A Driver's Car Once Again - 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI Long-Term Road Test

Edmunds.com

A Driver's Car Once Again - 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI Long-Term Road Test

This update to Edmunds' long-term 2015 Golf GTI discusses the all-new GTI's nature as a true driver's car.

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desmolicious

Is there a difference in suspension tuning vs the previous GTI, or is it just because this one has better performance tyres?

mercedesfan

@desmolicious,

The Mk7 is an entirely new platform so the suspension tuning is different. Honestly, I think this new setup is too extreme.. I generally don't have issues with stiff riding cars, but a young colleague of mine just bought one and the ride quality is simply harsh. His old Mk6 was firm, but ultimately compliant.

Debunker

I've commented about this before, but I'll throw in my two cents again. I have a 2015 GTi manual transmission version, and I do agree that you'll bounce around a bit at low speeds over rough pavement. But my 2009 Audi A4 wasn't much better in this regard. Once moving though, over half-decent pavement, the ride is just fine. Firm, yes, but not even slightly harsh. And the handling under all circumstances is really outstanding. You'd need a 911 to make a measurable jump up in handling to top it. And the 911 jounces around a bit at low speeds too. I should also mention that I'm over 65, so demographically speaking, I should be in a Camry, no?

s197gt

"I've yet to drive this car genuinely hard, but it doesn't matter."

but isn't the gti's reputation that it is (only) a great "8/10ths" car?

the non-defeatable stability control? FWD? Livable (but soft) suspension tuning?

a great sporty daily driver but not a true corner carver.

tower210

VW needs to build a performance car in the next size up. I test drove a GTI and loved the way it drived, but ultimately couldn't buy it because it was too small (an looks a bit immature). I purchased a Mazda 6GT Tech, which handles about the same (more feel, but not enough power) and fits the "midsize" mold much better.

grijon

Well said, Josh.

darthbimmer

Debunker said:

I should also mention that I'm over 65, so demographically speaking, I should be in a Camry, no?

No, the Camry is for people in their 40s and 50s. It's Avalon time for you, grandpa.

janet_k

Is it firmer than the Mercedes CLA?

yellowmiata

Debunker said:

You'd need a 911 to make a measurable jump up in handling to top it.

That's a heck of a jump from the GTI to the 911. I'd politely disagree. Miatas have handled well since their inception (despite well documented body roll) and have RWD fun to boot. The FRS/BRZ runs neck and neck (usually slightly ahead) with the Miata with regard to laser sharp handling. The Cayman is a step up from these two with its polar moment of inertia well sorted and excellent sight lines. The last 370Z coupe was too loud and stiff, but held a .99 on the circular pad (according to IL). Having driven 3 generations of GTIs, they are feisty but always fall prey to a understeer and torque steer due to the heavy front end + FWD. Even Mini has challenged the GTI as the best FWD hot hatch with its taught proportions and turbo-laced engine. Perhaps, just perhaps, there is a bit of room between the GTI and the 911?
Kevin

barryhuber

janet_k said:

Is it firmer than the Mercedes CLA?

No. Much softer. I'd opt for it over a CLA as it wins on space, handling, price, comfort. But it still felt pretty antiseptic when pressed really hard on some windy/curvy backstreets. Instrument testing says it's great but seat of the pants, I still can't find love for FWD.