GolfGTIforum.co.uk
Model specific boards => Golf mk7 => Topic started by: matchboy on 30 May 2013, 16:25
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Thought it would be a good idea to have a thread for those who've sat in/driven a demo so that it's all in one place.
So, after reading Bear's review & seeing his pics, I couldn't wait till Sat to go and have a nosey up in Cambridge. Now I didn't drive it, I'll do that mid June when my dealer gets his demo, plus I didn't want to waste the lad's time given that I've all ready ordered one, so this is just an initial opinion on the car itself & the inside.
First impressions - WOW. The car looks the nuts. As said, it's the same one as Bear has seen and in TR it looks amazing - so glad I've gone for that colour. Styling wise, the pics don't do it justice, when you see it in the flesh you'll be blown away.
Inside, again, I was very very impressed. The tartan seats are excellent, really set the inside off and the quality seems fine. Build wise, it's the usual VW quality. I was particularly impressed with the facia behind the gear stick, looks much better in the flesh. All the dials & nobs again appear to be of a high standard. Steering wheel is chunky yet comfortable.
Things that reallys stood out - the seats proper grip you in, yet are incredibly comfy. Turned the car on and couldn't believe how quiet it was starting up and then sitting idly. The doors - very heavy and so just like the 'just like a golf' marketing tagline. Multifunction display - very nice in colour, glad this is standard. Finally the sat nav (8") was clear and sharp. Golf ball gear stick - comfy and I actually liked this more than I thought.
Downside - only thing I can come up with is there's not masses of room in the back - bothered!
All in all I really shouldn't have gone up there as now I want the car even more! You chaps will not be disappointed.
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Nice review Matchboy :smiley: I know we are all really frustrated about the delays but it will be more than worth it in when we collect them
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Nice review Matchboy :smiley: I know we are all really frustrated about the delays but it will be more than worth it in when we collect them
Exactly my thoughts!
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I'm driving this same vehicle on Saturday. So, if you are QUICK put in requests for what you want to know about/see pics of/get video of... I'll take my camera when I go, though if its me on my own not sure if I could get much while driving, haha!
Now I just gotta find a decent road to take it on in Cambridge. Apparently near Chatteris is good, anyone know anything better? And if you say the A14 I will not be impressed...
Cambridgeshire is pants.
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Yeah nice review mate!! Hopefully I'm getting my test drive in on Monday down @ Heritage Bristol... Unfortunately It's another Vanilla TR 5 door... Becoming quite common these days :grin:
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(http://i1298.photobucket.com/albums/ag57/dorsetdc/th_e33f82867ac2e231f0e780451253f4d3_zps0f00f879.jpg) (http://s1298.photobucket.com/albums/ag57/dorsetdc/?action=view¤t=e33f82867ac2e231f0e780451253f4d3_zps0f00f879.jpg)
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I want to get back behind the wheel of the one I was in today.
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Downside - only thing I can come up with is there's not masses of room in the back - bothered!
Nice review.
The back seats or the boot?
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I have driven the South Hereford Garages 5 Door, Manual, Blue GTI today, I have to admit it was a short stint had a deadline to get somewhere. Was impressed with the car had a nice growl to the car when revved in third gear. Seats were comfortable, ride was good on the 18's, had everything set to Sport. Air Con on and 30mpg which dropped rapidly when ramped and rose quickly when driven steadily.
Car had Discover Nav Pro, beast, never really got to play too much.
Keyless entry and push to start button (nightmare).
Heated seats didn't try was a hot day.
Things I took note of, easy to stall, (where is my diesel). Frustrating that I tried to grab the handbrake on several occasions and it just wasn't there.
Stalled on a slight hill, before I know it its going backwards down a hill and me frantically trying to grab the handbrake which wasn't there. It didn't help that the salesmans jacket was covering the e-brake switch too. It also wouldn't restart that quickly as it had to reset before letting you start again with the stupid pushbutton. Auto hill hold worked once I had restarted the car, little weird although I believe its a waste of petrol, as you have to gas it to take off, same with the e-brake.
Interior looked good seats comfy, not gloss black dash more like a carbon fibre ish look.
Accelerator pedal hinged from the top no floor mount pedal (not an issue).
Boot feels slightly smaller even when the floor is set to the lower position.
LED interior lighting everywhere.
The dash clocks looked cluttered with the KM/h now on the clocks too, they seemed to be smaller than the mk6 clocks too (not sure if its an illusion or not).
Gear throw seemed to be short and a little notchy only 352miles on the clock.
Clutch was light, brakes good (mines three years old).
Steering wheel was thinner than the mk6, seemed smaller with the centre boss like the beetle too.
Buttons on the steering wheel seemed overwhelming compared to the mk6.
Trip computer in colour looked good with the readouts being rather large fonted and a bit childish, not as straight and sensible like the mk6.
Compared to the 1.2 TSI (75ps) Polo that had three up all day the GTI seemed like a whippet. Although the polo returned 53mpg on a 20 mile journey and it even over took two cars up a hill. Which I was impressed at overall was 47mpg. GTI came back with 30mpg but only covered 8miles.
Clock read out on the trip computer seemed really small fonted.
I have never driven a mk6 GTI so cant compare, but as soon as I was back in my 6 I was at home again.
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I have driven the South Hereford Garages 5 Door, Manual, Blue GTI today, I have to admit it was a short stint had a deadline to get somewhere. Was impressed with the car had a nice growl to the car when revved in third gear. Seats were comfortable, ride was good on the 18's, had everything set to Sport. Air Con on and 30mpg which dropped rapidly when ramped and rose quickly when driven steadily.
Car had Discover Nav Pro, beast, never really got to play too much.
Keyless entry and push to start button (nightmare).
Heated seats didn't try was a hot day.
Things I took note of, easy to stall, (where is my diesel). Frustrating that I tried to grab the handbrake on several occasions and it just wasn't there.
Stalled on a slight hill, before I know it its going backwards down a hill and me frantically trying to grab the handbrake which wasn't there. It didn't help that the salesmans jacket was covering the e-brake switch too. It also wouldn't restart that quickly as it had to reset before letting you start again with the stupid pushbutton. Auto hill hold worked once I had restarted the car, little weird although I believe its a waste of petrol, as you have to gas it to take off, same with the e-brake.
Interior looked good seats comfy, not gloss black dash more like a carbon fibre ish look.
Accelerator pedal hinged from the top no floor mount pedal (not an issue).
Boot feels slightly smaller even when the floor is set to the lower position.
LED interior lighting everywhere.
The dash clocks looked cluttered with the KM/h now on the clocks too, they seemed to be smaller than the mk6 clocks too (not sure if its an illusion or not).
Gear throw seemed to be short and a little notchy only 352miles on the clock.
Clutch was light, brakes good (mines three years old).
Steering wheel was thinner than the mk6, seemed smaller with the centre boss like the beetle too.
Buttons on the steering wheel seemed overwhelming compared to the mk6.
Trip computer in colour looked good with the readouts being rather large fonted and a bit childish, not as straight and sensible like the mk6.
Compared to the 1.2 TSI (75ps) Polo that had three up all day the GTI seemed like a whippet. Although the polo returned 53mpg on a 20 mile journey and it even over took two cars up a hill. Which I was impressed at overall was 47mpg. GTI came back with 30mpg but only covered 8miles.
Clock read out on the trip computer seemed really small fonted.
I have never driven a mk6 GTI so cant compare, but as soon as I was back in my 6 I was at home again.
Can you please expand on the start button being a nightmare? And how can you possibly compare economy of a 1.2 Polo to a GTI - two totally different animals :huh: :huh: :huh:
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Downside - only thing I can come up with is there's not masses of room in the back - bothered!
Nice review.
The back seats or the boot?
Back seats. Boot was ample!
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I have driven the South Hereford Garages 5 Door, Manual, Blue GTI today, I have to admit it was a short stint had a deadline to get somewhere. Was impressed with the car had a nice growl to the car when revved in third gear. Seats were comfortable, ride was good on the 18's, had everything set to Sport. Air Con on and 30mpg which dropped rapidly when ramped and rose quickly when driven steadily.
Car had Discover Nav Pro, beast, never really got to play too much.
Keyless entry and push to start button (nightmare).
Heated seats didn't try was a hot day.
Things I took note of, easy to stall, (where is my diesel). Frustrating that I tried to grab the handbrake on several occasions and it just wasn't there.
Stalled on a slight hill, before I know it its going backwards down a hill and me frantically trying to grab the handbrake which wasn't there. It didn't help that the salesmans jacket was covering the e-brake switch too. It also wouldn't restart that quickly as it had to reset before letting you start again with the stupid pushbutton. Auto hill hold worked once I had restarted the car, little weird although I believe its a waste of petrol, as you have to gas it to take off, same with the e-brake.
Interior looked good seats comfy, not gloss black dash more like a carbon fibre ish look.
Accelerator pedal hinged from the top no floor mount pedal (not an issue).
Boot feels slightly smaller even when the floor is set to the lower position.
LED interior lighting everywhere.
The dash clocks looked cluttered with the KM/h now on the clocks too, they seemed to be smaller than the mk6 clocks too (not sure if its an illusion or not).
Gear throw seemed to be short and a little notchy only 352miles on the clock.
Clutch was light, brakes good (mines three years old).
Steering wheel was thinner than the mk6, seemed smaller with the centre boss like the beetle too.
Buttons on the steering wheel seemed overwhelming compared to the mk6.
Trip computer in colour looked good with the readouts being rather large fonted and a bit childish, not as straight and sensible like the mk6.
Compared to the 1.2 TSI (75ps) Polo that had three up all day the GTI seemed like a whippet. Although the polo returned 53mpg on a 20 mile journey and it even over took two cars up a hill. Which I was impressed at overall was 47mpg. GTI came back with 30mpg but only covered 8miles.
Clock read out on the trip computer seemed really small fonted.
I have never driven a mk6 GTI so cant compare, but as soon as I was back in my 6 I was at home again.
Can you please expand on the start button being a nightmare? And how can you possibly compare economy of a 1.2 Polo to a GTI - two totally different animals :huh: :huh: :huh:
When I stalled it, it seemed to take forever to restart even though I was frantically trying to restart it. i.e. stalled, just jammed my finger on the restart button and nothing happened. In the mean time trying to grab the non-existent handbrake as it rolled back down the incline. Had to wait for all the dash lights to drop first then push the button to restart. With the key you just turn it back to just passed 2 and then turn to start seems quicker. Trying not to look like a goon in front of the salesman. :cool:
Sorry polo was just part of the day out not really a comparison. Was just impressed with the tiny 3cylinder getting 53mpg its amazing what they can do in a petrol now. I would love to take the GTI on an economy run to see if it can achieve 47mpg.
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When I stalled it, it seemed to take forever to restart even though I was frantically trying to restart it. i.e. stalled, just jammed my finger on the restart button and nothing happened. In the mean time trying to grab the non-existent handbrake as it rolled back down the incline. Had to wait for all the dash lights to drop first then push the button to restart. With the key you just turn it back to just passed 2 and then turn to start seems quicker. Trying not to look like a goon in front of the salesman. :cool:
Sorry polo was just part of the day out not really a comparison. Was just impressed with the tiny 3cylinder getting 53mpg its amazing what they can do in a petrol now. I would love to take the GTI on an economy run to see if it can achieve 47mpg.
I think you would get used to it. My girlfriend has a Mini Cooper S which has the engine start/stop button and whenever she stalls it (of course as a guy I never stall :whistle: :whistle:) she knows how to quickly get it started again.
In terms of economy, well you don't really buy a GTI if you want to be economical, that's what the GTD is for
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I bet a 1.2 Polo being caned is about as economical as a GTI being driven to the same speed.
That electronic handbrake does look like something that'll need some getting used to or trusted. Hill hold is standard on my current Roc, and i'm not a fan. An aid for someone who can't drive properly and rides the clutch at junctions. Hill-hold function on a car with no physical hand brake lever makes more sense.
The hill hold does offer more resistance when pulling away - first few times I got my Roc it seemed so easy to stall until I got used to giving a little more gas when pulling away to overcome the resistance.
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Never ever rode the clutch in any previous cars and can pull away just fine on a hill but the auto hold just works. you don't need to worry about anything. you can drive the car without ever needing to touch any handbrake button. yes it's not how we learnt to drive but it works just fine.
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The hill hold is nothing to do with bad driving or for people who can't drive. It's it not even anything to do with riding the clutch either.
I have it on my Mini and it just means when I'm stopped on a hill I don't have to put the handbrake on. I just keep the brake pedal pressed instead. Then when I'm going from the brake pedal to the accelerator, my car doesn't roll back down. I.e it does the job of the handbrake without actually touching it. So you don't need to touch the electronic handbrake in the Golf the same I don't need to with the proper one in my Mini.
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My misses had the electronic handbrake on her A4. It takes ages to get used to but once you do it's very handy. She had the hill start as well, and has it on her current guilietta - it's a very good bit of kit as you think the car is going to roll back but it doesn't! Scary at first but you soon get used to it!
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I think for me it's a matter of trusting it to hold for 2 seconds - i've just never gotten around to trusting it when the handbrake lever is there and available. I guess I will have to trust it when I have no hand brake lever on the new one.
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on the tiguan if your on a hill or incline all you need to do is stop and release the foot brake. holds you until you pull away. if you don't pull away it applies the handbrake which releases anyway when you pull away. you could drive your car without ever touching the handbrake.
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on the tiguan if your on a hill or incline all you need to do is stop and release the foot brake. holds you until you pull away. if you don't pull away it applies the handbrake which releases anyway when you pull away. you could drive your car without ever touching the handbrake.
Might be how the new Golf functions also, but on the Roc you've got 2 seconds to pull away or it starts rolling, rather than holding it until you move off.
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didn't realise VW used two different systems. the tig one appears the best as you don't roll anywhere after 2secs.
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Had a go in a GTI this afternoon. 3 door in white with ACC but no performance pack. Specialist cars Aberdeen.
First impressions, excellent. Quality inside the cabin was great, loved the look of the interior, speedo looks a little busy with the graduations in mph and kph but it's a very small gripe.
Steering does feel quite light to begin with but it took me no time at all to get used to.
Ride is a little bit bouncy in its softest setting but would probably be great for around town with all the crap roads we have. Once out on the open road, ACC set to sport, it was superb. Felt very secure on some twisty roads and the power delivery was great. Very smooth/linear feel to the way the power is delivered, easy to find yourself going faster than expected.
All in all, just how I wanted it to be, just want to get my hands on mine now !
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speedo looks a little busy with the graduations in mph and kph but it's a very small gripe.
You reminded me, I should have mentioned this in my write up. Speedo had bold MPH only every 20th MPH, which basically means the needle hides 70 very effectively and I really couldn't tell if I was over or under the limit when driving through the average speed thieves on the A14 (yes yes I know the usual speed on the A14 is limited to about 5mph for 23 out of the 24 hours of the day!). 70mph is still there but it is in tiny letters. Same for 50 and 30, which is hardly helpful. Didn't like it. KMPH is all there, and used a lot of room.
I'm hoping this is due to the demo being pre-production or something and that the real UK spec cars get a more UK oriented speedo. Anyone know?
All in all, just how I wanted it to be, just want to get my hands on mine now !
Hehe, me too.
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If the dials you're seeing give prevalence to KM over MPH in text sizing then I think the demos have Euro style dials and we'll see an improvement on UK spec. If the MPH are already the dominant representations then we'll probably be lucking out.
I suspect most of the demo vehicles are Irish spec (ADC doesn't appear to be standard in Ireland). Is Irish road signage in KM or MPH since they embraced the EU more fully than the UK did?
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I'm hoping this is due to the demo being pre-production or something and that the real UK spec cars get a more UK oriented speedo. Anyone know?
Must admit, it didn't look very UK-friendly as far as speedos go. 30, 50 and 70 are (at the moment anyway) key speeds so I'd have thought they would be larger/bold. Really don't see the point in a speedo that goes up to 180 or whatever either...
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speedo looks a little busy with the graduations in mph and kph but it's a very small gripe.
You reminded me, I should have mentioned this in my write up. Speedo had bold MPH only every 20th MPH, which basically means the needle hides 70 very effectively and I really couldn't tell if I was over or under the limit when driving through the average speed thieves on the A14 (yes yes I know the usual speed on the A14 is limited to about 5mph for 23 out of the 24 hours of the day!). 70mph is still there but it is in tiny letters. Same for 50 and 30, which is hardly helpful. Didn't like it. KMPH is all there, and used a lot of room.
I'm hoping this is due to the demo being pre-production or something and that the real UK spec cars get a more UK oriented speedo. Anyone know?
All in all, just how I wanted it to be, just want to get my hands on mine now !
Hehe, me too.
I wouldn't be too concerned by the speedo. I'm guessing that there is a digital display on the trip computer. Much easier to use this anyway
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If the dials you're seeing give prevalence to KM over MPH in text sizing then I think the demos have Euro style dials and we'll see an improvement on UK spec. If the MPH are already the dominant representations then we'll probably be lucking out.
I suspect most of the demo vehicles are Irish spec (ADC doesn't appear to be standard in Ireland). Is Irish road signage in KM or MPH since they embraced the EU more fully than the UK did?
Road signs in the Rep of Ireland are in KPH
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If the dials you're seeing give prevalence to KM over MPH in text sizing then I think the demos have Euro style dials and we'll see an improvement on UK spec. If the MPH are already the dominant representations then we'll probably be lucking out.
I suspect most of the demo vehicles are Irish spec (ADC doesn't appear to be standard in Ireland). Is Irish road signage in KM or MPH since they embraced the EU more fully than the UK did?
Road signs in the Rep of Ireland are in KPH
Then there's hope for the UK dials yet (assuming that they are Irish RHDs - makes sense given the lack of ADC).
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If the dials are "Irish spec", wouldn't they have KPH as the main unit around the outside? Anyway, it's a minor thing really, and yes, there is the digital readout in the MFD.
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If the dials you're seeing give prevalence to KM over MPH in text sizing then I think the demos have Euro style dials and we'll see an improvement on UK spec. If the MPH are already the dominant representations then we'll probably be lucking out.
See this image:
(http://i.imgur.com/gt3rTcG.jpg)
Both MPH and KPH are about the same size, except 20, 40, 60 etc are larger. Thats odd choice really, since surely 30 and 70 are the most useful. I'd prefer MPH to all be larger and KPH much smaller, which is what most UK cars get in my experience.
Or failing that at least make the graduations larger so you can line the needle up on them. Right now the needle just covers everything so you're lining it up to the middle of the "70" which is small...
I wouldn't be too concerned by the speedo. I'm guessing that there is a digital display on the trip computer. Much easier to use this anyway
Yeah I had thought of that, but then you might be using it to show something else.
Ideally the MFD would be customisable. I'd like to set it up to show digital read outs of:
- Current speed
- Current consumption
- Miles left in tank
All on a single default screen.
I wonder if its possible to hack the VW system and set things up like this.
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Here's a close up showing the point Bill is making:
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2866/8789862660_1f19fa06f7_o.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/58190042@N03/8789862660/)
IMG_1056 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/58190042@N03/8789862660/) by Sootchucker (http://www.flickr.com/people/58190042@N03/), on Flickr
Suppose the only saving grace is that the digital speedo in the MFD is now standard on the MK7 so one could always use this ?
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Thanks, that's a much better image than mine!
Was hoping the MPH/KPH relative sizes would be something more like this: :evil:
(http://i.imgur.com/TO44p5q.jpg)
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Now I've seen that image again, it's even more ridiculous for UK roads than I remember! The major markers are on the KPH, not MPH numbers...
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Now I've seen that image again, it's even more ridiculous for UK roads than I remember! The major markers are on the KPH, not MPH numbers...
Exactly, you have to line the needle up with a 70 where it covers 90% of it. Here, I made a mock up of how it looks when you are driving:
(http://i.imgur.com/Hz3tbrr.png)
Now imagine that being very very small! haha
Anyway, this is what makes me hope this isn't the final UK version. Anyone got a pic of the Mk6 dash? Were odd numbers smaller? Doesn't seem like they need to be smaller, there is plenty of room!
EDIT:
Improved my mock up a bit.
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Now I've seen that image again, it's even more ridiculous for UK roads than I remember! The major markers are on the KPH, not MPH numbers...
Exactly, you have to line the needle up with a 70 where it covers 90% of it. Here, I made a mock up of how it looks when you are driving:
(http://i.imgur.com/Hz3tbrr.png)
Now imagine that being very very small! haha
Anyway, this is what makes me hope this isn't the final UK version. Anyone got a pic of the Mk6 dash? Were odd numbers smaller? Doesn't seem like they need to be smaller, there is plenty of room!
EDIT:
Improved my mock up a bit.
On my MKVI GT the odd numbers are smaller than the evens but no kph getting in the way!
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Here's a close up showing the point Bill is making:
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2866/8789862660_1f19fa06f7_o.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/58190042@N03/8789862660/)
IMG_1056 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/58190042@N03/8789862660/) by Sootchucker (http://www.flickr.com/people/58190042@N03/), on Flickr
Suppose the only saving grace is that the digital speedo in the MFD is now standard on the MK7 so one could always use this ?
the far outer rink is the major markers for the mph on the speedo in 20mph increments.
See I said it was cluttered.
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the far outer rink is the major markers for the mph on the speedo in 20mph increments.
See I said it was cluttered.
Wow, you are right! :embarrassed: I didnt even notice that when I test drove one. To be honest that seems silly to me, but at least it is better than in my diagram with everything covered be the needle.
So why are only every 20th bold? lol
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Remind me why I'm buying this GTI again?! :grin:
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Here's a close up showing the point Bill is making:
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2866/8789862660_1f19fa06f7_o.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/58190042@N03/8789862660/)
IMG_1056 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/58190042@N03/8789862660/) by Sootchucker (http://www.flickr.com/people/58190042@N03/), on Flickr
Suppose the only saving grace is that the digital speedo in the MFD is now standard on the MK7 so one could always use this ?
the far outer rink is the major markers for the mph on the speedo in 20mph increments.
See I said it was cluttered.
Good God That Looks Awful!! :sick:
Just hope it is a pre production clock and the real thing comes with MPH only as on the MK6.
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just had at look at the latest brochure on the vw website and the clocks are in MPH only.
still has 20/40/60 etc in large though. but looks much better.
heres hoping :rolleyes:
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The GTI I drove on Saturday looked like the above photo.
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The GTI I drove on Saturday looked like the above photo.
It will do as no full production cars have arrived in the uk as far as I know. it would also be missing the front radar system in the front bumper.
I will be very surprised if customers cars turn up with those awful messy clocks.
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The GTI I drove on Saturday looked like the above photo.
It will do as no full production cars have arrived in the uk as far as I know. it would also be missing the front radar system in the front bumper.
I will be very surprised if customers cars turn up with those awful messy clocks.
Yes, but then why do they exist at all? It's not a euro version, so they must have designed it for the UK. So why not just have the production version?
I hope you are right but seems odd they would make this crap speedo just for demos... What did mk6 demo ones look like anyone remember?
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The GTI I drove on Saturday looked like the above photo.
It will do as no full production cars have arrived in the uk as far as I know. it would also be missing the front radar system in the front bumper.
I will be very surprised if customers cars turn up with those awful messy clocks.
Yes, but then why do they exist at all? It's not a euro version, so they must have designed it for the UK. So why not just have the production version?
I hope you are right but seems odd they would make this crap speedo just for demos... What did mk6 demo ones look like anyone remember?
Hi Bear
I'm hoping that the uk pre prod cars are german spec cars for uk ie RHD similar to what motor point use to sell.
and hope the current uk brochure is correct (MPH only) give it a download and take a look. could be a bit of a long shot given VW track record but fingers crossed.
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Has anyone looked at the dials in a non GTI mk7?
Surely they will have the same numbering pattern?
:huh:
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Has anyone looked at the dials in a non GTI mk7?
Surely they will have the same numbering pattern?
:huh:
Genius! Man, I'm an idiot sometimes.
Ok unfortunately based of pics of the dash of used mk7 TDIs, or even this thread:
http://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=250871.0
It looks like the speedo we know and -cough- "love" -cough- is the one the standard mk7 is equipped with.
...Bugger.
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why they haven't personalized the dashboard more, ala TT/S3, ie have GTI written in the revs dashboard?? I really don't get that, they are selling a car that is supposed to be top/near top of their performance range so why not make it look a bit more special?? my only criticism. other than that, love the car
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I think the Speedo dials in the dem vehicles are the ones we are going to have. In our Dutch friends New Arrivals (http://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=254838.0) thread he has a clear pic of the Euro/KPH dials which are different to the pics from the dem GTI's we have seen:
(http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a103/ronzuid/d9865d4cafcd9396543b17f12ec9be05_zpse16a9891.jpg)
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Actually whilst driving home last night, I noticed that the speedo on my current Scirocco doesn't look a million miles different from the new Golf one (with the exception of the KM/h scale).
Certainly haven't had a problem reading 30, 50 & 70mph even though they also appear smaller than the bold markings either side of them.
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2805/8946016332_7c85dd4879_o.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/58190042@N03/8946016332/)
Scirocco Speedo (http://www.flickr.com/photos/58190042@N03/8946016332/) by Sootchucker (http://www.flickr.com/people/58190042@N03/), on Flickr
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why they haven't personalized the dashboard more, ala TT/S3, ie have GTI written in the revs dashboard?? I really don't get that, they are selling a car that is supposed to be top/near top of their performance range so why not make it look a bit more special?? my only criticism. other than that, love the car
Completely agree. It's the small touches that count. I have TT displayed in my speedo and it's a stylish wee feature
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I'm going to my dealer after work (Lookers Blackburn). They're GTI is going on the road today.
I'm not having a drive, it'd be pointless as i've ordered a GTD. I just want to check out the interior.
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I'm not having a drive, it'd be pointless as i've ordered a GTD. I just want to check out the interior.
Not representative maybe, but certainly not pointless! Unless deep-down the GTI is what you really wanted :evil:
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why they haven't personalized the dashboard more, ala TT/S3, ie have GTI written in the revs dashboard?? I really don't get that, they are selling a car that is supposed to be top/near top of their performance range so why not make it look a bit more special?? my only criticism. other than that, love the car
Completely agree. It's the small touches that count. I have TT displayed in my speedo and it's a stylish wee feature
or at least offer it as an extra. I wouldn't think it'd be too much of a hassle to insert the GTI logo on the speedo for those who'd be willing to pay a few extra quid
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I'm going to my dealer after work (Lookers Blackburn). They're GTI is going on the road today.
I'm not having a drive, it'd be pointless as i've ordered a GTD. I just want to check out the interior.
Thanks for the heads up buddy.
Went and had a look after work, loved the interior and the Nav pro.
not to keen on the red or the 5 doors though
should look better when its dropped a bit. only pdi'd yesterday.
Those clocks don't look any better in the flesh :angry:
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So I finally managed to grab a test drive in the new Golf GTi.
The car I test drove was a Tornado Red, standard 217bhp 5 door, fitted with a 'manual' box and bog standard 18" 'Austin' wheels wrapped in Dunlop Sport Maxx rubber (225/40 ZR18). The only optional extra's added were Keyless Entry (£350) & Discover Pro Nav system (£1,725), both of which I could have done without. Although the car had only been at the dealership for two weeks with 700 miles on the clock, there were plenty of scratches on the harder plastics in the interior…. it wasn't in the best of conditions to say the least! What was really noticeable, was that there were lots of deep scratches around the area where the normal ignition key slot would have been…. although the car was set-up for keyless entry, people had obviously forgotten and tried inserting the key into an imaginary hole. It looks like even if you've opted for keyless entry you still get a key on the remote fob? (Probably as a safeguard or override function)
EXTERNAL APPEARANCE
The car itself looked good, but if I'm brutally honest slightly underwhelming, as a lot of people on here have already commented. I can't really put my finger on why… I was under the impression it would look better in the flesh than in the pictures, but it didn't. Maybe because it could have done with a clean and the flies covering the bonnet didn't exactly help matters. I'm not sure the Tornado Red colour did it much favours as well. I've owned a solid red coloured car in the past and absolutely loved the colour, but this just didn't seem to suit the GTi. For some reason it didn't show off the lines as well, but then maybe in different lights its different.
The 18" 'Austin' wheels looked good and are a nice evolution of the old 18" Monza's, but still looked "slightly" under wheeled! Shame they didn't offer that same 'axe-head' design as a 19" option because I do like them.
INTERIOR
The overall quality was again good, but not such as big leap as many reviewers have commented. I had originally said that I liked the look of the fake carbon-fibre 'esque' trim, but in reality it looks a little cheap… maybe the high gloss finish had something to do with it? Maybe it would have looked better with a matt finish or stuck with piano black? Not sure. Steering wheel looked & felt great.. nice width… not too chunky but not too thin either. I much prefer the look of the new steering wheel over the old however I still prefer the more sculptured feel of the Mk6 over the new. Not a fan of the triangular small window in the A-pillar.. looks like a pain to clean. Tartan seats looked great and reminds me of the original tartan found in the Mk1…. better looking & less fussy than in the Mk6. One comment I would make is that although the thigh bolsters on the seat are more pronounced, they still don't grip you enough. i understand that they have to cater for all sizes, but I personally would have preferred more support (but then I'm not a particularly large individual).
DRIVE
So to the drive itself…. and all I can say is it doesn't disappoint. It does everything the old car did, but BETTER!! Yes the steering feels detached, but you get that with any modern day electric steering. Performance wise its quick, but not stupidly so as to scare you witless!. What was instantly noticeable (compared to the Mk6) was how much quicker it felt off the line…. You really do notice the extra 52lb/ft difference in torque. Theres no whiff of turbo lag whatsoever. Also noticed a lovely exhaust note whilst I was standing on the forecourt waiting for the salesman to bring the car round… however the lovely exhaust note is not so apparent when you're sitting inside the vehicle itself. Even on a hard charge the exhaust is very 'muted'… probably more so than the Mk6.
No problems with front end grip as well. I took a high speed corner in 4th gear at 60mph which tightened on itself & there was no hint of understeer at all… I just kept my foot planted to the floor and it went round effortlessly (& this was without the clever e-diif, just the standard XDS). Turn in was precise and accurate, however the damping was "slightly' on the firm side (more so than my Mk6) which was a bit of a surprise. Drove over few expansion joints in the road that sent a noticeable thud and vibration through the cabin. Not sure why this would be? Maybe the tyres were over inflated or something? There wasn't such a 'huge' difference between Comfort, Normal & Sport mode in terms of throttle response & steering input, however there was a 'subtle' difference. I kept changing the settings whilst driving, but it wasn't always apparent which mode I was in. Much preferred driving in 'Sport' mode though as the steering did feel more weighted (would have loved to have tried a demo with the DCC to see if this made much more difference to the handling).
There was one gripe though, and it could have been down to me but for some strange reason I couldn't get a smooth shift from first into second gear. I tried adjusting the throttle and then the clutch on numerous occasions, but every time I got a horrible drivetrain shunt changing up? Weird… Probably me. Probably just need to change my driving style or the car needs to be run in more?
VERDICT
So what was my overall impression? Theres no question it's 'Good'…. in fact VERY "Good", which was pretty much what I expected.
However those of you coming from a Mk6 may feel "slightly' underwhelmed (like myself), as its pretty much business as usual (albeit with a few subtle changes here & there). However those of you who are coming over from other marques will probably be "deeply" impressed as its a stunning piece of machinery and probably the best 'all-round' hot hatch on the market at the present moment.
(http://i582.photobucket.com/albums/ss268/Gung-Ho_2009/3A132362-E175-46B6-95AA-1FB379D86718-21575-00000C81623FCB10.jpg) (http://s582.photobucket.com/user/Gung-Ho_2009/media/3A132362-E175-46B6-95AA-1FB379D86718-21575-00000C81623FCB10.jpg.html)
(http://i582.photobucket.com/albums/ss268/Gung-Ho_2009/DDCD080C-020C-42B6-851E-F51E95178C52-21575-00000C8737CC8A9C-1.jpg) (http://s582.photobucket.com/user/Gung-Ho_2009/media/DDCD080C-020C-42B6-851E-F51E95178C52-21575-00000C8737CC8A9C-1.jpg.html)
(http://i582.photobucket.com/albums/ss268/Gung-Ho_2009/434D5FF3-FE89-49D8-9BC8-FB3BDE6FCC97-21575-00000C83275370B2.jpg) (http://s582.photobucket.com/user/Gung-Ho_2009/media/434D5FF3-FE89-49D8-9BC8-FB3BDE6FCC97-21575-00000C83275370B2.jpg.html)
(http://i582.photobucket.com/albums/ss268/Gung-Ho_2009/B51EC7D7-B8B9-4342-B07C-C4B39896E52D-21575-00000C810C58C768.jpg) (http://s582.photobucket.com/user/Gung-Ho_2009/media/B51EC7D7-B8B9-4342-B07C-C4B39896E52D-21575-00000C810C58C768.jpg.html)
(http://i582.photobucket.com/albums/ss268/Gung-Ho_2009/07ED97DC-A190-4B4F-A154-0863AEC2472B-21575-00000C83CE7D91BE.jpg) (http://s582.photobucket.com/user/Gung-Ho_2009/media/07ED97DC-A190-4B4F-A154-0863AEC2472B-21575-00000C83CE7D91BE.jpg.html)
(http://i582.photobucket.com/albums/ss268/Gung-Ho_2009/E05EC6FF-485A-453E-A237-5AFCD32909B6-21575-00000C845767DC67.jpg) (http://s582.photobucket.com/user/Gung-Ho_2009/media/E05EC6FF-485A-453E-A237-5AFCD32909B6-21575-00000C845767DC67.jpg.html)
(http://i582.photobucket.com/albums/ss268/Gung-Ho_2009/FC0FB9B0-12CD-4098-A753-6A80B779B0AC-21575-00000C86F576FFC5.jpg) (http://s582.photobucket.com/user/Gung-Ho_2009/media/FC0FB9B0-12CD-4098-A753-6A80B779B0AC-21575-00000C86F576FFC5.jpg.html)
(http://i582.photobucket.com/albums/ss268/Gung-Ho_2009/10700146-CA3E-48DE-894A-0FC21EE910BD-21575-00000C867D86AEA5.jpg) (http://s582.photobucket.com/user/Gung-Ho_2009/media/10700146-CA3E-48DE-894A-0FC21EE910BD-21575-00000C867D86AEA5.jpg.html)
(http://i582.photobucket.com/albums/ss268/Gung-Ho_2009/56910F5C-E82B-4149-A2E7-80D0B0CD7D10-21575-00000C7F6F6798D4.jpg) (http://s582.photobucket.com/user/Gung-Ho_2009/media/56910F5C-E82B-4149-A2E7-80D0B0CD7D10-21575-00000C7F6F6798D4.jpg.html)
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Thanks for the review. PS I think it looks stunning in red so thanks for the pictures too!
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Anyone expecting a revolutionary change from MK6 GTI to MK7 is going to be underwhelmed. 5% gain in output isn't going to set the world alight. In a car that was good anyway, how do they improve on that in a significant way? Biggest gains for MK7 are in significant fuel economy improvements and equipment, nothing beyond that. Good, long detailed review though. Puts me off ever buying an ex demo if this one is covered in internal scratches after just 700 miles of use.
I'm only expecting the benefit of 9% more power, better economy and Xenons as the really noticeable gains of GTD ownership over my Roc. I already have the benefits of XDS on mine, but don't generally feel the system working unless you're really flinging the car around the bends at speed.
I felt the new steering wheel rim wasn't quite fat enough on the MK7, it doesn't feel as sporty when it is less chunky in the hand, and i'm really not a fan of the tiny A-pillar windows, they seem utterly pointless as they're useless for looking out of and mess up the side profile of the car. I'm keeping my expectations firmly on the ground, and as a result i'm not climbing the walls waiting for the new one. Coming from a good car to another good car means it's more "meh" than wow". Someone coming a lesser car will most likely be far more impressed with their new one than me, but I will miss the Scirocco's looks most of all, otherwise it pretty much drives like a MK6 GTD.
As time ticks on I am getting less and less enthusiastic about my forthcoming GTD as I come to realise it's not a huge jump over what I already have.
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I'm going to my dealer after work (Lookers Blackburn). They're GTI is going on the road today.
I'm not having a drive, it'd be pointless as i've ordered a GTD. I just want to check out the interior.
Thanks for the heads up buddy.
Went and had a look after work, loved the interior and the Nav pro.
not to keen on the red or the 5 doors though
should look better when its dropped a bit. only pdi'd yesterday.
Those clocks don't look any better in the flesh :angry:
I didn't end up going in the end! I work in Haslingden so the drive over there at rush hour is a bit long in the tooth. And I could hear my Barbecue screaming 'USEEE MEEEE!!!!'.
Hopefully will get down there today!
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Anyone expecting a revolutionary change from MK6 GTI to MK7 is going to be underwhelmed. 5% gain in output isn't going to set the world alight. In a car that was good anyway, how do they improve on that in a significant way? Biggest gains for MK7 are in significant fuel economy improvements and equipment, nothing beyond that. Good, long detailed review though. Puts me off ever buying an ex demo if this one is covered in internal scratches after just 700 miles of use.
You've hit the nail on the head!!! The Mk6 is such a great car already, it was always difficult to improve upon. I think if you were upsizing from say a smaller hot hatch eg Mini Cooper, then you would be utterly blown away. But for me it lacked the "Wow" factor in terms of a leap forward!!! But would it stop me buying one? No.... Because I love my Mk6 and the Mk7 has made the evolutionary changes in the right direction and made it even better!!
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Anyone expecting a revolutionary change from MK6 GTI to MK7 is going to be underwhelmed. 5% gain in output isn't going to set the world alight. In a car that was good anyway, how do they improve on that in a significant way? Biggest gains for MK7 are in significant fuel economy improvements and equipment, nothing beyond that. Good, long detailed review though. Puts me off ever buying an ex demo if this one is covered in internal scratches after just 700 miles of use.
You've hit the nail on the head!!! The Mk6 is such a great car already, it was always difficult to improve upon. I think if you were upsizing from say a smaller hot hatch eg Mini Cooper, then you would be utterly blown away. But for me it lacked the "Wow" factor in terms of a leap forward!!! But would it stop me buying one? No.... Because I love my Mk6 and the Mk7 has made the evolutionary changes in the right direction and made it even better!!
It also makes the wait for me less anxious.
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Nice review Gung-Ho! Dammit, I need to get my hands on one and actually have a drive!
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Like honest and 'real' reviews and they do spark more thought and debate than official review which never seem to meet things we look for on a day to day basis so a good read and thank you
Think my A3 S Line is of decent quality so was not expecting huge quality differences either way and could have resolved my 5 Door and DSG needs this time around by still staying with an Audi, but if I had just moved onto the 8V Audi I would likely be saying same as those moving from MK6 to MK7 in differences (despite new frame etc) being overall, not overly different. - So after 5 years it was felt time for a change in makers and so maybe the difference for me will be more marked than those just moving up a model.
Biased maybe but genuinely like the GTD wheels over all others seen and nobody will convince me that White is not best colour for this particular model as accentuate the black features as well as working very well with the silver/chrome GTD features also.
The GTD is offering so many more options & differences to the Audi that can point to when review/compare A3 to MK7 so still eagerly anticipating my personal switchover. :)
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Excellent review Gung-Ho.
I've not bothered booking a test drive for two reasons.
1) I've already got a car on order so must have been confident enough in its abilities to take that gamble. Added to which time is money to a sales guy and if there's no chance of a sale coming from the test drive I think it hardly fair on him/her. BUT I may drag along a good friend of mine when he gets back from holiday and the initial test drive rush has quietened down in my very busy local dealer. My friend is a fleet manager so therefore his experience won't be wasting anyone's time as his department put in some pretty big orders.
2) I'm expecting to be a bit underwhelmed to be honest. When I buy a Golf it's far from the finished product and just the start of a project for me.
So I'm just going to sit back a bit and wait...
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I'm expecting to be a bit underwhelmed to be honest. When I buy a Golf it's far from the finished product and just the start of a project for me.
I don't really like aftermarket mods, but OEM stuff I may do. I found my Roc to be lacking in a few areas, namely the cheapo moulded recesses that pass for cup holders, didn't like the gearstick, and lack of stainless pedals were all things I changed for Golf slidey cover cup holder assembly, GTI pedals bought cheaply from Skoda dealership and I put a Golf/Roc R gearstick on. I had the foresight to order the smoking pack and cover the cubby hole, so one less thing to do.
I had a good look over the GTI MK7 at the dealership and there's not a thing I would change, which is good for my wallet. I suppose there are far more adventurous mods to do (dropping suspension, DVs etc) but I refrain from anything that could have real insurance implications.
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I'm expecting to be a bit underwhelmed to be honest. When I buy a Golf it's far from the finished product and just the start of a project for me.
I don't really like aftermarket mods, but OEM stuff I may do. I found my Roc to be lacking in a few areas, namely the cheapo moulded recesses that pass for cup holders, didn't like the gearstick, and lack of stainless pedals were all things I changed for Golf slidey cover cup holder assembly, GTI pedals bought cheaply from Skoda dealership and I put a Golf/Roc R gearstick on. I had the foresight to order the smoking pack and cover the cubby hole, so one less thing to do.
I had a good look over the GTI MK7 at the dealership and there's not a thing I would change, which is good for my wallet. I suppose there are far more adventurous mods to do (dropping suspension, DVs etc) but I refrain from anything that could have real insurance implications.
One of the main attractions of the mk7 to me was the fact it was properly specced from the factory.
BUT that doesn't mean that retro-fits won't be happening and there was quite a lot of that going on with the mk6 so just looking forward to another project with the mk7.
I won't be changing anything that affects the warranty or insurance (although my policy is mod friendly).
I had 7 sets of wheels on my last mk6!! Most of them OEM spec.
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Gung-ho, was the steering feels MORE or LESS detached, compared to the MK6?
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Mmmmm...definitely less feel than the MK6 (even on the Sport setting), but after about 20mins driving you soon get use to it and adapt. It certainly doesn't spoil the overall driving experience & once I got back from the test drive I found myself warming to the new progressive rack.
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Excellent review Gung-Ho.
I've not bothered booking a test drive for two reasons.
1) I've already got a car on order so must have been confident enough in its abilities to take that gamble. Added to which time is money to a sales guy and if there's no chance of a sale coming from the test drive I think it hardly fair on him/her. BUT I may drag along a good friend of mine when he gets back from holiday and the initial test drive rush has quietened down in my very busy local dealer. My friend is a fleet manager so therefore his experience won't be wasting anyone's time as his department put in some pretty big orders.
2) I'm expecting to be a bit underwhelmed to be honest. When I buy a Golf it's far from the finished product and just the start of a project for me.
So I'm just going to sit back a bit and wait...
Just so you know it is still unlikely to be unfair the sales guy if you bring a fleet manager in.
They only get paid on retail deals, so anything fleet related, although good for vw/dealer group level, won't benefit him or his sales manager in any way!!
Having said that it is really refreshing to hear people appreciate the salesmanship time.
When I was selling for them, you avoided company car drivers like the plague. Well meaning and lovely, but a massive waste of time!
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Had my test drive today in 3 door Tornado Red GTI. Even though I've ordered a 5dr I must admit the 3dr looked great. Interior looks great and the seats are nice and snug and the tarten looks better than I thought it would.
Now I've never owned or driven a performance car before but coming from my Mk6 1.4 I was blown away!! Found the acceleration and torque great (for me it was like being in rocket). Found the steering was a huge step up from mine (felt like I was in a tractor once back in mine.) Had it in normal to start with and the ride was really good even on poor surfaces, once in sport I didn't really notice too much difference in the ride, but the steering and exceleration was more responsive and the exhaust noise sounds far more exgressive also the brakes were also good.
My main concern before getting in it was the e brake and auto hold, but after a few trial stops on hills I found it really easy to use, and to be honest I really liked it (gonna make you lazy though). Stop Start worked fine and found it fairly subtle and idle engine noise is really quite (with the radio on you hardly hear it switching off and on).
Even though I only had 30 minutes I loved everything about this car, from the exterior look, the interior, and the performance and drive. As I said for me this car is going to be a huge step up from my current one. But to be honest I can't wait for it to arrive. I don't think that anybody who has ordered one will be disappointed with this latest GTI and if like myself you are making a huge step in upgrade I think you will be blown away and love it!!!
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Had my test drive today in 3 door Tornado Red GTI. Even though I've ordered a 5dr I must admit the 3dr looked great. Interior looks great and the seats are nice and snug and the tarten looks better than I thought it would.
Now I've never owned or driven a performance car before but coming from my Mk6 1.4 I was blown away!! Found the acceleration and torque great (for me it was like being in rocket). Found the steering was a huge step up from mine (felt like I was in a tractor once back in mine.) Had it in normal to start with and the ride was really good even on poor surfaces, once in sport I didn't really notice too much difference in the ride, but the steering and exceleration was more responsive and the exhaust noise sounds far more exgressive also the brakes were also good.
My main concern before getting in it was the e brake and auto hold, but after a few trial stops on hills I found it really easy to use, and to be honest I really liked it (gonna make you lazy though). Stop Start worked fine and found it fairly subtle and idle engine noise is really quite (with the radio on you hardly hear it switching off and on).
Even though I only had 30 minutes I loved everything about this car, from the exterior look, the interior, and the performance and drive. As I said for me this car is going to be a huge step up from my current one. But to be honest I can't wait for it to arrive. I don't think that anybody who has ordered one will be disappointed with this latest GTI and if like myself you are making a huge step in upgrade I think you will be blown away and love it!!!
Those who are used to having performance cars or marque tend to look more critically at the finer details and take much for granted as forget the time when they too made the jump from a pretty standard car and the excitement it brings with the multitude of enhancements.
So from the many that read here you likely one most pleased and excited for as where some will be a little underwhelmed at their own personal difference, as been used to great performance and handling, you will be wow!!! and have a cat that got the cream smile for weeks :)
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That's the beauty of the Golf GTi/GTD... It brings together people from all motoring backgrounds... :grin:
Nice little review Blade btw! I too was 'blown' away when I drove my first GTi... (But that was a fair few years ago)
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Dealer just emailed me, getting their demo in on Monday. Suffice to say, I am going for a drive on....Monday woop woop! :drool:
I'll take lots of pics and report back on how it drives when I get back.
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Dealer just emailed me, getting their demo in on Monday. Suffice to say, I am going for a drive on....Monday woop woop! :drool:
I'll take lots of pics and report back on how it drives when I get back.
Cool :cool: Dealer indicate spec? Eg DSG? PP? Colour?
Like I said its probably me, but see if you get that "drivetrain shunt" shifting between first & second gear?
Try & get a high speed corner as well. You'll be amazed by the amount of grip it generates & the progressive rack works a treat! Enjoy
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He didn't say about any of the details - and to be honest I didn't ask as I want it to be a surprise (big kid here)! I don't mind what it is to be honest as its been nearly 3 years since I had my hands on a GTI so spec wise I'll take whatever for the test drive.
I'll defo look out for the transition between 1st & 2nd, and yes I fully intend on taking a corner hard to see how it handles it.
Actually, if anyone else has any queries/things to look out for let me know and I'll keep an eye out/take pics of the parts you want to see.
To say that I'm excited is an understatement lol :laugh:
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He didn't say about any of the details - and to be honest I didn't ask as I want it to be a surprise (big kid here)! I don't mind what it is to be honest as its been nearly 3 years since I had my hands on a GTI so spec wise I'll take whatever for the test drive.
I'll defo look out for the transition between 1st & 2nd, and yes I fully intend on taking a corner hard to see how it handles it.
Actually, if anyone else has any queries/things to look out for let me know and I'll keep an eye out/take pics of the parts you want to see.
To say that I'm excited is an understatement lol :laugh:
You will love it pal. Take plenty of pics :smiley:
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You will love it pal. Take plenty of pics :smiley:
Literally can't wait! :laugh:
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Excellent review Gung-Ho.
I've not bothered booking a test drive for two reasons.
1) I've already got a car on order so must have been confident enough in its abilities to take that gamble. Added to which time is money to a sales guy and if there's no chance of a sale coming from the test drive I think it hardly fair on him/her. BUT I may drag along a good friend of mine when he gets back from holiday and the initial test drive rush has quietened down in my very busy local dealer. My friend is a fleet manager so therefore his experience won't be wasting anyone's time as his department put in some pretty big orders.
2) I'm expecting to be a bit underwhelmed to be honest. When I buy a Golf it's far from the finished product and just the start of a project for me.
So I'm just going to sit back a bit and wait...
Just so you know it is still unlikely to be unfair the sales guy if you bring a fleet manager in.
They only get paid on retail deals, so anything fleet related, although good for vw/dealer group level, won't benefit him or his sales manager in any way!!
Having said that it is really refreshing to hear people appreciate the salesmanship time.
When I was selling for them, you avoided company car drivers like the plague. Well meaning and lovely, but a massive waste of time!
Yes, that's a fair point but the size of their order would benefit the dealer bonuses surely?
To be honest I very much doubt I'd use my own local dealer for a test drive as the numerous times I've contacted them by either phone or by paying a visit regarding sales or either new or in stock cars I've been offered pretty poor deals and more recently not even had my calls returned. So they're hardly angling for a sale and only going through the motions.
Funnily enough one of the dealers my friend's company use has a profile on here too... :whistle:
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It would affect the bonuses but only at the Brand Manager/Director level.
Mr Joe Salesman and his line manager wouldn't see any of that.
Sounds like you have a poorly performing local dealership. Find one that gives a toss or find a way to make them give a toss!
Car sales is a pretty hard game to be in (I'm glad I'm well out of it). The customers generally dislike you until they know you. The sales manager thinks little of you, the senior management team see you as disposable cannon fodder and at any given opportunity you have a pile of sh!t waiting to hit the fan.
C'est la vie.
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Jimble,
My Hertfordshire dealer has contacted me to invite me for a test drive on Monday, may see you there.
I will take some images as well.
My delivery date has gone from 35 to 46 now 37.
Feels like a game of snakes and ladders.
A double six may get me a September 1st delivery!
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Jimble,
My Hertfordshire dealer has contacted me to invite me for a test drive on Monday, may see you there.
I will take some images as well.
My delivery date has gone from 35 to 46 now 37.
Feels like a game of snakes and ladders.
A double six may get me a September 1st delivery!
Given I've been invited for a drive on Monday and my dealer is also in Herts I'm guessing we're from the same place :wink: - that car will be taking a hammering on Monday! :laugh:
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Jimble,
My Hertfordshire dealer has contacted me to invite me for a test drive on Monday, may see you there.
I will take some images as well.
My delivery date has gone from 35 to 46 now 37.
Feels like a game of snakes and ladders.
A double six may get me a September 1st delivery!
Given I've been invited for a drive on Monday and my dealer is also in Herts I'm guessing we're from the same place :wink: - that car will be taking a hammering on Monday! :laugh:
Think that was aimed at you mate, i'm in the deepest darkest midlands! :smiley:
Welcome though Torch! :afro:
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Ok, just had my test drive. Ill try to control my excitement but suffice to say I absolutely loved it!!
Spec was white (beautiful, was so impressed by this colour), non PP, 5.8" nav, tartan seats, standard wheels. Took some pics but its the same as Torch has posted and he's done a far better job than me so ill just stick to text!! Spent about half hour in the car, mixture of town, dual carriage way and country road driving.
Dealer took me out first - he nailed it. The grip levels & handling was superb. I actually was shocked at how quick it was. It may be the placebo effect but this car is quicker than stated, no question. After a quick drive we switched places and it was my turn.
F7ck me. I know it sounds like I'm going over the top but this car blew me away. The acceleration and pure power is ridiculous from a car this size. And it felt so light, it did not feel like driving a hatch. It corners like its on rails. If you were to hit a ton (ahem) it feels like you're doing 40. Wind noise at a minimum. Handling (I had it in sport mode as it had ACC) was so responsive, particularly going round corners. I thought I might find it twitchy at high speeds to keep it straight based on other reviews talking about how responsive the steering is but I had zero issues in this respect.
Comfort levels - those who haven't specced ACC need not worry - in sport it had no issues over bumps & the crappy road surfaces. Didn't even think for once this is a hard ride (this may change on the 19's but even if its a bit firmer it's not going to bother me I'm sure).
Driving round town it was pure refinement. This is a car that does everything so well, for the money it's actually a steal.
Didn't really play around too much with the gadgets inside, but the screen size was more than adequate as was the quality of the display.
The transition between 1st & 2nd - fine at low speeds (actually, the manual box is a joy); while nailing it there is a kick between 1st & 2nd but that was probably down to my sh!tty gear change :laugh:
All in all I'm still grinning from ear to ear. Fantastic fun, I could of driven all day!
You boys will love it I promise! Quite simply, this car is the nuts. :cool:
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Nice review pal. I knew you would love it. The wait will definitely be worth it
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Nice review pal. I knew you would love it. The wait will definitely be worth it
You are so right! It's a brilliant car, better than I thought!
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You liked it then?? :drool:
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Hi matchboy.
Nice review, thanks for taking the time to write it up.
What are you driving at the moment? Just interested to know what you are comparing it to.
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You liked it then?? :drool:
Just a bit, missus said you weren't looking forward to it until now eh :laugh:
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Hi matchboy.
Nice review, thanks for taking the time to write it up.
What are you driving at the moment? Just interested to know what you are comparing it to.
At the moment I'm driving a TT for the "summer" so different car completely. Missus has a Guillietta. Prior to that I've had a Mk 6 & Mk 5 GTI. Also had a 3 series and an A4. Been very fortunate to have been able to borrow for a couple of weeks each time a RR Sport Supercharged, RR Evoque, Audi R8 V10, Ferrari 458 Italia, M5 and various Porsches (Cayman, 911 C4, 911, C2 and 911 Turbo S). Plus some other (crappy) cars! :laugh: I can honestly say out of all of those this GTI blew me away the most other than the R8 (which was the best car I've ever driven). You can't really compare these cars to the GTI really though, but as an all rounder it ticks every box I'm after at the moment and exceeded my all ready high expectations. Honestly, I was that impressed.
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At the moment I'm driving a TT for the "summer" so different car completely. Missus has a Guillietta. Prior to that I've had a Mk 6 & Mk 5 GTI. Also had a 3 series and an A4. Been very fortunate to have been able to borrow for a couple of weeks each time a RR Sport Supercharged, RR Evoque, Audi R8 V10, Ferrari 458 Italia, M5 and various Porsches (Cayman, 911 C4, 911, C2 and 911 Turbo S). Plus some other (crappy) cars! :laugh: I can honestly say out of all of those this GTI blew me away the most other than the R8 (which was the best car I've ever driven). You can't really compare these cars to the GTI really though, but as an all rounder it ticks every box I'm after at the moment and exceeded my all ready high expectations. Honestly, I was that impressed.
Wow, that's a remarkable selection of cars you've had access to, it makes your review of the MK7 even more impressive!
It’s good to see you’ve got experience of other VAG models as well, especially the MK5/6. Would you say it’s a big step forward over the previous generation GTI?
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Brilliant!!! really can not wait even more now - roll on week 33 no 37 sorry 46..................
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If only they were my cars, caused they weren't :cry:
It's difficult to say compared to the mk 6; it's been 3 years since I had mine so I perceived there to be a big difference but it'll be interesting to see what a current mk6 GTI owner says stepping straight into the mk7. All I can say is its the best hatch I've ever driven, but I've never tested an ST or a 135i so others may feel differently. All I know is that my money is going to be well spent with this car IMO!
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Yeah great little write-up mate! I'm glad it didn't disappoint.... I don't disagree, it's surprisingly QUICK for a hot hatch... I'm sure there's definitely more power on tap than officially stated!!!! It's the way peak torque arrives so early in the rev band. Makes you feel like a driving GOD...
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Yeah great little write-up mate! I'm glad it didn't disappoint.... I don't disagree, it's surprisingly QUICK for a hot hatch... I'm sure there's definitely more power on tap than officially stated!!!! It's the way peak torque arrives so early in the rev band. Makes you feel like a driving GOD...
:grin: so true!! Especially as everyone got the fook out of my way!!
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At the moment I'm driving a TT for the "summer" so different car completely. Missus has a Guillietta. Prior to that I've had a Mk 6 & Mk 5 GTI. Also had a 3 series and an A4. Been very fortunate to have been able to borrow for a couple of weeks each time a RR Sport Supercharged, RR Evoque, Audi R8 V10, Ferrari 458 Italia, M5 and various Porsches (Cayman, 911 C4, 911, C2 and 911 Turbo S). Plus some other (crappy) cars! :laugh: I can honestly say out of all of those this GTI blew me away the most other than the R8 (which was the best car I've ever driven). You can't really compare these cars to the GTI really though, but as an all rounder it ticks every box I'm after at the moment and exceeded my all ready high expectations. Honestly, I was that impressed.
Wow, that's a remarkable selection of cars you've had access to, it makes your review of the MK7 even more impressive!
It’s good to see you’ve got experience of other VAG models as well, especially the MK5/6. Would you say it’s a big step forward over the previous generation GTI?
BIG step over a Mk6?.... Mmmmm I wouldn't say a BIG step, but definitely an improved step in the right direction. Like Matchboy has said you won't be disappointed. It does everything so well & is 'proper' quick. Put it this way I've owned a few fast cars in my time and the GTi still managed to bring a "Smile" to my face!!
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Matchboy on Twitter!!!!
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Matchboy on Twitter!!!!
I am indeed haha! I talk even more sh!t on there! :smiley:
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It was RT from VWUK - I'm following you now...
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It was RT from VWUK - I'm following you now...
Yeah I saw they retweeted me, claim to fame! That and the heated discussion with Keith lemon I had the other day.... :lipsrsealed:
I will follow back mate!
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Went into my dealer this morning, day off with the missus and the little 'in so would be rude to not let the wife have a blast in their demo.
Suffice to say, she loved it. She was also blown away by the speed and said its noticeably faster than the mk6. She couldn't fault it in terms of handling either. My daughter loved the speed too :laugh:
Also, their demo is in the navy blue. Have to say thought I'd hate it but in the flesh it's very very nice. Anyone who's ordered that colour won't be disappointed!!
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Also, their demo is in the navy blue. Have to say thought I'd hate it but in the flesh it's very very nice. Anyone who's ordered that colour won't be disappointed!!
I always thought the blue would be good. However, the real problem is this new thread here:
http://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=255530
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yeah, that is a nice colour!! Let's face it, it looks the nuts whatever the colour!
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Interesting write up from Vortex....
http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthread.php?6066947-Golf-7-GTI-driven...impressions-of-a-Mk6-owner.
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on the tiguan if your on a hill or incline all you need to do is stop and release the foot brake. holds you until you pull away. if you don't pull away it applies the handbrake which releases anyway when you pull away. you could drive your car without ever touching the handbrake.
i like it... but its a PITA when you go into reverse though!
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Interesting write up from Vortex....
http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthread.php?6066947-Golf-7-GTI-driven...impressions-of-a-Mk6-owner.
That was a first class review by that gentleman :smiley:
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Yep! Another great detailed review... I pretty much agree with what he said! Especially his conclusive comments...