VW Golf 8 - too much cost cutting? - comparison with Golf 7.5 - comparison is valid for EUROPE trims

Is the new VW Golf 8 really better than its predecessor? Or has VW used to much cost cutting when designing the new Golf 8?
Despite using the same MQB platform as its predecessor, VW Golf 8 has made a progress in safety systems (Travell Assist) and some of the technology (48V mild hybrid), but in this video I will focus on a few issues that I have with the new VW Golf 8, especially lack of physical buttons for almost all controls.
Je novi Golf 8 res boljši kot njegov predhodnik? Ali je VW uporabil preveč kleščenja stroškov pri načrtovanju in proizvodnji novega Golfa 8?
Kljub temu, da uporablja isto MQB platform kot njegov predhodnik, je VW Golf 8 napredoval pri asistenčnih sistemih (Travel Assist) in drugi tehnologiji (48V hibridni sistem), vendar se bom v tem videu osredotočil na nekaj stvari, ki mi niso všeč pri VW Golf-u 8, še posebej na manjko fizičnih gumbov za nastavitve.
©MtlCarGarage

[@tjmonkey15]

It takes a lot of guts to use a language that isn't your first to make a video. Great job for many reasons!

[@MtlCarGarage]

Thank you very much, I appreciate it.

[@lecco666]

Yes Excellent exposition of the dreadful faults in this new Golf. Very humbling to native English speakers like me, superb video and narration. Thank you to the creator.

[@I-come-from-the-Future]

In this Babylon called Europe nearly each state has their own language, so schools teach English from early on and classes are mandatory until 9th to 11th grade depending on the school. I could imagine in many English speaking countries foreign languages are handled in schools more like electives and regarded as a hobby (?). However, great video and I really like eastern European accents 😊

[@mustaphaachour7860]

Yes that's why cannot activate voice control then he cannot enjoy his golf

[@paguliukas]

golf died with mk 7.5 we remember you as a good car.

[@jerrymwamburi294]

This guy just walked 14km comparing the two cars😁😋

[@MtlCarGarage]

You need to get your exercise :)...

[@intergalacticsucker1724]

If he could just park one car other way around :)

[@ThisNoName]

@@intergalacticsucker1724 There's a new genius born every Planck second ...

[@ricci.hidalgo]

14 km and 50 squats!

[@mattmayer770]

@@intergalacticsucker1724 only cops do that :)

[@usandutz]

What sort of imbeciles designed the controls and ergonomics in this Golf? They should be fired immediately!

[@catalinstavaru5355]

Tesla.

[@Nedroj]

The Ceo just got fired. (:

[@mrwilliamhope]

VW Accountants who are more concerned with the company profits than the car it seems!

[@FlirdyBur]

Interns. They're also cheaper

[@MaximilianvonPinneberg]

William Hope and they now that people and companies will just blindly trade up and sign new leases because it is a Golf.

[@Borussia1985]

I agree 100% as a Mk 7.5 GTI Performance Driver. I already had the chance to get a Mk 8 as a rental car and I was quite shocked, how I do not like it. Some more points to add: No color paint under the hood, no VW emblem on the engine plastic cover, no CD Player, no cover of the Smartphone compartment, no real DSG lever if you like to shift manually and I bet some other points if you dig deeper. The design is also one or better two steps back. In my opinion the Mk 7.5 could compete with 1 series, A3 and A-Class in almost every aspect. The Mk8 is not even able to win against his cousins Leon and Octavia. Simple cost cutting was never an Option that worked on the long run. Adding useless digital features doesn't make it better.

[@eval7952]

But the mk8 is the regular golf? Isn’t that the lowest model?

[@Hoss1618]

Yes, new VW GOLF is not enough premium like 7th generation, but VW maybe wants make it. Last generation was something like A3 with lower prize, but new Mk8 wants to be something like Toyota Corolla, Focus, Astra... I think it is not bad idea..., but new A3 is more expensive, but not so much, if we consider the luxury interior.

[@forza223bowe5]

Simon Hošek Ford Focus is a lot nice than the Golf 8

[@x1910Polaroid]

cd player :D

[@zsoltpapp3363]

Probably your rental wasnt a Golf8 GTI, or was it brainiac...:)

[@Ivzu]

There are cost cutting on 7.5 too. My bonnet is not painted and engine bay, no lock on the glovebox, no insulation on bonnet, car seems louder than original mk7, centre console is rattling, visible B and A pillar bodywork, no battery cover.

[@Lewis_Treff97]

Strange. My mk7 has the engine cover insulation and the lock on the clove box. Although the engine bay isn't fully painted either yet all the Skoda's I've owned are older and their engine bays are fully painted

[@Romif_SK]

@@Lewis_Treff97 for example fabia mk3 prefacelift have painted engine bay. Facelift mk3 does not have painted engine bay. There is simply only primer. :)

[@carsella11]

And the golf 7 is also a bit cost cutting over the 6, which was cost cutting over the 5.

[@Dildovich]

Well, since this is my 7.5 in video I have to say it. My bonnet is painted completely, I removed the sound insulation(because I love that intake noise). Lock on glovebox and battery cover were gone(at least in Europe) with facelift 7->7.5.

[@BirdiesGoCherp]

@@carsella11 the 6 was made specifically as an upgrade over the 5. People complained that the 5 was too poorly made and felt cheap. In what way does the 6 cut corners?

[@urabusliberty9258]

Isn’t it crazy how a much poorer company Mazda pushes out more premium product for the same price that is way more intuitive

[@PyleHD]

Not really sure if they are poorer, remember VW's dieselgate they are still in debts because of it

[@catalinstavaru5355]

That "premium Mazda product" has a cheap torsion beam rear suspension, can't be taken seriously. Plus those ancient naturally aspirated engines...

[@fvr3760]

Catalin Stavaru The new Audi A3 has a torsion beam suspension. A “Luxury” car. Also, it wasn’t for cost cutting, Mazda was explained that it was easier to dial in the suspension (Ive driven it and it drives better than the old one which was a surprise) and it also minimizes road noise compared to a normal one (Which the owners of the previous ones complained about). So no, it wasn’t for cost cutting on mazda’s part. Its a disgrace VW is doing it for cost cutting though.

[@ToniGallardoLlorca]

And more reliability

[@whiterazer1]

@@catalinstavaru5355 The lower horsepower models of the golf 7 also did not feature multi-link rear suspension.

[@MtlCarGarage]

I need to make one correction: in the video I have mentioned perforated steering wheel in the Golf 7.5R. The steering wheel in the Golf 7.5R was not perforated, but the feel of the leather was much better than the ''leather'' on the steering wheel in the Golf 8. Additional info: I have compared ONLY the things that are NOT trim/version related. The same cost cutting issues would remain also if I would take a non R Golf 7.5 for comparison. Golf 8 was 1st Edition, so also not base model.

[@diogobcp]

I think many of the differences you noticed are because you are comparing an entry level Golf mk8 to a top of the line Golf R mk7.5. Can you compare an entry level mk8 with an entry level mk7.5 (trendline)?

[@MyFladder]

The leather is the same in bot cars. What you mentioned that is fake leather is stupid.

[@Ma__Ti]

MyFladder yeah Nappa in both

[@postvooreren]

I agree with diagobpc. Can you confirm that the two versions you are conparing, are the same line? Looks like the Golf 8 is a more standard one.

[@MtlCarGarage]

The Golf 8 is in trim 1st Edition, it is not the base one, but cannot compare with the R. This is also why I haven't added this the steering wheel comparison into the original video.

[@enlightenedmind3138]

Great, honest review. So refreshing to hear a journalist actually take the manufacturers to task for their stupidity instead of praising them in the hope of getting an invite to their latest product launches. I own a Mk 7.5 TCR and a Passat Bi-Turbo. They are both great cars in their own right. I can't see myself upgrading to a Golf Mk8 after this video and definitely won't be upgrading to a new Passat either because of cost-cutting, too. They took away the analogue clock from the Passat and replaced it with a hazard warning light switch and the word "Passat!' I hope VW take heed and change their ways before they lose a lot of their loyal customer base. Again, thank you for the great review!

[@kasio22B]

Most importantly, the fugly exterior.

[@CristiBaciuHD]

those headlights and tail lights destroy the look of the car

[@aquaboy1650]

Totally failed Golf generation 😷

[@leoipek8143]

better than the 7 for me, golf usually looks like potatoes, this doesn't

[@mattmayer770]

looks like a no name cheap chinese car

[@Max34557]

Wtf even my Mk4 golf has hydraulic hood struts....

[@fartman10284]

My Tiguan doesn't

[@cinocv]

Mk5 here, and I have them lol

[@robertt3081]

Mk 4 was made in the time when car are made to last. I have mk 5 now, but i have a mk 4 in my garage. I keep my cars how much i can before i change them, but the new cars are made for few years use . In time only + is the design and few gadgets but material quality is more bad every year. I dont understand this trend, put some gadgets (some of them i have it on my phone, i have my phone with me all the time so i dont need it in my car) in cars and cut from quality build to justify the price at the same level. I used to work in a car factory so this is my opinion created in time.

[@iphonemanYT]

My Polo from 2004 has hydraulics struts too

[@LtCatscratch]

German cars may or may not have it but check this out, europe's cheapest car Dacia Sandero has it :D

[@martink7945]

VW was always the master of "Entfeinerung". "Entfeinerung" means: reduce the amount of details most of the customers wouln't notice. Since the Mk4 Golf the level of fine details declines continously, for example even the c-pillar of the Mk 4 was wrapped with cloth, meanwhile in the Golf 7 even the b-pillar is made of plastic. Or the highly detailed cupholder in the Mk 4 Golf was replaced by simple cupholderls. Today there is a simple reflector in the door, in the Mk 4 Golf there was a light bulb which shined when the door was opened to warn other road-users. This list can be continued in many ways: e.g. the indestructable 1.9 TDI engine vs. the disaster with TSI-engine deaths due to a cost cutting decision in cent-area (super cheap and too small chain-fastener of the timing chain). With the Mk8 VW drove this method to a peak.

[@1crit1kill]

It was really Nice If vw would see this comment :(

[@g__e__o]

Could this be because VW is positioning itself back to being a cheaper brand? I mean... Skoda Octavia looks nicer than this Golf. Back in the day of the Mk4 Golf I felt that it was so similar (constructionwise) to the Audi A3 whereas now they seem to be really different cars.

[@Giannisb23]

You're absolutely cover me! Exactly what you say! All pillars on mk7 and mk8 are from hard plastic where in mk4 are with cloth in all pillars!! Also the doors on mk4 back and front from the bottom to upper part of the doors ,have soft material instead of hard plastic in mk7 and mk8 that have ony soft material on the upper part of front doors.. But the funny thing is that there are people thinks that mk8 has better quality from mk4 cause mk8 is new and it's better and blah blah...Yeah the mk8 has better small engines better chassis and more technology but it's new and of course it must be better on those things but in therms of quality , premium feeling (i will say and design) it's just a lot worse!! And for me are things that matter for me and can be reason to not choose the mk8.Better an Octavia which is even better than new A3. Sorry for my English...

[@JohnDoe-xw1jk]

Absolutely spot on! It's honestly really disappointing they keep doing this

[@lkyksb3]

VW hasn't heard of the term "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."

[@simono.d9469]

It’s a VW so the saying is - it ain’t broken, but it will be.

[@dennisromero9011]

I just purchased a brand new 2021 GTI last week that had less than 10 miles on it. I wanted to get a 7.5 mainly because I did not like some of the body changes on the 8, but now I'm breathing a sigh of relief. Quite a few of the things you demonstrated would have been a problem for me. I absolutely can not stand vehicles without manual controls for crucial functions. Thank you for helping me feel even better about my purchase. The GTI is by far the most fun and engaging vehicle I have ever owned.

[@MtlCarGarage]

I am happy to help. I wish you a lot of fun with your GTI :).

[@benspriggs5430]

Great review! You are more honest than those ‘professional journalists’ - I had high hopes for the Golf 8 but I won’t buy one now seeing this I would rather buy a Golf 7. Like the new polo this new golf 8 has too many cheap plastics and they have cut a lot of corners. Peugeot put everything in the touchscreen of the 308 and the critics hated it so why do they like it on the Golf 8? Hypocrites!

[@forza223bowe5]

VW has really lost its way. I hope whe the Mk8 is due for facelift they improve it dramatically

[@JovanKorica1]

sadly it will probs be more cost cutting and even more physical buttons removed.

[@forza223bowe5]

Joe Kinchicken Maybe

[@forza223bowe5]

Jovan Korica The facelift might not have a steering wheel lol

[@hansmeier4930]

There is no Facelift planned for the Golf 8. This is the last Golf!

[@FoliDude]

I am sure they will improve it. This new one has bad reputation from date it was released.

[@Psgatlanta]

Good review. I was pretty set on waiting for the new mk8 R. Seems no manual trans, no buttons and weird lights made the mk7.5 R very appealing. Besides I like the way it looks better. Ended up buying a leftover new MK7.5 R with a manual. Absolutely love it and a 6 year warranty. ❤️

[@EUEDA2003]

This is a very good review! I also find it impossible to operate sensitive switches while driving. Is VW requiring drivers to be cyborgs? Haha! I thought it was good to choose 7.5 while knowing the release schedule of 8 in Japan! Thank you.

[@AntonPanteleev]

Just bought new MK7.5 R. No regrets now that I didn’t waited for the MK8 R. Thanks for the video!

[@alexandersonnenfeld3289]

Thanks for this great, detailed video! I liked Golf 7 and owned one. A quality car. But Golf 8 feels like a Dacia, equipped with big screens. There is no reason to buy a Golf anymore, given its horrendous price tag. VW takes buyers for a fool!

[@gical70]

Agreed. I just traded my second Golf for a Skoda Octavia and am blown away by the amount of car you get for your money. OK, still VW Group, but my loyalty has shifted. WV seem to be stripping value from the Golf, and Skoda is adding it to the Octavia, especially with the new fourth-generation model.

[@BobSaint]

At least Dacia isn't aiming for the higher class and robbing people left and right. It's a cheap car that gets You from A to B. Some people need just that.

[@James-yl3kk]

How about cost cutting in engine and gearbox, that's more worrying?

[@fernandezf80]

This guy is comparing a mk 7.5 Golf R (The most powerfull and equipped Golf) vs. a Standard mk 8 Golf. UNFAIR comparison.

[@kenankundo7380]

@@fernandezf80 both are in R-Line optic, only difference is in the engine, and seats everything else is maxed out

[@fernandezf80]

@@kenankundo7380 Lets not confuse an Golf "R line" with an Golf "R".... Completely different concepts.

[@sasopraznik4305]

Fernandez you are wrong.

[@LouRaX]

They have the best Diesel in the new Golf and a very good eTSI which saves a lot

[@petervangysegem5578]

We have a Golf 7 and are very pleased with it, but we'll NEVER consider buying the Golf 8! It is dreadful and definitely NOT SAFE!

[@tiffyalbert3759]

The door opening and closing sound is awful on Mk8. Hollow and cheap compared to Mk7.

[@BenKurth]

Simply brilliant comparison. Based also on what I've seen in reviews. I still love My MK7 GTI. But not at all impressed with the upcoming MK8.

[@eval7952]

Our mk7s are gonna stay young for a long time! Watch the 8s start aging faster than the 7s.

[@swanblake]

I think the MK7.5 would be my choice between the two. Hate this trend of adding screens for everything. Really cheapens the look and makes it disposable as it will be out of date in a year or two. VW was always known for its clever attention to details. It seems they traded there attention to details in favor of screens. Great video👍 Appreciate your honesty

[@alenpracek7820]

Zanimiv video. Z veseljem bi videl še kaj podobnega. Bravo, ne lezeš proizvajalcem nekam, ne sladkaš in ne kisaš in pri tem še pol familije ne kažeš. Angleščina ti dobro teče. Osemka bo v faceliftu dobila nekaj manjkajočih stvari nazaj.

[@diegocontreras5553]

Vw is dealing with dieselgate and the eletric revolution allready

[@swingbag12]

Thanks for this video. In north America we don't get golf 8 until 2022 model year. You have helped me make up my mind. I will not be waiting for the golf 8. I'm buying the 7.5 golf r

[@dosia1879]

You wont be disappointed by your choice. It has this sporty bad ass look and the comfortabilty to drive in the city will make you love it. Hope the service prices are cheap as in Europe

[@pebertje]

Total cost of the VW Dieselgate are estimated on more than € 30 billion. Explains a lot. I totally agree with you.

[@jerryrawlings8885]

pebertje 30 billion isn't alot for a company like VW.

[@williamlee2142]

Thanks for the comparison, I keep my Mk7.5 for a while longer till Mk8.5..... Hope they sort these out.

[@beetleything1864]

All the cost cutting - well done pointing it out - But the reason = the cost of Dieselgate - they need to fill the bank again ..... i know no excuse !!

[@mrwilliamhope]

Thank you so much for a wonderful review. I love Volkswagen cars in the past at least. I have had VW Polos, Golfs and driven Tiguans and Passats regularly. I was able to have a decent look at the Golf 8 and decided to go for a new BMW 1 series here in Scotland. It has a volume control and lots of physical buttons! The best review I have seen of the Golf 8!

[@MtlCarGarage]

Thank you.

[@MaximilianvonPinneberg]

Even the doors, glovebox, door handles sound tinny and cheap in the 8. When you pay a premium you expect better.

[@marcosgojira7553]

>Volkswagen >Premium /quit

[@peteyouelpkyouel8741]

I totally agree, controlling nearly all of the cars functions via one touchscreen is is not user friendly, its madness and is just a cost cutting measure.

[@thomasschmitz3765]

This January, I was one of the happy few to get one of the last Golf 7.5 GTI, which I was heading for after attending the launch of the new Golf 8 with its ridiculuos cost-cutting interior. I can verify every single bit of the item-by-item comparison of your review. Moreover, I think when it comes to overall high-class attitude, the 7.5 beats the 8 by a mile. Very honest, mindful and helping review. Thank you for making and sharing. Keep up with the good work, very appreciated.

[@MtlCarGarage]

Thank you.

[@resimplifynet]

Thanks for such a great review. I have owned a mk6 Golf R for 10 years, love it (including the hydrolic bonnet strut and the physical switches). I was planning to 'upgrade' to a mk8 Golf R+ when it becomes available - your video gives me a really easy list of features to look out for. There's a balance between cost cutting and sales - if the majority of these cost-cutting "optimisations" appear across the entire mk8 range (including the R+), I definitely will be spending my $$$ elsewhere. Thank you.

[@TIGA1984]

I am with you with every thing you figured out! They pretend to developed a better car, but usability is getting worse!

[@DEFIANT71DEFIANT]

I agree with your review. I’m a fan of VAG and have owned many Audi, VW and 1 Seat but the guys in design are now some of the worst in the market.

[@ArseniyTestin]

And the 7th is already a step down from the 6th. 6 has that wonderful satin black plastic, instead of crazy piano gloss, and perfectly designed and placed dials and buttons. Can be driven by a blind. The velvet glovebox alone made me choose the Golf over a Ford, when purchased. One could really see and feel love and care.

[@vogahl34]

Unbelievable what they did to this car. What were the Designers thinking, where were the brand managers? It’s just awful. The only other reason I can imagine for this is if they intentionally wanted to decrease sales in order to direct them to the new Id3, but that would really be insane, and could only be a stupid excuse in the long term. At least the mark 7 is going to increase value

[@martinherrington9499]

I am renting a Golf 8 right now, and I really agree with your report.

[@sverduijn1]

My Golf 1 also doesn't have hydraulic hood struts. I still see no need to upgrade to the newest Golf.

[@indykalia8224]

Golf 8 came out after Dieselgate! VW Group ended up paying a huge fine. Hence the Golf 8 build quality suffered. Havig said that, the dashboard is shockingly designed! Hope the 8.5 addresses the interior short comings!

[@chrispenn715]

I have a Mk7 Golf - I had the Mk6 previously, basically the equivalent spec. I was very surprised how much noisier the Mk7 was to the Mk 6 - seems to be much less soundproofing....

[@Smartphoenix1982]

Respect! Great comparison. As a German Guy, I dont know why VW do these Cost cutting things. They all will follow Teslas Shithole Slogan: "the Display replace all buttons" I hope the Car manufactors will take a step back, and bring us back the Buttons.

[@Exluto]

For those of you who are complaining about the comparison between a mk7.5 R and a base golf, what he showed even the base mk7 golf has.

[@UserPauli2592]

It's wasn't a base version you can see it at the led headlights

[@dave_riots]

@@UserPauli2592 It's still the standard Golf 8, not the GTI or R.

[@tomasmalin]

@@dave_riots so what? he specifically avoided the things that could be related to trim level.

[@MtlCarGarage]

All the things that I have compared on the Golf 7.5R are the same also in the base Golf 7.5 in EU. ;)

[@Exluto]

@@MtlCarGarage I know scary thing is 1 or 2 things you showed are not standard on the base golf in North America so it will be scary to see what further cuts they take on the golf in Canada.

[@sarawoodward6156]

I bought the Mark 8 nearly ten months ago. It has been back to VW dealership on six occasions. It was recalled and had a new part fitted from Germany. The infotainment system is a nightmare. Climate function, phone and sat nav take it in turns to fail. Three weeks ago the engine cut out. Imagine that on a smart motorway. Towed back to the dealer. New battery. On the way home the climate control function failed again.. Traded in for a Golf 7.5. Bitterly regret buying the Golf 8 but in two days time it will be out of my life. Looking forward to the Golf 7.5 and hope I can find a garage with fuel! Excellent review.

[@petermarusich3923]

You are dead right, too much technology with the view of selling more cars but they neglect safety and why change good design with different bad design. Its terrible.

[@JoJoJoker]

Parking the cars facing opposite directions would have saved you (and is) a lot of time:) Thanks for the video!

[@MtlCarGarage]

Thx for the hint, although I have used the walking time to talk :)...

[@rubikrm-plan5239]

Cuting costs is a real thing now in Automobile Industry. You even have Audi A3 which has more inside noise than previous model. Also almost all the Brands are in the same pattern. Chips cost more, they drive up cars costs and they have to cut it somewhere so they are in same Price Range

[@sorinpascu7357]

Perfect video thank you for the all informations, the same as on Audi's cars, quality cut from previous models very disappointed about VAG cars. I think they will loose clients. All the best.

[@peterernst1061]

I love this video more than anything. Shows all the great features of my car compared to the new one!

[@vavet39]

" Push this button once, then push this button that works--or doesnt work." I lost it hahaha

[@MrRonan3]

I have owned 5 GTI's and on Golf R No2.i can not wait to see the new golf R. because my car is a reflex silver mk7. they dropped that colour in the 7.5 why i dont know, so the mk8 i have been ol they are doing it in silver again.so no silver no more golfs for me.also if your right saying they have dropped the quality of their own product which i find hard to believe. i will go and get a ford because they are shit hot at bad interiors,

[@opencarry3860]

The MK8 is a Big step back. The MK6 was the high point of design and style. The inside of the MK8 reminds me of 1980's arcade with the square design, screens, and colored nightime interior lighting.

[@mustafaelrokh7114]

And another cost cutting : golf 8 drops frames when u get out of it while the golf 7.5 doesn't

[@cosmicheretic8129]

Glad I bought extended warranty for my very low KM 7.5 I bought last week. Looks like I will be skipping the mk8 completely! Thanks for the great video!

[@TabashiiSC2]

That isn’t the default dashboard display for a Golf 7.5, so I think the one on the Golf 8 is just way better than the default 7.5 one. Other than that, I can only agree with all the other elements you discussed. Great video, brother!

[@bustermv]

Excellent and very informative. Will make buyers pause before buying an MK8 and buying a 7 instead.

[@MtlCarGarage]

Glad it was helpful!

[@EmopunkDr]

Great video. The truth no one wants to tell. Silly huge touchscreens are cheap trash. Really well made cars shoud have proper commands for safety of the people aboard.

[@ionutenache4967]

The most important is the torsion bean suspension for golf 8, unlike the golf 6 independent rear suspension

[@minciNashu]

Golf 6 had torsion beam for lower powered engines. Golf 7 and 8 maintain that tradition. The new Leon is getting only torsion beam.

[@TeutonicTamer]

Fantastic video. Thanks for your real-world comments. You are correct to highlight the dangers of touch-screen operation. Keep up your great work.

[@MtlCarGarage]

Thank you very much.

[@WalkthroughWill]

To adjust temperature you don’t need to slide, you can just tap on either hot or cold, which is mega easy to do when driving. Also the seat heating using your index and middle and tap the hot and cold at the same time, and press it like in the Golf 7 heat temps 1,2,3 and off which again is easy to do while driving, or jus use Amazon Alexa even though you say “Hey Volkswagen” it’s Amazon Alexa tech, personally think they should have partnered with Google it’s a much better technology, or they should have built their own AI architecture.

[@erik9108]

Great review! I feel like the Mk 8 is going to be like the Mk 5... the short lived years that most of us want to forget. Already looking forward to the Mk 9!

[@PLr1c3r]

Are you kidding the mk5 was one of the best golfs ever...and the 6 is pretty much a 5.5. I hope you realize this guy is comparing a base model to an R not exactly forthcoming. Worst gen would be a mk3 and 4 barring the R32 of course.

[@ΠαντεληςΚαπς]

not the 5. the 5 went well and was a success, it is the 6 that had so many issues especially with body rigidity and was sacked, nobody talks about it anymore, its like it never existed and VW wished the same, money cutting epitomy with the 6 and VW paid the price!

[@TheRustedPixel]

Toyota improved the Corolla hatch interior and exterior. Ford improved the Focus's interior (by a bit) and exterior. Mazda really improved the interior of the Mazda 3...VW took the Golf 8 down a couple of notches and still expect people to pay a premium for a car that is now starting to feel a little budget. If they keep sliding down this slope, the Golf will be considered the budget buy next to the pretty impressive Octavia.

[@pummyy]

All the features he has highlighted on golf R, my highline 1.4 Turbo has the same features. so he isn't comparing different trims. I use the stop start button often and its easier one touch. Doing it in display is bullshit.

[@paulobroin2499]

Great review . Well thought out and delivered . Now v glad I have my 7.5 golf . Thanks👌

[@gorcor9322]

Jako dobra usporedba. Nemam niti jednog golfa ali osmicu koju sam htio kupiti, nakon tvog videa definitivno neću.

[@DadoiBoki]

Istu namjeru sam imao i ja. Bravo na odluci.

[@andrazpajtler]

Hvala za super video. Ogromno razlogov, da se dolgo obdrzim svojega Golfa 7.5 Pri videu me je zmotilo samo sprehajanje med avtoma, mogoce bi lahko to izrezal.

[@MtlCarGarage]

Hvala za nasvet.

[@guse1219]

Golf 7.5 in the U.S already had some of those cost cuts...no hood struts, rear view mirror, and glove box. VW already cut costs from Mk7 to 7.5. In addition to the glove box and hood struts, they removed the liner under the hood, the chrome tips on the window switches, and the glove box lock. I think for any automaker, they have to decide what buyers will prefer the money be spent on. In general, most car buyers probably prefer money be spent on features they use and safety tech. The question is how many VW buyers would prefer fewer features and more perceived quality. As a longtime VW driver and current GTI owner, I don't like the cost cutting but feel I'm probably in the minority in preferring the more premium feel. Btw, the Mk8 seems to be a lower trim model than the 7.

[@MtlCarGarage]

Thx for your comment. I have compared only the thinks that are not trim/version related, or the video would be even longer ;)...

[@maciejpyka1842]

Good job! It's important to disclaim the safety features of the touch screen control for more functions, that is really necessary.

[@leccy9901]

Great review, very honest, much better than the paid reviews where they say everything is great.

[@stephanl.5280]

I got myself the Golf 7 Variant IQ.Drive in 2020. It‘s packed with ADAS like Adaptive Lane Assist, Park Assist, ACC and so on and in my opinion way better regarding the Interieur.

[@paddycoleman1472]

Totally agree, touch screen controls are not only naff but VERY dangerous. The sooner car manufacturers return to proper buttons/switches the better. It is nothing but TESLA “me too” design (and cheaper).

[@MrVoayer]

Honest and truthful observations of clearly misused and misplaced technology! Turning a car cockpit into a Smartphone is An Accident Waiting to Happen! Disastrous !

[@niceguy235uk1]

VW have been ost cutting for many years. Plus, assembly workers get a bonus if they find a part is not really needed and recommends its removal. The heated screen buttons are by the light switch as they are items you want instantly, and not have to go through menus.

[@keithwells7892]

Excellent video! I totally agree with you. I have owned 4 generations of Golf, my last one being the 7 R, which I really liked. I was seriously considering a new Golf 8, but am really disappointed by the integration of the new technology and, as you correctly say, cost cutting measures. The extra cost for "software only" features is outrageous and the interior looks and feels really cheap. Here in the UK this car in "style" trim (mid-range) is over €35,000.....! It is not a "cheap" car! Big "fail" for VW.....

[@adamchase1517]

I agree touch screen controls are dangerous

[@diybatterypower]

Great comparison, I was considering the MK8 GTI but after seeing the interior decided to get a MK7 R instead.

[@Remfla]

I used the White MK6 and it still good, now i’m still looking for the authentic one MK5 R32. Thank you so much for the review and comparison! 🙏 Cause i feel sad and disappointed too with this MK8 “definetly not so Golf!” 😭

[@Ciolan]

Stay between the vehicles next time... so you dont go around them all the time :D

[@Chris675R]

@@BeardedBavarianBiker. Or simply cut the video footage 😉 It was a nice review, but no one wants the see the transition from car to car every single time.

[@turquoisecat761]

Good review. All these cars which feature dominant touch screens and infotainment centres will date horribly, physical buttons are not only more convenient and safer, but far nicer aesthetically too.

[@AdrenalineTheory]

They literally took everything that was great about the GTI and ruined it. Its like VW cant help but ruin this car every few generations.

[@alexandrospanagiotou6309]

It's good to see all the cost cutting in one video! One advantage of the 8 over the 7.5 that I noticed is that it has sound insulation on the engine cover , while the 7.5 doesn't. Is that true?

[@a19hkg33]

Not true, most likely the 7.5 in this video had his insulation cover removed, where as I still have mine on. and it was on my old MK7 GTI and R

[@alexandrospanagiotou6309]

@@a19hkg33 Thanks for the clarification. It's good to know that. So basically the 7.5 was probably not cutting any corners, whereas the 8 seems to be cutting quite a few.

[@a19hkg33]

Alexandros Panagiotou yeah I’m kinda disappointed with the MK8, it’s more or a step backwards than forwards, which is sad. But hey let’s hope the MK9 will be worth the upgrade

[@alexandrospanagiotou6309]

@@a19hkg33 yeah. It's a disappointment for me as I am in the market for a new car and had high hopes for it. Might go for a lightly used 7.5 with all the extras. I think it's better value. Only thing that makes me think is that all reviews agreed that the 8 has more comfy and silent ride quality, which is kind of my number one criteria.

[@Ivzu]

There are cost cuttings in 7.5 too.

[@AHRA-xm2et]

You can buy the gas strut and it fits very easy and remove the cheap one . I bought one for my GTI .

[@forza223bowe5]

I've thought about this for a long time. I had a mk1 Focus for 6 years and yes, while parts of its interior trim seemed built by a toddler, guess what? It was 100% reliable mechanically. Compared to German junk, which have this veneer of being well built, but get past 100,000kms, and no matter how vigilant you've been with servicing, major engine problems WILL occur. So lets take this new Focus, so ok it does not quite pass the centre console rigidity test, but it's more spacious inside, is nicer to drive, and is more refined at speed. Saunders conveniently ignores the last aspect when every other review has stated that the Golf 8 has a fair bit of wind and suspension noise. So, unless you're hell bent on having digital controls, give the Focus a try.

[@Saboda53]

So sad. Though VW lost me as a customer when they dropped the 3-door here in the USA. Big mistake; I used to love Volkswagen.

[@Legaumaisdsts]

I often hear French people say: the Golf is an excellent car, but I'm not ready to put a few more euros to have foamed plastics, etc ... Well now, they will be satisfied, since they will no longer have to pay more for something that supposedly did not interest them ... They will even pay less!

[@HarryGunner]

Jesus... hideous from the outside, cheap as sin from the inside. Keeping my Mk 7.

[@dfk09]

Wow, I always thought that the American VW’s got the short end of the stick, great video!

[@MtlCarGarage]

Sadly all car companies on all markets ''optimize'' costs.

[@nap250]

Great video. The touchscreen/piano black orgy is why I'm not upgrading my C7 A6. Would love your opinions on C7 vs C8 Audi A6; have they gone this route to cuts cost or is the new tech truly better?

[@superpoon16]

Thanks point it out nice reviews. Agree i’am not a fan everything on touchscreen hope vw fix this design in golf9.

[@RyanDaltonWrites]

Thank you so much for this video. It has definitely informed my next car-buying decision.

[@anehimreras7942]

A Year ago I found myself in a VW dealership, looking at a Comfortline Golf Mk7, 7.5.... Being an owner of a 15yrs old Mk5 (1.9 TDI BKC) I was obviously impressed by the jump in design of the dashboard, all that multimedia gadgets, screens, piano black. Took a deep breath with envy :), just until I turned around and looked at the backseat, it was like I jumped back in my mk5, then looked down, the acceleration pedal was like in my '04 Vw Polo, not BMW like, attached on the floor like my Mk5 has it. The footrest on the driverside was just a peace of material with some plastic strips glued to it, not a solid plastic foot-rest like in my MK5. Golf has not died with Mk7, nor with mk5 it has died with the last Mk4 that drove away from the factory. P.S. F..k piano black trims.

[@armandomuerzagimenez3190]

Good job, very comprehensive report of the car, criticizing a lot of points that are one step backwards. A new generation car, especially a premium car like VW wants to position its product, should always go forward, so many mistakes should have been thought in advance, now is too late to correct them. Attention you have put to all details to underline what you did not like about the car, qualifies you as a very competent journalist. Only one thing, your english is O.K., but you have to polish up your accent. Overall, a remarkable job, keep up with your car reviews, and congratulations

[@MtlCarGarage]

Thank you very much for your comment, I appreciate it. I will work on the accent.

[@Dzaen2]

I like golf 8 interior to be honest. Although I would like a bit bigger screen in front of the driver. The ID3 is the one that the interior needs some serious revamp.

[@g__e__o]

You should see what VW Brazil has done to the VW Polo made here... cheap cheap cheap. It surprises me that this is also happening in its own turf.

[@richardmorgan1588]

I didn’t like how Volkswagen cheapened the 2011 Jetta over the excellent previous version. The Golf was one of the VWs which retained that premium feel. Looks like they did it again, this time with the Golf! I liked my 2010 Jetta and I love my 2012 Tiguan! Don’t like the direction VW took with that model either in recent years. I’ll keep that Tiguan until it falls apart. It may out last me! Great and informative video! Thank you!

[@silvijemusic9410]

Thumbs up for MtlCarGarage!!!!! Very good professional comparison and nice comments on the all shortcomings of the new golf ... Bravo!!!

[@MtlCarGarage]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@crbb3099]

It's not necessarily "cost cutting" if you're getting a bunch of other features standard. Digital cockpit, LED headlights are standard now, they have to take things out to make it still affordable.