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