn’t have the option of the DCC but wondered if the “comfort” setting makes much difference if you choose to have it.

[@ByMerch]

Dream car for me, thanks for the review

[@TheCarDiaries]

You're very welcome - thanks for watching! Keep saving, it really is a fantastic car :)

[@SilverShamrock71]

I like the 18" Clubsport Belvederes

[@MrRichardC88]

Still enjoying the Golf? I am picking up my GTI Performance DSG on Thursday, can’t wait!

[@yvesdbt5656]

Are you enjoying the car ? I want one ... is it good?

[@PeterAlhussein]

@@yvesdbt5656 I have one, its a fantastic car! really quick, not far behind the R once on the move as its lighter. The limited slip differential is probably my favorite thing on the car as its so much fun in corners. I would throw the Pirelli P zeros into the bin as they are trash and killing the car's potential. I recently bought the Michelins Pilot Sport 4s and one word, MIND BLOWN. Ok that was two words lol, I just so much regret what I was missing on the whole time the car was on the Pirellis. The combination of the LSD and Michelins completely transformed the car.

[@CBRENTD]

Love that color - we can’t get full silver or the digital dash in the states. I settled for the 2019 white silver metallic. One of the best all around cars that I have ever owned.

[@ianprice7776]

I’ve just bought one 😊👍

[@TheCarDiaries]

hope you're enjoying it! :D

[@SilverShamrock71]

nice vid, could've used a few more wide shots of the roof

[@SilverShamrock71]

A set of black mirror caps would compliment the roof

[@TheCarDiaries]

Yes agreed, I did consider wrapping the mirrors at the time too. Thanks for watching!

[@frankedoodle3798]

Have a 2015 golf GTD in manual. Can't decide whether to grab a manual 7.5 GTI performance or a 2018+ golf R DSG.. mind says R heart says a lovely GTI :)

[@TheCarDiaries]

Both great cars! The R is a good bit quicker, but I just loved the looks of the GTI and it’s plenty quick enough

[@scoss2]

Good video. I’ve got an Audi 8v TDI. looking to get a petrol next. The performance is a car I’m looking at. Are you going to stage 1 it at all? You’d get the 270 ft torque up to 300.

[@fraserrobertson2501]

I’m thinking of getting the GTI Performance. With regards to the digital dash, I know that’s standard, but can you use it as a satnav too? (Like in the TT MK3?).. also is apple car play standard? - what is the exhaust note like? Nice and poppy/crackly in sport mode? Cheers - epic car!

[@dazza9859]

There is also a performance pack gti at 245 ps too.

[@TheCarDiaries]

This is the Performance Pack car :D

[@dazza9859]

@@TheCarDiaries in Ireland the performance pack is 245 ps and stock is 230ps.

[@rangeldiasdasilvadias7394]

Eita Carrão ☝️ golf GTI

[@johnw2758]

Regarding the roof wrap.......did they go under the fin? If so, did they have to remove the interior roof lining?

[@TheCarDiaries]

Yes, they went under the fin, but they didn’t need to remove the roof lining. Shore Wraps in Glasgow did a fantastic job!

[@mrlionrocks]

Has the clutch gone pop yet?

[@robbiehulin8001]

Is the digital dash standard?

[@TheCarDiaries]

Robbie Hulin yes, the digital dash is standard and works brilliantly! We have just posted a comparison video comparing the 7.5 GTI with a 7.5 R which you should go and check out too!

[@lizziedripping71]

@@TheCarDiaries Had several GTIs over the years then tried an R. I was so excited but tbh was disappointed : fast but hard ride & just not FUN as the GTIs. Back to GTi Performance & just loving it 😍

[@blue-ck9ns]

why didn’t you get a better looking set of wheels 🤮🤮 love the color though

[@TheCarDiaries]

It would have cost more to upgrade the wheels and I like the ride of the 18" wheels, it's not overly stiff :)

[@doctordocish]

Where's your mechanical sympathy man?! Have you not heard of a run in period?

[@philipcollins3849]

Wrong wheels

[@TheCarDiaries]

I'm too cheap to pay extra for the 19s ;)

[@BobK5]

The 18” are the sweet pot, 19” great for looks

[@BROWITT2010]

Worst colour spec sorry! Dream car though

[@mrheisenberg72]

Missed arm day at the gym bro? Ha. Nice car 👍🏻

[@seanwilson281]

i30N performance is better.