Better Enough Than the Last? - 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI Long-Term Road Test


Is the 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI better than the previous-generation GTI? One editor weighs in after a road trip to the majestic Oceano Dunes.
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Is the 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI better than the previous-generation GTI? One editor weighs in after a road trip to the majestic Oceano Dunes.
Comments
This format forces me to be brief(er), but I'm disappointed by the new car. To meet higher mpg and not increase US pricing, too many real-world compromises and stealth cost-cutting versus a decade of tech improvements. Lots more turbo boost and *much* taller gearing forces low revs and less shifting for better gas mileage. Lighter engine block and components means coarser, less-elastic engine sound and feel as part of weight-cutting, though my 2-door stick is an actual 2980 lbs. Muted windows-open exhaust, intake and turbo sounds offset by obnoxious Soundaktor. I didn't ask VWoA to spend $$ on auto-headlights, backup camera, etc, yet $1000 upcharge for xenons and no LED taillights. Some instrumentation, electronics and ergos a short step backwards. Fender audio worse than Dynaudio.
New chassis more buttoned-down at 10/10ths. Seats and shifter a smidge better. Steering, brake and clutch feel unchanged. Some Mk6 idiosyncrasies fixed. New ones created.
1/4 mile times marginally faster, but Car and Driver Lightning Lap times identical to 2010 on similar tires. Basic GTI traits and goodness intact, but not the step forward I had hoped, hampered by tighter regulations and US cost constraints. I remain very happy with my 2010...
If VWoA is trying to meet a strict price point on a car marketed for sportiness and less weight, I'd rather see the money going towards performance items that make a difference (those mostly removed from EU GTIs for US market) than pseudo-luxury items (auto lights&wipers, power seats) that could go in a Golf SEL or a cost-no-object Golf R.