I am a guy who really likes Ford cars, but I have to admit that the new Golf mk7 is totally the best car money can buy, no wonder it was awarded world car of the year award 1. the 1.8 TSI feels stronger than the 2.5 engine of Mazda 2. DSG gearbox or regular AT all manufacturers should study from VW how to tune cars, its efficient as well as responsive 3.The ride comfort,seriously the Golfs ride quality can easily rival a BMW 3 series,Audi A6,or any comfort champs we can throw at it, the worlds best balance betweeen stiffness and softness, VW nails it 4.Interior quality makes me think why should i buy an audi,mercedes,BMW etc when VW offers quality to match these brands 5.despite being bigger than Golf outside,inside and more spacious and more rear legroom still it feels and it is lighter than Focus Damn VW they are 2 good for the competition now, except the BORING styl;ing
That's the case in USA but elsewhere its absolutely the best,I dont know what's going on with America,Audi which is 95% VW is one of the most reliable brands among luxury brands, then why not VW Anyway even though I like Ford cars ,after driving the new 7th gen golf I was totally blown away,ultra quiet,ultra comfy,handles as good as a Ford focus,better mpg than focus,has lots of space inside,quality and solidity is typical built like tank feel, If VW sorts out reliability issue in USA then all other brands will het hit hard that they 'll take another Mark model to recover,trusts me the new golf is that good
***** yup that might true,actually the same is happening for Ford as well,the reliability issue came solely because of American engineers failure,the ecoboost has been in Europe and it never had this kind of reliability issues but in US,the only thing people know about and mend are imports and they totally forgot their own products and engineering skills, they have no idea of modern technology or anything, they are either old school or phd in making people fools or too lazy to improvise , Had a chance to visit Dearborn plant where escape was assembled and I was totally disappointed with how misinformed the workers of that place where,they knew nothing about turbo charging, they were given classes about ecoboost and new types of technology used in modern global c platform cars,and these people were like having fun and they just knew the outline of something that's going on that's it,they didn't have any true idea of the new tech, In contrast if we go to a Japanese brands factory they are all well versed and most importantly it's very strict, they do things in time and all have some urge to do work unlike Ford where people seemed like they have no passion for job but work just for money
jandj Godwin They definitely have no passion at all for anything automotive. Every time I visited my local Ford dealership they were just assholes. I had my car serviced there and they used the cheapest used parts and called them "new", had to take it to another place to fix the crap they had done to it. After they "serviced" it, they gave it a free "wash". It was dirtier when I got it then when I left it. I called them out on that and said they were acting very unprofessionally. They said they had no comment on the issue and that I should leave. Never buying Ford, never going to one of their dealers. Also, their new cars are so tiny I can't even fit in them comfortably (I'm 6'1). I now drive a MB and I'm much happier with it than any of Ford's shit boxes. The dealership is very professional and easy to talk to. They even polish your car when it's serviced.
Yet again, Roman gets the car review onto UA-cam whilst the other car channels are still lying in bed. I'm really starting to like TFLC's no nonsense approach to car reviews.
juppongatana773 they never said anything about it being made in the US. They said they were sad about it not being made in Germany. that has nothing to do with USA immigration
I don't understand why VW provided automotive journalist with the base, 2.0i Impreza and then crossed tested it with a mid-trim, S model Golf. A better and more accurate comparison would have been between the Impreza 2.0i Premium Hatchback (MSRP: $21,590) and the Golf S Four Door (MSPR: $21,515). The premium, despite only being one step above the base model, is a far nicer car with a lot more features. And having seen a lot of the comments I can agree that the interior of Subaru's are bland, but I also think it should be noted that they are simple to use, well laid out, and finally have good quality materials in them, which is something that can't be said about the previous generation Impreza. Furthermore, regarding the CVT, Subaru has done its best to address one of the chief issues with their cars, which was fuel economy and I think with the use of the CVT they have achieved a great benchmark while being class leading in the CVT segment. Would I have the manual? Absolutely. And being a car guy I would even pay more to have the manual, but for the average driver the CVT cars do everything they need to do well. And do I think the Impreza needs a more powerful engine? Yes. I can't understand why Subaru wouldn't put the 2.0L unit from the BRZ or the 2.5L unit from the Forester in the Impreza and equip the cars with a 6-Speed manual or at least make those options offered. It would make a world of difference. But, with all of that in mind, I would still choose the Impreza over the other two cars that were tested. There is no denying that the other two are more fun and quicker cars, but living in NY and having driven Subaru's as a job I can see that when the snow or bad weather comes they are the perfect, safe, reliable, practical, and fuel efficient automotive companion.
Blah blah blah CVT in the Subaru.... Here's an idea, get one with the 5spd manual like I did. Plenty fun to drive. I realize that you have to drive the vehicle they give you for these reviews but at least noting that the CVT isn't the only option would be nice. It's also worth noting that the Impreza was the only base model in the group. For the price of that Focus you can get the Sport Premium Impreza with 17" gray alloys, roof rails, heated seats, etc, etc. The interior is still pretty bland but very functional. For me the AWD was very worth the tradeoff for not having lots of gadgets inside.
Yeah, those hubcaps are hideous. I like the WRX STi, not those fuel efficient, slow Subarus. Not that I hate fuel efficiency, but you know what I mean.
kirbyswarp I don't think the base Subaru models were ever all that exciting. I this Subaru has done a good job with the new FA/FB engines. However the GC8 is still my favorite Subaru.
I have the manual transmission impreza and it's a much more fun car. Worse MPG (29 combined) I suppose, but you can actually access the torque band. And it's very chuckable in the corners - I like the chassis a bunch.
The golf is in a different league when you sit inside of it you feel like your sitting in a luxury expensive car it's a nice place to be it looks good from the outside has plenty of room in the back and the boot is massive also the se model is very well equipped and the dsg 1.6 tdi is quick and also very economical personally golf is the best in its class nothing comes anywhere near it
I loved VW's but my last two left me dead on the side of the road. The first Golf's wiring harness in the engine compartment shorted out and melted causing catastrophic failures beyond economical repair. Then my Jetta, after replacing a Cat Converter, shocks, strut mounts etc, simultaneously blew a head gasket and timing belt and left me stranded in a snow storm. Both were absolutely horrible in the snow. I went with the 2015 Subaru. I just drove back and forth to the store in 6 inches of snow with no issues. I never would have made it home in the Jetta. So for New England Weather and for long term reliability the VW is out for me. If I move to CA or FL I would reconsider. But I will take any performance trade off to be sure I can actually make it back home alive or without having to call a tow truck.
Subaru fixed a lot of their main complaints with the 2014 Impreza in the 2015 model. Added paddle shifters to allow for a simulated shifting with the CVT, thicker glass to reduce background road noise, and the interior has a lot more room than you would think. Yes it's interior isn't fancy but it's a not a luxury car, it's Subaru's base model, and for under $21k with AWD in my opinion, it's a solid option for those that live in the North where snow is a problem. I personally enjoy my Impreza, don't really have any negatives except for small OCD things (example the garage door opener buttons in the review mirror aren't back lit so at night you can't see them).
does this mean that VW will also import the Amorok into the US as it's made in Argentina ?? !! Especially the 2 litre diesel, 8 speed automatic gearbox !!!
sic22l Really ?? except they are getting refreshed in 2015 !! Does this look like the "EXACT" Same car? www.caranddriver.com/news/2015-ford-focus-photos-and-info-news
Andrew Tewes Yes, Focus will get different grille and smoked reflectors, Impreza even less than that. Technically both cars will be identical (the same suspensions, drivetrains etc.).
+Checkm8king2 Really? I drove a 2015 Focus SE in San Fran area and despite the steep gradients the transmission felt great (more so than the Mercedes CLA's DCT unit).
Checkm8king2 I know the 2012-14 models had issues with erratic shifts and all, but on the 2015 facelift rental I had it was pretty good. Perhaps new software fixed this issue?
Mazda is ok but its loud, here I can go as fast as 140 km/h on a highway. I cant stand more then 1h at that speed in loud 2014 mazda 3... But shure its buti car with great ride...
It's good to see VW finally making a respectable gas-powered version of the Golf. The MPG on the previous gen was so bad it wasn't even worth consideration, while the TDI version is so much more expensive, it competes more with mid-sized hybrids than cars like the Focus and Impreza.
VW kinda cheated by bringing the cheapest Subaru available. Going up to a more comparable $24k car would give you proper 17" wheels, all disc brakes, and manual shift option to the CVT (it's not perfect, but it helps with the "sportiness" of the car).
why you didnt use the 2.0 NA golf? you made the golf have a much better engine compared. put a turbo on the other two and then compare it. since you wanted to use base engines vs a ringer car.
SKEMETUBE if your gonna do an automatic gearbox do the Golf or Forte. I own a Focus, and the DCT gearbox isn't that great. Plus the Golf and Forte have more room.
Roman you're doing a great job sir! The seventh gen Golf is really nice, (sat in it the other day) but I think VW purposely forgot to include the new Mazda3 in this comparison because that car is pretty sweet given it's price and package. Credit goes to VW for reducing the price while simultaneously maintaining quality and offering a fantastic base engine. Thank goodness that 2.5l is gone! One major faux paw with the new golf is the 5 speed manual. VW needs to get with the times and offer at the very least a 6th gear for additional fuel savings. Can't wait to see what tuners will do with that 1.8L Turbo!
You weren't in San Francisco but in Richmond. Also, the design elements in the Golf were not "disparaging" but "disparate." As to the comparison itself, it's unfair because the Golf is 2015, the other two 2014 models. It's already clear that in the case of the Focus significant changes are in the works for 2015, which should change the equation significantly.
Thanks Roman for another good video. Just curious to know how you'd feel about the Impreza if it had a manual trans instead of the CVT. I'm presuming that those are available with a stick. Also, what are your thoughts on overall quality, which of these three cars provide the best long-term reliability?
Is the current Golf a reliable car? I am looking at the 1.8T and 6 speed (regular) torque converter automatic. I've heard that the automatic is a bit lazy to shift, as it is probably programmed for fuel economy over performance. I am looking to replace my Ford Focus (it's a great driver's car with a horribly unreliable transmission) with a SEL (Highline in Canada) Golf 1.8T with automatic. Current Golf drivers: have any of you had any big mechanical failures with the 1.8T and automatic? Any minor or major electrical problems? I have heard that the Mark VII was a big stepping stone for VW reliability, in that it is a lot better. I really want to stay away from a CVT (which eliminates a lot of choices) because I don't feel that a CVT is that reliable in the long run.
@@johncrawford1320 I ended up with a RAV4 hybrid (2019). It's a total appliance vehicle. I was still a bit reluctant to buy a VW, but I know that the Golfs I have test-driven are so much fun to drive, and they weren't even GTIs/Rs! If you are still looking, I'd probably stick with a 1.8T, as the 1.4 TSI isn't as refined, I feel.
please try to do a better job on Audio editing. your voice is mixed too quiet and the music is mixed too loud and it keeps jumping from whispering to blasting. at least if you're listening on headphones or big speakers.
I'm afraid that Roman and Nathan will have to come to grip with the fact that CVT transmission technology is here to stay until something better comes along. Not only is it here to stay but pressure on manufacturers to improve fuel efficiency will cause it to be used on more and more models. Sorry, that's progress??
sic22l The new Focus just debuted at a car show like last month and they'll be on sale in September. Same with the Impreza, the new WRX was just released so you can guarantee there will be a new base Impreza real soon
Kris Demers It's not new Focus, it's old Focus with new reflectors. You're incorrect about the Impreza as well. New WRX is based on current Impreza. It has different reflectors because Subaru wants to separate WRX as a unique model.
I think my biggest issue with this video is that there are a few omissions. While I can't pretend that I know as much about the Subaru or the VW, I am a Ford salesman and that focus is an SE (mid-level) with the option of leather. It has the non-touch screen MyFord, and doesn't seem to be comparably equipped to the VW which has both leather and a touchscreen that I do know is optional. My suspicion is only further enhanced by the fact that the price of the ford as tested and the subaru as tested are given, while the volkswagen is knot given a price as tested. I have no problem admitting that it's awesome that you can get leather, touchscreen, and a small turbo engine in the vw, I want to make sure that the pricing is actually comparable. I will also concede that it's upsetting that the focus is offered with a 1.6L turbo abroad but not here in the states. It would be much more comparable to the vw.
If Subaru refresh the Impreza, with more standard features and improved interior and exterior styling and quality, then it will draw attention to buyers. The Legacy, Outback, Forester, and XV Crosstrek have good interiors, but the Legacy and Outback have much better quality.
Mahin Ahmed Not really, boot space is large and even for me (193cm or 6ft 3 and bit) it is rather spacious on the inside, especially in the rear with front seats in my position.
I buy the focus assembled in America and Is am American brand profits stay here doesn't go over seas BE PROUD support our economic support your country keep jobs here.
My Ford Contour was built in Mexico. I have owned it now for 19 years and it is pushing 200,000 miles.We have had very few problems with it, until recently . The most bizarre thing is a reoccurring ignition switch issue in which the key is first difficult to remove or insert and twice now I have had the key actually get stuck in the ignition.The new switch seems to last a year before the problem reappears. A locksmith told me he has seen similar problems on the Focus and Edge. Other than that it is mostly fit and finish issues.She is getting tired, but as far as reliability with the motor, trans, and electrical she has been aces.Not bad for a former rental car built in Mecheco
Focus is built in Michigan and designed, engineered, and some of the parts are from Spain and Germany. I own one, and besides the DCT gearbox it's great.
So many stupid comments... I actually considered buying the 2015 GTI, but it wasn't available two months ago so i had to forego the purchase and get myself a new Scion
I wonder what his response would be to a CVT if he didn't ave the auditory input? Everything else seems good. I think he's just looking for vrooom, vrooom, vroom.
It seems that when u get a Subaru it comes with a VT or CO license plate. They are like the state cars, and yup I have an 2012 Outback, sigh I'm one of the sheep. :(
I can't stand that CVT drone. Any car with a CVT gets crossed right off my shopping list. Too bad, I really like the looks of the new Murano. Thank goodness Nissan didn't ruin its Infiniti division also.
Everybody always talks shit about subaru but they picked the base model. I have a sport limited 2012 but they really couldn't have picked a higher model. Smh subaru is better than most cars
Gregory Perkins You can call it this way. On the other hand they don't have to redesign their cars completely to make clients forget about shitty predecessors by shocking them wth some flamboyant lines (that will get old quickly).
My word Roman. You gave me a start there. The GTI is forty years old??? I was only 19 when the it showed up. I would have guessed later. BTW I love Emmy. It's not that she's female. It's that she's female and she prefers manual transmissions. She even says manual some of the time. Manual vs stick shift that is. When I was young people who said stick shift were not considered real cars guys. Real car guys say manual. Hoo Ha.
If you guys don't quit reviewing only automatic cars I'm going to have to consider unsubscribing. The people watching this are generally enthusiasts, this isn't consumer reports. Review the right version if you can.
When auto manufactures have u test their models against the competitors. Do they buy those models right from a dealer? Or do they work together and share their models among each other?
The Golf is the best car of the three
Problem with Golf, especially if you're buying used, so few people have purchased them. You have to go clear out of your way to find a good deal.
Next, do an ST/GTI/WRX matchup
Yes, please.
Oooooh yeah
I am a guy who really likes Ford cars, but I have to admit that the new Golf mk7 is totally the best car money can buy, no wonder it was awarded world car of the year award
1. the 1.8 TSI feels stronger than the 2.5 engine of Mazda
2. DSG gearbox or regular AT all manufacturers should study from VW how to tune cars, its efficient as well as responsive
3.The ride comfort,seriously the Golfs ride quality can easily rival a BMW 3 series,Audi A6,or any comfort champs we can throw at it, the worlds best balance betweeen stiffness and softness, VW nails it
4.Interior quality makes me think why should i buy an audi,mercedes,BMW etc when VW offers quality to match these brands
5.despite being bigger than Golf outside,inside and more spacious and more rear legroom still it feels and it is lighter than Focus
Damn VW they are 2 good for the competition now, except the BORING styl;ing
But there's a nagging issue of reliability and maintenance/ownership costs.
Add to the fact it is the first model year + new Mexican factory.
seems like you have never owned a VW. Probably one of the most unreliable car manufacturers there is.
That's the case in USA but elsewhere its absolutely the best,I dont know what's going on with America,Audi which is 95% VW is one of the most reliable brands among luxury brands, then why not VW
Anyway even though I like Ford cars ,after driving the new 7th gen golf I was totally blown away,ultra quiet,ultra comfy,handles as good as a Ford focus,better mpg than focus,has lots of space inside,quality and solidity is typical built like tank feel,
If VW sorts out reliability issue in USA then all other brands will het hit hard that they 'll take another Mark model to recover,trusts me the new golf is that good
***** yup that might true,actually the same is happening for Ford as well,the reliability issue came solely because of American engineers failure,the ecoboost has been in Europe and it never had this kind of reliability issues but in US,the only thing people know about and mend are imports and they totally forgot their own products and engineering skills, they have no idea of modern technology or anything, they are either old school or phd in making people fools or too lazy to improvise ,
Had a chance to visit Dearborn plant where escape was assembled and I was totally disappointed with how misinformed the workers of that place where,they knew nothing about turbo charging, they were given classes about ecoboost and new types of technology used in modern global c platform cars,and these people were like having fun and they just knew the outline of something that's going on that's it,they didn't have any true idea of the new tech,
In contrast if we go to a Japanese brands factory they are all well versed and most importantly it's very strict, they do things in time and all have some urge to do work unlike Ford where people seemed like they have no passion for job but work just for money
jandj Godwin They definitely have no passion at all for anything automotive.
Every time I visited my local Ford dealership they were just assholes. I had my car serviced there and they used the cheapest used parts and called them "new", had to take it to another place to fix the crap they had done to it. After they "serviced" it, they gave it a free "wash". It was dirtier when I got it then when I left it. I called them out on that and said they were acting very unprofessionally. They said they had no comment on the issue and that I should leave. Never buying Ford, never going to one of their dealers.
Also, their new cars are so tiny I can't even fit in them comfortably (I'm 6'1).
I now drive a MB and I'm much happier with it than any of Ford's shit boxes. The dealership is very professional and easy to talk to. They even polish your car when it's serviced.
Yet again, Roman gets the car review onto UA-cam whilst the other car channels are still lying in bed. I'm really starting to like TFLC's no nonsense approach to car reviews.
I'm sad about how our US version isn't made in Germany anymore...
Its better that it is made in Mexico. More jobs in Mexico= less illegals here= more jobs here.
juppongatana773 they never said anything about it being made in the US. They said they were sad about it not being made in Germany. that has nothing to do with USA immigration
gamerguy348 the e-golf is.
They've been making US Volkswagens in Mexico for quite some time now... Since the 90's I believe but could be wrong
gamerguy348 doesn't matter
I don't understand why VW provided automotive journalist with the base, 2.0i Impreza and then crossed tested it with a mid-trim, S model Golf. A better and more accurate comparison would have been between the Impreza 2.0i Premium Hatchback (MSRP: $21,590) and the Golf S Four Door (MSPR: $21,515). The premium, despite only being one step above the base model, is a far nicer car with a lot more features. And having seen a lot of the comments I can agree that the interior of Subaru's are bland, but I also think it should be noted that they are simple to use, well laid out, and finally have good quality materials in them, which is something that can't be said about the previous generation Impreza. Furthermore, regarding the CVT, Subaru has done its best to address one of the chief issues with their cars, which was fuel economy and I think with the use of the CVT they have achieved a great benchmark while being class leading in the CVT segment. Would I have the manual? Absolutely. And being a car guy I would even pay more to have the manual, but for the average driver the CVT cars do everything they need to do well. And do I think the Impreza needs a more powerful engine? Yes. I can't understand why Subaru wouldn't put the 2.0L unit from the BRZ or the 2.5L unit from the Forester in the Impreza and equip the cars with a 6-Speed manual or at least make those options offered. It would make a world of difference. But, with all of that in mind, I would still choose the Impreza over the other two cars that were tested. There is no denying that the other two are more fun and quicker cars, but living in NY and having driven Subaru's as a job I can see that when the snow or bad weather comes they are the perfect, safe, reliable, practical, and fuel efficient automotive companion.
Golf S is the base model Golf. The mid trim is the SE and the top trim is the SEL. So they are spot on in their choice.
Blah blah blah CVT in the Subaru.... Here's an idea, get one with the 5spd manual like I did. Plenty fun to drive. I realize that you have to drive the vehicle they give you for these reviews but at least noting that the CVT isn't the only option would be nice. It's also worth noting that the Impreza was the only base model in the group. For the price of that Focus you can get the Sport Premium Impreza with 17" gray alloys, roof rails, heated seats, etc, etc. The interior is still pretty bland but very functional. For me the AWD was very worth the tradeoff for not having lots of gadgets inside.
This is close competition, I'd be interested in the 2015 Focus 1.0L ecoboost vs. Imprezza manual vs. Golf TDI.
It's worth noting that you can get the Impreza with a 5 speed manual.
I like hatchbacks. I prefer the interior of the Golf to the Focus. Overall I'm kind of torn between the Golf and the Elantra GT.
You forgot to mention the Subaru's sub-par interior, boring/cheap looks (the hubcaps).
I used to like Subaru, but this isnt the subaru I used to know.
Yeah, those hubcaps are hideous. I like the WRX STi, not those fuel efficient, slow Subarus. Not that I hate fuel efficiency, but you know what I mean.
gt5guy55 Yeah, as a Subaru owner, these are Corolla posers. not in any way real Subarus that we all knew and loved.
kirbyswarp I don't think the base Subaru models were ever all that exciting. I this Subaru has done a good job with the new FA/FB engines. However the GC8 is still my favorite Subaru.
As a long time Subaru fan and owner, I don't think any Impreza were exciting
TT They were atleast decent. I'd Totally drive a 2005 Impreza hatchback. especially in manual form. I almost bought a 2.5 2006 hatch.
What is the title of the intro music?
I have the manual transmission impreza and it's a much more fun car. Worse MPG (29 combined) I suppose, but you can actually access the torque band. And it's very chuckable in the corners - I like the chassis a bunch.
The golf is in a different league when you sit inside of it you feel like your sitting in a luxury expensive car it's a nice place to be it looks good from the outside has plenty of room in the back and the boot is massive also the se model is very well equipped and the dsg 1.6 tdi is quick and also very economical personally golf is the best in its class nothing comes anywhere near it
I loved VW's but my last two left me dead on the side of the road. The first Golf's wiring harness in the engine compartment shorted out and melted causing catastrophic failures beyond economical repair. Then my Jetta, after replacing a Cat Converter, shocks, strut mounts etc, simultaneously blew a head gasket and timing belt and left me stranded in a snow storm. Both were absolutely horrible in the snow. I went with the 2015 Subaru. I just drove back and forth to the store in 6 inches of snow with no issues. I never would have made it home in the Jetta. So for New England Weather and for long term reliability the VW is out for me. If I move to CA or FL I would reconsider. But I will take any performance trade off to be sure I can actually make it back home alive or without having to call a tow truck.
Subaru fixed a lot of their main complaints with the 2014 Impreza in the 2015 model. Added paddle shifters to allow for a simulated shifting with the CVT, thicker glass to reduce background road noise, and the interior has a lot more room than you would think. Yes it's interior isn't fancy but it's a not a luxury car, it's Subaru's base model, and for under $21k with AWD in my opinion, it's a solid option for those that live in the North where snow is a problem. I personally enjoy my Impreza, don't really have any negatives except for small OCD things (example the garage door opener buttons in the review mirror aren't back lit so at night you can't see them).
does this mean that VW will also import the Amorok into the US as it's made in Argentina ?? !!
Especially the 2 litre diesel, 8 speed automatic gearbox !!!
Hmm, i wonder if VW will do the same thing when and make the comparison fair when the 2015 focus, and 2015 impreza come out??
They'll be exactly the same cars.
sic22l Really ?? except they are getting refreshed in 2015 !!
Does this look like the "EXACT" Same car?
www.caranddriver.com/news/2015-ford-focus-photos-and-info-news
Andrew Tewes Yes, Focus will get different grille and smoked reflectors, Impreza even less than that. Technically both cars will be identical (the same suspensions, drivetrains etc.).
I'd take the Subaru for the AWD but with a manual transmission.
The Focus weak point is the flawed DCT transmission...avoid at a costs!
+Checkm8king2 Really? I drove a 2015 Focus SE in San Fran area and despite the steep gradients the transmission felt great (more so than the Mercedes CLA's DCT unit).
Trades46 I suggest you Google Ford Focus transmission issues...It will really surprise you.
Checkm8king2 I know the 2012-14 models had issues with erratic shifts and all, but on the 2015 facelift rental I had it was pretty good. Perhaps new software fixed this issue?
Trades46 I hope so...My 2013 almost got me in an accident.
+Trades46 go to car complaints dot com and search up ford focus 2014. Yikes on the transmission!
That's in Richmond I just went to spocom there last saturday
I think the Mazda 3 Grand Touring 2.5 L is better.
Yes but that one doesn't compete with these, the Mazda 3 2.0L competes with these. Still the 2.5L is probably the best of its class.
I agree with there, but if it's my money i still gonna buy the Mazda 3 2.5 L GT
Ya me too! Zoom zoom
Mazda is ok but its loud, here I can go as fast as 140 km/h on a highway. I cant stand more then 1h at that speed in loud 2014 mazda 3... But shure its buti car with great ride...
Too bad the 2.5 doesn't offer manual yet, while the 2.0 does. So my choice: Mazda3 2.0 GT manual.
It's good to see VW finally making a respectable gas-powered version of the Golf. The MPG on the previous gen was so bad it wasn't even worth consideration, while the TDI version is so much more expensive, it competes more with mid-sized hybrids than cars like the Focus and Impreza.
VW kinda cheated by bringing the cheapest Subaru available. Going up to a more comparable $24k car would give you proper 17" wheels, all disc brakes, and manual shift option to the CVT (it's not perfect, but it helps with the "sportiness" of the car).
thanks for taking the time to do this! It helps my wife out a lot!
What's all the liquid falls out of exhaust from impreza and focus??
the 2015s have a totally different look inside and out . please change toy false advertising title (reporting)
why you didnt use the 2.0 NA golf? you made the golf have a much better engine compared. put a turbo on the other two and then compare it. since you wanted to use base engines vs a ringer car.
The 1.8t is the base engine for the golf
hmm... well damn. it seems so. i thiought they was still using the 2.0 NA
I'm deciding between these 3 and the Forte 5 SX. Which gets you the best for the money? I have a daughter so I do need the cargo room.
SKEMETUBE if your gonna do an automatic gearbox do the Golf or Forte. I own a Focus, and the DCT gearbox isn't that great. Plus the Golf and Forte have more room.
Roman you're doing a great job sir! The seventh gen Golf is really nice, (sat in it the other day) but I think VW purposely forgot to include the new Mazda3 in this comparison because that car is pretty sweet given it's price and package. Credit goes to VW for reducing the price while simultaneously maintaining quality and offering a fantastic base engine. Thank goodness that 2.5l is gone! One major faux paw with the new golf is the 5 speed manual. VW needs to get with the times and offer at the very least a 6th gear for additional fuel savings. Can't wait to see what tuners will do with that 1.8L Turbo!
I think since they are economy cars they should have manual transmissions.
What's the point of a hot hatch without a manual transmission?
PS I love simple controls e.g. the three rotary knobs.
You weren't in San Francisco but in Richmond. Also, the design elements in the Golf were not "disparaging" but "disparate." As to the comparison itself, it's unfair because the Golf is 2015, the other two 2014 models. It's already clear that in the case of the Focus significant changes are in the works for 2015, which should change the equation significantly.
Thanks Roman for another good video. Just curious to know how you'd feel about the Impreza if it had a manual trans instead of the CVT. I'm presuming that those are available with a stick. Also, what are your thoughts on overall quality, which of these three cars provide the best long-term reliability?
Roman, would you care to explain to me, exactly, how you know my mother likes rotary knobs ??????
What the...!!?? What happened to the spin in the '84 GTI??!!
Is the current Golf a reliable car? I am looking at the 1.8T and 6 speed (regular) torque converter automatic. I've heard that the automatic is a bit lazy to shift, as it is probably programmed for fuel economy over performance.
I am looking to replace my Ford Focus (it's a great driver's car with a horribly unreliable transmission) with a SEL (Highline in Canada) Golf 1.8T with automatic. Current Golf drivers: have any of you had any big mechanical failures with the 1.8T and automatic? Any minor or major electrical problems? I have heard that the Mark VII was a big stepping stone for VW reliability, in that it is a lot better.
I really want to stay away from a CVT (which eliminates a lot of choices) because I don't feel that a CVT is that reliable in the long run.
Did you buy the golf? Looking to get one but have much of the same concerns as you did
@@johncrawford1320 I ended up with a RAV4 hybrid (2019). It's a total appliance vehicle. I was still a bit reluctant to buy a VW, but I know that the Golfs I have test-driven are so much fun to drive, and they weren't even GTIs/Rs!
If you are still looking, I'd probably stick with a 1.8T, as the 1.4 TSI isn't as refined, I feel.
that view in the beginning tho. from the cam on the ford.. wow.
please try to do a better job on Audio editing. your voice is mixed too quiet and the music is mixed too loud and it keeps jumping from whispering to blasting. at least if you're listening on headphones or big speakers.
I'm afraid that Roman and Nathan will have to come to grip with the fact that CVT transmission technology is here to stay until something better comes along. Not only is it here to stay but pressure on manufacturers to improve fuel efficiency will cause it to be used on more and more models. Sorry, that's progress??
I'm not so sure about it, CVTs basically don't exist outside US (and japanese carmakers within US to be specific).
This sounds fair, a brand new re styled 2015 car vs two 2014 cars that are old styles and outgoing and about to be brand new in 2015 ??
Neither Focus nor Impreza are outgoing models, they're on the market for about 3 years and that won't change in next 3 years.
sic22l The new Focus just debuted at a car show like last month and they'll be on sale in September. Same with the Impreza, the new WRX was just released so you can guarantee there will be a new base Impreza real soon
Kris Demers It's not new Focus, it's old Focus with new reflectors. You're incorrect about the Impreza as well. New WRX is based on current Impreza. It has different reflectors because Subaru wants to separate WRX as a unique model.
where do i need to move to to work for you guys?
I think my biggest issue with this video is that there are a few omissions. While I can't pretend that I know as much about the Subaru or the VW, I am a Ford salesman and that focus is an SE (mid-level) with the option of leather. It has the non-touch screen MyFord, and doesn't seem to be comparably equipped to the VW which has both leather and a touchscreen that I do know is optional. My suspicion is only further enhanced by the fact that the price of the ford as tested and the subaru as tested are given, while the volkswagen is knot given a price as tested. I have no problem admitting that it's awesome that you can get leather, touchscreen, and a small turbo engine in the vw, I want to make sure that the pricing is actually comparable. I will also concede that it's upsetting that the focus is offered with a 1.6L turbo abroad but not here in the states. It would be much more comparable to the vw.
Touch screen is standard on vw for 2015 with sat radio
The vw comes standard with the 1.8t base and the touch screen as well
ugh, I just want to deck him for revving it immediately after starting...
If Subaru refresh the Impreza, with more standard features and improved interior and exterior styling and quality, then it will draw attention to buyers. The Legacy, Outback, Forester, and XV Crosstrek have good interiors, but the Legacy and Outback have much better quality.
The VW 1.8l engine is veryy good.. strong an ecofriendly
You mean "damped" not "dampened." Controlled or restrained rather than made moist.
Dampened past tense of dampen second definition to be less strong or less intense. Boo ya
The old vow golf mk5 with less kW and no 4wd beat wrx on track UA-cam it top gear I think it was...
i drove the Ford Focus for 4 months .. and i loved it :D
but love VW as well
CVT is very old tech my 49cc 4 stroke has it come on!
I wonder why you guys call 'Maxico' , Machio ..!?
He didn't say how much the Golf was?
Is the Golf smaller than the others ??
Mahin Ahmed Not really, boot space is large and even for me (193cm or 6ft 3 and bit) it is rather spacious on the inside, especially in the rear with front seats in my position.
Vw golf looks good and feels good for me.I don't care about the scandal,i still don't like American cars.
Dsg gear box kills them all wait for 2016 40th edition GTI
Wow tfl now does infomercials
Great video.
I buy the focus assembled in America and Is am American brand profits stay here doesn't go over seas BE PROUD support our economic support your country keep jobs here.
Is that a 2015 focus? Not 2014
Golf beats out these cars. Funny how everyone hates that the VW is built in Mexico, but it's just fine that the focus also is.
Weird, I just looked online and the Focus is built in Michigan.
Yes I misspoke. I was thinking of the fusion.
My Ford Contour was built in Mexico. I have owned it now for 19 years and it is pushing 200,000 miles.We have had very few problems with it, until recently . The most bizarre thing is a reoccurring ignition switch issue in which the key is first difficult to remove or insert and twice now I have had the key actually get stuck in the ignition.The new switch seems to last a year before the problem reappears. A locksmith told me he has seen similar problems on the Focus and Edge. Other than that it is mostly fit and finish issues.She is getting tired, but as far as reliability with the motor, trans, and electrical she has been aces.Not bad for a former rental car built in Mecheco
Joseph Rogers The Impeza isn't though. It's made in Japan.
Although, not all of the Golfs sold here are made in Mexico. Some are made in Germany.
Focus is built in Michigan and designed, engineered, and some of the parts are from Spain and Germany. I own one, and besides the DCT gearbox it's great.
So many stupid comments...
I actually considered buying the 2015 GTI, but it wasn't available two months ago so i had to forego the purchase and get myself a new Scion
Since when US is driving euroboxes?!
The 2015 Golf GTI is in the showrooms now! When are we going to grt the updated review that you promised? Help!
I wonder what his response would be to a CVT if he didn't ave the auditory input? Everything else seems good. I think he's just looking for vrooom, vrooom, vroom.
It seems that when u get a Subaru it comes with a VT or CO license plate. They are like the state cars, and yup I have an 2012 Outback, sigh I'm one of the sheep. :(
I don't haveva subaru but don't want to get stuck in snow in my driveway
Where's Nathan!
I can't stand that CVT drone. Any car with a CVT gets crossed right off my shopping list. Too bad, I really like the looks of the new Murano. Thank goodness Nissan didn't ruin its Infiniti division also.
Ruin with record sales huh
#LoveVWGolf esp the TDI w man trans. Love all wagons and small-haulers. Roman TFLcar if you need a sidekick when Nathan is elsewhere, I'm your guy.
Everybody always talks shit about subaru but they picked the base model. I have a sport limited 2012 but they really couldn't have picked a higher model. Smh subaru is better than most cars
But the subaru CVT speed up nice it does just sound dead
For me VW design is on the fence between restrained and dull, quite minimalist.
That's how VW style their cars. It worked so far.
Germans are boring
Gregory Perkins You can call it this way. On the other hand they don't have to redesign their cars completely to make clients forget about shitty predecessors by shocking them wth some flamboyant lines (that will get old quickly).
It gives it a more timeless look.
My word Roman. You gave me a start there. The GTI is forty years old??? I was only 19 when the it showed up. I would have guessed later.
BTW I love Emmy. It's not that she's female. It's that she's female and she prefers manual transmissions. She even says manual some of the time. Manual vs stick shift that is. When I was young people who said stick shift were not considered real cars guys.
Real car guys say manual. Hoo Ha.
I'd rather eat potted luncheon meat than buy a car with a CVT transmission...
Golf is the best hatch ever made
Should have been Focus ST vs Golf R vs STI :D
Poor American ppl you don't have 1,6 ecoboost turbo focus with 183 hp? And this one you have is very low trim..
i'll take the ford focus
I would drive the Golf home.
If you guys don't quit reviewing only automatic cars I'm going to have to consider unsubscribing. The people watching this are generally enthusiasts, this isn't consumer reports. Review the right version if you can.
I HATE the CV transmissions
The girl in the intro is so fucking gorgeous!!!
When auto manufactures have u test their models against the competitors. Do they buy those models right from a dealer? Or do they work together and share their models among each other?
Should have been Focus ST vs Golf R vs STI
No one of this can beat the VW, sorry
Why TF you revving these cars as soon as you start them. yikes!
first comment
So what??
yawn