VW Golf Mk7 - Still a great car 10 years later?

Full review of the Mk7 Volkswagen Golf. The seventh generation arrived in 2013, and has always caught my eye. But what is it like to drive, and is it any good?
VW Golf 2019 "Mk7.5" 1.0 TSI 115 Match
#golfmk7 #vwgolfmk7 #vwgolf
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[@Hali88]

my favourite car channel at the moment - I think you present and review cars better than some of the pros

[@JJonCars]

Thank you so much!

[@Slavic_Sky]

I'm driving 2019 1.6 tdi, it is so nice and comfortable car to drive, interior is like taken from one class upper, very quiet and separated from outside noise, suspension is just right and steering system is very precise and light to work with, engine's bit sleepy though but when you step on it shows a verve. Has amazing fuel economy 5l in city, 4.0-4.5l on a highway, my record was 3.7l/100km on a highway with ac off ;) I've also driven Seat and Skoda from similar year but they are not as good as Golf, there is always something lacking. Before I bought the mk7, I drove an mk4 for over a decade and I'm sure that mk7 will live up to well deserved and iconic status of mk4. PS. very review and channel, subscribed

[@JJonCars]

Thank you :) I do agree that the Golf has a little something over the equivalent Seats, Skodas. But I'm sure VW have done that on purpose. You could be right, I can certainly see it being a popular classic one day.

[@lolzmanytime]

Thank you for the videos! Currently saving to buy a mk7 and the review is very much of help! 😊 Here at Malaysia now it only cost around rm60k/rm600 per months! 😁

[@fueu2617]

That was a great review JJ and thanks.

[@JJonCars]

Cheers! :)

[@rudithedog7534]

Great reviews, worth watching the adds for

[@JJonCars]

Thanks Rudi 😊

[@rudithedog7534]

@@JJonCars 👍

[@SF.Automotive]

Great video! You defintley got everything right about these. I work for a rental car company in Canada (Enterprise) and we still have three MK7.5 Golfs in our fleet. All of them are base models though (they are 1.4TSI). Even though I am not the biggest VW fan I have to admit that these are amazing little cars, they feel very solid and are always a blast to drive. I much prefer these over the new Jettas, I really am going to miss this VW era.

[@JJonCars]

Thank you Isaiah! Glad you agree :) The Jetta seems a lot more popular over in North America - I'm not even sure they sell it any more here!

[@joyantonygunasekara5232]

@@JJonCarsI hate the Jetta design or comfortablity but I like the Passat

[@greggraziani1559]

A great review very positive no bull my golf has just reached 160,000 K and has been great , replaced the timing belt water pump and the rear brakes calapers and pads always serviced ,and mainly highway driving and even after owning it for four years looks new

[@JJonCars]

Thanks Greg. Good to hear yours is running strong

[@Sebbe-qw8ho]

Ive reacently bought a mk7 estate 2014, its the r line with the 2,0tdi 150hp and absolutly love it, great fuel economy and very comfy with the leather steats. Only thing i dislike is the radio. When its cold it freezes, the screen doesnt work but after like 5 min it works again

[@tonyblount991]

Another great video mate

[@JJonCars]

Thanks Tony!

[@ThePatrik79]

Good review. i have a 98 Mk4 for the past 17 years. looking to upgrade to a MK7 i hope they never do away with the Golf even though future ones will have to be electric.

[@JJonCars]

Thanks Patrick. The Mk7 is a worthy upgrade to the Mk4

[@Adamfandango]

Another great review

[@JJonCars]

Cheers man!

[@TheAngryWexican.]

I have a 2015 three door white Golf Match. Love it...

[@opencarry3860]

My VW Golf MK7 1.8t 3 door has had zero failures so far in the 8+ years I've owned it and I'm running a stage one tune too. The tune boosts the hp to 243 and the torque to 273 ft-lbs.

[@macalacalan1175]

I thoroughly enjoy your videos - especially your calm delivery - such a contrast to so many other car reviewers. I have a 2015 VW Golf 1.4 litre TSI blue motion basic model (Trendline?). Its a great car (comfortable, zippy, great acceleration and incredible fuel economy) and I really like it - BUT - there are three things I absolutely detest: 1. the electronic parking brake with the hill hold function. It is SOOOO confusing and downright dangerous and, after five years, I still can’t figure out all the permutations served by those two buttons. What I’d give for a manual handbrake. 2. The lag between applying the accelerator and acceleration. Drives me nuts. 3. Every time after I start the car, but before driving off, I resent having to press the button to disable the function which causes the engine to go into sleep mode whenever you come to a standstill. That function should be set as an option, not a default setting. Other than those - a great car. 🦘

[@JJonCars]

Thank you for saying :) The hill hold assist is an odd one isn't it, I can't really see the point of it. I do like it in cars that hold you automatically for hill starts, but on the VW it does it for down hill or flat areas as well, and that's just weird. The other issues are sadly very common on most new cars :(

[@conroypawgmail]

It's really informative to see what Volkswagen does in the UK and in Europe that is different that in the United States. Things are a bit wonky here in the US as we tend to get the same models a year or so later than everyone else. We got the Mk5 Golf in 2007 and Volkswagen decided to bring back the "Rabbit" name. When the Mk6 showed up in 2010, they reverted back to Golf. I've had a 2009 Mk5, a 2011 Mk6 Golf (three doors), and a 2013 Mk6 GTI (4 doors). The standard petrol engine was a 2.5L 5 cylinder, producing 170 HP and 175 lb.-ft. torque. The GTI for both Mk5 and Mk6 was a 2.0L TDI 4 cylinder, producing 200 HP and 200 lb.-ft. torque. The standard 2.5L while not hugely fuel efficient, was supremely reliable. The turbocharged 2.0L that powered the GTI and GLI was a very strong performer, but had some manufacturing defects that could potentially cause catastrophic engine failures, such as a flimsy, weak timing chain regulator and a leaky / faulty water pump. I just picked up a 2015 Mk7 GTI (three doors), and everything you said about the Mk7 is true. It is much more refined, not that the previous marks weren't. It's just noticeably more quiet, feels more solid, rigid, and less thrashy. 2015 was the first year for the Mk7 in the US. We do not have the option of an electronic brake. They are all still mechanical hand brakes including the Mk7.5, and I prefer it that way. I do not know what petrol engine options are available for the Mk7 in the US. My best friend has a 2018 Golf with the 1.8L TSI making 170 HP and 185 lb.-ft. torque. The GTI still has the 2.0L TDI engine, but it has been revised to make 210 HP and 258 lb.-ft. torque. There is a performance package that is available in the US that increases the horsepower by 10, but torque remains unchanged.

[@JJonCars]

I do find it odd how different the cars VW sell around the world are, given that you'd think they could just ship the same cars over and sell them in the US. I've also always found the 'Rabbit' name just not to be as good as 'Golf', I wonder why they went with that. Good to hear that you're a fan of the Mk7. It's definitely the most sophisticated Golf. Cheers for watching and for the comment :)

[@keithwalsh1882]

@@JJonCars Re: Rabbit. The Rabbit name has some brand equity in North America since the Mk1 Golf was called the Rabbit over here so it evokes lots of nostalgic feelings. Still I agree the Golf name just works which is my the NA Mk.6-7-8 reverted back to the Golf name.

[@GamePlaycuVlad]

I've waited for a mk 7 golf review and I got it ! I totally agree with you, best golf that will ever be, 8 is full of plastic and unnecessary new technology, it's going to be like mk 4 Golf. I think the diesel is more reliable than the TSI engine because of oil consumption and also diesel can put many more mileage than a tsi engine, I already see on german market 2.0 TDI's with 400.000+km, a lot of them, on sale.

[@JJonCars]

Glad to provide! 😁 I think you could be right about diesel - I think that for your average person who gets a car and does

[@i4Collin]

Had a 2015 Mk7 Golf as a high school graduation present through 2022. I drove it 120,000 miles and the only issue I had was the water pump at 72k, which VW paid 90% of the repair cost on voluntarily during an oil change. If you have the lighting package, the only issue I foresee outside of wear & tear is replacing the bulbs because mine went out within a week of each other and cost $1,000 to replace because you have to remove the front bumper. I only ever did the 10k oil changes and when I got rid it, it was burning about 1qt. per 7k miles. Go figure the new car I replaced it with (not a VW) has needed to be towed once and burns 1 qt. per 5k miles starting at only 30k total.

[@davidingram5965]

Agree with this excellent review. I have had a 2018 Golf TSI with the 1.8 L Gen 3 engine for 5+ years and 90K miles. It is a wonderful car and a pleasure to drive. If you stay on top of maintenance the Golf will last a long time, be very reliable and surprisingly frugal on fuel.

[@JJonCars]

Glad to hear it :) Nice cars for sure!

[@essing8173]

Damn. I just have to subscribe to your channel now😂. I am looking for Golf Mk. 7 at the moment, great video and I am left with the question. What is so great about the Mk. 4 and you hit me up at the end with the video totally watching that. Now I am looking at your channel and damn you, just uploaded a video of the BMW E46 3 series, Which I own. Definitely watching that too!😂😂😂 You 100 percent earned a subscriber👍🏻

[@JJonCars]

😂 amazing, glad to have helped you while away a few minutes 😄 Good luck in your search for a nice Mk7 👍

[@markday5797]

Like my MK7.5 GTI and plan to keep it for the remainder of my driving life.

[@chm1701]

Owner of a 2015 plate here. I had a 57 plate Ford Fiesta and worked with a guy that owned a mk4 Golf, so when I had the chance to buy a new car, I had a look at the mk7, because it had a similar look to the mk4 (which I really liked), with a solid build quality and with more up to date technology. As I did 70 miles a day at that time, for work, I decided to buy a 150hp diesel Golf Match. Over these years, it’s been a great car and apart from the front disc brake shields loosening and rattling (I took them off completely), the door mirrors dropping off (seems to be a problem on VAG’s) and the exhaust heat shield bolts rusting and coming loose (waiting to see what happens with that), it’s been a great car. So far, it’s done 92,000 miles, costs £30 to tax a year and insurance isn’t bad either. It’s also an auto gearbox, so it’s been a superbly comfortable workhorse. Plus, the Match model does have lumbar support, which is a godsend! So all in all, it’s been a great car and I’m glad I bought it. As a side note, although I’m in no position to buy a new car at the moment (or ever with these bloody price rises), the mk8 just doesn’t do it for me now. I’m not a fan of its looks (some would say the same about me though too) or the interior technology. Keep up the good work.

[@JJonCars]

Yes they're definitely very much along the lines of the old Mk4 :) Good to hear it has been reliable with only small issues. I'm with you re modern tech, particularly the touch sensitive buttons in the mk8, but then I don't think anyone at all likes them haha. Cheers!

[@Twads1867]

Thanks so much for this JJ. Think I’m sold on the mark 7! Tom, Sheffield

[@JJonCars]

Nice one, glad to have helped Tom. Being in Sheffield you'll probably be driving it around on the kind of roads I tested the car on :) Enjoy the car when you get one!

[@Twads1867]

@@JJonCars yes definitely! Peak District is our back yard haha. Thanks again

[@kostaharalambidis5483]

​@thomaswadsworth46969gtv bo😂

[@ciurdarandrei6311]

I❤Mk7. I have two in front of my house. One is hatchback benzin, the other is variant diesel with panorama roof. All you need in one car.

[@MG-ce3dx]

It's. The best all rounder in my opinion. I have drivern for BCA British car auctions a lot of cars ,Toyota, Honda ,Mercedes, BMW, Mazda,Audi ,etc etc .. This car is very refined ,very quiet, suspension is very quiet and refined , ergonomics is great ,long journeys are a pleasure in this car . I have done uber on a 2013 Golf since 2014 and it's been the most reliable car I've ever had ,more reliable than Japanese cars , because I drove it normally and did service every 10.000 miles . 🤷‍♂️ That's why people buy the golf ,because it offers refinement at a affordable price

[@pedromarques5596]

I have a late 2013 1.6 TDI Bluemotion 110 cv. Works like a charm and it has almost 200 000 kms. Just service it good and it will last. Not much problems, just an Injector i think (appeared a light on the panel, but the car worked anyway...) that costed like 240€ and a water leak in the boot that was solved for 30€.

[@pedromarques5596]

@@poormanstrackframe it was around 160 000 kms

[@srpacific]

Just moved from canada to the UK. Reluctantly sold my 2015 2.0 TDI, it was fully loaded to a point where an Audi twice the price would compare. In North America we could get some very nice trims on even a basic diesel golf. I’ve ended up with another Mk7 over here now, even though I told myself I wanted something “new” and that I couldn’t get in canada. Well, after driving a few other cars the Mk7 just felt “right” and even though it doesn’t have all the features I had in the 15, it’s still got the same solid driving and great design

[@JJonCars]

Well you know what you like! Nice to have some familiarity in a strange country too I imagine 😂

[@Joozt112]

Just traded in my '18 1.0 for a '20 1.5tsi variant. Great car :)

[@ST-ur7oh]

Good review and agree

[@JJonCars]

Thank you :)

[@calamityyy]

Golf 7 is the next Golf 4. It is already an icon and a classic in the making. Legendary car.

[@JJonCars]

Definitely!

[@neilmurphy845]

I must say i was exactly the same I've never driven one until recently but I have always liked the Mark 7 from a distance they are very smooth and the engines are very quiet and smooth as well And what makes them so cool is how they have a car for everyone which is amazing

[@JJonCars]

Yes! It's good that they live up to expectations when getting behind the wheel :)

[@mattalki]

I actually drive a mk7 Golf right now. I sold my mk4 about 4 years ago to buy this one, and it's been stellar. The mk4 had almost 400K miles on it, but the interior was starting to degrade. The mk7 feels fairly similar - it wasn't a huge upgrade by any stretch, but the power bump in the TDI was nice. I went from the 90hp ALH to the 150hp CR.

[@JJonCars]

I remember your cars Matt. That is a decent power bump, and I think the Mk7 is barely any heavier than the Mk4 too, which is cool

[@hordevran]

I still have golf mk4 1.9tdi alh 90bhp with almost 350k km considering mk7.5 2.0 tdi

[@ArmouredSP]

My Golf Mk4 has 170.000 km on it; have been thinking of either driving it to 200k or swapping for the Mk7 for a little bit more comfort. What are your thoughts on it Mattalki?

[@mattalki]

@@ArmouredSP It sounds like your Golf is barely broken in! At 170K km, that's roughly 105K miles. If I could go back and make the decision again, I probably would have stuck with the mk4. The mk7 is nice, but I really liked my old car. If you're upgrading because of problems with the old one, it makes sense, but if you're upgrading because it might be more comfortable? I'd stick with the mk4.

[@ArmouredSP]

@@mattalki Mostly cause of the lack of aircon and electric windows :P But cheers Matt

[@directorstu]

Had mine 2 weeks. Still looks fresh inside and out even though 2013 with 65k miles. Finish is v good. For context I am replacing my Jaguar xf cos of the Ulez expansion. The Jag did 0-60 in 8 seconds and was a big heavy plush motorway cruiser with leather dash. The golf is not the same kind of car but still feels premium. I certainly don't feel I have stepped into a tin box. Decent power. Quiet on the motorway. Not huge but my wife will drive it and the kids will fit. It's the MID1 basic infotainment system. Was going to mod it with an android system but actually the stock system works really well. Seat feels a little narrow on the base. Could do with a little more side thigh support. I am 5 11. Need seat forward enough to depress clutch but far back enough to support right leg in seat. It has taken a little while to get it right. Accelerator pedal feels narrow and pedals feel slightly too far over to the left. Fitting a wider accelerator plate has helped a lot as my ankle is less prone to tip now. Or maybe I am just getting used to it. Nice foot rest to left and right of pedals. Never been a fan of adaptive cruise control but this one works well. Lumbar support standard and back well supported. I'll miss the ol ' Jag but if I have to get a smaller car I'm glad I've got this golf.

[@JJonCars]

Exactly right - the fact that you can go from a plush Jag to this Golf and not feel like you've stepped too far down is a testament to how good the Golf feels :)

[@corteiz]

I’m looking for the same exact vehicle I would appreciate if you could let me know the price you paid, and the website (if it’s online)

[@user-kc1tf7zm3b]

In Australia, a Golf is never considered a family car, rather a car for singles or couples. A Tiguan would be a more appropriate choice for a young Australian family. SUVs are all the rage down under. As for manual transmissions? Forget it. Nearly all new cars sold in Australia are automatics. Of the top 10 cars selling in Australia, 7 are Japanese. Not even the VW Golf makes the top 20 of new cars sold. Moreover, there are no European cars in the top 20 list either. 🦘🇦🇺

[@meganjones7505]

The rose tinted glasses 😂

[@paultasker7788]

I'm pleased with my 7.5 1.5tsi match estate. Had a Leon before and the golf feels nicer inside. It's an easy car to live with. Cruises nicely and also nice to commute in. Everything is well laid out. I'd not call it exciting. But it can be fun on a good road. Nicely balanced chassis. The ride on mine is mostly decent but it does feel a touch jittery on bad surfaces sometimes slightly bouncy but on most stuff it's fine. Better than the Leon but not by the margin you might think given reviews. 1.5tsi offers good combination of power and economy. Just don't press accelerator too far and activate kickdown because it's gets loud over 5000rpm with little gain in power. smooth below that though. 1.4tsi was slightly smoother and just as economical in my old Leon. But less power low down. So I'd call them a draw. Both a lot nicer than 1.6tdi which I found loud! But maybe it's quieter in a golf. Ironically the Bora which is based on a mark 4 is by a long shot the least reliable car I've had. Had a cam sensor fault on this one putting on a warning light easily fixed so I know what you mean on that one. Also it used a litre of oil over 5000 miles so agree the TSI does like oil. Overall though it's a car I'm in no hurry to upgrade which for me is quite rare! So it must be quite good.

[@JJonCars]

Would like to review the Leon of this generation. Had one as a hire car about 10 years ago when they were new. Remember liking it 👍

[@7Miralas]

Do you have the 1.5 with 130 or 150hp? Any problems so far? Thanks in advance!

[@paultasker7788]

@@7Miralas 150bhp. Apart from one initial warning light caused by a faulty camshaft position sensor about 2 weeks after we got the car no issues. It does use oil. Have had to top up before the annual/10k service. Usually after about 7000 miles. I think that's because it uses 0w20 which is quite thin but more effective from cold. That is less than the usage quoted in the handbook so assume it's just normal for these. Adding half a litre will get you to next service. I've heard the manual with the 1.5 can be very jerky for first 5 minutes from cold. The DSG is slightly jerky during this period. Something to do with the fast warm up. Otherwise it's quiet and refined until you rev it hard then it gets a bit loud. The old 1.4 was a bit smoother higher up but this is quieter at low revs as well as more torque low down. Most of the time it won't need to use over 3000rpm. Only up a steep hill or overtaking is more necessary.

[@7Miralas]

@@paultasker7788 Really appreciate your answer! Yes i have read about the Kangaroo effect when its cold. I'm about to buy a mk7.5 Golf 1.5 - 150 Manual and your answer helped a lot!

[@paultasker7788]

@@7Miralas yeah. It was partially fixed by a software update. Mines a 2020 and it's more than liveable with on DSG, just the first 2 streets I drive on in mostly 2nd gear, once it's in 3rd it's not noticeable at all, and after a couple of minutes it's not either, just whilst it's in warmup mode usually but not sure about manuals. Was a big complaint when new but several software updates since so not sure if it's worse. I'd insist on a test drive from cold.

[@Samir-so1fr]

Nice video! How many miles do you have on your car now and any problems?

[@JJonCars]

Thank you, it's not my car but a car I reviewed so I can't help you with that. But thanks for watching :)

[@JTStream]

The flat bottom on the steering wheel is not pointless. It makes entry and exit easier for those with bigger thighs or long legs.

[@Ryanux]

Agreed, best generation of Golf along with the mk4 that I also owned. Objectively, the mk7 is better than the 8 (same chassis, awful looks, interior quality deceptive) Also, you forgot the GTE (Hybrid) & E-Golf. I have the former and it's brilliant to have a fun sporty hybrid. Problem of that mk7 and especially the GTE is the pretty small boot (280L)

[@Birmingham_racing]

It is the best since I own one lol. My 2 litre 2015 diesel has 170k and was remapped at 80k. I've replaced shocks, cv boot, alternator, heater matrix and thermostat. Not too bad considering the miles

[@JJonCars]

That is not bad to be fair! No problems with turbo/dpf etc? How about the clutch?

[@Birmingham_racing]

@@JJonCars no thing yet but who knows what will happen in the next couple of years

[@JJonCars]

@@Birmingham_racing You might be alright to be fair, if you look after these things they last longer than most people think. I guess DPFs are only a problem if you let them clog up. 🤞 you for plenty more trouble free motoring

[@wakaflockaproject]

You are incredibly lucky sir

[@jack_kirby96]

I have a 2015 TSI BLUEMOTION 1.4 manual petrol . Is it normal that when you go from gear 1 to gear 2, there’s a little lag to accelerate? For example when change to gear 2 and put my foot on accelerator. It takes a second to go. But the other gears are fine . I put my foot on the pedal and drives instantly … is it because it’s a turbo ?

[@ST-ur7oh]

Basic S from new had rear keep fit windows. Match spec has lumbar adjustment- small lever on the side

[@JJonCars]

Must have missed it!

[@willswheels283]

Thanks for the vid JJ, I’m not really into German cars but I think your right the mk7 is the best one, for me from the Mk3 onwards I think Golf’s look dull and boring, far too much Black and grey plastics, it’s like being in an office briefcase, and the mk4 GTI definately wasn’t a GTI in comparison to the mk1 and 2. Back to the mk7 the interior and exterior looks a lot better and seems a higher quality. I like your style of vlogging mate, looking forwards to the next vid.

[@JJonCars]

Thanks Will! When I was younger I didn't really 'get' German cars, but I'm certainly liking them more these days (owning one helps with that lol). The Mk7 is a good example of what German cars are about :)

[@willswheels283]

@@JJonCars I’ve owned just one German car, a 1987 Volkswagen Polo 1.3CL “Breadvan”, I liked that car, simple mechanicals and cheap to run, suspension was a bit “soggy” though.

[@craigsooman7901]

I’ve had the 1.4tsi for 6 years now. It was manufactured in 2013. Like others have said it is great to drive but has some reliability issues: 1) turbo failure. Can be the turbo itself of just the actuator. Problem is small engine asks too much of the turbo and it overheats. 2) ACC radar sensor fails due to water ingress. Expensive to repair as the radar needs calibrated. 3) some models have a silicone bag in the coolant reservoir which breaks up and clogs the valeo heater matrix which can’t be flushed. Heater not too expensive but high labour charge to get access to replace it.

[@carl-johannilsson5666]

I had my 1.2 TSi for 2 1/2 years now and as you say, it´s very comfy on long drives and has excellent fuel economy. However the early TSI engines can have issues with (very) excessive oil consumption. Also as a Golf mk7 owner you can more or less calculate with water leakage, as another youtuber says "The VW Golf is a portable water collector". Mine just started to leak water from the rear speakers.

[@JJonCars]

What is it with VW and water leaks lol

[@nixonnjoroge6390]

What year model was yours?

[@carl-johannilsson5666]

@@nixonnjoroge6390 it's a 2015. If you're in the market for a 1.2 or 1.4 mk7 Golf, get a 2015 or later, they have much sturdier engines.

[@stuipooey1]

A superb car to drive and everything you say it is, except when it comes to reliability and durability. The 1.4Tsi (2014 )drinks oil and many have the same issue. Having been gaslighted by VW and the dealership, I would never buy another VW.

[@Sergio-vw5rk]

Hello! Wich is best engine 1.6 diesel?

[@user-kc1tf7zm3b]

In Australia, there are next to no Mk4s on sale, with only 24 on offer through Carsales. As for the successor series, Mk5: 176, Mk6: 511, Mk7: 965, Mk7.5: 907 and Mk8: 514. The number of Mk4s in the wild in Australia are very few and far between.

[@JJonCars]

I wonder why. Did they sell many back in the day? There are still loads and loads of them here in the UK

[@user-kc1tf7zm3b]

@@JJonCars Mr JJ, we are now exploring Australian economic issues from the 1990s with the Mk4 Golf being launched in August 1997. Just before the tragic passing of Princess Diana. So, this is all ancient history. But, if my instincts are right, Australians did not buy many Golfs, or European cars for that matter, as at the time in the 1990s domestically made cars were still preferred. The Toyota Corolla was made locally until 1999. Simply put, in the 1990s, European cars were really a preserve of the more cosmopolitan and affluent segment of Australian society. This was especially the case for those driving German cars from the big 3 luxury car marques. Then, everything changed in the 2000s as the local Ford Falcon and Holden Commodore sedans fell out of favour. Hatches and SUVs become more prevalent after the turn of the new millennium. As for the VW Golf, it is obvious that local sales did not really reach truly serious numbers until the more prominent and successful Mk5 was launched down under in July 2004. It has to be said that there are no European cars, including the VW Golf, which figure in the top 20 new cars sold in Australia at all. Of the top 10 new cars sold, 7 are from Japanese car marques. This American-Taiwanese analyst who examined the previous Australian car industry should provide you with valuable insights. Truth be told, he knows this subject better than nearly all Australians. Irony. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iXLLc6N5gdh0aKs

[@matthewsmith2787]

Such a great car. Not keen on the mk8

[@basilisk74]

me neither. They missed with mk8

[@abarthspider3479]

Same here. Got the mk7.5 Sticking with it.

[@joyantonygunasekara5232]

Nothing wrong with Mk8 , out side design look bit odd but it’s so stylish inside and giving you whooping 200hp without remapping shit (on 2L engines) with stylish interior, it’s like the traditional fiesta drivers complain about new fiesta design and still moving to that as they get used to , I’ll definitely go to Mk8 once by MK7 get old

[@7Miralas]

Hello JJ! I want your help! Between this Golf 1.0tsi and Auris 1.4d of the same year which one would you choose as a family car? Thanks in advance!

[@JJonCars]

Hi! That is a difficult question that really is based on you and how you feel about the cars. Do you like how one looks more than the other? The Auris should be in theory more reliable and therefore more affordable to run over a long period of time. But the Golf is a little more luxurious in its feel and more refined and quiet on the move. For me I don't know which I would actually pick as I do like them both :)

[@polarbear109p2]

I’ve had my mk7 1.6 TDI for a year now and love it. Sitting at 84k miles. I go long drives up north regular and the mpg is excellent. The only annoyance is that VW want me to pay for Apple CarPlay. Not happening! I did try to hack it but I failed.

[@barbosa7797]

I have the mk7.5 1.6TDI at 94k miles and I had to buy the apple carplay. Let me tell you, best thing I've ever done. Trust me, you won't go back 😂. The mpg is really superb

[@polarbear109p2]

@@barbosa7797 😂 More frustrating knowing it’s on the unit but they want £££s

[@EesaRahim]

@@barbosa7797how much did it cost you to get it activated , I’ve got a quote to get it activated for about 80 quid but not from vw

[@rafaminus5366]

I love my manual Gti. I think it has more quality than mk8

[@jindre7547]

At it’s heart, a sensible small family car

[@JJonCars]

True!

[@Gazzxy]

gota say love mine had it almost a year now.. however the boot leak is a tad annoying. getting some replacement seals for the rear lights and hoping that's where its getting in. just hoping its not those dam air vents. would have thought the previous owners would have delt with them. mines a 2013 version though do wonder if I can get the later infotainment system for it. dont agree about the screen though yes its a pain having to look for it. but I HATE how the screen on modern cars look like an ad-on not part of the car. (though the way its integrated on the new one looks nicE)

[@pedromarques5596]

There are 2 air vents inside the back bumper that get flimzy and the water gets in from there. After i saw some videos on YT about that issue, i solved it really quickly. Show my mechanic the video, he just had to remove the bumper and sealed those vents with some special silicone. Never had any more water coming in. About 30€ repair.

[@jenni4claire]

​@@pedromarques5596Thank you. Mine also has a soggy bottomed boot and the guy who sold it said it was because he'd just washed the spare. I wondered if he washed it IN the boot, cause it was pretty wet in there.

[@lowerthanmollie]

on my 2013 GTD the airbag is on, but the lights are off on the display between the air vents is that correct?

[@JJonCars]

Yes, I think the light should only come on if the airbag is off

[@BKHD605]

2:46 Damn I must have a rear breed bin spec then because I've got rollers for people sitting in the back seats in my mk7 😂

[@JJonCars]

Ha! Yeah, turns out there were some with rear rollers. I think I might have gotten the info about the Mk7.5, which I think is electric all round... maybe someone can correct me on that too :D

[@Buildyourimaan]

GOD bless me with this one as i had manifested this year🙏

[@ram64man]

Absolutely one of the best sars vw ever made the mk8 was a seriously back step a failure in many ways and current green trend is taking out what a golf is all about vw was at its heart dimple to use , reliable, built to last you can’t say that about the mk 8 in any way, the infotainment in the mk8 is a mess, slow and hard to use whilst driving, even turning on the lights was so simple in previous golf’s now they don’t even put in the right place for rhd models in the range if I wasn’t in a major crash that writ the mk 7.5 tdi with techn-ack off I would still have it the Id 3 us not a golf replacement it’s inferior in every way,

[@switchbladeromance1466]

Just bought a 2019 Golf TDI R line❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@JJonCars]

Nice, enjoy!

[@switchbladeromance1466]

@JJonCars thanks..I listen to lots of these you tube reviews and I'm like ..eeeeeeeeep..as a woman it's a nightmare lol

[@JJonCars]

@@switchbladeromance1466 haha, how come?

[@switchbladeromance1466]

@JJonCars I've listed to lots of reviews and some negatives but I'm hoping reliable

[@neilduignan9835]

Never owned a Golf mk7 but had a mk3 Seat Leon which is virtually identical. Did 135k miles by the time I parted with it for a Mokka. Disliked the Mokka so much I went straight back and bought another Leon.

[@JJonCars]

I like that shape Leon, I want to get one on the channel eventually. I had one as a hire car about 10 years ago and remember enjoying it

[@neilduignan9835]

@@JJonCars Do it, JJ! Best cars I’ve ever owned. Always chopped and changed brands up to 2010 and the last 13 years, barring one Mokka, has been Ibizas and Leons. Love ‘em! 😎

[@Undisputed_King]

Yes

[@JJonCars]

😆

[@heed17]

I had a Golf mk5 1.9 tdi and it was class. Did 75k miles in it over 5 years and it never did anything wrong. Just a bit boring. 55mpg too!

[@JJonCars]

I hope to get a Mk5 on here one day

[@matthewsmith2787]

Golfs are quite boring cars, but at least they are solid machines and do the job well without much fuss

[@vindySL]

Could you please do a Nissan cube review?

[@JJonCars]

I would love to. Do you have one I can borrow haha

[@vindySL]

No I don't but anyone who has one please would be great if you could make it happen! It's a car on my bucket list will hopefully own one soon.

[@ajpdaniels]

"Drive it like an old person and the revs are too high" errr I think I did more red lining in my teens & twenties

[@JJonCars]

Haha yes, both ends of the age scale I think. Older folk can't always hear the revs of the engine, and in this case the engine is already very quiet

[@peterbuckwell6769]

I personally found the Mark Five superior to the Mark 4. But iam loving my Mark 7.

[@JJonCars]

I need to test drive a Mk5, and we will see if I change my mind :)

[@peterbuckwell6769]

@@JJonCars The MkV was just a touch better in most areas. Better build & finish. A more complete package. Not knocking the mk4 which was still a fine car. So so much better than the mk3. I also rate the mk2,a wonderful car. I haven't owned or driven a mk1 sadly.

[@basilisk74]

Yep 😊

[@eppyz]

When I saw the title for this video it threw me a curve, thinking 10 yr old MK7?? Then realized the rest of the world got the MK7 Golf 2 yrs before the USA did. Believe we first received them in 2015.

[@JJonCars]

Ah interesting. But it is kinda hard to believe it's been 10 years already, still feels like a very modern car.

[@eppyz]

@@JJonCars Indeed. I own a MK7.5 GTI wouldn't trade it for a new one. Prefer the aesthetics and interior design of the MK7.5.

[@user-kc1tf7zm3b]

⁠@@eppyzhe Mk7 Golf was revealed to the general public at the September 2012 Paris Motor Show, which is now approaching 11 years ago. The Mk7 is an old car. 🇩🇪 🇫🇷 🇪🇺

[@eppyz]

@@user-kc1tf7zm3b Old to Europe, not the USA. We get the cars much later in their cycle. So for us? Its not that old of a car.

[@user-kc1tf7zm3b]

@@eppyz According to Wikipedia, US sales of the Mk7 Golf commenced in November 2014. Indeed, Mexican production of the Mk7 started in the same year. In 6 months time, 2014 will become a decade from the past. Which is a bloody long time ago, no matter which way you slice the numbers. But, as for the surviving relatives from the twin Malaysian Airlines MH370 and MH17 disasters of 2014, the memories of their loved ones will still be as raw as ever.

[@GMansVids]

I prefer the Mk Wahlberg ;-)

[@JJonCars]

Ahaha, the lesser known version of the Golf

[@marcelofernandez2747]

I love my mk 7.5! I also prefer it to a mk8. The best Golf there will ever be 😢

[@JJonCars]

🙌

[@user-kc1tf7zm3b]

The future Golf EV, or whatever the spiritual successor will be, will blow all legacy Golfs out of the water due to *zero* energy costs with home solar, dramatically reduced maintenance requirements, convenient home charging and blistering acceleration. Only a moron would insist on buying a new petrol or diesel ICE car in 2030.

[@kenand10]

just like windows 7. mkVII is best golf to date.

[@JJonCars]

Haha yes! And, like the Mk8, Windows 10, 11 etc are full of annoying pointless 'modern' stuff, (touch sensitive controls in the Golf, tablet/mobile style interface in Windows...)

[@kenand10]

@@JJonCars couldn’t agree more 🙏🏼

[@christophermaloney8119]

My dad drives a vw golf gti mk5 it's fully modified.

[@JJonCars]

Great cars.

[@christophermaloney8119]

​@JJonCars yeah they are he never had one issues when he drives it its in a beautiful silver colour.

[@cunjoz]

mk4 and mk7 are the best designed golfs (golves?) ever

[@JJonCars]

Agreed, best Golves 😄

[@Fifth_Avenue842]

I think the mk7/7.5 was the last best golf. I’m more into Japanese cars but I think VWs are very basic for what’s in them and there very plasticy, especially the new mk8. That’s just my opinion. Have to say there good driving machines but wouldn’t consider anything new German reliable nowadays. As I said the Mk7/7.5 was the last proper Golf, could do the miles and was reliable.

[@JJonCars]

Totally!

[@zaixai9441]

I doubt many of these 1L engines will be around in 15 years time tbh.

[@JJonCars]

Yep, quite possibly not

[@matthewsmith2787]

No idea. Hopefully with the right care and maintained they will

[@jerryrawlings8885]

Zaixai I'm not so sure about that I've been on autoscout website theres quite a few that have gone past 150 000 miles.

[@user-kc1tf7zm3b]

@@jerryrawlings8885My European specialist mechanic advised me _not_ to buy a VW with these tiny engines as they are engineered to last. For those who buy the VW new, then replace the car within 4 years, this is not an issue. But, for those who have to buy used, they are taking a gamble.

[@calamityyy]

@@user-kc1tf7zm3b did you mean to write that they’re NOT engineered to last? I’m asking because your comment is contradicting.

[@mustsilm]

Ive never considered it luxury car. What is Audi A3 then? I dont consider that either. Not even Merc C class.

[@JJonCars]

All depends on your point of view I suppose!

[@jcdenton3062]

A3 is too expensive Golf.

[@user-kc1tf7zm3b]

The Golf is just an everyday car, just like its Japanese equivalent, the Toyota Corolla. Nothing more.

[@jackanarchycr7826]

Good review but that is a mk7.5 not mk7 ;)

[@JJonCars]

7.5 isn't an official thing :p

[@Shithappenswhenu]

Mk 7 is peak golf, mk4 might have been slightly better build quality in its time but compared to a modern golf it’s vintage or antique driving aids can’t compete. The mk 8 might even have higher tech but it’s build quality and materials is rubbish in comparison.

[@JJonCars]

I can definitely see the argument!

[@Mountain-Mac]

MK 8 isn’t a Golf. The MK 7.5 is the Golfyest Golf ⛳️

[@JJonCars]

Haha yep!

[@ST-ur7oh]

They cheapened the 7.5 … paint quality was rubbish and no paint under the bonnet. I’d go for a 7 1.4 Tsi GT

[@Jushwa]

Yeah that’s sad, I doubt the paint costs THAT much and that’s one extra thing I noticed in the golf over our Tiguan is the gas strut and the painted engine bay and under hood, cleans up really nicely after a wash, the pearlescent looks so sweet. I guess they figure not enough people care enough about it.

[@madmcadder4536]

How much is this guy being paid? I only have one thing to say electrical faults. Also on my daughters GTD the ride is harsh and any sniff of a pothole and a new tyre is required. The Golf overall now is not the nimble thing it once was but a large car. However if you are younger than forty five you will not agree with my comments. 😉

[@JJonCars]

Me? How much am I being paid? For doing this KZbin stuff? Not enough, is the answer 😂

[@overtaxed3628]

Then try golf mk7 from year 2012 and not mark 7.5 from 2019-2020 or ... !!!!!!!!

[@JJonCars]

Would you say there is a big difference? This review was intended to cover both Mk7 and 7.5

[@overtaxed3628]

@@JJonCars Yeah, there is a big difference, all early engines have some problems, there are only 2 engines in mk7 without any problems (jet), 1.0 , 3 cylinder TSI (yes the one everybody trash talk) and 1.5 TSI .

[@patricknewall5634]

At 1:30 you said "even if I drive it like an old person". Well, I have seen and heard plenty of young people driving badly, so don't have a go at older people!

[@JJonCars]

Well, thats true!

[@abilkhu]

That's a MK 7.5

[@martinkesson4443]

I prefer my Astra k 200hp.

[@JJonCars]

Well, they are great cars! I miss mine.

[@jerryrawlings8885]

martin Kesson Hi mate are those Astras reliable?

[@Undisputed_King]

A perfect hatchback car would be a combination of the mk7 Astra and mk7 Golf.

[@colinhunn2845]

Drive like an old person😮

[@dogreviewdog9088]

Worst car ever. Gearbox failed. Limp home mode activated multiple times. Engine unreliable. Fault codes every day. This after my Golf 6 failed. Lexus all the way.

[@n3hp5]

This or the Astra K 1.4T? I want something comfy, cheap to run for many years to come, I feel like the Golf would be comfier but the Astra has more spec?

[@JJonCars]

You're right there. And the Astra is more fun to drive, feels a bit lighter and more nimble, and probably a bit faster with a similar engine. And you'll get a newer Astra for the money too. But the Golf is more refined and comfortable and great for long journeys, and does feel high quality, more responsive infotainment. So it depends what you want from the car really, they're both good choices.