You'll Love This If You're Slightly Nerdy! // 2023 MK8 VW GTI Review

[@Alex-sz8ku]

I looked at one of these a couple months ago and strongly considered it until the dealer said they wanted $55,000 for it before taxes/fees...

[@jeffdaman6969]

Yeah, that’s a no go.

[@WhiteWolfos]

@@Alex-sz8ku yeah just either buy online, or go to a better dealer. Sales Ppl look for suckers with money

[@greatwhitenorth3717]

55K whoa!

[@mk8gteye683]

Seriously? I got mine for 36

[@Aaronm123]

Wow that's crazy 55k

[@Alfra1324]

I wish VW will bring back the 2 door! I had an MK6 base model 2 door in tornado red with a manual transmission! I miss my baby!

[@donaldbarnes857]

Thanks!

[@elmarkoehler5167]

Fun fact about that engine cover… that is missing because of a re-call from VW. It could melt and burn somehow. I had to have it removed from my MK8 GTI a few months ago. No replacement yet. 😂 Otherwise the car is awesome (yessss… the touch-everything interior is a bit of a pain). My second GTI and no regrets so far. 😊

[@WhiteWolfos]

Many ppl I know do not just get one golf in their life time! Myself included lol

[@richardb.5691]

Engine covers are totally useless anyway.

[@motomaxsandiego]

​@@richardb.5691, unless you want your car to catch fire 🔥.

[@elmarkoehler5167]

@@motomaxsandiego 😂😂😂

[@u4ia420]

I absolutely adore my MK8 GTI! Real world MPG, city driving is easily 32, highway 38. Best I have gotten so far has been 43 MPG on a long interstate road trip, cruise set @ 72.

[@jamesmedina2062]

my city is better than yours in 1.5 Civic but highway is worse!! I love the gearing in GTI since 2006 it has allowed lower RPM on highway making for economy and quiet

[@briandorsey6437]

Ya I’ve gotten 40 MPG on the highway when on longer drives in the slow lane.. It’s definitely worse MPG feeling in sport mode lol.. Comfort mode is actually what I’m using the majority of the time as it just feels so damn smooth around the city or any kind of less than cozy rode.

[@Stukas_OD]

On my third GTI. Love that they are infinitely customizable, fast AF, and utterly practical.

[@violinmiata]

“Diglet looking nubbin” That’s the chuckle that was needed today

[@donr8773]

Picked up a 40th, 6 speed in Urano Gray at Gunther VW in Daphne Alabama 2 weeks ago for sticker, taxes and small administration fee. I love it. Get the manuals before they are gone.

[@michaeldorado5106]

Excellent car so far. Got my 2023 mk8 Autobahn manual 3 days ago. My first car was a 2009 mk5 DSG, then had a 2019 SE mk7.5 manual. In my experience, the mk8 is the best performance and driving dynamics so far! Only thing better about the mk7.5 was the infotainment, and the fact that it came with an engine cover 😅

[@braveheart9658]

Is the power upgrade from 7.5 to 8 noticeable?

[@StevenKrug]

I bought a Mk8 SE in this same color in July and 6000 miles in no real trouble. XM doesn’t work in it and every once in a while the audio doesn’t work on start up and you have to turn the car back off and let it sit for a minute but both things I’m sure are fixable with a software update. Other than that, for a daily it’s been great. I have the plaid cloth seats and they are still heated which is great. No dual zone climate but not really an issue with the size of the car. Haven’t had a single issue with the steering wheel controls, not sure why everyone seems to have a problem with them.

[@KS-ro6in]

Info I have seen/read on other KZbin videos - The quoted HP /Torque ( 241/273) is actually "underrated" when run on a dyno ...The reality varies but is showing ~ "245- 249" HP and "290-300" torque on an otherwise stock GTI ...

[@briandorsey6437]

Got mine in January and I love it. Adaptive suspension on Autobahn is impressive. DSG transmission is smooth and fast. Handling of is great. Acceleration is great. Breaking is great. MPG on the highway in ECO mode is upper 30s when going easy maybe even hit 40 mpg if you’re focused

[@coolman17701]

any issues mechanically yet?

[@briandorsey6437]

@@coolman17701 none at all. The only issue I’ve dealt with has been once in a blue moon the audio doesn’t come on for a drive. Then it’s working again. Like the stereo system just forgot to wake up. That’s been 3 occasions over 11 months owning it.

[@timothycoyne5874]

Nice review! It was refreshing to see a car KZbinr NOT focus on how much they hate the haptic buttons.

[@YusufGinnah]

Yeah, that was becoming tiring... 😎👍🏼

[@AOqueso]

This is exactly what I was thinking!

[@Spiritcr1jsher]

Exactly, thank you ! People thinking VW went cheap on this car need to see this review

[@kevinjones5560]

My daughter had a Tiguan and we just bought her a ‘21 GTI. She loves it.

[@jillhoboken5974]

“Diglette..looking…..Nubbin” Most underrated car review term of all time……

[@RedondoBeach2]

I appreciate this review. The GTI has come a long way. My 2004 GTI 2.8L VR6 is still moving along but does need some time in the hangar for deferred maintenance.

[@raven4k998]

that pitiful nibblet is your shifter I don't know how I feel about something that tiny being used for putting a car into drive with🤣

[@RedondoBeach2]

​@@raven4k998 Never heard the stick shifter referred to as a "nibblet." Try it out. You might like it. It's about the motion.

[@mntbighker]

I have always bought the 3 door, and going to only 5 door sucks. Although VW said 10% of sales were 3 door.

[@dtmcbride]

LOVE ❤️ your GTI videos! Just got my 2023 GTI S Kings red manual. Absolutely couldn’t be happier. 😄

[@isaacplaysbass8568]

OMG, it comes with penguins! I imagine that the wax wouldn't last long underneath? During beans testing and brake testing, I'd love to see "pedal cam", especially when launch control or similar is involved. No balancers/struts for the bonnet? What is this, the dark ages!? Thank you Sarah.

[@stephen1r2]

The wax thing feels like something sprayed on in Europe to help the cars survive the boat ride.

[@dsquared7100]

I have a 2021 Golf and it’s a bummer the MK8 Golf won’t be available in the states. They May bring it back in the future but definitely love the value in a fun to drive car that may not be top end like the GTI or R, but still has the look and decent performance from the 1.4 TSI.

[@TraceyAllen]

The S is still a great car for the price.

[@israeltorres6944]

What I like about you is that your so chill and wild and very knowledgeable about cars. Thanks keep on trucking and sharing.

[@avatr7109]

and you're a fapper

[@bobmiller7426]

This was fun. Your love of hot hatches is enjoyable to watch.

[@Dave-gg6vl]

This is one of the best reviews on the Golf GTI Mk8 I have seen. You went into all the detail i wanted, even an underbody tour to see the exhaust etc. Well done!

[@raven4k998]

Stevevo tires yay😃

[@ericsanquist]

i like your sense of humor. you also bring the sexy to reviewing automobiles. plus you how actually what the tech specs do.

[@carlpaladino427]

I had Mk 1 and 2 model 2 doors. The MK1 was awesome and is still one of my favorite cars to drive. Great looking interior. Totally agree with you, 3 door over 5 door is more sporty.

[@raven4k998]

have you tracked down those spider monkeys yet?

[@donjohnson2428]

“Diglett lookin nubbin” is maybe the best description of anything I’ve ever heard

[@romb1818]

At least that Plaid skirt matches with the Traditional Plaid Theme for GTI's Seats. 🤪😂

[@Fevebblefester]

I observe the effectiveness of the brake test by observing how far forward Sarah’s hair goes forward

[@ericg2167]

273 foot pounds of torque at low rpm is what I like the best. My Forester XT is also a 2 liter and has 258 foot pounds of torque. Acceleration is so fun and I don't ever plan to drive 200 mph. Power at low rpms also means you're not waking the neighbors.

[@JFinns]

GTIs have preferred low end torque over peak power ever since the VR6 in the late 90s. Had one and loved it. This car makes 330 ft-lbs with a stage 1 tune too.

[@headhunter88944]

This seems overpowered for a 4 cylinder.. that was probably the intention.

[@Hoodratliker]

@@headhunter88944 It is overpowered and thats why the reliability of the GTI has always been suspect.

[@timcone6688]

I love your comments and the knowledge you put into your research

[@richardp5494]

One of my favourites cars of all time with my favourite reviewer what an awesome combination 😍👍

[@raven4k998]

does the Fart extraction feature excite you?🤣🤣🤣

[@ChefDaveWillard]

Always thought I might be slightly nerdy. Just bought a lightly used, '22 GTI. Love it - thanks for confirming my suspicions, Sarah.

[@M0N33R]

The best GTI review I've SHeen :) Never seen such a car nerdy girl - and also - get so excited about the SHport mode 😍

[@Saerise]

I bought a 7.5 and my husband keeps driving it and is looking at an 8 now.

[@Azrael8]

I love love love your reviews. My only complaint with this car are the capacitive touch buttons on the steering wheel and AC controls.

[@cheetahair2185]

Recently come across your channel, and I hope this doesn't sound too weird, but you come across as an adorable giant nerd. Sounds like you're having a lot of fun!

[@mostcom]

I for one find adorable giant nerds totally relatable.

[@closg9309]

I love my MK8 , same color too, Kings Red. Fun little car

[@bernielewandowski4583]

I love your humor. Your timing and delivery are perfect

[@Eric_McLain]

11:08 this review just got more interesting. Compression ratio, variable valve timing, I'm not listening but I'm looking! More of this & thank you!!

[@BootsLee]

Just an update for anyone looking at a '24 GTI. Base S model with manual for the last year, gets R type wheels, brakes and adaptive suspension standard equipment.

[@michaelthomas8617]

Sarah, I owned a 1984 Rabbit GTI. I think 90 horsepower! I put 250k miles on that car. Enjoyed every mile. Tom

[@mikefrench3800]

That black and plaid exterior is on point!!!

[@danielponiatowski720]

That opening in the back bumper is the place where the retractable towbar is placed. It comes out with a push of a button.

[@dzat]

yeah i love the mark 8 GTI....owned it since April 2022. Do anything car esp with it DCC, commute.....canyon carving....grocery stores....etc

[@johntamlyn6383]

A really interesting review thanks Sarah, in the UK the Golf GTI has always had ‘iconic’ status. I enjoy your underbody tour also!

[@raven4k998]

A Tesla cannot stop that quickly so it would rear end the GTI if the driver was following behind closely

[@ttinnovations3310]

awhhh, I loved my 2012 GTI, (but at 15,000 miles it started to leak coolant, and endless letters from VW about boost leaks or warranty issues )

[@Xmvw2X]

I'm liking their current engineers. They're doing some cleaver things. It rarely takes any more effort or cost to spend a tiny amount more time making something better. I'm glad their engineering departments were given some leeway to be creative and innovate a little. It just makes a better product.

[@vwbora26]

Bro it's screams cost cutting all over the place, like the paint, no strut for the hood the under body components, etc

[@akaydogan]

They may be doing some interesting engineering, but until they improve their abysmal assembly quality and overall reliability, ICE VW products are a poor choice.

[@briandorsey6437]

This car has been perfect since I bought it in January… Feels phenomenal and reliable.

[@Swarmah]

@@Ali-pb5tt im driving MK7 2015 GTI, 300k km on it, still no issues, you just have to know how to take care of your car, and btw, driving like granny breaks cars more than driving agressively. Too low RPM breaks your gearbox and engine for example, and at too low RPM you actually have way higher gas consumption. From Golfs, golf3 was the only garbage in the series, because they just fucked up with MK3.

[@brandonmcfarland5200]

I've Been Waiting For This Review On Sarah-N-Tuned Video Sarah. It Is One Of My Favorite Hatchback Cars Ever Because Of Them Ambient Lighting Because You Can Choose Colors In The Top & Bottom In The Night.

[@johnnydoe66]

I used my signing bonus when I joined the Army in 1985 to put a down payment on a lightly used 1984 GTI, loved that car. Always thought of buying another newer GTI.

[@markbroadhurst6106]

You always put a smile on my face looking absolutely gorgeous today and love the show keep it up

[@Spiritcr1jsher]

Awesome review. Just a look at the underside explains why the car is expensive.

[@sfseals]

according to paul at shopdap, the engine covers were defective and so have been removed. also, subframe is aluminum.

[@betteheadbettehead4800]

Connect 4! Love that retro reference, Sarah!

[@meanmanofsteel]

Okay, I love how this video showed the underside of the car!

[@matthewk9563]

Really Enjoyed my Mk6 with DSG. Had to move on before it got tooany miles. The engine in particular had first a valve cover leak that took the water pump with it, oil seperator issues, and then rear main seal issue. Was not going to be holding the title for the next big issue and traded up to a Charger R/T

[@kangjhha]

usually everything falls apart right after warranty ends 😂

[@ElBigguy1985]

Would love to see the review for the MK8 Golf R! I'm considering getting one in the near future and I've started my research early as of a few months ago, and I'm just aoaking up any and all info i can get. Your reviews are very thorough and informative

[@chuckmillirons6529]

I loved the shot of the Mk8 where you could see just a slice of Ragnar, this car's ancestor!

[@xposzure]

Great work. Just throwing it out there the base model does have two real knobs on the radio. Love my MK8 thus far. No issues so far at 6k ( knock on wood, there are some issues I've seen on various Facebook groups)

[@jamesrad6317]

They don't sell it with any knobs in the UK!

[@kevs2good133]

@@jamesrad6317 but in Europe they sell the autobahn with plaid seats and no sunroof lol make it make sense VW

[@meanmanofsteel]

Amen on the three door comment! I wish mine had 3 doors.😅

[@07BSPtC]

Doesn’t matter that the tire is close to the rear trailing arm since you usually offset and push to the outside when going wider.

[@Lieutenant_Dude]

I sincerely appreciate that you called natural bodies of water that gators live in their living rooms.

[@michaelfavreau8948]

I paid $31000 for I had a $650 tuner kit put in it and I drove this thing in the pocono mountains.Yesterday and unbelievable it love this car

[@ianprice2298]

Really interested in the Golf R, so hopefully you get to review that one too someday.

[@seansullivan3795]

I have the 2017 and love it. I'd consider the 8 if it had the normal buttons and not all touch controls

[@tt-rs1457]

That touching really sucks.......

[@RussSchoonmaker]

Yeah, wouldn’t be awesome if VW offered the GTI with an analog package?

[@Luton-Mick]

Top marks for the air cleaning function especially handy for the discerning driver who washes his taco's down with Guinness.👍

[@Primus54]

Excellent, Sarah. Love this red color. Thank you. 👍👍👍

[@JohnMaffa]

Excellent review. Maybe you could do a review comparing the GTI to the R…. The Autobahn is tough to beat..

[@lonememe]

Yay! Are you going to do the R soon too? I had a Mk7 that I loved and have fantasized about getting a new one.

[@stratfanstl]

Smart move to put the ECU in the engine compartment, seeming up relatively high rather than in the well of a trunk where it might become immersed in water and corrode along with the connectors. Still, I wonder with SO much of car behavior being electronically controlled, will the car "power on" to a consistent usable state if some of those electronics fail?

[@erikthie2253]

the foam top on the engine is recalled. they will give the owners something new in the future. i love the VIII too!

[@richardkudrna1450]

Anyone have suggestions on making a cover for the giant hole in rear bumper? Will fill with salt here.

[@davidl.7318]

I bought a new GTI Sport with the DSG back in 2017 for right around $25k out the door. Still the best car ... "IN THE WORLD".

[@JR_406]

"if I'm not back in five minutes... Just wait longer!" 😆😆

[@eppyz]

Glad i got an MK7. 5 when i did. I like the 8 in some aspects but not in others. I prefer the 7.5 inside and out. I do appreciate VW for continuing to make these awesome cars👍

[@briandorsey6437]

You wouldn’t be saying that if you had a Mk 8 Autobahn…. It drives so damn well. Also feels like an Audi inside

[@bustermv]

Crystal clear and covered everything. Autobahn trim inviting, ‘cept the USD’s…

[@davidcassidy2731]

The smoked colour on the expansion bottle is likely due to being 100% recycled plastic all of our drinks bottles etc in the UK have taken on a similar tint.

[@michaellee6489]

Short little shift diglet?!?! LMFAO! Great review, Sarah. My first car was an '83 Rabbit GTI. silver on blue, absolutely cherry beautiful car, and I've been hooked on VW ever since. Love your channel, Sarah. Stay You.

[@MrBratnip]

I have a 2017 Golf R made in Germany, I think-maybe with some international parts as you mention. best car ever -running strong in Canada!

[@roymurray6374]

Happy Friday Sarah!!! Little car does look fun!! A little geewhiz info for some movie geeks, as you drove right through one of the scene locations for the movie The Wraith. That road is so nice since it has been resurfaced, never thought it would happen.😁 Stay excellent!!!😎

[@paulm749]

00:42 That paint must be the new eco-friendly stuff that's made with orange peels. Supposed to have a nice citrus-y aroma when it heats up in direct sun.

[@DCMcF]

I had a Jetta when I was 18 that I traded for a Crate guitar Amp when I found out why people kept beeping. I miss that amp😁

[@Notasheepleandneverwillbe]

Almost bought a Rabbit with the 2.5 l 5 cylinder engine , as far as golfs go I've never even driven one but the Mark 4 is my favorite to look at .

[@auroralance8546]

I’d still like to get an R. Any future reviews on one?❤. Great commentary as always.

[@tanovw]

Hope you do the mk8 R next

[@surrealchemist]

I'm glad the DSG farts are still there. Sounds like a GTI, even if the face and butt look strange. I kinda miss my 2012 model. They let you upgrade the nav/sunroof package, it had 3 door, and it had plaid seats. Sadly I wasn't driving it and squirrels chewed the electrical wires or something and the engine caught on fire.

[@Chiroman527]

I'm not in the market for a car like this (with my spinal issues - I'd be lucky to get in, but getting out would be the problem), but like that 251 HP & 273 lbs of Torque. What I really like is how "European" the car is : Poland, Hungary, etc... Another terrific car Review, like no Other on the InterWeb. Where else can you find a nice looking young lady wearing short skirts in a White Doctor's coat? Sarah's Wiggle in the Bolster Test is always a treat !! Sarah, Keep 'em Coming!!

[@geraldbatts575]

Awesome review Sarah. I miss when you said "doot da dooo" when you were doing the score lol. And "charge motion flap"? Mmmhmmm 😆 keep em coming Sarah!!

[@jameshaulenbeek5931]

Love my Mk 7 Golf 1.8 - that Mk 8 GTI is VERY tempting...

[@BOOSTEDDUDE]

Great review and information! I'm also a big MK2 and MK4 fan!

[@TrumpetBiz]

The Braking Test is by far my favorite part of your reviews. The apprehension in your voice "No one behind me....". And that you pronounce it "Al ooo min E um". The Score Board is back ! Yay !!!

[@dextercube1822]

Love all the plastics under the hood. There's no way any of it will melt.

[@circleofowls]

Great review, I love my MK7 Autobahn, they're fantastic cars.

[@DavidToback]

I have an MK8 and love it! It definitely has some gremlins though but as a drivers car, it’s incredible! Have had an MKIV, MKV GTI & R32, and MK7 Gli. This is my favorite yet 😁

[@ryanbachman380]

What gremlins are you experiencing? I’ve had mine for a month or so and have had no issues

[@fishflash1]

I agree, the Autobahn package looks and sounds great. Plus, your hair indicated fast deceleration during braking. This is the most multilingual car I've seen!

[@sepse7en2]

I love all your videos, but GTI content is the best.

[@texx1017]

interior sucks.....MK8 Golf R's are being marked up to $60K. Just bought a 2019 Golf R with low miles for the price of this new GTI....Great Video !

[@officialhcdesign]

I thoroughly enjoy these mechanical reviews! Also, as an Audi fan, do you like the RS8 Spyder that I had designed?

[@dirkdesouza5975]

Would you opt for a Golf R over the GTi?

[@rrrrrrtt1]

Great verification of the measurements, Sarah!

[@tjflynn1014]

The word is, that you might as well go with the Golf R if you are going to spend 40+k on the Autobahn. You get better performance and all wheel drive for just a bit more money. And that's the super truth Ruth! So, "Do the right thing" :P Not sure though if we would have to breath in ass clouds on the Golf R, does it come with the cloth option? Oh Sarah, I so love your choice of words, totally makes my day.