i dont get it... are generations different numbers in US and EU markets?... since thereä's some MK7 for sale from 2012... 10:50 but clip shows like it's 2015... Sales in Europe began with the model in November 2012. Marketed in three-door and five-door hatchback, van, and estate forms, the Golf Mk7 shares the MQB platform with the third generation Audi A3, SEAT León and Škoda Octavia
He keeps reminding everyone to stay away from sunroofs on Gti's.. I'm on my third GTI and I've never had any problems and I love the sunroof open on a bright sunny day..
I own a 2017 Golf wagon, and occasionally the sunroof drainage system will leak into the spare wheel compartment after heavy rain. Tbh, it's a pretty easy issue to deal with, but it's certainly something to look out for.
Great video!! Recently purchased a gently used 2017 MK7 GTI SE, DSG, Lighting Package, Pearl Black with around 20K miles for just over $22K. Really like the GTI my first German car. The PP is a great option and I wouldn't have a GTI without the ELSD. The DSG is fine if you drive it in full manual mode all the time as I do and as it should be. Full auto especially in D mode is just dreadful and really kills the performance. S mode is a bit better but I'm the best TCU not a computer. For those that complain about the DSG vs the Manual Trans, I say drive the DSG like a manual, without moving your left leg of course. I've done a paint correction, lighter aftermarket wheels and rear sway bar upgrade so far. Stock power & torque is good enough for daily street use, but an ECU & TCU stage 1 tune certainly wouldn't hurt. No problems with my sunroof so far. I regularly clean the sunroof gaskets and metal contact areas as I think that most leaks can occur due to dirt creating tiny gaps. The MK8's look interesting but only with the manual trans. In my opinion VW was foolish to delete the floor mounted gear selector (MK7) in favor of that little knob thing in the MK8's. Peace.
Owned a MK1 and MK2 GTI. Currently looking for a MK7-7.5 weekend car. This was so informative and well produced!! Can't get enough of your content. Thanks!
I bought my MK7 GTI S base model in March 2017 brand new. Had exactly what I wanted. Midnight blue metallic, cloth seats, and manual transmission. Love it! I bought it for $23k (not including taxes or fees), and while I was looking, I was also looking at the Focus ST and Hyundai Veloster. After driving the Veloster, I was just unimpressed with the interior quality and power, so I checked that off my list. Then I drove a Focus ST, that was $28k brand new (cheapest one in my area), felt cheap inside as well, wasn't very roomy (I am 6'4" tall), and not that quick for a claimed 252hp/270tq car. It torque steered to the left quite a bit too. Torque steer wasn't that big of a deal to me, but I wasn't that impressed overall with the car. So on to the GTI to test... The moment I looked at the GTI, I liked it. Great design, and looked premium over the others, and the standard red brakes looked sweet. The moment I stepped into the car, I was sold! I could not believe that a car that felt that premium inside, was being sold for $23k! The seats felt amazing, the steering wheel was amazing, the materials looked mazing, it had Apple CarPlay as standard, and the thing that sold me the most was that with the seat all the way back, I had plenty of room to stretch my legs out! So much that I was not used to the amount of room a car offered, so I even clicked the seat forward a little bit just to be comfortable haha. Then I drove it, and the car felt lighter than the Focus ST, more nimble, and more powerful too! For a car with a claimed 210hp/258tq, it blew the ST out of the water in how it behaved on acceleration! The cabin was quieter inside as well. All-in-all, the GTI was just the much better car. I was sold on the spot! I also knew of its abilities in the tuning and aftermarket world, and have done quite a bit of modifications to my MK7 GTI, but even if left stock, well, it wouldn't be the fastest car on the road, but for $23k brand new, its a bargain of a car and nothing else could really compete. Yes, there are some things I don't like about it, but overall, its jut the best car in its class!
I felt the same way when I purchased mine 5 months ago. I was impressed with the interior quality and level of refinement for its price point. I ended up with a base model with the leather seats instead of cloth. It’s sporty car, but subtle and understated in a lot of ways.
Really interesting to see how the range differs in the US. Here in the UK, the GTi, GTD, GTE and golf R are basically trim levels themselves within the golf range. A lot of the ‘normal’ golfs have 1 litre turbo engines which I’m guessing would never be a success over there. I have a mk7.5 GTD, but am possibly looking at a mk8 GTE next time :)
This Mercedes guy is looking over yonder at adding a MK7 GTI as a daily driver, now that the 6MT C55 is being track prepped. This was very Helpful! Thx Nathan & Jay! FCP ftw as always!
I have a 2017 mk7 with the performance pack and 6 spd. It has an apt stage 1 high torque, uhp tires, and a high performance Sachs clutch. I will add to this video that the SINGLE BEST upgrade I made was a 26mm anti sway bar.
That’s actually a MK1.5 at the end there. Original MK1’s sold in Europe and Canada, since 1979, didn’t have the front turn signal notched into the fender; it also came with single round headlights, never double like an MK1 Scirocco. (I know that your example is heavily modded)
Got a 2018 gti Autobahn edition with the dsg. Such a fun car. I definitely love the golf r brakes and the pp makes it feel better than the base models I test drove. I personally love the dsg as I use mine to daily drive but can still rip around and have fun when I want
Glad you enjoyed it George. Usually no farts of any kind is a good thing... atleast these ones have an explanation ^.^ Hope you're like Mk7.5 Rabbit life!
Yeah, major oversight. Works extremely well, expertly judged for the street. I skip Eco and Sport, use Comort/Normal/Individual. My buddy has lowered his and it generally rides and handles like crap except on the smoothest roads.
Now on a 7.5 with 7-speed DSG and DCC. Early 19 with 7200 miles. Fantastic car. Previous car was early 2018 with 6-speed DSG and no DCC. The newer Model is head and shoulders above the earlier mode. VW clearly made a great improvement with the model by the end of 2018.
What a beautiful sight it must be to come into work every day and be greeted by those cars. I believe time will prove the Mk7 to be the last great GTI.
Such an informative and much needed video guys. Well done! There are only two issues in this I want to address. Painted mirror caps do not indicate an “S” trim model. I own a 2016 GTI SE w/ PP and my car has body color mirror caps. Also, you can tell a 15-17 Performance Pack GTI by looking at the GTI badge. The performance pack models have a red “GTI” badge. The non-performance models have a chrome “GTI” badge. It’s a much easier differentiator than looking at the brakes.
vr6gls thanks for the insight! Good to know those tidbits, sorry for the misonformation, we will be sure to add that to the written form of this video!
In the market for a compact that is fun to daily for commute to work and still good on gas... Looking at Civic SI/Mazda 3/Golf GTI in manuals... what year GTI do you recommend?
I had the 72,000 warranty for my 2019 rabbit - said EFF It b/c race car. To be fair, I've always wanted to own a turbo car and mod it..waiting 5-6 years seemed like insanity.
I had no clue there’s so much trims in other countries, here in South Africa there’s only one and you can only choose seat material, colour, sunroof and digital gauges all the other things mentioned come standard
Trim levels are very different in Canada. There's only 3, which are Base, Autobahn and Performance. Performance cars also don't have the GTI logo on the front callipers.
Sometimes I wish I got the PP with my base model S 2017 GTI, as my brakes on my base model S are horrible, but knowing I upgrade parts on my car all the time, it just made sense for me to not spend the $$ (almost $4k upgrade from factory) in the beginning for the PP. I have a Wavetrack and BBK on my list of modifications this next year, which will cost me about $3500-4000 in total (parts plus install), depending on what brand of BBK I go with, which is essentially the same price as the factory PP upgrade, but will perform a lot better than the PP. Not everyone upgrades parts such as these, so for most people, a PP upgrade would be the best way to go, but I tend to spend way too much money on my cars on upgrades, so this route made more sense to me.
You all really produce some quality content. I can’t wait for summer so I can move into a GTI Autobahn or a used Golf R. Been getting tired of giving you all my money for parts on my F06 M6 competition and I miss good gas mileage 😂. Kudos chaps
IMO 2017 SE was the best year/trim. Last year before they started cost cutting a few things plus it was the only year the SE came standard with Fender stereo (which is a nice upgrade over base) leather, pp, lp and sunroof all at once. Btw 80k miles on mine and no sunroof issues...I do park in a garage though.
@@Scowbilly honestly the only complaint i have is the rattling all over the interior. my hatch, dash and seats all rattle but fuck it. i can barely hear it over a turboback exhaust
Thinking of taking the plunge and picking one of these up in the next couple of years. Wow-- very strong advice against buying one with a sunroof. Knowing this, I'll narrow my search to a 2017 Sport manual that comes with performance pack and no sunroof.
in the market for a DD, thanks for the great content! true, mk7/7.5 prices will drop when mk8 are on sell in north america, will wait to save some depreciation
On ShopDap I saw the oil pump had a different part number for the DKFA engine, which takes 0w-20. Now I gotta go put the VW 508 oil back in when my 5w-30 interval is done. I'm sure 5w-30 was fine though since I live in Arizona. The oil is already easy to flow.
Bought a mk7 golf(Regular not a GTI) and I'm happy that I saved like 10 thousand and still got more features than most of those GTIs, like the sunroof, double U lights, electric seats with full leather and dual climate control. With that 10,000 saved I can upgrade the brakes and get a tune that will bring me to a much higher spec GTI(Yes I know not exactly the same) but I'm glad I saved. Also, have had my sunroof mk7 for over 7 months now and it has been perfectly fine. Awesome video!
My 2018 GTI is confusing. It has features of an s and an SE as well as the performance pack even though I'm sure it doesn't have it. I have the GTI logos on the brakes, a sunroof and the bigger infotainment system, and plaid seats
I have a 2021 GTI S with the red badges, gti painted on my front brakes, but my infotainment is of the smaller screen, and I don't have the digital display. Is mine the performance pack?
Although I'm from Europe, this video was very useful, thank you! Been wanting GTI Performance DSG year 15/16 for quite awhile now, 2020 might be the year I finally buy it :)) Have the same car right now, just that it's 1.4 TSI, love it, just needs "mo powah baby".
@@lancevancedance454 yup, checked the same data, im going for the mk7 instead of mk7.5 too. Only thing that I would want in mk7 is digital cockpit :) Have one ad watched, just gotta import it from Germany, hopefully it will go through.
I have a 2019 jetta GLI and thinking of changing for a 2021 GTI in cornflower blue, my GLI has a sunroof that has been changed once already and has been giving me problems till now. My dealership in Montreal Canada has told me last week that I'm going to need to replace it again. What to do? Now that I saw your video I'm thinking keep the problem that I have or go for a GTI with 15000 klm and sunroof sounds ok!!!
Hi, I found your video to be very informative. I have a 2019 VW GTI SE AUTOBAHN and Jay has stated that the Autobahn Edition has a fully adjustable drivers seat and the dual climate controls. I purchased my car on January 27, 2020. I’ve heard this in a lot of videos I’ve seen on UA-cam. I want to make sure that I’m absolutely sure that this was a standard option on my model year before I confront the dealership. Please help me verify that my car is correct in this standard option.
Hi, David. Glad you found the video informative! You should probably confirm with your VIN number whether you have an SE or an Autobahn. I don't believe there is an SE Autobahn, only SE or Autobahn.
great video! really interested in the mk7.5 and just waiting for prices to drop a bit. Wondering if theres any differences with the remaining 7.5 models from 2020 and 2021 vs. the 2019?
I was looking for cars this year, to buy one in one or two years and i see GTI very nice priced, like here in Spain i can buy a Golf GTI 7.5 TCR with 40-70k KM for 26-30k, and Mercedes A, BMW Serie 1, and all that are for 40-50k, even there are R for 35,36k, what would be the best buy? A GTI 7.5 TCR 290CV DSG? I don't want to waste so much money, but maybe the R is worth it for the AWD, or a TCR is a good option between price and performance..
Great video - only thing I would add - and I wish I would have known before purchasing my '19 SE, is the differences in the drivers assistance package. I thought my '19 SE was essentially fully loaded, but since they made the Golf R mechanical bits (VAQ, brakes) standard, they took away from the drivers assistance package. My 19 only has the front assistance, backup assistance, and blind spot detection. Whereas the earlier models got lane assist, park assist, and adaptive cruise control. Of course, in a performance car, I'd much rather have the LSD and brakes over some "safety" features :)
I just acquired a 2016 Volkswagen golf GTI Autobahn with DSG and I'm concerned that the clutches will last in this transmission in stop and go traffic and driving the vehicle on hills I do not see a auto hold button by the shifter so how should I drive it on hills so it does not roll back
What are the most impactful upgrades for a 2019 GTI? Does getting a cold air intake help? Might get a used one at 40k miles, should i replace anything or just keep up with maintenance?
regarding the mk7/7.5, im thinking about getting the manual but I’m still torn between the auto or manual. it would be my first manual car but ive only heard good things from the dsg
Your link for the light upgrade is only for halogen light upgrade and not if my car already has the lighting package. Any recommendation for 2017 SE lighting package upgrade to mk 7.5 lights? I really like the dual led setup.
Great content 👌 Question: im thinking about getting a 2019 rabbit dsg, I've read there's issues with the front assist auto braking, like it'll brake for no reason, is there a way to permanently turn it off 🤔 Thanks 🙂
Nice video...MK5 is getting a bit old now, so i'll wait another year for mk7 to dip under £10,000 used (uk). I love that blue colour! Is it painted or wrapped? doesn't look like a factory colour? thanks.
Are all the limited slip front differentials offered on US spec mk7 GTIs the same or did they differ over the model years 2015-2021 or between sport package ordered separately vs included with trip levels such as Autobahn or Rabbit editions ? Did they move from a real mechanical haldex system to some electronic simulation ? Do any versions of 'differentials' use brakes for torque vectoring ? What is the difference between VAQ and XDS/XDS+ ? Or should I just get a Wavetrac ?
Hey thanks for your question! There is no difference between the VAQ active differential as used on any of the 2015+ Performance Pack, Autobahn, or 2019+ GTI S / Rabbit Edition variants. There is a difference in the programming depending on the drive mode of the car (Eco, Normal, or Sport), or the market it is sold in. For example, the European GTI and GTI Clubsport have a more aggressive Sport VAQ program from the factory, similar to the one used on the GTI TCR DSG. The VAQ system is an add-on active torque vectoring computer-controlled clutch system and is as you noted, it is very similar to how Haldex works in a 4MOTION set up. The VAQ is a "real" differential in that it is not using the brakes to control torque, it is actively splitting the power between the two front wheels. XDS programming is attempting to do the job of the limited-slip differential by using the ABS and braking system and is not the same thing as the VAQ. XDS+ is the combination of XDS programming and the VAQ system being utilized at the same time. XDS/XDS+ can be fully to mostly disabled on most Mk7s (but not the 2019+) by changing programming inside of the ABS module and turning off the "Starting vibration reduction" function. If you have a non Performance Pack model, going with a proper limited-slip torque-biasing differential like the Wavetrac will yield better results than trying to add the VAQ system. If you have a Performance Pack model with the VAQ, there isn't any real reason to add a Wavetrac unless you were experiencing major issues with power delivery. As proven by the GTI TCR DSG which uses the VAQ diff, the system itself is able to withstand quite a bit of use and abuse.
@@fcpeuro Thank you so much for a thoroughly informative answer. I am hoping tuners like you, Cobb, and APR, are one day able to offer a sport++ mode program overlay. With so much of the drivetrain and more being computer controlled 100% the time in drive by wire modern cars, the distinction between under driver control and under X-'safety'-system intervention is lost amongst a near infinite continuum of adjustments.
I own a 2016 S with a manual and I didn’t get the performance pack. Is there any way to retrofit the module for the VAQ E-differential and code it so it works on a standard car?
I am really on the fence of buying an Mk7.5 while I can or waiting for model year one of the Mk8. What are you opinions? I think I owe it to see the Mk 8 in person before I decide.
You said performance package is standard on se and autobahn but I have a 15 mk7 gti autobahn and it has the basic brakes it doesn't say gti on them so I'm confused?
Can you clarify on the sunroof problems? Are the leaking/squeaking/cracking issues isolated to the smaller sunroof on the older models? Or does it affect the later panoramic roofs as well?
This video made me proud to be a Gti owner (Mk7)
Wear your MK7 GTO Badge proud WoowJustin! Thanks for watching
I'm a proud owner of a mk7 GTD.
The most needed mk7 gti video. Thank you for all the great info!
Thanks Isaac we hope it helped clear some things up for Mk7/Future Mk7 owners!
i dont get it... are generations different numbers in US and EU markets?... since thereä's some MK7 for sale from 2012...
10:50 but clip shows like it's 2015...
Sales in Europe began with the model in November 2012. Marketed in three-door and five-door hatchback, van, and estate forms, the Golf Mk7 shares the MQB platform with the third generation Audi A3, SEAT León and Škoda Octavia
He keeps reminding everyone to stay away from sunroofs on Gti's.. I'm on my third GTI and I've never had any problems and I love the sunroof open on a bright sunny day..
Literally just traded my golf wagon in for a GTI last week to get the sunroof as I missed it from my 2017 GTI. No issues.
I own a 2017 Golf wagon, and occasionally the sunroof drainage system will leak into the spare wheel compartment after heavy rain. Tbh, it's a pretty easy issue to deal with, but it's certainly something to look out for.
Great video!! Recently purchased a gently used 2017 MK7 GTI SE, DSG, Lighting Package, Pearl Black with around 20K miles for just over $22K. Really like the GTI my first German car. The PP is a great option and I wouldn't have a GTI without the ELSD. The DSG is fine if you drive it in full manual mode all the time as I do and as it should be. Full auto especially in D mode is just dreadful and really kills the performance. S mode is a bit better but I'm the best TCU not a computer. For those that complain about the DSG vs the Manual Trans, I say drive the DSG like a manual, without moving your left leg of course. I've done a paint correction, lighter aftermarket wheels and rear sway bar upgrade so far. Stock power & torque is good enough for daily street use, but an ECU & TCU stage 1 tune certainly wouldn't hurt. No problems with my sunroof so far. I regularly clean the sunroof gaskets and metal contact areas as I think that most leaks can occur due to dirt creating tiny gaps. The MK8's look interesting but only with the manual trans. In my opinion VW was foolish to delete the floor mounted gear selector (MK7) in favor of that little knob thing in the MK8's. Peace.
I own a MK7 R, and I couldn't be happier. Amazing machine.
Best GTI overview out there. Wish I’d seen this before I bought a non PP 2018.
Owned a MK1 and MK2 GTI. Currently looking for a MK7-7.5 weekend car. This was so informative and well produced!! Can't get enough of your content. Thanks!
Thats why we made this video Patrick! Hope it helps you on your buyers journey and be sure to checkout the rest of our MK7 content as it comes out.
As someone interested in buying the mk7, I’d love an update from Nathan Brown on his ownership. Maybe even some spirited driving POV videos
I bought my MK7 GTI S base model in March 2017 brand new. Had exactly what I wanted. Midnight blue metallic, cloth seats, and manual transmission. Love it! I bought it for $23k (not including taxes or fees), and while I was looking, I was also looking at the Focus ST and Hyundai Veloster.
After driving the Veloster, I was just unimpressed with the interior quality and power, so I checked that off my list. Then I drove a Focus ST, that was $28k brand new (cheapest one in my area), felt cheap inside as well, wasn't very roomy (I am 6'4" tall), and not that quick for a claimed 252hp/270tq car. It torque steered to the left quite a bit too. Torque steer wasn't that big of a deal to me, but I wasn't that impressed overall with the car. So on to the GTI to test...
The moment I looked at the GTI, I liked it. Great design, and looked premium over the others, and the standard red brakes looked sweet. The moment I stepped into the car, I was sold! I could not believe that a car that felt that premium inside, was being sold for $23k! The seats felt amazing, the steering wheel was amazing, the materials looked mazing, it had Apple CarPlay as standard, and the thing that sold me the most was that with the seat all the way back, I had plenty of room to stretch my legs out! So much that I was not used to the amount of room a car offered, so I even clicked the seat forward a little bit just to be comfortable haha. Then I drove it, and the car felt lighter than the Focus ST, more nimble, and more powerful too! For a car with a claimed 210hp/258tq, it blew the ST out of the water in how it behaved on acceleration! The cabin was quieter inside as well.
All-in-all, the GTI was just the much better car. I was sold on the spot! I also knew of its abilities in the tuning and aftermarket world, and have done quite a bit of modifications to my MK7 GTI, but even if left stock, well, it wouldn't be the fastest car on the road, but for $23k brand new, its a bargain of a car and nothing else could really compete. Yes, there are some things I don't like about it, but overall, its jut the best car in its class!
I felt the same way when I purchased mine 5 months ago. I was impressed with the interior quality and level of refinement for its price point. I ended up with a base model with the leather seats instead of cloth. It’s sporty car, but subtle and understated in a lot of ways.
Really interesting to see how the range differs in the US. Here in the UK, the GTi, GTD, GTE and golf R are basically trim levels themselves within the golf range. A lot of the ‘normal’ golfs have 1 litre turbo engines which I’m guessing would never be a success over there. I have a mk7.5 GTD, but am possibly looking at a mk8 GTE next time :)
This Mercedes guy is looking over yonder at adding a MK7 GTI as a daily driver, now that the 6MT C55 is being track prepped. This was very Helpful! Thx Nathan & Jay! FCP ftw as always!
I'm going to get a 2019 Rabbit edition in 2 years! Love hatchbacks especially the GTIs.
I have a 2017 mk7 with the performance pack and 6 spd. It has an apt stage 1 high torque, uhp tires, and a high performance Sachs clutch. I will add to this video that the SINGLE BEST upgrade I made was a 26mm anti sway bar.
I just bought my first Volkswagen
2020 GTI Autobahn 6MT
That’s actually a MK1.5 at the end there. Original MK1’s sold in Europe and Canada, since 1979, didn’t have the front turn signal notched into the fender; it also came with single round headlights, never double like an MK1 Scirocco. (I know that your example is heavily modded)
Got a 2018 gti Autobahn edition with the dsg. Such a fun car. I definitely love the golf r brakes and the pp makes it feel better than the base models I test drove. I personally love the dsg as I use mine to daily drive but can still rip around and have fun when I want
Got a used Mk7 with 45k miles with over 5k in modifications. Tuned and making close to 400hp. Best daily yet
MK7s are some of the best daily drivers or dual use (street/track) cars out there. Great choice dude.
manual or dsg?
I own a MK VII and have dealt with FCP Euro.
BOTH👈🏼 are excellent.
the more i see that blue, the more i want it. Got a black 2018 performance
Nate is actually considering selling his ^.^
I was too convinced this is the color I want. I don't own one yet, but damn it I will!
I wish there was a video like this for every car I have ever bought. Great Job and thank you!
Went from a MK7 R to an MK7.5 Rabbit. Always wondered why it lacked the farts. Now i know. Amazing vid!
Glad you enjoyed it George. Usually no farts of any kind is a good thing... atleast these ones have an explanation ^.^ Hope you're like Mk7.5 Rabbit life!
Getting my 2020 GTI S (DSG) in 2 days... so stoked!
so dumb. You got fooled into paying way too much.
Nice info, thanks! Proud 2017 GTI owner.
Thanks, rockervdrive!
Here in Canada, I just upgraded from an Alltrack to a Mexican (Puebla) built 2019 GTI Autobahn. This video was a lot of info.
Nice! Glad the video was helpful!
Great video. But I wish you also talked about the DCC options, the settings and how well it does/doesn't work.
Yeah, major oversight. Works extremely well, expertly judged for the street. I skip Eco and Sport, use Comort/Normal/Individual. My buddy has lowered his and it generally rides and handles like crap except on the smoothest roads.
Now on a 7.5 with 7-speed DSG and DCC. Early 19 with 7200 miles. Fantastic car. Previous car was early 2018 with 6-speed DSG and no DCC. The newer Model is head and shoulders above the earlier mode. VW clearly made a great improvement with the model by the end of 2018.
Really in-depth video of MK7 GTi. Super cool!
Glad you like it, Michael. We try to go in-depth as we can without making the video too long!
What a beautiful sight it must be to come into work every day and be greeted by those cars. I believe time will prove the Mk7 to be the last great GTI.
I mean the mk8s are already confirmed to be coming in manual, both gti and R, so we'll see.
@@MosPhed Same engine, interior and exterior is a big downgrade for me frankly.
Who confirmed the 8R in manual?
Exactly the video I needed! Many thanks 🙏
Love to hear that! You're very welcome, Ditch Green!
About to get a 2020 gti se, I can’t wait! I’ve owned my mk5 for 2 years now
Such an informative and much needed video guys. Well done!
There are only two issues in this I want to address. Painted mirror caps do not indicate an “S” trim model. I own a 2016 GTI SE w/ PP and my car has body color mirror caps.
Also, you can tell a 15-17 Performance Pack GTI by looking at the GTI badge. The performance pack models have a red “GTI” badge. The non-performance models have a chrome “GTI” badge. It’s a much easier differentiator than looking at the brakes.
vr6gls thanks for the insight! Good to know those tidbits, sorry for the misonformation, we will be sure to add that to the written form of this video!
In the market for a compact that is fun to daily for commute to work and still good on gas... Looking at Civic SI/Mazda 3/Golf GTI in manuals... what year GTI do you recommend?
We are big fans of the MK5 and MK7!
I had the 72,000 warranty for my 2019 rabbit - said EFF It b/c race car. To be fair, I've always wanted to own a turbo car and mod it..waiting 5-6 years seemed like insanity.
We agree Shayan , 5-6years is too long, and life is too short not to mod 😉 Have fun and let us know how your build goes! #becauseracekor
Fantastic review/comparison. You guys do a top notch job. Thanks.
I had no clue there’s so much trims in other countries, here in South Africa there’s only one and you can only choose seat material, colour, sunroof and digital gauges all the other things mentioned come standard
Lots of good information here, which helped me pick out my 2015 Mk7 GTI. Thanks!
Glad it helped!
OMG! You guys are AWESOME!!! Hands down thee BEST buyers guide!!! Thank you so much!!
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it!
You’re off a bit on the plaid seats only coming on the s trim. My 2018 SE came with them from the factory.
To my understanding the plaid seats were optional on the SE. My 2018 SE also has plaid seats, I purchased it used.
Paul Christiano tartan !!
Just bought a mk7 gti without doing any research.... gonna watch this very nervously
Now this man KNOWS what he's talking about.
NB has a way with words.
Just bought a 2017 passat rline 28k miles, now i really want the golf gti ! , go stage 1 and ur faster then a golf r :)
Is amazing how much quality content you guys put on this video. I’m a MQB platform owner for many years and always seem to learn something new. 🙏🏻
Fantastic content. Cant wait to get my mk7 gti 🤙🤙
im a huge fan of the GTI and im looking to buy a mark 7 very soon (2019) :D Thinking a performance edition. Thanks for a great video !
Yea, this has been most informative. Beautiful video, guys.
Trim levels are very different in Canada. There's only 3, which are Base, Autobahn and Performance. Performance cars also don't have the GTI logo on the front callipers.
I know this video is years old, but can you tell us what lowering springs the Cornflower blue Rabbit is sitting on? Looks perfect.
Sometimes I wish I got the PP with my base model S 2017 GTI, as my brakes on my base model S are horrible, but knowing I upgrade parts on my car all the time, it just made sense for me to not spend the $$ (almost $4k upgrade from factory) in the beginning for the PP. I have a Wavetrack and BBK on my list of modifications this next year, which will cost me about $3500-4000 in total (parts plus install), depending on what brand of BBK I go with, which is essentially the same price as the factory PP upgrade, but will perform a lot better than the PP.
Not everyone upgrades parts such as these, so for most people, a PP upgrade would be the best way to go, but I tend to spend way too much money on my cars on upgrades, so this route made more sense to me.
Just get better brakes stock size is fine
You all really produce some quality content. I can’t wait for summer so I can move into a GTI Autobahn or a used Golf R. Been getting tired of giving you all my money for parts on my F06 M6 competition and I miss good gas mileage 😂. Kudos chaps
Oh lovely. Look what I've stumbled upon. I've been thinking about swapping from a mazda3. The world is telling me to do it
UA-cam is telling you the stars are aligned haha
Those rabbit in blue color really stands out
i’m picking up my 2017 Gti SE this week, can’t wait
That's awesome, Cole! Congrats on the new ride! You'll love it!
FCP Euro thanks man! picking it up tomorrow
IMO 2017 SE was the best year/trim. Last year before they started cost cutting a few things plus it was the only year the SE came standard with Fender stereo (which is a nice upgrade over base) leather, pp, lp and sunroof all at once. Btw 80k miles on mine and no sunroof issues...I do park in a garage though.
@@Scowbilly honestly the only complaint i have is the rattling all over the interior. my hatch, dash and seats all rattle but fuck it. i can barely hear it over a turboback exhaust
Thinking of taking the plunge and picking one of these up in the next couple of years. Wow-- very strong advice against buying one with a sunroof. Knowing this, I'll narrow my search to a 2017 Sport manual that comes with performance pack and no sunroof.
Good luck on your search! These are awesome cars, you won't regret it!
in the market for a DD, thanks for the great content! true, mk7/7.5 prices will drop when mk8 are on sell in north america, will wait to save some depreciation
This video is awesome I’m getting a 2021 S later this year
On ShopDap I saw the oil pump had a different part number for the DKFA engine, which takes 0w-20. Now I gotta go put the VW 508 oil back in when my 5w-30 interval is done. I'm sure 5w-30 was fine though since I live in Arizona. The oil is already easy to flow.
Amazing video. Best mk7 vid out.
Bought a mk7 golf(Regular not a GTI) and I'm happy that I saved like 10 thousand and still got more features than most of those GTIs, like the sunroof, double U lights, electric seats with full leather and dual climate control. With that 10,000 saved I can upgrade the brakes and get a tune that will bring me to a much higher spec GTI(Yes I know not exactly the same) but I'm glad I saved. Also, have had my sunroof mk7 for over 7 months now and it has been perfectly fine.
Awesome video!
My 2018 GTI is confusing. It has features of an s and an SE as well as the performance pack even though I'm sure it doesn't have it. I have the GTI logos on the brakes, a sunroof and the bigger infotainment system, and plaid seats
DSG was introduced in the USA, 2004 in the MK1 Audi TT 3.2! But was first introduced worldwide in the Volkswagen MK4 R32!
I have a 2021 GTI S with the red badges, gti painted on my front brakes, but my infotainment is of the smaller screen, and I don't have the digital display. Is mine the performance pack?
Damn. Two years ago 15k for a gti Autobahn with 20kish miles. Man times are tough
Although I'm from Europe, this video was very useful, thank you! Been wanting GTI Performance DSG year 15/16 for quite awhile now, 2020 might be the year I finally buy it :)) Have the same car right now, just that it's 1.4 TSI, love it, just needs "mo powah baby".
Would have one question though. You said we (Europe) have port injetion version. Which one would that be?
European MK7 GTI's and R's have both direct and port injection.
@@lancevancedance454 yup, checked the same data, im going for the mk7 instead of mk7.5 too. Only thing that I would want in mk7 is digital cockpit :) Have one ad watched, just gotta import it from Germany, hopefully it will go through.
I have a 2019 jetta GLI and thinking of changing for a 2021 GTI in cornflower blue, my GLI has a sunroof that has been changed once already and has been giving me problems till now. My dealership in Montreal Canada has told me last week that I'm going to need to replace it again. What to do? Now that I saw your video I'm thinking keep the problem that I have or go for a GTI with 15000 klm and sunroof sounds ok!!!
Hi, I found your video to be very informative. I have a 2019 VW GTI SE AUTOBAHN and Jay has stated that the Autobahn Edition has a fully adjustable drivers seat and the dual climate controls. I purchased my car on
January 27, 2020. I’ve heard this in a lot of videos I’ve seen on UA-cam. I want to make sure that I’m absolutely sure that this was a standard option on my model year before I confront the dealership.
Please help me verify that my car is correct in this standard option.
Hi, David. Glad you found the video informative! You should probably confirm with your VIN number whether you have an SE or an Autobahn. I don't believe there is an SE Autobahn, only SE or Autobahn.
I'm checking a 2015 gti and a 2016. Wich us better?
Thanks
Will be a first gti for me.
I been trying to get one for 10 years
great video! really interested in the mk7.5 and just waiting for prices to drop a bit. Wondering if theres any differences with the remaining 7.5 models from 2020 and 2021 vs. the 2019?
Red GTI logos on the grill and trunk are the easiest giveaways of a performance pack car
I was looking for cars this year, to buy one in one or two years and i see GTI very nice priced, like here in Spain i can buy a Golf GTI 7.5 TCR with 40-70k KM for 26-30k, and Mercedes A, BMW Serie 1, and all that are for 40-50k, even there are R for 35,36k, what would be the best buy? A GTI 7.5 TCR 290CV DSG? I don't want to waste so much money, but maybe the R is worth it for the AWD, or a TCR is a good option between price and performance..
I want a DCC, DSG, VAQ, PP. 2015 or 2016 and then do the 7.5 lighting update
I just bought my first Volkswagen. 2017 gti s
Great video - only thing I would add - and I wish I would have known before purchasing my '19 SE, is the differences in the drivers assistance package. I thought my '19 SE was essentially fully loaded, but since they made the Golf R mechanical bits (VAQ, brakes) standard, they took away from the drivers assistance package. My 19 only has the front assistance, backup assistance, and blind spot detection. Whereas the earlier models got lane assist, park assist, and adaptive cruise control.
Of course, in a performance car, I'd much rather have the LSD and brakes over some "safety" features :)
I just acquired a 2016 Volkswagen golf GTI Autobahn with DSG and I'm concerned that the clutches will last in this transmission in stop and go traffic and driving the vehicle on hills I do not see a auto hold button by the shifter so how should I drive it on hills so it does not roll back
I wish you could get the SE or Autobahn trims with the plaid seats
Sometimes you can find someone to swap, but it was indeed an odd choice for VW not to offer them as theyre unique.
You can. My 2018 SE has plaid seats from the factory.
Just got a 2019 cornflower blue rabbit addition :) only got 15k km
What are the most impactful upgrades for a 2019 GTI? Does getting a cold air intake help? Might get a used one at 40k miles, should i replace anything or just keep up with maintenance?
Good steady maintenance, and suspension upgrades from our friends at 034 Motorsport always help!
regarding the mk7/7.5, im thinking about getting the manual but I’m still torn between the auto or manual. it would be my first manual car but ive only heard good things from the dsg
They are truly both great choices, you have our support on either one!
Your link for the light upgrade is only for halogen light upgrade and not if my car already has the lighting package.
Any recommendation for 2017 SE lighting package upgrade to mk 7.5 lights? I really like the dual led setup.
Amazing video, thanks
Thank you for watching Arran, glad you liked it!
@@fcpeuro although I might be buying a 7.5 R 🤣
Great content 👌
Question: im thinking about getting a 2019 rabbit dsg, I've read there's issues with the front assist auto braking, like it'll brake for no reason, is there a way to permanently turn it off 🤔
Thanks 🙂
Just got myself a 2017 gti sport!
Nice, Luke! Congrats on the new purchase!
FCP Euro thank you! Y’all have a great and comprehensive video on the mk7’s.
Dope congrats
I wish I watched this before I bout my 2019 facelift and just waited several months
I wish you guys race the GTI plataform again.
Nice video...MK5 is getting a bit old now, so i'll wait another year for mk7 to dip under £10,000 used (uk). I love that blue colour! Is it painted or wrapped? doesn't look like a factory colour? thanks.
Thanks, Kaiser. That blue is a factory color called Cornflower Blue only available on the Rabbit edition GTI.
You'll be waiting about 10 years for the mk7 to dip under 10k mate.
You'll be waiting awhile for a good one at least, plenty of crashed repaired on the market atm for around £11+k
Are all the limited slip front differentials offered on US spec mk7 GTIs the same or did they differ over the model years 2015-2021 or between sport package ordered separately vs included with trip levels such as Autobahn or Rabbit editions ? Did they move from a real mechanical haldex system to some electronic simulation ? Do any versions of 'differentials' use brakes for torque vectoring ? What is the difference between VAQ and XDS/XDS+ ? Or should I just get a Wavetrac ?
Hey thanks for your question! There is no difference between the VAQ active differential as used on any of the 2015+ Performance Pack, Autobahn, or 2019+ GTI S / Rabbit Edition variants. There is a difference in the programming depending on the drive mode of the car (Eco, Normal, or Sport), or the market it is sold in. For example, the European GTI and GTI Clubsport have a more aggressive Sport VAQ program from the factory, similar to the one used on the GTI TCR DSG.
The VAQ system is an add-on active torque vectoring computer-controlled clutch system and is as you noted, it is very similar to how Haldex works in a 4MOTION set up. The VAQ is a "real" differential in that it is not using the brakes to control torque, it is actively splitting the power between the two front wheels. XDS programming is attempting to do the job of the limited-slip differential by using the ABS and braking system and is not the same thing as the VAQ. XDS+ is the combination of XDS programming and the VAQ system being utilized at the same time. XDS/XDS+ can be fully to mostly disabled on most Mk7s (but not the 2019+) by changing programming inside of the ABS module and turning off the "Starting vibration reduction" function.
If you have a non Performance Pack model, going with a proper limited-slip torque-biasing differential like the Wavetrac will yield better results than trying to add the VAQ system. If you have a Performance Pack model with the VAQ, there isn't any real reason to add a Wavetrac unless you were experiencing major issues with power delivery. As proven by the GTI TCR DSG which uses the VAQ diff, the system itself is able to withstand quite a bit of use and abuse.
@@fcpeuro Thank you so much for a thoroughly informative answer. I am hoping tuners like you, Cobb, and APR, are one day able to offer a sport++ mode program overlay.
With so much of the drivetrain and more being computer controlled 100% the time in drive by wire modern cars, the distinction between under driver control and under X-'safety'-system intervention is lost amongst a near infinite continuum of adjustments.
Does the 2020 GLI have the DKFA motor? You said it has different internals? Is it a better platform?
Coming from a f30 bmw, gotta say the gti se is so much more fun to drive
are you sure man? I have totaled my 2016 328i now I want to get 2018 gti s, but I heard 328i gaps gti
which MK7 has the famous Crank walk issue?..and which MK7 year most reliable?
I own a 2016 S with a manual and I didn’t get the performance pack. Is there any way to retrofit the module for the VAQ E-differential and code it so it works on a standard car?
I am really on the fence of buying an Mk7.5 while I can or waiting for model year one of the Mk8. What are you opinions? I think I owe it to see the Mk 8 in person before I decide.
Definitely go for mk7 or mk7 facelift. VW did so much savings on mk8.
did they ever get round to fixing the pano roof issues?
is the panoramic roof different to the sunroof? because I found a nice gti but it has the panoramic roof
So the 2019 rabbit doesn’t do dsg farts at all or can I put on an aftermarket exhaust and get farts out of it??
Great video
So all the MK7 have a cracking issue with the panoramic sunroof?
You said performance package is standard on se and autobahn but I have a 15 mk7 gti autobahn and it has the basic brakes it doesn't say gti on them so I'm confused?
When will the helix headlights be back in stock? Thanks
The red GTI autobahn at 3:00 in is the gti I bought Lmaoo
Do Audi A4s B9 generation also suffer with moonroof problems?
Can you clarify on the sunroof problems? Are the leaking/squeaking/cracking issues isolated to the smaller sunroof on the older models? Or does it affect the later panoramic roofs as well?
That very much includes the large panoramic sunroof cars.
Such a great video! Thank you
Thank YOU for watching!