I absolutely love the size *AND* sight lines - which is a really big deal for a daily driver, and a feature that I think most car reviewers don’t take into account nearly enough. I would be happy with the straight gulf if they were still available simply because of build quality and visibility out. I love my 2020 GTI. And once they fix the infotainment a bit, I’ll almost certainly upgrade to the 8. Though I’m in no hurry.

I've been daily driving a MK6 (2013) base GTI 2 door for the past 11 years. 210,000 miles. Bought the car new expecting to drive it 3-5 years. I love the car and decided to just keep driving it. I've always thought the fit and finish was good, and the interior quality was high given the price point. What I've come to appreciate more is just how well this car is put together. Virtually no rattles or annoyances to speak of after more than a decade. I'm still running the factory rotors (turned once) the factory shocks, motor mounts, and alternator. In fact the only thing that's needed replacement was the battery, tires, spark plugs, ignition coils and brake pads once at 130k. I choose to replace the fuel injectors several months ago when I removed the intake manifold to clean the valves due to the direct injection design. Clean valves and new injectors at 190K made the 10 year old engine purr like new. The engine does burn a little oil now, but it's not excessive at all or a concern. Doesn't smoke out the pipes at all even under hard acceleration. I've changed the DSG fluid every 60-70K, which is beyond what VW recommends, but I do a lot of freeway driving and feel I can get away with it. The DSG has been flawless, but is my biggest concern as the car ages. As 2024 nears, I'm preparing to pass the car down to my 16 year old who's proven to be a great driver and adores the car. Lots of memories in this GTI including cross country road trips, Yellowstone, Vegas, Yosemite, Zion, Disneyland, etc. As my daily seat time in this car comes to an end, I'm at a cross roads as what to buy for myself. While I'm tempted to step up to something a little profound, like a 2024 M2, a big part of me thinks I'd be crazy not to buy a MK8 GTI. If I do, it will be a white 380 model in base trim as I do miss driving a manual transmission. Regardless of my next purchase, this car has been a pleasure and I can easily recommend the model to anyone considering one.

@wellequipped

8 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing your story! Your car is clearly well cared for and it'll be a great car for your 16 year old. I think the 380 base model is definitely the way to go. It looks like the best option to me. Good luck with whatever you decide to drive next!

@psiturbo

6 ай бұрын

At those miles, fluid dsg changes will not save you from the DSG flywheel replacement (it will start to hum and chatter badly). Besides what you have done, I recommend have a mechanic scan the timing chain tolerance corrections. It is burning oil from the piston control ring. These engines do not suffer from crank or rod bearing wear. Although oil ring is unrelated, would not be bad to do a compression test and hook up a vacuum gauge to check piston ring health, how well they are sealing. congrats on the 200k milestone!

@Fmandan77

6 ай бұрын

@@psiturbo Thanks for the feed back and information. I just completed the timing chain, guides and tensioner replacement on Wednesday. I took my time with a friend and completed the job in about 6 hours. I was very pleased with how clean everything looked. I had no build up or debris in the cam bridge screen and the old guides were not brittle or cracked at all. Runs like a champ, no major differences to speak of, but I may see a very slight up-tick in fuel efficiency as my driving patterns are very consistent. Time will tell on that. I was most impressed with how easy it was to reinstall and seal the lower timing cover with the oil pan still in place. Super easy to get right without a fuss. I'll keep an ear out for the flywheel hum and eventual chatter you've warned about...hopefully not anytime too soon, lol. Honestly, if I'm pulling the trans on this car, I'm going to replace the engine with a lower mile unit that I've freshened-up prior to install and maybe set a mileage record prompting VW to gift me a new MK9 or MK10 GTI :)

Got the same car in Reflex Silver. Have it for about 3 months now. This review captures my experience nearly exactly. It's hard to have buyer's remorse when almost every drive brings a smile.

I have a GTI 7.5. I live the new ones as much as the 7s. They’re both really cool.

I live in the northeast (NH) and got my MK8 Autobahn for 41k out the door at the end of 2021. In terms of value I think it stomps other cars in its class when comparing features, performance, and refinement. Good review, nice to see a follow up from the first one.

I’m a 7 year Fiesta ST owner, really eyeballing this or the R. I can’t really find anything wrong with my Fiesta, but I think I want something new and fresh. This look on the Mk8 has brought a new light to how I view the Mk8. Thanks!

Great video I own a mk8 Golf R and the experience and vehicle is amazing

@EastWood2004

Жыл бұрын

My experience with R 7.5 was boring after 6 months. M2C was far better.

I’m picking up a CPO 2022 Autobahn with 7k miles on it for $38k flat. Very happy with the deal! This review is exactly what I wanted to hear. My first “nice” car after having base, old Jettas for my first two

@wertyoomusic

Жыл бұрын

Gratz man. Looking to make a similar purchase for my first time away from base, old models

@ronsum232

Жыл бұрын

Got my SE for $41k.... you should be all smiles.

@juelz4516

Жыл бұрын

That’s approaching used Golf R territory. Ouch.

Thank you for the MK8 review. MK7.5 owner and long time VW owner mostly golf and GTI. I was not happy with the MK8 looks at first but I admit they are growing on me. Again, thank you for the honest review.

Fantastic review!

Thank you so much i needed this sort of review 🎉im going to get One

I got mk8 GTE because the GTI was out of my budget. I think the interior and the exterior looks amazing and I love the 245hp. I also got the moonstone grey color. Honestly I can never get bored of this color..

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

I'm not sure why VW doesn't sell the GTE in the US. It would be perfect for my needs. I also share your love for the moonstone.

Great review, I've got a 2022 autobahn in pomelo, very similar experiences but my only gripe would be the 35 series tires

$41k?? I got my MK7.5 Autobahn in 2019 for $32k (negotiated) with a SIX year warranty. All GTIs are in a class of their own.

Great review. Have a 40th anniversary edition on order. Can’t wait. I’ve owned 5 GTI’s, they are so great as a daily performance hot hatch with very good mpg.

@karmahunden

7 ай бұрын

what about your veloster N 6mt?

@drumflip1253

7 ай бұрын

@@karmahunden still have that and love it. Never got the 40th. My wife had it on order for her but she kept her car.

I’m choosing between this and the 2024 Elantra N. I’m leaning toward the Elantra N because I can’t find an SE at MSRP. There are plenty of EN’s at MSRP tho. Feature for feature, the EN is better value given the GTI markups. VW interior is about the only thing I can say is better than the N but it isn’t by much.

I love it ..the infotainment is really good its high tech..i owned one so im loving the car..

I have the mk8 R. Even more from that standpoint all you said is true. Under 70k it’s definitely going to be the rs3 for “best” but for all around (and now with the tunes coming out) the R is the best car I’ve ever owned and I’m glad you’re having a similar experience with the GTI. Not to mention both are pretty rare in a manual ( the R I know for sure not sure on the Gti) so the value is amazing. Some guy offered 15k over just cause of the three pedals 😊I told him no. I’m riding the thing until the engine goes then swapping for rs3 build 🤷‍♂️

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

The RS3 looks awesome but I really wish it came in a hatchback. The R is sweet. Love seeing them on the road. Enjoy!

@mharro88

Жыл бұрын

@@wellequipped yeh rs3 does come in a hatchback

@shaglioni

Жыл бұрын

The RS3 is not available in hatchback form in the US though. Everywhere but here you can get the RS3 hatch.

@kpone2453

Жыл бұрын

Man I’m happy too with my mk7.5 R just purchased off the lot at 19,000 miles. Best car I also ever owned. Plus side it was stage 2 ready last owner put in all the parts just had to get it tuned bought my access port and bam 380 horses.

@michaelsmith9308

10 ай бұрын

Neighbor has the RS3 and it does stand out:) and it should at that price point IMO.@@wellequipped

I’ve been wanting a gti for over 7 years. Finally going to get one when the mk8.5 comes out next year! Heard that many of the issues people have had are being addressed for the mid cycle refresh

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

What are some of the issues which you expect and like to be addressed?

@kwillee93

Жыл бұрын

@@wellequipped the slider HVAC controls will be illuminated. Screen size will increase from 10.25 inch to 12, steering wheel controls will return to buttons.

Being frugal, I went with S, at sticker around 32k (dsg) in July 2022. Don’t think there’s any rival cars. Traded in 2017 manual performance GTI.

Great review. Thank you! You mentioned the mk8 being fuel efficient. What type of gas (octane level) are you using and recommend?

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

VW recommends 87. That’s what I use.

@PseudonymPersona

6 ай бұрын

My mk8 GTI says RON 95 at least (USA 91)

@nasbloodvayne1090

3 ай бұрын

@@PseudonymPersonaI have a 2024 and it’s 87

Love my Mark 8 Autobahn, once you use info interface, it’s fine, just different. Drives like a gem, better then my 7.5 that I sold to my daughter

Great video thanks man. I just retired my 2009 GTI and I'm shopping for a mk7 or a mk8. Its crazy how expensive the mk7s are right now!!! Almost dumb not to buy a mk8..

Thanks for the vid! What tint do you have? Thanks

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

50%. Not sure of the brand.

Thanks for the review it was great lot of good information. But I'm on the fence between a GTI in a GLI I just had a baby so not sure if the GTI is going to be a good fit or the Gli would be better what do you think for the money which is the better value

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

I've never driven the GLI but I know that it's similar. The GTI is definitely a small car but I know people who've put two car seats in the back with no issue. Hard to tell on value but I think the GLI will ultimately be less expensive to buy.

@davescott3598

Жыл бұрын

GLI is nice,but the build of the gti is on another level.had a 23 GLI for 6 weeks now have the gti.

@GLI_1701

Жыл бұрын

@davescott3598 well I got a 2023 GTI 40th anniversary edition and she's awesome....

@GLI_1701

Жыл бұрын

I got for msrp with no bullshit stuff...and a 6.29%

Thx for the video. Do you think they will fix /upgrade the infotainment through software update ?

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

There have been two major updates to the system while I've owned the car that have improved the speed of the computers but I don't believe that VW will do anything to update the UI or overall usability for this generation. Just my guess though, I don't actually know.

@katiecannon8186

Жыл бұрын

@@wellequipped It seems to me it won’t happen until 2025. Just going by the fact that the ID 2 won’t be out until then, and it supposedly has the new UI

I love my Mark 6 version and Mark 7.5 version VW GTI both manuals

Are you in Canada? In the US I just snagged a 23 SE with the black package for 33k

I am considering GTI manual(SE) or Civic Si(prices are exactly the same in Canada), but I did not have a chance to test drive either of those, but I put in a refundable deposit for both cars. If you had a chance to drive Civic Si which one would you recommend to someone who just wants to have fun driving without tuning or racing? Thank you for the video!

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

I strongly considered the Civic Si when I got the GTI. Here in the US, though, the Si is almost $10k less expensive and I think that we can only get it as a sedan. From my experience it definitely felt like a lesser car.

@Tigerex966

Жыл бұрын

How about the integra. Wrx Mazda 3 turbo Gr corolla elantra n new Prius??

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

@@Tigerex966 The Integra, new WRX, or the GR Corolla weren't available when I got my GTI. I'd love to be able to drive them all to see how they stack up.

@Tigerex966

Жыл бұрын

@@wellequipped me too

I'm considering to buy it. Can you share a bit more about how it was to drive in snow, and what tires your are using?

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

For tires I am running the Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4. They have been very good for getting me through normal winter road conditions like slush and a few inches of snow with control and confidence while still providing shockingly similar performance to summer tires in the cold, dry, and rain. I wouldn't recommend the GTI if your frequently in deep snow conditions, though. You'd be fine getting through deep snow with a set of Blizzacks but those kill every ounce of performance and fun in any other situation.

@haider2695

Жыл бұрын

@@wellequipped good on fuel?

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

@@haider2695 It's okay with about 22 city. I'm rarely on the highway but I've seen 30 on a longer trip.

Holy cow! Where do these prices come from? Did you pay a dealer markup or is that price OTD? I live in Central Florida and only spent MSRP at $31k for my 23 GTI-S 6speed manual. I see 23 SE models going for $37-38k with sunroof and leather seats added. I love my S and think it’s value is better than the SE. The only thing I miss is keyless entry because my last 7 vehicles had it and it’s just something I have to get acquainted to again. My S also came with the IQ headlights unlike the 22 GTI-S. It’s the first stick I’ve owned in 20years and I have zero regrets. It’s a blast to drive and hustle around curves and turns. 🤘

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

I paid markup a year ago but I think demand is still high here in the northeast keeping the prices high.

@merica7050

Жыл бұрын

Only simps pay markup.

@vr6gls

Жыл бұрын

@@wellequipped Bad decision paying markup. All good things come to those who wait. If you willingly pay markup, you are ruining it for everyone else. If people refused to pay these markups, they will go away.

Would you still pick this over the Mazda3 Premium hatchback with manual? The Civic SI or Civic Sport Touring manual? The Elantra'N' manual? Mustang EcoBoost manual? BRZ??

@11onejay

Жыл бұрын

only car in the category of the mk8 that would be better is the elantra n. tech and look of the interior to me looks nicer on the mk8 though.

Mk7.5 is my daily love it but if the mk8 can fix the infotainment issues then I would put it on my wish list for sure

Hey mate, on the front quarter panel above the wheel on either side do you have a black dot? I have 1 black dot on the paint, it's not fungus or a scratch it's a perfect black dot from factory just wondering lol

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

That's really strange. I don't have that. Is it under the top coat of your paint?

@WilliamButtel

Жыл бұрын

@@wellequipped Not too sure I thought it might have been just a weird paint signature from a robot, prob ask the dealer just a minor thing, I've had my gti for about 5-6 months loving it so far got an exhaust and intake just need some wheels and probably lower it and woo

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

@@WilliamButtel Which exhaust did you get? I've considered upgrading but don't know which one I'd like.

@WilliamButtel

Жыл бұрын

@@wellequipped I have an XFORCE Varex Exhaust, can close and open the valves on the exhaust. Good for now will probably upgrade to milltek end of year.

I know the video will be good wihtout wathcing it

How do you find the suspension in these? I too live in Mass and am considering an S trim but, as you know, the roads here suck. My relatively stock Mk6 can feel harsh at times.

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

I've been impressed with the comfort. Its still is stiffer than most cars, but its significantly more comfortable than my mk7 was.

@katiecannon8186

Жыл бұрын

I have a 7. I’ve test driven the 8 three times now. I think the suspension is considerably better. Most say it’s a slight difference. I think it’s a pretty darn big difference

@glubibobi

Жыл бұрын

@@katiecannon8186 Thanks for the reply! The more I think of it, the more another GTI just makes sense for me. If I can get my hands on a 40th anniversary edition with the dcc that might be game over.

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

@@glubibobi The 40th anniversary looks like the best one to get based on its spec sheet.

$34k-$36 for the S? more like $31k-$32k. And you paid Autobahn money for your SE

@makinmoneywithjuan1108

9 ай бұрын

S model with dsg is 33k and some change, if you include destination it’s 34k and some change. So I see where he got those numbers.

@henrytoh4217

9 ай бұрын

You must be looking at the 2024 gti s with those numbers. He has a 2022 gti whose msrp was $31800 including destination with no options and no premium color.

Got my 2022 GTI S at MSRP, $32,500. If you want the options of an SE or Autobahn, that's A-okay. That said, the amount of standard options on the S is an incredible value. Even with its quirks... can't say there's anything out there even close for the money.

@11onejay

Жыл бұрын

where did u get it msrp??

@natelarson861

Жыл бұрын

@@11onejay Got mine at Schmelz Countryside VW in MN.

Which trim is the best buy? S / SE / or 40th annv ???

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

I have the SE but I would recommend the 40th anniversary because you get the DCC from the Autobahn but the better infotainment from the S.

Reg 87 octane gas or do you need to use premium 91+ octane?

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

VW recommends 87

In terms of value I think you’d need to compare this to the new integra

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

This is a really good point. I'd love to drive the new Integra.

Have you experienced any issues so far?

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

No mechanical issues at all. The only one is software related with the stereo. I am pretty sure that will eventually (if not already) fixed with updates.

I was looking at the Golf R, but 45k (48k OTD) is a bit too much. The GTI would be a good second choice, but I live in the mountains, and we get inclement weather all the time. Now eyeing the wrx for that awd

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

I used to run Blizzak's on my last Mk7 and always felt comfortable with those but no doubt the WRX would be better for your climate. I have the Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4s on this car. I wouldn't trust them in anything more than a few inches of snow like trusted my Blizzak's but these been great in all other winter conditions. Even in the slush they've been great.

@poleposition3065

Жыл бұрын

Get a wrx

I have owned new the 2010 and 2018 GTI and the build quality is equal to a Mercedes S class , BMW 750, and of course AUDIO which is now the same as VW. Think of build quality BETTER than a TOYOTA, by 10X :) NOW value is unquestioned in the GTI in the first trim level GTI-S= has heated seats & steering wheel, wireless charger, mag rims, all the other basic standards plus 33 extra (read the spec list) Im a audio person, however, the base unit does satisfy (just not like the H& K, OM, Bose etc, its the PRICE that is AWESOME my co worker jus purchased new at $27,000 manual no options! VALUE , now if you want the higher trims and money is no concern then enjoy. The ride quality beats my BMW M2 (just not on fast turns:( *The 2024 ONLY has projector type LED headlights on ALL trims, the 2023 is only REFLECTOR on the GTI-S...............

How is reliability?Looking for GR corolla or GTI

@wellequipped

7 ай бұрын

I haven't had any mechanical issues, so its been reliable for me. I saw a GR Corolla yesterday. I haven't driven one, but I am tempted to go check it out.

@luckyyou774

7 ай бұрын

@@wellequipped same here. Love Golf Gti interior but GR corolla is awd

Did you have to break in the engine for the first 1000 miles?

@wellequipped

9 ай бұрын

There was no software break in period like some new cars have now but I made sure not to drive it too hard for the first 500-1000 miles. Since new it has gotten more fuel efficient and the exhaust drones less.

@Denileism

9 ай бұрын

@@wellequipped by not too hard do you mean not over 4000rpm or just not redlining it? I’ve accidentally done several accelerations to 5000 but never redlined. Hoping I didn’t mess it up. But love the car so far

@wellequipped

9 ай бұрын

@@Denileism I really don't think that you've messed anything up and I wouldn't worry about it too much. Just as long as your not full sending at every stop light.

@Denileism

9 ай бұрын

@@wellequipped oh ok awesome, you planning on making a video update for 2 years? I’m curious if your thoughts have changed at all.

@wellequipped

9 ай бұрын

@@Denileism yes should be out in a week or two

Moonstone Grey looks like clear coat over primer.

the buttons on the radio and steering wheel :(

What about the autobahn?

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

I think the Autobahn gets you leather and cooled seats and the adaptive dampers. I’m not interested in either of those since I think the comfort of the car is already good enough. If you value those then you’re still getting a great car.

After 1 years did you constantly hit the steering wheel buttons as all the other reviewers have said. IT THIS A REAL PROBLEM.

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

After a full year and thousands of miles I have only hit the buttons (really just the heated steering wheel button) a few times and it has only happened when I am in reverse because I am looking behind me. I don't think it's an issue, but it might be a bigger issue for others.

The price and the stupid all touch infotainment set up are what’s holding it back, Volkswagen should fix the infotainment system in a refresh and try making the car cheaper.

what kind of mpg you averaging?

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

22 daily in the city. I’ve gotten over 30 on road trips though.

SOUNDS LIKE A VW SALESMAN VIDEO.

U said U werent going 2 talk bout the Infotainment Ctr. But twice U did. Every body does. Its not a Space Shuttle. Hold on stomp the pedal and DRIVE!!

I love it, but not at 35k.

The MK7 is better all around

Golf 7 interior is much better in my opinion. There has clearly been a cust saving in material use. The interior quality in the golf 7 is comparable with the cars in the higher segment

I was actually enjoying your video, until you mentioned Tesla. Then you lost me. Sorry, RickGTI….. 🌴

38-42k for a GTI?! You can get a BMW 230i and absolutely wreck the VW in most aspects other than cargo capacity. The 230i has the best infotainment on the market, IDrive8, and is faster, better handling, seats 4, looks better, and has a better reliability. The only reason to chose a Golf is because you must really want a hatchback. BMW 230i is currently one of the most underrated cars on the market currently. Costs a little more but is in a different league in terms of what it offers, well worth the few extra cash. Getting a GTI over a BMW is like running a marathon and quitting 100 ft before the finish line. Just spend a little more and get something a lot better in return.

@clevertech3979

Жыл бұрын

But it’s a BMW…. Lmao

@postalpancho

Жыл бұрын

@@clevertech3979 VW is ranked 22nd in reliability and is FWD. BMW is ranked 3rd after Toyota/Lexus and BMW is RWD performance based cars with 50/50 weight distribution. They cost more for a reason but go ahead and buy yourself a eco box GTI and look like an idiot when you get stuck looking at BMW taillights after a race. Even the base BMW engine can put out over 300lb of torque bone stock. Lol get wrecked dude. Hahaha

@escos0410

Жыл бұрын

@@clevertech3979 was gonna say the same Iv got the CS GTI

@snoopyalien24

Жыл бұрын

No manuals :(

@postalpancho

Жыл бұрын

@@snoopyalien24 I’ve driven manuals for the last decade, but the BMW ZF is so good that I don’t miss them. It hold revs and is willing to downshift immediately when asked. Usually that would be a dealbreaker but not for a BMW.

Mk 7 design was better

The functionality of the interior is absolutely terrible not sure why you think it's good. It's so bad VW have apologized.Its amazing that you could have got a Elantra N for 35,000 which is just so much more fun , more functional and better to drive , from it's DCT to it's handling.. perhaps comfort isn't as good as this though if you like a soft ride. Sounds like you're not a driving enthusiast though so maybe it's not your jam. Anyway there's a shitload out there that comes close to this.

why do you still drive it stock? put some nice rims on it, mayby lower it a little and your views would be trough the roof

what are people using on the infotainment besides apple carplay/android auto? wtf is there to complain about, genuinely don't understand? unless there's still people who use the radio??

@wellequipped

Жыл бұрын

I think the biggest issue that most people have is that everything is in the infotainment. So actions like changing the car settings, climate control, radio, or drive mode takes several interactions, like presses and swipes, with the screen which can become frustrating over time. I don't believe that the system is bad enough to detract from the overall value or experience of the car, but its definitely not good by any means.