You Can Always Go Back to a Stick-Shift Volkswagen GTI - One Take

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No matter how many sports cars you drive, you can nearly always get right back into a 2020 Volkswagen GTI and it feels like home. This is the end of the MK7 GTI, before the all-new one comes out next year, but with an updated front end and infotainment since we last tested it.
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Volkswagen provided the vehicle, insurance and a tank of fuel for this review.
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[@basithph8958]

A GTI with a manual transmission shows that the old formula still works! #savethemanuals

[@Osprey1994]

I switched to a DSG just cause it's super nice to live with and quick as hell comparatively. I hope to have a second car some day that can be a more raw experience, but I drive for work so I need something that I can drive for 4 or 5 hours and not feel fatigued.

[@Random-nf7qb]

GOLF GTI!!!

[@basithph8958]

@@Osprey1994 true but it really depends on where you live I understand that in the city you get a lot of rush hour traffic but in the suburbs especially with back roads I wouldn’t mind daily driving a manual

[@basithph8958]

@@Osprey1994 oh yeah my friend has a Golf 1.8 S with the DSG and I drove one time in manual mode Man it was a blast!

[@JFinns]

@@Osprey1994 I drive my MK7 Manual for hours a day and never feel fatigued. APR stage 1, perfect light 3 pedal setup. It's the perfect daily driver. Also the fastest GTI around Nurburgring is the manual, it's lighter and more fuel efficient, so it's has no performance issues either.

[@alanstoss]

The 911 of the Hot Hatches

[@deanmarr785]

Yes

[@NinaMango789]

For real I've had 2 mazdaspeeds, now a speed 6 and I'm genuinely thinking of just calling it a day and being comfy in a mk7

[@Ben-bg2eg]

@@NinaMango789 Do it man. Modify it. Love it.

[@c.b.4916]

@@Ben-bg2eg 900 dollars for a cupholder. Literally. Na I'm good lol

[@Ben-bg2eg]

@@c.b.4916 What?

[@Pauli-COJ]

Like some others said, the pedals cam is really appreciated (feels like these old Japanese drift videos!). I hope you will release more videos with this, setup! Cheers o/

[@HolySchnikes]

Suddenly Ayrton Senna driving an NSX with loafers came to mind.

[@thepanduhhh]

I stand by the idea that the GTI is one of the most fun commuters you can get.

[@moniack]

It is, and not a bad family car either.

[@IKhanNot]

It is but the douchebags that drive it completely put me off of owning one.

[@zounds13]

​@@IKhanNot you can find the douchebag subculture for any car.

[@whoischris28]

@@IKhanNot cant be as bad as the subie community

[@domn.9637]

Until something breaks...

[@CPMUNSEY]

The GTI and the Golf R are two of the best all around hatchbacks produced in this day and time. Excellent vehicles👌🏽

[@H8XME]

Christopher Munsey with plastic water pump housings 💦

[@elgar6743]

Yes...they drive great...reliability and all the plastic engine components?? Not so much. Shame that reliability and resale still sucks lemons....

[@ProzacDon]

Ever heard of the Civic Type R?

[@canucksfan7332]

Zach I like it but it looks to ricey for me :(

[@nikomoin7604]

They are just a bit boring and overpriced. But they have a very good balance between sportiness and use ability. But the i30n and other comparable cars are just more exciting

[@boxesnearme7535]

I own a 2018 GTI and I recently put a Cobb Stage 1 tune on it - so it puts out about 275 hp. Since I bought it right when the outbreak started I got a deal - my car had 12,000 miles on it and all in with my tune, taxes and a set of TSW Bathurst wheels in gunmetal grey I am in it for around $24500. It is an amazing car - it is replacing my 2016 Civic commuter car and my 2003 Mazda Miata track car. My other car is a 2013 911 Carrera and I would say that the combination of those two cars is as close to automotive nirvana as I have experienced in my lifetime so far.

[@noahwilleke9978]

Fantastic set up sir! Keep the Miata :)

[@JoJoJoker]

The idea 2-car garage; can’t do much better.

[@stevexjet]

Add a Land Cruiser like I did to my 997.1 and MK7.1 SE PP DSG and you’ll really be in icon car heaven.

[@wavy518]

Get a better tune. The cobb ones r the worse

[@lexusrcflover9175]

I dont like Porshe or VW but I have to admit those 2 companies do make amazing drivers cars with the amazing handling and power to weight..also random but the e46m3 and the focus RS are also ammmazing drivers cars..I know the 2 cars I mentioned are different and yearrrss apart but after all the cars I've driven and trust me it's many those cars stood out to me alot when it came to driver engagement...my dream car the Lexus RCF was a very nice car with good power but it felt so heavy and lazy at times and the cars you mentioned deff feel more responsive to driver inputs

[@LHStudios1]

I've got a 19 Rabbit Manual and I've put about 20k on it. Had some heavy commuting for a while and it handles traffic wonderfully. It's the perfect balance as everyone says. Right amount of power to have fun with, but slow enough that you can run through the gears without going to jail. It's always had just the right amount of cargo space. If you can't have other cars, or need something a bit more reasonable it's the perfect choice.

[@SigmaDG]

just bought one too... cornflower blue rabbit manual. awesome car.

[@Chris-hw4mq]

Its not worth 37k, For 37k you can get a muscle car that will shit on the gti

[@Chris-hw4mq]

@Collidiscope most people dont live in the fucking mountains

[@Chris-hw4mq]

@Collidiscope you can drive rwd cars with snow tires and traction control on. People use AWD, or 4x4 cars when there is lots of snow.

[@SigmaDG]

Chris723 you can pick up one without stupid tech options for 25k and less than 10k miles. I’m with you though, would never pay that kind of money for a GTI, nor a golf R.

[@andrewdowling]

I have owned Audi's, BMW's, Mercedes and Porsches. Still very close to my heart and I would gladly own again are the 3 VW GTI's I have owned. 6 speed, plaid seats I love these cars.

[@audieconrad8995]

Got a '17 MK7 S. Put a Unitronic stage-1+ with a DKM Stage 2 daily clutch. Otherwise totally stock = sleeper. Gawddayem it is quick. 0-60 no idea other than stupid blitz - 70 and up - show me whatcha got. yup...c'mon let's go. Top-end pull is awesome. General G-Max AS-05 UHP all-seasons keep it nicely planted.

[@stevexjet]

I just spent 1500 miles in a rental Q5. Audi has pasted into a soul sucking experience. Would had rather driven my MK7.

[@audieconrad8995]

@@stevexjet I enjoy my MK7 EVERY time I plunk my ass on the plaid...

[@suneilkumar]

Almost 1 year in on my 2019 Autobahn manual. It is such a joy to commute everyday with it. It feels like pure luxury, and well thought out (unlike other manufacturers that slap stuff together). 6 year warranty too. Different class than Si and WRX.

[@ThePedalDance]

I commute in a 2018 Golf R manual everyday. Love it. With two simple mods I completely fixed the shifter and clutch feel. Tons of tech standard, super comfortable, looks good (not too flashy but those who know, know:) Highly recommend! I picked it up a year ago with 1,500mi and it cost less than this Autobahn Edition.

[@Petrolheadish]

Great choice! What are those two mods if I may ask?

[@DJ.1001]

My guess would by the clutch delay valve delete and a clutch pedal stop.

[@ThePedalDance]

Petrolheadish clutch delay valve delete and a diesel geek short shifter. The clutch bleeder block has this fluid restriction that makes the clutch slip. They do it to hide mistakes by bad drivers but it makes it impossible to shift smoothly and feels terrible. You can buy a new bleeder block from ECS for like $150 but removing the restriction in stock unit fixes 95% of it.

[@ThePedalDance]

DJ 1/2! Delay valve delete and diesel geek short shifter. Would clutch stop make a difference? I read a little about them but I’m afraid of the clutch not disengaging all the way.

[@Petrolheadish]

@@ThePedalDance Cool, thanks!

[@matts4450]

Just bought a used GTI with a stick to replace my old DSG GTI. Such a great and fun car. Modern classic.

[@jeffk464]

Yeah I test drove a manual GTI before buying my DSG GTI. The manual was definitely more fun, I'm not sure I made the wrong choice though. I spend a lot of time in manual mode and it is actually a pretty enjoyable way of driving it.

[@RCXDerp]

@@jeffk464 That's how I drove my MK5 R32. Flying through tunnels shifting up at redline. Still miss the note of that engine and I've got a GT350 now haha.

[@davidsadowski6295]

@@jeffk464 i have a manual and tbh there definitely are some times i wish i had the dsg, especially on the way home from the gym. i dont think you can go wrong either way with this car though

[@davidsadowski6295]

i would highly recommend a short throw shifter, i was a little hesitant to get one but it made the shift feel so much better. it's a really easy install and not to expensive either

[@SeanLazer]

@@jeffk464 how is the DSG in traffic? one thing i hate about driving stick is the surging you get at low speeds (like in traffic.) does a DSG behave the same way or is it smoother?

[@frankl0tion111]

Picked up my 2020 6mt gti this past march and tbh one of the best cars i've ever driven

[@JFinns]

Same been daily driving my 2017 GTI Sport Manual for 3 years been amazing. Have APR stage 1 on it too.

[@krono7717]

@@kjh4112 aaand that's why I've only owned salvage cars that I repair with my dad. New cars just aren't worth it imo

[@TarzanGTI]

@@kjh4112 generally the used ones are holding decent value. I would never buy new of course. Picked up a 2017 GTI Sport 6MT for $17,600 with 37K miles in July and all similar cars are in the $20K+ range now in the North East area. For some reason, the average price has gone up in the past year...

[@Eggsplanepls]

how much $$

[@chrismelisse1284]

Ranshika Fernando Used car market has gotten a little crazy due to COVID

[@federak]

Love the pedal camera, please do more of those!

[@evancondry]

I'm 20k miles into my '18 Golf R manual, stage 1 Unitronic, Sachs clutch and it's just the perfect car. Nothing else to say, just perfect.

[@SuperDorkenstein]

More "normal" cars please! Love the content, Matt. Good stuff as always

[@jc944t]

Thanks Matt for giving the Mk 7 GTI some love! I own one with a DSG and it's my daily. I just completed $5k in modifications (include big brake upgrade) and now it's pushing ... 360HP at the crank! Even with the huge increase in power I still average 28.5 mpg on my 30-minute commute. Without a doubt one of the best cars I've ever owned. Great pedal cam action!

[@audieconrad8995]

Car and Driver once said about the MK7 in their top 10 of the year "everyone should own one of these in their lifetime." I took their advise. Never a regret. Btw...one of the best reviews here that I have seen on the MK7/7.5 - bueno!

[@jlopez1017d]

I owned a manual MK4 golf and it was a blast to drive I can’t imagine the GTI. I remember that car very fondly

[@santiagobenites]

I love my GTI with a 6 speed stick! It's always fun to drive it.

[@willywillywillywillywilly]

I drive a used Mk7 Golf R, which I got after a used Mk7 GTI, after a used Mk5 GTI. All DSG, I tuned and modified them all, and the R is the one I just want to keep until I can get an F80 M3 Comp. I can’t overstate how quick this thing is with a stage 1 tune. We’re talking high-3 0-60, low-12 quarter-mile. What I had unending frustration with with the GTIs was grip at daily driving speeds. Do I use more full throttle than most people? Yes. But $950 on wider tiresthat lose their grip after one year, with other inexpensive traction mods too, was the only way to get some satisfaction from a tuned GTI. A tuned Golf R can put down 400hp in first gear with average all-seasons, or hang the tail out if you turn the wheel sharply while doing that. I’ve got 64k miles on mine now, and the only issue I have is rattling interior trim, and that’s possibly from the louder exhaust. It’s got light and direct controls, snappy DCT upshifts, and for $30k all-in, including the tune, I can drive my kids to 60 repeatedly in 4 flat in a small, zippy little thing that doesn’t draw much attention.

[@88AC88]

I have had many cars and I agree with this. I normally change cars every year or 2 but it doesn't look like I will get rid of my MK7 R. Its just does everything perfectly. I'm on stage 2 and its my daily. 70 miles round trip to work and its great. I only drive manuals but this is the only exception being a DSG. It really shifts quickly especially tuned which I have also. It just doesn't make sense to switch to another car which is is why I bought a 2nd car. I purchased a E46 M3 for the rugged rear wheel drive and 6 speed. I do miss manual but going back and forth between cars and the M3 feels like a lot of work to drive and it still can't beat my R in race. The power, speed and comfort of the R is great. Can't be beat for the price. I got mine for $25k which i think was great with only 26K miles on it. Looking at what they are selling now in 2020 it looks like I can sell it for more. Anyways its a great car and it might be the car I will keep the longest. I might just have to keep it forever.

[@onoff314]

F80 M3 is a worse car than you have now. Your R sounds great

[@scottrobertson307]

I have a Golf R as well no need for Anything else.Stage 1 is insane

[@JoJoJoker]

Excellent summary! Suggestion!!! Turn “starting vibration reduction” setting to “off” using VCDS.

[@JRsmith.]

A co-worker of mine who bought a brand new GLI was PISSED and struggled with interior rattling.. took it to dealership several times nothing... he ended up going to some detailer... so alotta💰

[@fprintf]

2019 Rabbit edition owner here. I feel like this absolutely nailed the essence of what a modern old-school GTI can be. It is a driver's car as much as one can be had out of a GTI with plaid cloth seats, limited slip, no sunroof. The only problem I have with it is rev hang on hard acceleration making smooth shifts difficult, and the anticipation of electrical problems that seem to plague every VW I've ever owned (4 now in 30 years with big gaps due to being upset with VW as a result).

[@formula1fancolorado632]

Time for another gap!

[@offroadfpv2917]

This review takes me back to the 2012 GTI manual I had until last year. Everything he said about pedal feel is correct too. When I upgraded my current 2014 Audi S4 manual, I found it more natural in stop & go because you can directly feel the clutch engagement. Funny thing was I had both cars for a short while, and when I'd drive the GTI I would speed shift unintentionally because the shifter and clutch were so much lighter.

[@euronate]

I own a 2018 GTI SE and this review is spot on. It drives phenomenally as a daily driver & I've also had it on track a few times as well at VIR. Can't recommend it enough!

[@dil6969]

I'm not a VW guy, but I really like the MK7. I think we'll look back on it in 20 years and appreciate what a beautifully balanced package it was. And looking at the MK8 interior, I think these will probably hold their value well for a German car.

[@Fopeano]

When I was at the track 2 weeks ago, there was a 70 year old man having a blast in one of these.

[@AudiophileTubes]

He probably had the original Mk1 GTI in 1977!

[@jonrolfson1686]

Still loving my 2017 GTI Sport with manual. Had been looking for a manual Sportwagen when one of the dealers found the manual GTI and suggested a test. Decided that more umph in front made up for a bit less stowage in back. Though the many generations newer car lacks the crisp appearance of the last GTI I owned, a 1985 Mark II, twice the power, vastly improved engineering and build quality, and enhanced amenities make the newer car work as well for this retiree as that car did for a thirty-something in the ‘80s and ‘90s.

[@shrimpgordita]

I own a 2016 GTI S coupe w performance and lighting packages. I'm actually the second and fourth owner. The guy I bought it from (twice) is the first and third owner. We both loved the car enough to buy it twice. I've owned a lot of cars, but this is by far and away the highest quality vehicle I've ever owned. That includes several BMWs. It's so incredibly well thought out and engineered. No corners were cut anywhere. The doors are solid, the body is stiff as a rock, the steering is laser focused, the engine revs freely and smoothly, it's easy to work on, easy to clean and detail, plenty of headroom for all, and it has perfect seats and seating position. Plus with the rear seats down you can haul an enormous amount of crap. It's basically the perfect daily driver.

[@pearce9853]

I got my GTI manual only last week. Absolutely love it, such a comfortable car for a daily drive but yet got the perfect about of power

[@dollaz5541]

Just got my 2016 manual one exactly like the video it’s amazing!

[@adamvoigt14]

Just bought a 2020 mk7 manual. It's such an amazing vehicle. Cannot stop driving it. Smoothest ride of any hatch i've driven in!

[@Hot-1LE]

Glad you did another GTI review I felt like the last was more about the R than the GTI. Glad to see the canyons opening back up.

[@JonasRosenven]

Thanks for all the great content, Matt. The pedal box cam was pretty nice! I liked it a lot. Have a great week.

[@jco3872]

Thanks for finally doing this, Huge GTI enthusiast here

[@AudiophileTubes]

I have a 6-speed manual 2003 GTI VR6 that is now 18 years old. It still puts a smile on my face after all these years! It handles OK, but I can't imagine how much better current GTI's are, in terms of performance and handling.

[@hensh911]

Owned a Mk7 GTI manual for a couple of years and loved everything about it, such a capable car! Especially the way it goes around bends and powers out of corners with the help of the eLSD. Sold it to a friend to upgrade to a 997 (manual) so see it every few months and I still think it's a great car. Might have to get a Golf R (manual or DSG?) as a second car at some point, goes to show it's a winning formula.

[@DwainDwight]

I drive a 2019 Golf R as my daily. Love these cars, great on the very windy hilly Hong Kong roads. quick, handles great, easy to park and you can easily seat 4 adults.

[@paulrondeau2517]

Me too! Absolutely love the car, and hands down THE BEST daily driver for grabbing groceries and ripping through twisties!

[@lagerace227]

@@paulrondeau2517 Love my '17 R, still smile everyday I get in it 3 years later. They're a blast in the winter to drive. I do love the feel of the GTI though.

[@paulrondeau2517]

Just curious @Lagerace - what do you like about the GTI over the R?

[@lagerace227]

@@paulrondeau2517 I like how nimble it feels, especially in the manual. The aesthetics seem better interior wise.

[@TACTICSRUS]

So glad to see you’re doing one takes more often. I really enjoy them!

[@stevemilker]

I have a 2020 GTI SE Manual and love it. I don’t drive as much because I work more remote now. Every time I take out mein kleine GTI for a drive it’s still fun and exciting.. I just don’t get tired of it. The handling, acceleration, braking, brings ear to ear grins, it’s so much fun 😊. Back in college I had an ‘83 Rabbit GTI. I had so much fun with that MK 1. Now I’m 53 yrs old reliving the past but now in a refined MK 7.5 which keeps the character of the original GTI and brings new technology. So glad I made the choice to buy a GTI before the MK 8 arrived. Would still like to test drive a brand new MK 8 but the looks and interior are not the same.

[@jacobmartin2125]

A 2010 GTI has been my daily driver for 9 years. 183k miles in and still going strong!

[@busy2012]

How much do you pay in maintenance annually? (is it a good car for a college student)

[@STLLTNDR]

@@busy2012 it’s reliable but don’t think for a second it’s cheap to maintain lol. Repairs can be costly depending on what it is especially the mk6 year with its tensioner issue. but your basic fluid changes and brakes etc nah not bad at all. I suggest get a mk7 the improved off the mk6 platform.

[@busy2012]

@@STLLTNDR Not cheap to maintain, but how much should I expect to pay? (This is about a mk5 gti btw, mk6 is too fugly)

[@TheDudeZach]

I own a 19 MK7.5 Manual GTI and it’s nice to hear a review of your own car. Matt said basically everything I feel about the car.

[@jeffheck5559]

Manual shifting is the best way to feel the road and the most fun by far. Learned to drive on my brothers Celica 5 spd back in 1974. Owned a 82 Accord hatchback, Golf and Neon, all manual and great cars. My 2016 basic GTI in silver cannot be driven slow. It possesses you to accelerate hard at traffic signals, take corners fast and get up to speed in a hurry. Everyone I take for a ride loves the way this car drives and feels. I love it! Owning this car makes you feel smart and young again.

[@hollowpoint27]

Great review as always. You seemed a little bit more receptive to what the GTI brings to the table this time around. Made for a nice reminder of why I like them so much

[@thechicagobearsftw]

As someone who's going to be learning manual in the not too distant future, I loved the pedal cam! That should be part of a review every now and then.

[@adventureswithdante]

90K and counting on my 2016 GTI. APR tuned stage 1 with upgraded clutch for the manual and the thing is a dream. Its been very reliable for me

[@skateking959]

Bought a 2017 GTI S 6 months ago. Planning on keeping the car for a few years so I put about $13k in mods into the car. I fell in love with it. Almost done with the build already. R400 conversion kit, is38 turbo, wavetrac lsd, and a million more. So far only good things to say about it.

[@chuckashton9688]

Love my GTI. This old guy loves his DSG. Great that VW still offers a a stick when so many companies are dropping them. Not sure about the MK8, that all glass touchy feely cockpit really bother's me. Although I'm sure it will be a great drive. Thanks for the drive video.

[@JEdmund81]

Loved seeing this review and Matt's appreciation for the Mk7.5. I got a '19 SE manual with the experience package in February and have been so happy with it. I am excited to drive it every time I get behind the wheel. It does so much well that it really is a compelling car. I really like that it's sporty and fast, yet easy on fuel (high 30s on the highway). Looks great outside and in.

[@mikemcgrath6561]

As a fellow 19' with the experience pack owner (except in DSG) I can agree it is the perfect sweet spot, everything you want with the adjustable shocks, leather and cool looking LEDs with nothing you don't need (power seats and dual climate in this small of car). Best 25k spent.

[@RangerColinLZ]

I'm thankful for the MK7 Golf existing because it allowed for the Audi A3 (which I own) to become a tuner car with like 90% parts compatibility with the Golf. There is almost no wrong way to spec a Golf either. The EA888 engine is really nice, the Manual just works and the DSG transmission absolutely slaps.

[@MrSuryapratim]

Dear Mr. Farah, The addition of the paddle cam was truly fabulous. I would (as I'm sure would many others) really appreciate a camera on the rev gauge. I think that would really give us a peek not only at your rather excellent technique ... but also at some of the thinking that goes into it ... understanding things like when do you decide to downshift, what revs you just leave the motor hanging at between the corners (instead of upshifting to extend engine life) ... etc.

[@Lynnch244444]

Got my manual GTI back in 2015 and I must say that I wouldn't been happy with anything else as a daily. Even though I am not really up there on mileage (around 40,000 miles right now) this thing has truly held its own. after 5years now of ownership, I still get the same unique driving feel since day one. And yes have the same reservations described @10:18 and the lack of grip in 1st and 2nd, but honestly, these are the things that makes the GTI what it is. A prime example of a formula that simply... just works.

[@aspiratedaloha2946]

Feeling the pedal box cam in a big way. It def adds value, even on autos to further understand your evaluation of throttle mapping and brake response.

[@crum111]

Have been driving this GTI model for a month now coming from a 2017 GTI, and a 2014 before that...it has just gotten better and better and better. I love this car and know that it may be the last manual my wife and I purchase. I hope I can keep this car for quite a while, I’m really going to miss it when it’s time to move on.

[@doalwa]

I drive a 2017 7.5 GTI, German model, regular spec with 230 hp. I was issued a company car at the beginning of 2020, a regular Audi A4 Avant 2020 model year. But I decided to keep the GTI around, and boy, I always have the biggest smile on my face when I drive it. It’s just fast enough that it’s really a lot of fun but not that fast that you’re risking life and limb. Build quality also is excellent...it’s the best car I’ve ever driven, period!

[@ryantheshortty]

My 2018 GTI SE, DSG is hands down the most fun car to drive I’ve ever owned ! From the interior to the engine the cars set up very nicely , I’d recommend a GTI to anyone who wants the perfect daily little quick hatchback 🔥

[@willscurran]

I owned 5 GTIs before getting up to Porsches, and just got a GTI for my daughter. You absolutely cannot beat how much car you get for the price. The drive is top notch in class, and the interior is very well built. I love that they have the plaid seats again (since 2020) ...

[@RussellMiddleton]

They've had the plaid seats in the S trim all the way through.

[@rashodbacon]

MK7.5 GTI owner here. I love the GTI but I'm always left wanting more. Upgraded to a GT350 recently and every time I'm back in the GTI, I love it at first and then I get very bored very quickly. It's the perfect all around do everything vehicle. It's the 911 for the common man (kind of). It is exactly what it's advertised to be. At the end of the day, I'd still rather be in an Audi or Porsche. If the budget doesn't allow for more, the GTI is a magnificent choice. If the budget DOES allow for more, go for what you REALLY want.

[@linkincr17]

I hope I'm wrong but you might feel the same thing with the GT350. The feeling of wanting more only goes away when you choose to... not when the car is good enough. I personally chose to stop going after the feeling of wanting more because It never stops.

[@rashodbacon]

@@linkincr17 That's fair. I still think there's a plethora of more enjoyable car experiences but I get your point. Desires can be endless.

[@bonifaciomagdiwang1697]

I am thinking for Veloster N, what is your opinion about this car?

[@linkincr17]

@@bonifaciomagdiwang1697 If they won't let you test drive it, don't buy it.

[@FlatsixSTM]

Rashod Bacon decent points, I drive a 17’ Golf R and just picked up a 911 (993 C4S) to alternate it with so I guess I have both the common and uncommon man’s 911.

[@ColonelMustard]

I've looked into a GTI for a daily. Currently rocking a 2009 Cobalt SS Sedan. Matt, I would love to see you drive one. You've driven every car I have owned except the SS and I am constantly impressed with how good the car is. Very under appreciated. The turbo Ecotecs are great. Thanks for another great video. :)

[@ColonelMustard]

@@Gandalf721 Oh I see your point there. It is an economy car at its roots. I've had many card of higher quality. However for 7 grand I bought a 350whp 2900lb car with 4 doors and everything works. Guy before me treated it like a Ferrari garage queen. It's almost as fast as my H/C/I 05 GTO. 1/3 the price and half the quality hahahaha

[@CoyCaughy]

Paid under 25k for my 2019 GTI in Dec from the dealer. I got the APR Plus Tune for 1k and it brings the beast alive.

[@dylanellis6264]

Just picked up my first car of my own and it’s a 2015 GTI SE 6 speed manual. I bought the car before I even knew how to drive it, but brought an experienced person to test drive it and teach me. I could not be happier with it. It’s the perfect balance of fun and practical and as a college student who can only afford one car, it’s is the perfect “one car does it all” type car. Thank you for another amazing review Matt! “GTI never die!” ^^^Gonna need that on a shirt haha! 😂

[@C0ttageChees]

I'm so happy I'm not the only person that bought one without being able to drive it. XD Bought it, learned to drive it on the lot, and took it home. Same model, too.

[@dylanellis6264]

@@C0ttageChees Already ripping it around town. It’s a great car! Glad to hear you like yours as well!

[@C0ttageChees]

Thanks! I hope you enjoy it as well. I bought mine in 2014 and have 119k miles on it. No problems whatsoever except the intake manifold flapper position sensor. Otherwise, it's been great and is still wonderful to drive. I think I'd have been able to test drive it if the clutch wasn't so light! Btw, a $10 clutch stop from Ebay makes the clutch a little more pleasant. :3

[@dylanellis6264]

@@C0ttageChees Thanks so much man! I will look into that. What exactly does it do? Also I bought mine used but at such a good price I bought a warranty as well that covers everything but wear items like brakes and like the windshield. 95K on the ODO rn. FIRDT owner leased it for 70K of that

[@C0ttageChees]

@@dylanellis6264 You know how a lot of the clutch pedal travel doesn't do anything at all after the clutch is disengaged? There's a tiny rubber piece that the clutch pedal butts against when you have it to the floor. Well, this thing keeps the pedal from traveling as far. www.ebay.com/itm/331207149596 You just take pull the existing stop out and put this one in. :) There are more expensive ones out there. ECS has one that it a little more adjustable, I believe, but I'm cheap, and this one seems to work pretty well. It sounds like you got a pretty good deal! I've never leased a vehicle, but I'm pretty sure that means it was maintained for at least the 70k. I hope you don't need the warranty, but as far as I know, the TSI engines are known for water pump and turbo failure. So it might come in handy. :)

[@BOOSTEDDUDE]

Great quick review and perspective! Matt has lost weight and I'm digging his sunglasses!

[@thescavwithnothingtolose1224]

I have a 19' GTI SE, and it is the best car I've ever driven. It puts it on the road when you need it to, and is a sleeper when you want to be low-profile. Amazing vehicle by VW with a great legacy.

[@gky3019]

Im watching it for a second time now, don’t mind me a another great one take !

[@Sk8R570]

I drive a used MK7 GTI SE with DSG as a daily alongside my 91 Civic track car (having an actual track car makes me enjoy the comfort and ease of use of the DSG everyday), and I genuinely believe it is the perfect daily driver. Lots of usable space, awesome to road trip. Great in the snow in the Midwest with winter tires, runs with expensive cars on back roads with summer tires. So far put on 30k+ miles with no issues and is a dream to drive everyday. Recently added Cobb DSG tune with an MAPerformance Stage1 engine tune, and it now punches way above its class in terms of performance. This combined with the luxury and its practicality, really can't justify replacing it with a more expensive car. It just does everything right.

[@starkparker16]

Going to one million soon. Keep up the great work Mr. Farrah.

[@jonacton6837]

I’ve got a 2018 GTI S manual and couldn’t be happier. I think it has less rear seat legroom than my 2011 Clubby S but it’s infinitely better in every way. For my commute and the lack of desire for track days the S trim is perfect. Plus, it’s the best color on a GTI, WhiteSilver!

[@ripnsoar]

Welcome back, again

[@milosickilo]

Love the pedal cam!

[@strebrr]

I bought my GTI new in 2015 here in Germany. I love that car. Used it for trackdays for 4 years, it was really fun. I'm not about to sell it, hopefully many more years to come.

[@micbsounds]

I am a long time fan of the channel. Great to see that you enjoyed the GTI Matt. Europe also has the Polo GTI which is not available in the US. It is smaller and lighter but with a slightly detuned engine. It is perfect for twisty roads and comfortable for day to day. All the best to you and the gang.

[@c0Ld]

you would like the fiesta st one takes if you haven't seen em yet

[@cduncan5690]

The golf is one of my favorite cars of all time. Adding that to the fact that I own a MK7 Golf R DCT. The thing I like about the Golf is that VW has always treated it with an evolutionary approach rather than a revolutionary approach like most other manufacturers. The result, is that you can sit in any generation Golf and get a familiar feeling. Its like a great relationship that just gets better with time. 2 other cars that also produce the same kind of nostalgia are the Miata, and 911. You will also never mistake them for anything else at any distance. All three are also best in class for their intended purposes.

[@eoyguy]

Got my 2019 GTI S for 22k w/ 3,500 miles on it. For me, the less tech the better. No need for dual zone, don't care about the led headlights (actually don't like the red stripe in them at all).No push button start? Don't care, Ive managed to use a key for 30+ years.I wanted to have the plaid seats and 6-speed, the rest mattered very little. Having the 6 year/72000 mile warranty was a big win as well. Love the car.

[@JD-ey8hw]

How you present ads has improved a ton.

[@moddude101]

I have a MK4 Golf with a neuspeed supercharger. Owned the car since new 20+ years and has been super reliable. Drove the new MK4 Rabbit. You're review is spot on. It's a great car. I haven't driven many new cars but I do agree about the clutch feel and that's most new cars. Ps I like me some torque steer 😯

[@michaelwood1761]

I had a MK 2 GTI in the 80's and loved that and now have had a 7.5 for 2 years and really like it. The base model which I have has terrible halogen head lights and the ride with out adaptive shocks is a little rough but not awful. Bought as a commuter and get about 32 mpg and don't feel like I am driving an appliance so still a good compromise I think.

[@Garbss]

I’m picking up my 2017 GTI mk7.5 in the 6 speed manual today. Can’t wait!

[@miguelsanchez6465]

a stage 2 or 3 performance clutch really helps with the clutch feel, and there are a bunch of aftermarket stuff to stiffen up all the rubber bushing connections between subframes and such. makes a massive massive difference from stock.

[@p0u74n]

Thanks for fixing the video... Now it is available to cure my smoking tires desire.

[@romero1337]

The GTI is a perfect template for modding to the owners desires. My MK6 GTI has been good to me and is a very capable machine

[@bustaplz]

Its been interesting to hear your thoughts on the GTI since I bought my mk7. I think you really nailed it here. I love my GTI every day but I do feel a bit of lust for the ST I test drove the same day because it felt a little more ready to play.

[@jeffk464]

I wouldn't want a car thats any harsher than my GTI for a daily driver. I actually downsized the wheels to 17's to take a little harshness out. Well that and the fact that I bubbled two tires and bent a rim on the 18's. An extreme performance car is fun but not 100% of the time. I remember him talking about the harshness of the focus RS and thought no way I want that.

[@basithph8958]

The GTI Mk7/7.5 is my favorite Golf gen Can’t wait to see the new GTI Mk8 with the manual gearbox!

[@westonlieberum1]

I have 191,000 miles on my mk6 gti and it’s never skipped a beat. This car is very receptive to mods as well. it’s an amazing all around car

[@michaelhoundus2457]

I have a mk7.5 se with a manual so much fun to drive i live in Orange County and have to commute on the 405 daily and the light clutch is nice you don’t need a dsg if you sit in traffic often

[@One_Guy]

Looking forward to your GolfR 7.5 Revisit.

[@Tcflohr]

2016 6-speed GTI here, 110,000 miles on it. Great comfortable all around car. Does the family thing, does the canyon thing, its been great. My 5th GTI (1990,92,06,10, and now 16) and definitely my favorite. Will probably be my last gas car

[@vles007]

I own a MKVII GTI with a manual, and it’s legitimately the best car I’ve ever driven. The quality and feel of the actual drive itself is unmatched. I have owned quite a few manual sports cars and none of them feel quite as good as my GTI. I plan on keeping this thing as long as possible.

[@garymathe9863]

I'm on my 3rd manual GTI (MK4,5,7) and it's so much fun. I have an Audi S3 which is quite a bit quicker due to a bigger turbo, DSG and the latest Haldex AWD (never any wheel spin, just go) but I'm usually more excited about driving the GTI. There's just something about THE hot hatch, especially with a manual.

[@madern7]

This car drives for you when needed, and let’s you work when you want to actually work 🙌🏾

[@RickGTI2019]

Unfortunately we don’t have great, twisty roads in South Florida. I drive a 19 GTI S with a DSG, (I’m 77), so stick shifting is history for me. But everything you said about the car, I totally agree with. It’s my senior factory hot rod. Great job, thanks, RickGTI 😎

[@StephenCorun]

The clutch pedal feel can be drastically improved by removing the delay valve. It's an annoying job but only takes about 30 minutes if you know how to properly bleed the clutch.

[@shotta287]

Had my Mk6 manual since new. Never going to sell it. The EA888 is one of the all time great turbo engines.

[@bandit84]

am i reliving this morning? didn't i watch this already? LOL

[@dragospahontu]

Xd

[@x7wolverines7x]

Didn’t work

[@dragospahontu]

@@x7wolverines7x i watched the first minute

[@azbabby]

they had issues with their upload this morning

[@TheCoolGuyWithAFace]

It wasn’t available on mobile

[@kevinnorwood7355]

I think the GTI is one of those cars that on a day to day bases has to be one of the best rides out there. Not too flashy or overly dramatic but the interior is one of the best as well as the fit and finish. I’ll take mine with the plaid seats thank you.

[@KMFDM781]

I'm glad to see you heel/toe like me...I'm always afraid I'm doing it wrong when I see others tilt their whole foot sideways and I'm just using the side of my foot. lol

[@brianv4100]

Same here...big fat feet, easier to just roll the ball of the foot between the brake and throttle :)

[@ZackNakazora1]

If you have a segment in which all competitors try to convince you that it's better than a Golf. Vw is doing alot of things right with it. Looking trim Matt! Glad to see you still at the morning drives.

[@johnnyr25]

Whoa! Smoking Tire is on the Initial D type of time! We got a view of the pedal box and Matt's even wearing New Balances like Takumi!

[@Bogard985]

Love that little dig at the gearing on Cayman's lol

[@c0Ld]

A car so nice, it's uploaded twice!

[@flacostacos3144]

I love my GTI, nice vid👌🏼

[@louisburley1597]

The GTI is a really weird car for me. I liked it but it lacked feel for me at the same time. I also just drove a Mini right before it and the mini was a complete riot and I said I love it but I can't buy it. All I see are speeding tickets in my future. I'd like to revisit the GTI since I know it gets praise n all. However, I'll never forget that test drive in that mini. Tach right in front. Me halfway through third gear in a 45 zone going oh my god I'm Matt Farah LOL. This was a few years back. Keep up the good work Matt! I appreciate you

[@louisburley1597]

@@Gandalf721 another reason I didn't buy it. but damn was it fun

[@hokieplaya]

Mark VIII is a step down - this might be the best it ever got.

[@upshifter5316]

Looks to be a tablet on wheels now... just like everything else on the road.

[@robmiller3029]

@@upshifter5316 I have a 3 door manual R in Lapiz with DCC that I bought new in March 2015. - analogue dials and all. Yeah the waterpump broke and yes I am on my second clutch, but I don't think I'll ever sell it now. It's sheer all round brilliance has won me over

[@agnwstosstratiotis]

Regardless of the looks, the driving dynamics are even better when it speeds up,its more planted.

[@garymathe9863]

I'm glad I got a MK7 while I could and I'm keeping it forever. Manuals are going away, even for the GTI, and then transmissions in general will go away with electric cars, and then even driving will go away with autonomous cars, and all the fun will be gone :(

[@betterwithrum]

The pedal feel is a product of the stock clutch. The ECS stage 2 and 3 clutches are perfect in traffic and make the clutch feel a bunch better if you can deal with the flywheel chatter, which I personally like.

[@paul022887]

I cant wait for the mk8 to come here. In 2 or 3 years Ill probably want to upsize from my Fiesta ST and and GTi are always on my list of something Id want.