GolfGTIforum.co.uk
Model specific boards => Golf mk7 => Topic started by: Jim_mk7.5 on 27 February 2020, 06:48
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I know we have a Mk8 board but I don’t feel many are using it.
So this is the new GTI. Anyone’s mind been changed at this stage?
I’m not sure but probably will look better in the metal... maybe 🤔
(https://i.postimg.cc/gJ8LPS67/1-E223-B93-49-B8-414-F-9-BFE-F65-C7104-ABCF.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
(https://i.postimg.cc/nhDdNZhY/9201B3EE-7E31-4ACE-9A2F-2C21710DB02B.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
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The dark grey gtd on the 19s doesn't look too bad Jim but that's because the dark colour hides the lines better.
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It reminds me of the Mk4 in its ordinaryness.
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Well I won't be swapping yet, but i'm not averse to it when the time comes.
One thing (or car) that may make me think twice will be the new Octavia vRS.
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What's the saying about silk purse from a sow's ear? :undecided:
I suppose there aren't too many folks on here that would buy a 7/7.5 vanilla but lets be honest we are all prepared to spend a lot of money for a GTI/R..... I don't think the mk8 will be any different eventually!
It looks much better than I thought thankfully, I especially like it white (but that's no surprise, last 6 cars have been white or white silver!) but I don't think I'll be anywhere near the front of the queue for this one, I'm still very happy with mine right now and hopefully with 2 years warranty, 3 services and 4 years GAP left should be cheap motoring for a while! At least is nice to know that I still have 1 ICE left though! :wink:
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I normally give new models the benefit of the doubt, but I'm really not sure about that. Small details, but I don't like the 5 drls on each side of the bumper, the lack of red grill trim, the centrally placed GTI badge on the boot and the wheels. Also, the lack of a 3 door has sealed its fate for me for the moment. I'll stick with my 3dr CS which I specified with a factory 5 year warranty, so still 2 full years left (and only done 5k miles). Maybe the Ed45 wiil be nicer?
Edit. I've just watched a video of it and it does have red trim on the grill. And the seats are nice.
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Not keen at all. Same with the new shape Polo.
One car that is catching my eye is the GR Yaris, that'll be interesting seeing that in the flesh.
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Genuinely like it. And as is usually the case, they'll sell in bucket loads and everyone will eventually rave about the looks and how good they are :wink: :whistle:
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What's the saying about silk purse from a sow's ear? :undecided:
The very wide ‘mouth’ and slim upper grille does seem to have made a sow’s ear from the silk purse that was the mk7 / mk7.5. Quite small visual changes, but IMO what was a really good looking car in the mk7 / mk7.5 now isn’t good looking at all. Well done VW (not)! But as @rajb has said, it’ll sell because it’s a Golf.
Autogefühl review video at the link below;
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHOeIfUMgEE&feature=youtu.be
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Suppose it will grow on me, but the first time I saw the MK7 I loved it's looks. Still not seen anything I prefer to the GTI and plan on keeping it as long as I can.
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Do not like the rear badge or the smiley over sized grill and hate what hope is the fog lights (so can turn them off)
Red is not the best colour it seems as it masks the red stripe, other colours would accentuate
The R with some Pretoria and Air scoops instead of fog lights would likely look much improved
Its not as if its awful, and will stick to the thinking that once added new rims the new GTI would look ok, and maybe the R a little bit better - definitely liveable with and not a stopper to buying but think the MK 7 series looks better.
The real stopper is the interior, definitely a step backwards with way the two screens are split makes for masses of piano black (should have copied the Touraeg) the distracting touch and gesture environment and finally removal of the DSG lever for a soulless knob thing - The steering wheel is ugly too, with a really bulbous center section
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Well done VW (not)! But as @rajb has said, it’ll sell because it’s a Golf.
I remember when the MkIV was first seen and everyone hated it. But again it went on to sell really well and after they'd been around a while and you got used to seeing them you started to like them more.
BMW's hideous styling has gone the other way with the front grille becoming over exaggerated in size compared to the rest of front end. It's getting slated on all the groups/forums but again after a while it'll grow on everyone.
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To me, the design looks all over the place. The squat front end, the slightly bloated middle and the angular rear. It looks like there were three teams involved in the design but none of them knew what the others were doing :rolleyes: I'll reserve final judgement until I see one in the flesh but I can't see one tempting me out of my current car.
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For me the design doesn't look anywhere near as well resolved as the 7.5 (maybe its better in person). The front, middle and rear of the car really don't sit right together for me.
I think looking at the side profile of the GTD I think a face-lift where they restyle the front bumper/lights and change the wheels would make a huge difference.
Interior - much prefer the steering wheel and setup of the current 7.5 although the seat shape looks nice.
Im sure there are a raft of improvements inside and out and it will sell really well, but if this was parked up on the forecourt next to my TCR I wouldn't give this a second look on visuals alone.
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To add to that, if I was moving from my BMW m135 right now with the order books closed on the 7.5 I don't think VW would be top of my list of garages that I would be visiting.
It will be interesting to see how the R looks (if its the same as the leaked shots suggest) as the 7.5 was more conservative looking than the GTI.
*Just seen the leading group shot of the models on the EVO homepage and certainly paints the GTI in a much better light that what the other sites are leading with. Different wheels/pan roof/different angle etc.
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To add to that, if I was moving from my BMW m135 right now with the order books closed on the 7.5 I don't think VW would be top of my list of garages that I would be visiting.
It will be interesting to see how the R looks (if its the same as the leaked shots suggest) as the 7.5 was more conservative looking than the GTI.
*Just seen the leading group shot of the models on the EVO homepage and certainly paints the GTI in a much better light that what the other sites are leading with. Different wheels/pan roof/different angle etc.
Convinced now that if had to choose now I would not even be considering the MK 8 - Getting a run out TCR is beginning to feel like a real stroke of luck in timing.
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I like the seats. But for me I cannot see the embossed GTi logo on the seat. Cost cutting measure? And I cannot stand the Gti badge under the rear central VW badge. Looks cheap and just stuck on with no thought. I think it will grow on me but man it just looks like a bigger polo Gti and that is not a looker.
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These pictures of the Mk8 GTI remind me of when the F30 3 series BMW landed in ’11/’12 (or so).. Then, that car, I felt had improved the look of the rear end whilst, at the same time, maybe not being as nice at the front as its predecessor… and that is how I feel looking at these pictures… I kinda like the new rear of the Golf, but am less wowed by the front… Like others say, guess it’s going to look different when you see them ion the flesh, and start to see more of them…
Not sure that red is the colour for the best for car’s shape, mind..
Have to say, though, I think the new interiors look as though they are going to be a massive leap forwards in many respects… With all the connected services, infotainment etc... Coming from a BMW to the Golf I always felt the infotainment etc was a step or two behind and I think that will now be put right…
(https://i.postimg.cc/gJ8LPS67/1-E223-B93-49-B8-414-F-9-BFE-F65-C7104-ABCF.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
(https://i.postimg.cc/nhDdNZhY/9201B3EE-7E31-4ACE-9A2F-2C21710DB02B.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
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Just to add to my last post... A few additional thoughts after looking at the EVO article mentioned earlier in the thread…
The white seems to suit the shape of the car best, of those colours sampled in the pictures…
On first impression, I don’t particularly like the “5” spot dice like look to the running lights in the front grill area… Looks a bit tacky to me, although not as bad as Porsche’s 4 spot version (that makes their cars look somewhat off, in my opinion)…
Symmetrical wheels with straight spokes always look better to me than the ones with the spokes that look like they are already spinning (bent)…
Would be interested to see how a more aggressive look (like, say, TCR) would work on the car… The Mk7.5 TCR has grown on me, particularly at the rear which feels less “soft” than my 245 Performance….
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Regardless of whether you prefer a Mk7 to a Mk8, from here on out, if you want a new Golf its a Mk8. I don't think anything they have done here will increase or decrease the sales of the Golf.
Whether the GTI is going to sell much vs the pressure of the M135i is going to be down to cost and I think this is a particular battle VW need to be very careful of not winning.
The BMW is no worse looking, the same size but more powerful, AWD, arguably has better technology and that technology is available in its most opted for forms under 40k.
The 40k threshold is important.
With VW saying the Mk8's improvements are all about the tech, they HAVE to make most of that tech available for under 40k, because BMW can do that.
If I can't have a Mk8 NavPro, HUD, a colour of my choice, DSG, dynamic lighting, ACC, lane assist, automatic parking and rear view camera for probably an RRP of under £36k RRP, why would I choose a Mk GTI that lacks AWD and 310BHP? A M135i with all of that spec is £33k discounted, just under 40k RRP.
We'll have to wait and see if VW UK can achieve that goal - but I doubt that they will.
When it comes to the R they really need to compete head on with the M135i. They need to absolutely achieve fully tech loaded for under 40k.
Sure other marques have similar sorts of cars, but the relationship between the 1 Series and the Golf is absolutely the direct competition and for most people that's two well loved German brands with equal history and merit - VW need to win this or give up the hot hatch battle that they have dominated since the Mk1 GTI.
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Gave my mk7 some visual scrutiny today compared to what I have seen of the 8 .
I plan to stay with the 7 long term
but I think that says more about me than the new model
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How many new GTi are sold to actual GTi enthusiasts?
It seems most buyers love the latest tech, this car delivers as an upgrade on the 7.5.
Once the initial run of buyers who want the latest of anything is done, the cheap lease deals will appear to ensure these sell in good numbers.
VW know their market for these cars.
I'm glad I bought my low miles, 3 door, manual while I had the chance! :)
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I was hoping the Mk8 would do to the GTI brand what the MK5 did. I need to see one in the flesh.
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I was hoping the Mk8 would do to the GTI brand what the MK5 did. I need to see one in the flesh.
The Mk5 came after the mk3 (worse GTi) and the mk4 (average at best)?
The mk7's set a higher benchmark, making it a harder act for the 8 to significantly eclipse?
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Thinking this is my last fossil fuel car, so now more interested in what the sporty ID3 models will look like. What we’ve seen so far is a pretty good basis to work on I reckon. Not a fan of the above Mr Blobby.
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Thinking this is my last fossil fuel car, so now more interested in what the sporty ID3 models will look like. What we’ve seen so far is a pretty good basis to work on I reckon. Not a fan of the above Mr Blobby.
I still think current electric cars are going to be seen akin to "transportable" analogue mobile phones.
If you remember those bricks and what they could and couldn't do there is no way you could have predicted the modern mobile phone from that point in history.
Whilst the cliff edge for ICE is coming due to regulation, what we are seeing as the solution is about the same as when they turned a carriage into a motor vehicle in the early 20th century. Just like the removal of the horse, the removal of the engine, drive train and fuel tank should radically change the design of the car, but all we have so far is the same old same old. Nobody, not even Tesla, is being bold with the designs yet.
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Thinking this is my last fossil fuel car, so now more interested in what the sporty ID3 models will look like. What we’ve seen so far is a pretty good basis to work on I reckon. Not a fan of the above Mr Blobby.
Think we should all be preparing for that transition and make the most of the time we have with present cars which will likely become your classic weekend retro blast
We all have seen what can be done with electric performance cars, VW themselves broke the Goodwood track record with their track car, so pretty sure the ID3 R for example would be quite a car with some ridiculous sub 3 second getaway - Its the charging time and accessibility thats the blocker for me, not the car.
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BTW, I just read something on the kit spec.... but I suspect its talking about the German market - VW UK base spec for GTI/GTD/R is different to Germany where you basically get nothing without a paid for option.
It said...
"Slightly puny 17-inch rims come standard, but you can option these up to 18- or 19-inches"
"optionally available is a unique lighting signature for the front made up of a full-width LED element across the grille and Clio RS-style chequered-flag foglights inserted into the honeycomb lower grille.
Both of these are to be found on the optional equipment list, though, so buyers will still be able to fly under the radar bearing only subtly reshaped bumpers and diffusers plus a rear roof spoiler."
and also:
a higher-spec, higher-performance model will join the range later in the year. This is set to replace the outgoing GTI TCR, but will return without the TCR moniker as VW doesn’t plan to return to the race series. It’s likely that this car’s power output will begin with a ‘3’, though it’s early days yet.
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I wonder how many older cars will get badged like the Mk8 tailgate with those chrome badges that are by the till at Halfords?
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A salesman told me a month ago that the GTI 8 will have 'little standard kit' as it will sell anyway. I don't expect the standard kit to be that measly but it probably won't be as well specced as an MY20 7.5 GTI PP.
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A salesman told me a month ago that the GTI 8 will have 'little standard kit' as it will sell anyway. I don't expect the standard kit to be that measly but it probably won't be as well specced as an MY20 7.5 GTI PP.
I would expect at launch that like every model before it that the "standard" kit will be less at launch at as its life goes on to include more things to attact buyers to an "old" model before you get ultimately to run out version where everything including the kitchen sink is "given for free" (it isn't free).
On the other hand, like I wrote earlier:
1) Its talking about Germany and not UK yet.
2) Its competing with a BMW that is fully loaded...
Also I might add that if VW are making factory fitted options that require actually building differently and not just software activating by the user after purchase then every single possible permuation needs WLTP figures. Which is why a lot of OEM's are moving away from the idea of specific hardware builds but doing the enablement in software post purchase or even (like SEAT) not offering options at all.
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Hell no. Its damn ugly from the front. Those wheels :sick: Rear is ok. So disappointed :(
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHOeIfUMgEE
"Optional automatic cruise control"
I think quite a lot of this is going to be activated from the "shop" button on the MIB.... well, activated by the button and your credit card.
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Seems to have provoked plenty of thoughts... Not many positive ones though.
I literally can't believe they are fitting the Bridgestones again.. Seriously.
(https://i.postimg.cc/SxvKxJH8/Screenshot-2020-02-27-at-14-45-46.png) (https://postimg.cc/fVYsHTzT)
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Seems to have provoked plenty of thoughts... Not many positive ones though.
Well.... I put off my BMW purchase to wait and see about this.... I'm still not discounting having one but it depends on the UK spec and price.
A definitely maybe from me.
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Like a lot of new models they require some time to 'grow on you'. Also seeing it in the flesh in your preferred colour can change your view.
Based on the couple of pics here I'm not a fan.
As a very recent mk7.5 owner I'm even more happier now :cool:
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHOeIfUMgEE
"Optional automatic cruise control"
I think quite a lot of this is going to be activated from the "shop" button on the MIB.... well, activated by the button and your credit card.
Presumably to duck under the luxury tax threshold - buy your bare bones Golf GTI MK8 for £39995 and 2 weeks after registration spend on your card to activate the hardware already there or that has been designed to be a doddle for the dealership to retrofit.
The car makers should just be honest about the pricing Sell a "£40k" car with £3k dealership contribution for £37k rather than discounting an inflated price to give the impression of a bargain that isn't there.
Marketing has worked well recently with the TCR's ridiculous RRP counteracted by the "free" finance offer. Charge £4k more for the car vs it's nearest equivalent predecessor (CS? TCR matches CS on permanent overboost) but give £4k finance saving.
I think they're going to have to discount MK8 Golfs heavily to outsell the Series 1 equivalent. The 1 series has gotten a little less ugly and the Golf has got more ugly. BMW won't make you wait an eternity for a performance model either. From what I've seen on paper, I'd pick the BMW.
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Like a lot of new models they require some time to 'grow on you'. Also seeing it in the flesh in your preferred colour can change your view.
Based on the couple of pics here I'm not a fan.
As a very recent mk7.5 owner I'm even more happier now :cool:
Accept rather than grow on you? There was a hell of a lot more enthusiasm for the incoming MK7, no one thought it was ugly.
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Like a lot of new models they require some time to 'grow on you'. Also seeing it in the flesh in your preferred colour can change your view.
Based on the couple of pics here I'm not a fan.
As a very recent mk7.5 owner I'm even more happier now :cool:
Accept rather than grow on you? There was a hell of a lot more enthusiasm for the incoming MK7, no one thought it was ugly.
Yeah guess so :smiley:
As already mentioned in another post it can depend on how the predecessor was perceived. The MK7 was a great improvement on the MK6 so the MK8 has more to live up to.
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I think they're going to have to discount MK8 Golfs heavily to outsell the Series 1 equivalent. The 1 series has gotten a little less ugly and the Golf has got more ugly. BMW won't make you wait an eternity for a performance model either. From what I've seen on paper, I'd pick the BMW.
Did you see what I wrote earlier about how this needs to be at least as loaded and priced slightly under the M135i if anyone is not going to opt for more power and AWD of the BMW?
I am not paying as much as a M135i for a GTI. I simply am not.
I don't care about post-purchase activation of features - not if its going to cost me more - I can't lease or PCP a post-purchase activation - thats cold hard cash.
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Those wheels are puke
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I think they're going to have to discount MK8 Golfs heavily to outsell the Series 1 equivalent. The 1 series has gotten a little less ugly and the Golf has got more ugly. BMW won't make you wait an eternity for a performance model either. From what I've seen on paper, I'd pick the BMW.
Did you see what I wrote earlier about how this needs to be at least as loaded and priced slightly under the M135i if anyone is not going to opt for more power and AWD of the BMW?
I am not paying as much as a M135i for a GTI. I simply am not.
I don't care about post-purchase activation of features - not if its going to cost me more - I can't lease or PCP a post-purchase activation - thats cold hard cash.
It might not be a full purchase for extras if they are activated and can be deactivated at the end of a lease or PCP, you pay monthly for their use.
It's not all that practical for some extras - activating voice control (you buy a code from dealers to activate it for the Polo) doesn't cost VW much if you don't take it up. Putting a sunroof in on every car that may or may not be required would be dead money for VW in many cases of cars sold.
I personally think that 7.5TCR and performance MK8s are looking way over-priced. Not sure the market will bear covering £22-25k* depreciation and interest on a PCP over 36 months for any Golf (£600+ pm equivalent, inclusive of deposit). You can lease a hell of a car for that money.
*£38k Golf GTI with a GFV of 48-50% of RRP at 3 years old, assuming RRP or close to it is paid on the brand new MK8.
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Yes £600 a month to drive a golf is insane.
I guess like when phones became a thousand pound item impossible to pay on a one year contract, they simply extended it. Everyone is trying to illustrate car prices on a 48 month term now. I might accept that if they offered a four year warranty but the whole point of me having a new car is to eliminate risk of unforeseen bills. That fourth year could very expensive...
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Short answer to the original question: No, I can’t see me swapping out. There is very little about the design I like.
A pig in lipstick at the front. Bland in profile and from the rear.
I’ll await a possible Ed35/Clubsport prototype at Worthersee for release next year maybe and will be keen to see the R in July.
It’s not looking encouraging right now.
Longer answer:
Having had a good look at the photos and vids it’s just not attractive at all.
Looking at a mk8 GTI then an image of a 7/7.5 and its just no contest in favour of the earlier car.
This is the only time since the release of the mk3 GTI (I’m an on/off GTI owner for 33 Years) that I’ve felt the new model is a turd in comparison to the outgoing.
The tech might be improved in quantity but I’m not convinced it’s improved in usability by any means.
The interior quality looks like it’s going the wrong way.
I’ll give VW one thing, the design is certainly a bold gamble from the front end.
Pros: I do actually like the C’eed lights breaking up the basking shark gob a bit, and the seats are quite a nice shape, but as for the rest of it, it’ll take considerable time to grow to love that face.
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Definitely won’t be looking to change. Looking at the pics my wife saw pictures of it and she is not interested in cars and her exact words were that is one ugly car
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I am pleased I got my 7.5 in before production end. Like many on here, I am not 'wowed' by the new MK8. There are little bits here and there which I like, but as a whole package, I am not so sure.
I am certain in the metal, it will be more appealing, and for sure, they will still sell many of them no doubt. The disappearance of hydraulic struts for the bonnet is disappointing, but overall - pictures at least, I feel a little underwhelmed.
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Apologies if this has already been shared but....
https://youtu.be/aicWFRDOVFI
I’d hope CarWow had done the homework but a few things that surprised me if true, manual and 17” alloys! :huh:
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The press release is here for anyone that's interested.
https://vwpress.co.uk/en-gb/releases/4156
Manual gearbox as standard is definitely correct (for GTi).
As has already been said, 17 inch wheels are standard, but may not be available in all markets.
Looks like i'm the only one that got hard plastic door cappings on the rear doors of my Mk7. Might have to take it back to VW, see what they say :wink:
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Germany get 17s as standard but the UK will probably get 18s like it does now.
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That vw UK press release says that the bigger centre screen is standard on the performance golfs.... And here we go again, playing trying to guess which vw statement about spec is actually true. Only answered when someone actually gets one...
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I wonder what's new about the EA888 Evo4 engine? A return of port injection and use of the Budack cycle under low load to increase economy like the 3b variant in the Polo GTI?
I highly doubt UK GTIs will come on17" wheels as standard - the Polo GTI gets 17" wheels as standard, and it costs 65% of the price of the anticipated £35k RRP of the Golf. I'd expect the Golf to add to the Polo GTI+ spec, so gen 2 of the virtual cockpit as the Polo has, 10" infotainment screen as the Polo has, and hopefully a lot more besides for your extra £12k.
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There are two screens though in the Mk8 (like the Mk7.5)... one is what we know as the AID and the other the MIB.
Some VW docs talk about a 10" AID and a 8.5" MIB but that VW press release says specifically about the performance Golf family having 10" and 10.5" as standard - thats effectively "navpro".
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I think I'll wait for the 8.5. I just can't fall in love with the front end, I think the new A3 and Leon look much better. :undecided:
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It doesn't look so bad in this photo actually - which I think really illustrates the point that you are likely to have a different opinion in the flesh:
(https://i.postimg.cc/3xbzqSTt/Mk8-Volkswagen-GTI-GTD-and-GTE.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
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Germany get 17s as standard but the UK will probably get 18s like it does now.
Yes, there's no way the UK will get 17s as standard. The ones in the pictures are 18s for sure and would put money on them been the standard ones for the UK as they look to be a slight variance on the already marmite Parkers.
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If i was looking at a manual GTI I would not be, as I would turn my attention to the new 130N which has literally everything as standard! with just colour your remaining option.
Significant saving, maybe as much as £10,000 over a similarly option GTI and it looks good, drives and sounds amazing and though not seen in flesh, the interior is far more to my liking in style and it would just maybe be some of the quality of material that you notice, which given the overall package pretty sure you can rationalise and live with.
I would want DSG and thats not an option so I would have likely looked elsewhere but it would definitely be on my radar as would the LEON Cupra if the MK 8 was my option.
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It doesn't look so bad in this photo actually - which I think really illustrates the point that you are likely to have a different opinion in the flesh:
(https://i.postimg.cc/3xbzqSTt/Mk8-Volkswagen-GTI-GTD-and-GTE.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
Not sure if anyone else noticed but in this picture, the seats aren't the right ones...🤔
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It doesn't look so bad in this photo actually - which I think really illustrates the point that you are likely to have a different opinion in the flesh:
(https://i.postimg.cc/3xbzqSTt/Mk8-Volkswagen-GTI-GTD-and-GTE.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
I have to agree they do look good from that angle but I think that's only because you can't see how pinched the nose is...… smart photography which must be a sign of even VW thinking its odd looking!! I'd buy one from that picture! :shocked:
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Yes, those wheels look a lot better and the angle definitely helps it look a little more attractive....
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It doesn't look so bad in this photo actually - which I think really illustrates the point that you are likely to have a different opinion in the flesh:
(https://i.postimg.cc/3xbzqSTt/Mk8-Volkswagen-GTI-GTD-and-GTE.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
The bigger and nicer wheels add to the stance and the black sunroof give better contrast which adds also - The front grill still looks oversized and them KIA style lights (sorry Exonian) just look wrong - Think the TCR and the R however may look better as pretty sure there will be some air scoops where them fog lights are, and they will break up that huge expanse grill and maybe actually look good even -
The original MK 7 GTI suffered the most with the U DRL as the redstripe always looked awkward and the R looked far nicer with the twin DRL, on the MK 7.5 there was a significant face lift on the lights and the GTI was the big winner as the way the redstripe blends with the lights is perfect
Think the MK 8 GTI will need a similar facelift on the lower grill to make that front end anything less than the wide mouthed grinning thing it is now.
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And I think the wheels are what are catching your eye in that photo - those have to be 19's which always make a bold statement.
And it seems fairly universal that people still hate parker/milton keynes.
You also can't see the droopy nose, the down turned lights or the basking shark mouth (because the fogs are on).
But again, 19's are going to cost you what?
And that's the thing I keep coming back to, if I wanted a decent spec hot hatch for 39.9999k, its going to be a M135i - the GTI has to be cheaper than that or is simply a no, looks or not.
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If i was looking at a manual GTI I would not be, as I would turn my attention to the new 130N which has literally everything as standard! with just colour your remaining option.
Significant saving, maybe as much as £10,000 over a similarly option GTI and it looks good, drives and sounds amazing and though not seen in flesh, the interior is far more to my liking in style and it would just maybe be some of the quality of material that you notice, which given the overall package pretty sure you can rationalise and live with.
I would want DSG and thats not an option so I would have likely looked elsewhere but it would definitely be on my radar as would the LEON Cupra if the MK 8 was my option.
The issues with the I30N are:
1) DSG is coming, but not yet.
2) Its cheaper to buy (a bit) but depreciation is like dropping a grand piano off of the eiffel tower.
3) Its very thirsty. Very very thirsty.
4) Its more akin to a Type R in that its a pretty harsh noisy ride - something a Golf will never be out of the factory.
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If i was looking at a manual GTI I would not be, as I would turn my attention to the new 130N which has literally everything as standard! with just colour your remaining option.
Significant saving, maybe as much as £10,000 over a similarly option GTI and it looks good, drives and sounds amazing and though not seen in flesh, the interior is far more to my liking in style and it would just maybe be some of the quality of material that you notice, which given the overall package pretty sure you can rationalise and live with.
I would want DSG and thats not an option so I would have likely looked elsewhere but it would definitely be on my radar as would the LEON Cupra if the MK 8 was my option.
facelift i30N just announced in the last few days has DCT box now.
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But again, 19's are going to cost you what?
And that's the thing I keep coming back to, if I wanted a decent spec hot hatch for 39.9999k, its going to be a M135i - the GTI has to be cheaper than that or is simply a no, looks or not.
Did you see the pricing info in the evo article?
As for pricing, VW is yet to confirm the exact figures. What it will say is that prices shouldn’t move too significantly away from the current structure, where the equivalent Golf GTI Performance starts at £32,135 in five-door form. The current GTE is similar, at £32,015 (though we’d expect the new car to be priced more like the GTE Advance, at £33,815), while the outgoing GTD with a DSG ’box was £31,175. Call it around £33,000 for GTI and GTD then, and up to £35,000 for the GTE.
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https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/volkswagen/golf/99552/vw-golf-gti-first-decade-404bhp-show-car-arrives-at-worthersee (https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/volkswagen/golf/99552/vw-golf-gti-first-decade-404bhp-show-car-arrives-at-worthersee)
They should have just let the class of 2017 build the MK 8 GTI hybrid that everyone wanted :)
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This is why think the R will look much better in this render, - the scoops break up the front nicely and give it better shape.
(https://www.autocar.co.uk/sites/autocar.co.uk/files/styles/gallery_slide/public/images/car-reviews/first-drives/legacy/vw_golf_8_r_plus_blue_flipped_1.jpg?itok=So6mrtlm)
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If i was looking at a manual GTI I would not be, as I would turn my attention to the new 130N which has literally everything as standard! with just colour your remaining option.
Significant saving, maybe as much as £10,000 over a similarly option GTI and it looks good, drives and sounds amazing and though not seen in flesh, the interior is far more to my liking in style and it would just maybe be some of the quality of material that you notice, which given the overall package pretty sure you can rationalise and live with.
I would want DSG and thats not an option so I would have likely looked elsewhere but it would definitely be on my radar as would the LEON Cupra if the MK 8 was my option.
The issues with the I30N are:
1) DSG is coming, but not yet.
2) Its cheaper to buy (a bit) but depreciation is like dropping a grand piano off of the eiffel tower.
3) Its very thirsty. Very very thirsty.
4) Its more akin to a Type R in that its a pretty harsh noisy ride - something a Golf will never be out of the factory.
Yes, all points you would have to take in closer inspection and definitely test drive - Have consistently said that you would hope the 130N next version would address the issues of the inaugaral I30N so be interesting to see if any of these known issues have been addressed in reviews that will be coming up.
Do think its a car you genuinely and seriously look at as despite concerns there is a lot to like,
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https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/motor-shows-geneva-motor-show/hyundai-i30-gets-redesign-new-tech-and-mild-hybrids-2020
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If i was looking at a manual GTI I would not be, as I would turn my attention to the new 130N which has literally everything as standard! with just colour your remaining option.
Significant saving, maybe as much as £10,000 over a similarly option GTI and it looks good, drives and sounds amazing and though not seen in flesh, the interior is far more to my liking in style and it would just maybe be some of the quality of material that you notice, which given the overall package pretty sure you can rationalise and live with.
I would want DSG and thats not an option so I would have likely looked elsewhere but it would definitely be on my radar as would the LEON Cupra if the MK 8 was my option.
facelift i30N just announced in the last few days has DCT box now.
If buying now, and MK 8 was my option I would seriously be looking at the 130N if the DCT was added, the badge would not be a blocker, as its an attractive package and looks great in the racing blue - But as has been pointed out, there was some issues with the first 130 N that you would need to understand if the 2020 outing has improved on.
Definitely get the knocks that can be made to the I30N but also feel no one can argue that they have really closed the gap and if you like a more conventional cockpit and set up over the way VW are heading it may have more attraction - It does for me.
Obviously in an easy position to make these comments as only 4 mths in my TCR but be interested to see how those who are in the hot seat and have to make a decision in next 6-12 months choose? I am glad I am not as think it would be a painful choosing process of second guessing and doubt to if making right decision.
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Did you see the pricing info in the evo article?
As for pricing, VW is yet to confirm the exact figures. What it will say is that prices shouldn’t move too significantly away from the current structure, where the equivalent Golf GTI Performance starts at £32,135 in five-door form. The current GTE is similar, at £32,015 (though we’d expect the new car to be priced more like the GTE Advance, at £33,815), while the outgoing GTD with a DSG ’box was £31,175. Call it around £33,000 for GTI and GTD then, and up to £35,000 for the GTE.
No I didn't... interesting.
So probably £35k for the DSG GTI - its going to cost more than the GTD for sure (GTD is only DSG) - always has.
Lets assume "base" spec for GTI/GTD is this then:
Navpro
18's
Lane Assist etc (standard on all Mk8's)
Car2X (standard on all Mk8's)
LED lights (standard on all Mk8's)
ACC
Sports seats
Bigger brakes /VAQ diff (GTI - basically PP spec)
Things we know will be options:
Paint
19's
DCC
HUD (was rumoured it might be available)
Rear camera
Sunroof (I thought these were going away but the photos show a red GTI with it)
Front lighting strip
Fog lights
Matrix lights (probably software activated at any stage using ££££)
How many of those options come bundled with the UK spec ones is the question - I can see the lights probably being included.
Personally, if we said a Mk8 GTI DSG was list £35k it might be in the ball game - lets assume a 5k discount maybe from DTD/VW deposit contrib.
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Do think its a car you genuinely and seriously look at as despite concerns there is a lot to like,
It needs that thirsty issue fixing (the Top Gear long term review said you are lucky to get 300 miles out of a tank of fuel!) and at the very least needs a DCC type setup that can cope with British pothole filled roads.
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It doesn't look so bad in this photo actually - which I think really illustrates the point that you are likely to have a different opinion in the flesh:
(https://i.postimg.cc/3xbzqSTt/Mk8-Volkswagen-GTI-GTD-and-GTE.jpg) (https://postimages.org/)
Interesting that they seem to have had a redesign on the sunroof surround, might help Watts case when he goes back, almost an admission of a fault!! :huh:
https://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=286255.0
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Do think its a car you genuinely and seriously look at as despite concerns there is a lot to like,
It needs that thirsty issue fixing (the Top Gear long term review said you are lucky to get 300 miles out of a tank of fuel!) and at the very least needs a DCC type setup that can cope with British pothole filled roads.
My R and even my present TCR when running around in sport and locally just about gets me to 300 miles on a tank
Is the I30N 270 BHP? Imagine the 2020 will have a BHP increase and be at the TCR level of 290 BHP and so if they get it to 300 -350 miles a tank thats on par with the circa 300 BHP hatches out there
Thought the I30N had DCC as part of what is apparently its endless set up options? If not, then DCC is a must for me, first box I tick
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Just read that Geneva has been cancelled as Swiss government have made a ban on large events 1000 >
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Do think its a car you genuinely and seriously look at as despite concerns there is a lot to like,
It needs that thirsty issue fixing (the Top Gear long term review said you are lucky to get 300 miles out of a tank of fuel!) and at the very least needs a DCC type setup that can cope with British pothole filled roads.
My R and even my present TCR when running around in sport and locally just about gets me to 300 miles on a tank
Is the I30N 270 BHP? Imagine the 2020 will have a BHP increase and be at the TCR level of 290 BHP and so if they get it to 300 -350 miles a tank thats on par with the circa 300 BHP hatches out there
Thought the I30N had DCC as part of what is apparently its endless set up options? If not, then DCC is a must for me, first box I tick
the i30N comes as standard with DCC. the only thing to pick on the i30N is colour. The new interior updates bring it more in line with the golf interior. Never mind people saying 300 per tank, I was talking to a chap a few months ago and asked him how many miles per gallon he got out of his. 15mpg on a good day and 25mpg taking it easy. If they increase bhp then it'll get even less!
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the i30N comes as standard with DCC. the only thing to pick on the i30N is colour. The new interior updates bring it more in line with the golf interior. Never mind people saying 300 per tank, I was talking to a chap a few months ago and asked him how many miles per gallon he got out of his. 15mpg on a good day and 25mpg taking it easy. If they increase bhp then it'll get even less!
You see thats pretty grim - again coming back to my baseline M135i - thats 27mpg if you are trying to break the landspeed record and 42mpg if you are just driving open roads and motorways at sensible fuel consuming speeds.
I would never consider a car that was as thirsty as the N - certainly not when its only a 2l FWD hot hatch - those figures are up there with 3l V6 territory. I'm fairly sure even a Focus RS doesn't do as badly.
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People keep saying that everyone should be switching to Korean cars that are cheaper, have long warranties, designed by people they poached from Audi/BMW etc.
But when it comes to going beyond the aesthetics (which aren't always great), their running gear tech is miles off VAG, BMW, Ford etc to get big performance and decent economy.
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I spent a day driving an i30N around Millbrook, it's a hilariously capable car. Few of the touch points are a little cheap, but then it's a cheap car. I didn't like the stupid exhaust.
The ride is the main point. It's fine in anything but N/race/whatever they call it mode, then it'll really annoy you. We were doing 130+ around the bowl and the instructor put it in that mode and I near as damn it went blind from the vibration. It may as well have had a solid bar instead of a damper.
Given they've come so far from nothing in such a short space, I expect the next gen car to be very good.
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I like the MK8.
I don't really feel the need to jump from the 245PP, but I'd certainly take a look at the Clubsport type variant when it arrives.
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I like the MK8.
VW will be happy - one potential Mk7 owner that likes the Mk8 :grin:
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:smiley:
I kinda get the resistance to it, it's a bit MK6 out of the MK5 mould - is it enough of a 'new' car?
I recon once reviews and drives start happening, the progress will be realised and people can appreciate the differences.
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:smiley:
I kinda get the resistance to it, it's a bit MK6 out of the MK5 mould - is it enough of a 'new' car?
I recon once reviews and drives start happening, the progress will be realised and people can appreciate the differences.
I'm not doubting it will be great to drive. And I'll reserve full judgement until I get the chance to have a good at one in person. But it's not particularly good to look at, whatsoever. I did a comparison picture below...
(https://i.postimg.cc/v8j3mWWQ/IMG-5919.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/6Trdj4jS)
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Im swapping my MKVII, currently waiting for a M135i Xdrive-I dont like the look of the Mk8 from what I have seen up to now and the only alternative I fancied was a TCR, but I couldn't drop on one in the spec I wanted,so when I got offered a good deal on the BMW I (reluctantly) decided to jump off the GTI ship. :rolleyes:
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Im swapping my MKVII, currently waiting for a M135i Xdrive-I dont like the look of the Mk8 from what I have seen up to now and the only alternative I fancied was a TCR, but I couldn't drop on one in the spec I wanted,so when I got offered a good deal on the BMW I (reluctantly) decided to jump off the GTI ship. :rolleyes:
Good spec on these BMWs as well. Didn't mean to reply to myself!!
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I'm not doubting it will be great to drive. And I'll reserve full judgement until I get the chance to have a good at one in person. But it's not particularly good to look at, whatsoever. I did a comparison picture below...
It is what it is I guess, but then I'm the kind of pervert who bought an M135i when it first came out and that wasn't pretty either.
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I think the grey looks better, but it looks overall horrid the front is soo bad its un true, not sure about the lack of buttons on the weird touch buttons going down well at all.
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Spoke to a salesman today who has seen the R in the flesh, said it looked very good (he would wouldn't he?!) and that they are still to decide the interior seats
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Just seen that the new Audi A3 has been released and much prefer the changes to the Golf.
The lines are quiet nice, and the front has good form, definitely not objectionable and you imagine once the S Line / S3 bits are added with some decent 19" rims you would imagine it looks pretty good.
Though not wow by interior and feel the vents etc take a bit of getting used to (having spent 9 years in S Line Quattro always liked the circular jet engine vents as a classy addition) its more conventional and at least Audi have retained switches (which they apparently have removed in models higher up the range that the A3 interior borrows from)
That touch volume control is so weirdly placed though?! especially in the manual as you have to reach around it just to turn the volume up and down? Really?!!
The A3 also loses the classy looking STronic lever apparently, which is another detraction that sure you just get used to but its just removing another differentiation, especially in an Audi where cabin quality is one of the key attractions - any manufacturer can produce a little knob thing for gear selection, the marquee brands use to make a feature of such things.
Overall, its much better than the Golf, but will cost you more of course but overall its as much meh as the Golf, nothing that shouts must have and things like the removal of the STronic lever actually saying stay with what have.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afjY8qGEtTo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afjY8qGEtTo)
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Now that new A3 actually looks quite smart. Pity you will still have to deal with the same snotty superior asshole dealerships though.
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I really like the look of the new A3. A nice evolutionary update on the outgoing model.
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Looks like a Renault Mégane! Have all of the vag designers been sacked from the previous models??
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Just saw the A3 launch as well. Does look nice on the outside but, as with the Golf/Leon/Octavia, not liking the interior. They're all on the same theme. I like a proper centre console (ie 7.5) and not this 'hollowed out' appearance. A Class and 1er same general approach.
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The new GTI. Worth a look.......
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=JfH7onfq4zk&feature=youtu.be
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The front end just doesn't look right. Droopy bonnet 🤷♂️
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The new GTI. Worth a look.......
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=JfH7onfq4zk&feature=youtu.be
Now that is more interesting! Growing on me slightly more already :drool:
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Definitely prefer the A3 to the Golf right now.
Neither are design classics in a good way but I guess they stylists have to work around regulations, hence all the current crop of hatches from all manufacturers look quite samey with awkward angles at the front and too many creases.
Meh.
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The new GTI. Worth a look.......
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=JfH7onfq4zk&feature=youtu.be
The R will be the car to get if really want the styling to add up as to have some large air scoops where them awful KIA/Renault fog lights are will definitely create a more balanced front end, naturally breaking up that huge expanse of grinning plastic that dominates the eye at present.
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The new GTI. Worth a look.......
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=JfH7onfq4zk&feature=youtu.be
The R will be the car to get if really want the styling to add up as to have some large air scoops where them awful KIA/Renault fog lights are will definitely create a more balanced front end, naturally breaking up that huge expanse of grinning plastic that dominates the eye at present.
If the front end styling of the mk8 Golf R follows the front end styling of the T-Roc R - which it probably will, it wouldn’t win any prizes in a car beauty contest IMO. It does look quite aggressive though;
https://www.netcarshow.com/volkswagen/2020-t-roc_r/1024x768/wallpaper_01.htm
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The new GTI. Worth a look.......
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=JfH7onfq4zk&feature=youtu.be
The R will be the car to get if really want the styling to add up as to have some large air scoops where them awful KIA/Renault fog lights are will definitely create a more balanced front end, naturally breaking up that huge expanse of grinning plastic that dominates the eye at present.
If the front end styling of the mk8 Golf R follows the front end styling of the T-Roc R - which it probably will, it wouldn’t win any prizes in a car beauty contest IMO. It does look quite aggressive though;
https://www.netcarshow.com/volkswagen/2020-t-roc_r/1024x768/wallpaper_01.htm
Its definitely better, but admit it does make for an even wider grin! :grin:
Here is the MK 8 Golf R in wild https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/motor-shows-geneva-motor-show/new-2020-volkswagen-golf-r-seen-without-disguise (https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/motor-shows-geneva-motor-show/new-2020-volkswagen-golf-r-seen-without-disguise) - front does look better with the air scoops.
One observation and it may just be the photos, but the rear section looks over long on them side views?
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I really dislike the new Golf GTI,
Firstly......as somebody in this thread already said... when I first saw a Mk7 I instantly thought it looked good. even in non GT spec they aren't bad looking cars. With the Mk8 so few people thought the base spec ones looked good. The internet was full of people saying "well maybe they might be able to make the GTI/R look better"
now its here and people have changed their quote to saying "well hopefully it will grow on me if I see enough of them on the road". That's personally just not good enough for the next evolution of a car we all clearly enjoy in this forum.
However, taste is subjective, so if the new look is your cup of tea then I'm happy for you.
Secondly.... it looks cheap. The cost cutting from VW vs the face lift Mk7 isn't nice to see. Especially when they are charging more for the car. I know non of the following things on their own are worth getting pissy over but all added up they take away from the car especially when the "more budget" versions of the car are now suddenly looking more premium (Octavia RSiV, Cupra Leon).
1.No longer has a gas strut for the bonnet. has an old school rod to hold the bonnet open.
2.Engine cover is just black and blank. no VW/TSI/GTI or anything
3.Back up key holes no longer have the removable cover now to make the door handles look flush
4.The front grille is too open and flimsy in the centre and too much solid plastic around those weird DTRL. makes the large gap between the grille and the super visible radiator look too big and empty and just less solid than the Mk7 grille.
5. The rear "defuser" type area is the opposite... its just a blob of cheap black plastic like car bumpers were back the early 2000's when colour coded bumpers were a thing to celebrate on an options list. (though at least it has real exhausts)
6.I'm a fan of one piece seats. but these ones look cheap, the stitching around the headrest wasn't as good as the older 2 piece Mk7 and a single piece seat is cheaper to make than a 2 piece so no excuse.
7. the instrument hood is far bigger than the screen displaying the instruments. the gap around the screen is loads more piano black plastic. either make the screen bigger or design the hood to be a better fit.
8. the centre console around the DSG selector is just more plastic with little design.
9.the retractable cover over the cup holders has now gone.
I know its a VW and not an Audi, but VW has always been a bit of a step up from Seat, Skoda, Ford, Renault, Vauxhall in terms of build and premium-ness but this version just doesn't appear to be that midpoint, anymore, between those brands and the likes of Audi,BMW,Merc
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I like the look of the Cupra Formentor. Get rid of the copper wheels. Add an ABT upgrade included for £500 and with a Manufacturers warranty. 360 ish bhp. AWD. Different. Not as cheap inside as Troc R.
Worth considering. I also like the AMG35 saloon. The new GTi leaves me cold.
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I really dislike the new Golf GTI,
Firstly......as somebody in this thread already said... when I first saw a Mk7 I instantly thought it looked good. even in non GT spec they aren't bad looking cars. With the Mk8 so few people thought the base spec ones looked good. The internet was full of people saying "well maybe they might be able to make the GTI/R look better"
now its here and people have changed their quote to saying "well hopefully it will grow on me if I see enough of them on the road". That's personally just not good enough for the next evolution of a car we all clearly enjoy in this forum.
However, taste is subjective, so if the new look is your cup of tea then I'm happy for you.
Secondly.... it looks cheap. The cost cutting from VW vs the face lift Mk7 isn't nice to see. Especially when they are charging more for the car. I know non of the following things on their own are worth getting pissy over but all added up they take away from the car especially when the "more budget" versions of the car are now suddenly looking more premium (Octavia RSiV, Cupra Leon).
1.No longer has a gas strut for the bonnet. has an old school rod to hold the bonnet open.
2.Engine cover is just black and blank. no VW/TSI/GTI or anything
3.Back up key holes no longer have the removable cover now to make the door handles look flush
4.The front grille is too open and flimsy in the centre and too much solid plastic around those weird DTRL. makes the large gap between the grille and the super visible radiator look too big and empty and just less solid than the Mk7 grille.
5. The rear "defuser" type area is the opposite... its just a blob of cheap black plastic like car bumpers were back the early 2000's when colour coded bumpers were a thing to celebrate on an options list. (though at least it has real exhausts)
6.I'm a fan of one piece seats. but these ones look cheap, the stitching around the headrest wasn't as good as the older 2 piece Mk7 and a single piece seat is cheaper to make than a 2 piece so no excuse.
7. the instrument hood is far bigger than the screen displaying the instruments. the gap around the screen is loads more piano black plastic. either make the screen bigger or design the hood to be a better fit.
8. the centre console around the DSG selector is just more plastic with little design.
9.the retractable cover over the cup holders has now gone.
I know its a VW and not an Audi, but VW has always been a bit of a step up from Seat, Skoda, Ford, Renault, Vauxhall in terms of build and premium-ness but this version just doesn't appear to be that midpoint, anymore, between those brands and the likes of Audi,BMW,Merc
Nicely said.
Lots of good points.
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I've just been back through the posts around the launch time of the Mk7 GTI/GTD.
Lots of similar comments to right now.
This one in particular struck me:
Been meaning to post in this thread for days now, but I've been away from home... Anyway, I attended the Geneva Motorshow last Monday (11th) and spent more time than was reasonable looking at the GTI. I've got to say that, somewhat predictably, it looks much better in the flesh than it does in many of the photos. The front end in particular looks much better when you can see it in proportion with the rest of the car . I was more taken with the white than the red, though I only saw the latter on a 5 door GTD. Still not sure about the 18" Austin Swastika's, much preferred the appearance of the 19" Santiago's.
The one thing that surprised me the most is how inoffensive the ACC Cyclops eye looked on the white 3 door GTI. Now, I was very much against the idea of having it and still don't like the appearance of it on the non-GTI Golf's, but I'm actually quite tempted by it now.
I took some photos on my phone, but they're nothing special and the quality is very much of the typical camera phone standard... :embarrassed:
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Definately not swapping mine.
1 - Like mine too much
2 - Can't afford it :cry:
3 - If it's not the MK 8 I haven't a clue what next!!!
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I've just been back through the posts around the launch time of the Mk7 GTI/GTD.
Lots of similar comments to right now.
Oh it goes back further than that. I remember having a 25th Anniversary MK4 when the MK5 came out - it was roundly panned on forums by owners spouting similar bile.
I bought a MK5. It was far and away a better car than the MK4 it replaced, and soon everyone else did likewise. Then they all moved on to getting stomach ulcers over the MK6....
From what I can see most GTI owners are quite resistant to change.
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Oh it goes back further than that. I remember having a 25th Anniversary MK4 when the MK5 came out - it was roundly panned on forums by owners spouting similar bile.
How about all of those spouting how they didn't like the Mk7.5 - particularly its new front end vs the Mk7 and the hating the idea of the digital dash or raging about the lack of multi-point injection or a GPF that isn't optional on anything new any more.
A lot of it has to do with that people don't want to like the new one because its justifying them not having to buy one - man maths in reverse ;-)
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I've just been back through the posts around the launch time of the Mk7 GTI/GTD.
Lots of similar comments to right now.
Oh it goes back further than that. I remember having a 25th Anniversary MK4 when the MK5 came out - it was roundly panned on forums by owners spouting similar bile.
I bought a MK5. It was far and away a better car than the MK4 it replaced, and soon everyone else did likewise. Then they all moved on to getting stomach ulcers over the MK6....
From what I can see most GTI owners are quite resistant to change.
Obviously the internet wasn’t around in the early ‘80s but owners clubs were, plus people wrote into magazines, and I can remember some of the comments as VW released each generation going right back to the mk1 into the mk2.
I bought my first GTI, albeit a Scirocco, back in 1987 which was a six year old example and I was just turned 19, already a member of the GTI Driver’s Club and then Club GTI.
I was still at school when mk1 became mk2 and back then VW weren’t a big player compared to Ford, Austin, Vauxhall etc. but the GTI was already becoming a cult car.
There was a lot of initial resistance to the mk2 GTI from mk1 owners and some never made the swap, keeping their mk1’s for many years, but things were slower moving back then and acceptance could take years and years. The mk2 eventually became hugely popular in its own right thanks mostly to the Yuppie status symbol image it developed along with the BMW325i and the 911’s of the day.
The biggest buyers revolt as such was when the mk2 became the mk3 GTI. The Yuppies all turned back into normal people, hot hatches went out of fashion due to the amount being stolen or crashed and everyone wanted a Chelsea Tractor 4x4 (forerunners of the modern SUV).
Like the mk8, the mk3 was built to a lower standard, looked slightly ahead of its time and the GTI had no real world performance gains (in fact it was slower in real world driving). Sales bombed.
With some funky new colours and slightly improved wheel designs and the addition of Simos injection the late mk3 GTI’s had a bit of a resurgence but most of us either dug deep into our pockets to afford a VR6 or got a far better GTI wearing a SEAT badge. Or both.
The mk4 Golf was reasonably warmly accepted after the plasticky mk3, the GTI became more of a trim level though until later into its life when VW woke up to the fact hot hatches were increasing in popularity and SEAT were taking all their sales. Enter the R32 and the 180PS GTIs to bring some attention back.
The mk5 was a controversial departure for VW with loads of criticism of the blobby styling.
What attracted people was the improved driving dynamics compared to the mk4 with VW adopting the Ford Focus style rear suspension, a car that kicked the mk4 into touch as far as basic handling was concerned.
VW elected to bring the GTI back with a bang in mk5 guise having learnt from the mk1 Leon Cupra what people wanted. The mk5 GTI became a runaway success as it had the ingredients just right and the slightly unpopular mk5 rear end (understatement) has its focus taken away by truly innovative styling on the front and sides plus the interior embellishments (the dials, seats and steering wheel are still superb and barely dated even today).
I think the mk6 GTI was reasonably well received, certainly on this forum. It looked quite futuristic considering it was based on a mk5 shell. Hot hatches were going a bit out of fashion by then so it wasn’t a huge seller, the GTD was becoming popular though. The R was overpriced and only had 4 cylinders so went through the same crisis BMW is having with M140i owners accepting the new 135i, but like the new baby BMW it brought interest in from elsewhere. Most people bought a 6R purely on its looks and ease of engine tuning.
The mk7 GTI drew a lot of positive interest but the GTD took the lions share of sales! It was a pretty design. The only real complaints were the crash friendly bonnet hump in profile and the crease in the hatch. Oh, and the way the wheels sat too far into the arches.
The mk7 GT models weren’t quite as pretty as the mk6 GT when looking further into the range but the new car caught on quickly with strong sales. The 7R was criticised the most as it lost the aggressive good looks of the 6R completely. Thankfully the engine and chassis were in another league and it’s now a cult classic in its own right.
All through those generation changes, with the exception of the mk3 maybe, I can’t remember such universal criticism as the mk8 has received for its looks alone. Hopefully it is just ahead of its time.
I’m looking forward to seeing the 8R in the coming months but I struggle to see why anyone would buy a base mk8 ahead of an ID.3 unless the latter is far more expensive to own as a package.
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I remember going to the launch of the MKIII. Most memorable 2 things;
Hartwell did a great BBQ and its fancy doorhandles. :grin:
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Nice potted history of the Golf GTI @Exonian ; I enjoyed reading it.
Completely agree about the @r5e end of the mk5; I had a mk5 GT and always thought the rear looked a little odd, too rounded and mis-matched to the rest of the car. The insert in the front bumper lined up with the body side moulding on the doors, but didn’t continue around into the rear bumper. I also really disliked that cheap looking matt black grained plastic lower section on the rear bumper - much too deep and it looked as if VW had completely forgotten to design the lower section of the bumper so stuck that massive matt black plastic section on as an afterthought. I forgave it its odd rear end looks though as it drove and handled well.
I’m sure we’ll get used to the look of the mk8 GTI as it becomes a familiar sight on the roads - assuming the looks don’t put off would be buyers and VW don’t price it at stupid levels. But now, I’m not feeling the love for it, and based purely on looks, when compared to its siblings (new A3, Leon and Octavia), it sits at number 4 for me.
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The new GTI. Worth a look.......
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=JfH7onfq4zk&feature=youtu.be
Worst thing VW could have done was put it beside a mk1 GTI. The mk1's clean and classic lines really shows up how droopy and horrible the mk8's front end is. Just cannot warm to this thing. Horrid.
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The mk4 Golf was reasonably warmly accepted after the plasticky mk3, the GTI became more of a trim level
I had a Mk4 in 1999. I knew lots of people that did too. Few bought them for driving dynamics, most bought them for the perceived quality, blue dashboard illumination and fancy looking clear lens headlights.
There was nothing really to distinguish the GTI from the rest of the range. Colour coded rub strips, 'sports' seats and different wheels. That was about it. In fact the only difference between the normally aspirated and turbocharged versions were the later had 16" wheels, 3 rear headrests and dark wood trim. The turbocharged one did have Recaros to begin with, but they soon became an expensive option.
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Well I just configured a new MK8 Golf on VW's new configurator just to get an idea.
It was a Golf 8 Life with the 1.5 eTSI 150PS engine and 7-speed DSG.
I did spec a few options to get it somewhat nearer my current car (so LED headlights, DCC, 18" Alloys, Winter pack, Climate control, rear view camera) - so pretty good but not mad, and certainly still not near the same spec as my current car.
The price - £31,085.00 wow...... for a 1.5 Life edition !
So god knows that the GTI will come in at if VW UK spec it as well as they did the MK7 (7.5) ?
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Adding GTI standard parts to a lesser Golf was always expensive though.
I remember I tried adding the bits to a R Line TDI 150 and it was more expensive than a GTD and some of the bits you couldn't add at all.
VW charge a fortune for options, less so when they bundle them into a model spec.
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If you're adding so much kit to a base model, then you're looking at the wrong trim level to start with. They rarely make sense with several options ticked.
As Fred says, I also specced up an R Line with LED's, climate control, active info display and 18's. By the time i'd finished the GTD worked out cheaper.
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Not impressed at all. Looks like Peugot at the front and an illicit affair between a 1 series and a Scirocco at the rear.
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I saw my first Mk8 in the dealership this morning when i dropped my car off for a service.
It was a bottom of the range one.
My thoughts:
1) Externally I'd argue its hard to tell the difference between a Mk7 and a Mk8 - seriously its hardly radical in real life. Its not even Mk5 vs Mk6 different.
2) Internally its super sparse, but again if you look at the BMW 1 series now, its also very very sparse.
3) The shiny piano black plastic surround of the inovision and AID make it look very plasticy. Seriously, very cheap. A little bit more low cost class there would have a dramatic effect on the feel of the interior. Or even just using matte plastic and not bloody piano black. Shame.
The dealer told me that it drives much nicer than the Mk7 did - not quite sure how much of that is a placebo effect.
There is not even speculation when the UK price on the GTI will be available - according to him, but he's quite frankly less informed than we are on here.
He told me that lead times are currently about 3 months for a factory order.
None of it probably would be enough for me to not want a Mk8...
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They tell everyone 3months for a factory order! Reality is nearer 6.
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I’m in complete agreement with Fred. I looked at a base model mk8 yesterday and was hard pushed to see the exterior differences to a 7/7.5, apart from the lights. It could just be my perception, but it didn’t seem to have the feeling of quality that my mk6 GTD, 7 GTD and current 7.5R seemed to have in spades. As others have pointed out, the lack of door key covers, hydraulic bonnet strut and plain engine cover just shout out “cost cutting”. In addition, the doors didn’t have the same satisfying “thunk” to my ears. The interior left me cold as well. I know that performance golfs will have an improved interior but unless it’s quite radical I will be looking elsewhere when the time comes to change.
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I think the sparse look inside is more to do with a trend in motoring. People see Tesla as representing "modern" and if you have ever seen inside one of those it makes Swedish minimalist living look like an overstuffed victorian parlour. It really is super sparse in a Tesla except for a bloody great big slablet nailed to the dash.
Personally, I actually prefer the "concorde cockpit" - a million dials and knobs. I guess its just the inner child in me.
Never liked Swedish interior design ;-)
But all of that being said, if it wasn't for that cheap arse piano black surround it would look a million times better - brushed gun metal alluminium would look waaaay better and probably add a few euros to the cost of the whole car.
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I thought it was just me (and my age) that liked lots of buttons Fred :D
I think it stems from when I was a child, my dads cars were never top of the range and there were always lots of blanking plates over where switches would go for equipment he never had (or wasn't even available in the UK). Since then, I've always liked lots of buttons in cars (but logically laid out of course), not into this minimalistic lark at all.
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It's not even a "real buttons are easier to use thing" for me - its just that this really looks like one of those futuristic pod things from some sci-fi movie - literally no stuff at all inside.
Like this:
(https://www.motortrend.com/uploads/sites/5/2020/02/Polestar-Precept-Interior-Console.jpg?fit=around%7C480:270)
(Thats not a Golf, I am just illustrating the weird spaceness idea)
I did a double take when i first looked in, thinking that it was just a mockup with no real interior at all - I'd imagine that if the car was a DSG variant even less would be visible!
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The Tesla Model 3 is definitely the extreme end of sparse. For me, the new Octavia looks like a better step in that direction whilst still keeping some actual buttons, unlike the Golf.
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Maybe if German car designers are looking towards Swedish minimalism they should take note of a Saab Viggen fighter jet interior. A few buttons here and there...
I like minimalist.
But it needs to be done right.
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R-Line is now on the UK Configurator. From the pricing so far I think it’s fairly obvious the GTI will be starting at £35k-£36k minimum, possibly £37k if they lump up the price as they have done with the Up GTI.
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What makes it obvious? The Mk8 R Line is about £600 more than the outgoing model in R Line Edition trim.
I'd expect VW to price it the same way they've always done, which is a bit more than offerings from Ford, Vauxhall, Renault etc. What will be more interesting is what is included as standard equipment.
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I didn’t even realise Mark 8,swere in the showroom. There isn’t any in my local one when I passed an hour or two back. They must’ve brought them in a bit earlier than planned as I’m sure I read elsewhere they were not due into approx end of mar / beg of April
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A lot of journos seem to think that the base Mark 8 GTI will be around 30k.
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That will be based on a German price is my suggestion.
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A well specced R Line in Mk7.5 was always as much or more than a GTI so there’s no change there.
No point jumping to conclusions and anyway, thought everyone hated the Mk8?! :whistle:
For reference, the latest evo news article on the GTI models stated:
As for pricing, VW is yet to confirm the exact figures. What it will say is that prices shouldn’t move too significantly away from the current structure, where the equivalent Golf GTI Performance starts at £32,135 in five-door form.
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That will be based on a German price is my suggestion.
Where 17" wheels are standard and everything is an extra.
Considering the extra kit that UK soec gets, £30k German spec could quite easily translate to a minimum of £35k for the UK.
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I have gone and done it
It’s beautiful
5 door performance Golf GTI
Deep black
7 speed gear box
Reversing camera
245 bhp petrol engine
LCD instrumentation
LED headlights
19” wheels
Progressive indicators
Cloth seats
Lane assist
Apple CarPlay
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I have gone and done it
It’s beautiful
5 door performance Golf GTI
Deep black
7 speed gear box
Reversing camera
245 bhp petrol engine
LCD instrumentation
LED headlights
19” wheels
Progressive indicators
Cloth seats
Lane assist
Apple CarPlay
Eh? What do you mean?
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I have gone and done it
It’s beautiful
5 door performance Golf GTI
Deep black
7 speed gear box
Reversing camera
245 bhp petrol engine
LCD instrumentation
LED headlights
19” wheels
Progressive indicators
Cloth seats
Lane assist
Apple CarPlay
Eh? What do you mean?
Assume means this is a new car. Of which all of that stuff is standard equipment a 2019 model bar the 19s. ! :grin:
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Assume means this is a new car. Of which all of that stuff is standard equipment a 2019 model bar the 19s. ! :grin:
Well I'd assume a Mk8 GTI, but you can't order them yet...
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What makes it obvious? The Mk8 R Line is about £600 more than the outgoing model in R Line Edition trim.
I’m going based on what a 7.5 listed at close, which was circa £33-34k basic. + New model, inflation, WLTP excesses, it’s all going to add up to circa £35k min IMO.
If VW offer a manual then yes it’ll be a slightly cheaper asking price, but I think if people are expecting a £30k price they are going to be disappointed, that is unless VW make lots of standard 7.5 kit, optional on the 8.
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Id be surprised if the base spec Mk8 GTI is more than £32k. I don't think it will have as much kit as the outgoing 7.5.
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It won't have the same kit and it will cost more.
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Well, some things almost certainly will come bundled. If you look at the mk8 base spec stuff like Lane assist is standard. Wouldn't be surprised to see the gti have all of the kit the run out mk7.5 had. Suspect navpro could well be included too. My bet, 35k manual and 37k dsg.
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Is it something to do with having to get WLTP regs for every possible iteration of spec? BMW seem to have moved more to packs with no option to spec the individual bits outside it.
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I saw my first Mk8 in the dealership this morning when i dropped my car off for a service.
It was a bottom of the range one.
My thoughts:
1) Externally I'd argue its hard to tell the difference between a Mk7 and a Mk8 - seriously its hardly radical in real life. Its not even Mk5 vs Mk6 different.
2) Internally its super sparse, but again if you look at the BMW 1 series now, its also very very sparse.
3) The shiny piano black plastic surround of the inovision and AID make it look very plasticy. Seriously, very cheap. A little bit more low cost class there would have a dramatic effect on the feel of the interior. Or even just using matte plastic and not bloody piano black. Shame.
The dealer told me that it drives much nicer than the Mk7 did - not quite sure how much of that is a placebo effect.
There is not even speculation when the UK price on the GTI will be available - according to him, but he's quite frankly less informed than we are on here.
He told me that lead times are currently about 3 months for a factory order.
None of it probably would be enough for me to not want a Mk8...
Interesting how we’ll all have different views. I thought the interior looked very well integrated and build quality was good. Agree on the exterior - felt largely unchanged.
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Is it something to do with having to get WLTP regs for every possible iteration of spec? BMW seem to have moved more to packs with no option to spec the individual bits outside it.
Yes almost certainly.
I suspect that you'll only have a handful of options to choose from and maybe even just a plus pack.... The only one I'd be interested in is the hud tbh.
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Golf vs BMW 1 vs Focus:
https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-reviews/comparison/2020/vw-golf-vs-bmw-1-series-vs-ford-focus/
Some not very good things said here about the Mk8's touch screen:
the touchscreen itself can be recalcitrant and slow to respond. It has an interface that needs concentrated learning, rather than intuitive menu-hopping on the fly. We might have been saddled with an unusually latent screen in our pre-production car; we've tried another that was far less laggy.
But the system can be so obfuscating you wonder if some traditional Golf buyers might be put off by a test drive. The modish slider controls used to adjust volume and temperature also don't illuminate at night, and are slow to register your inputs, while the navigation map is awkward to pinch, swipe and pull about. The Tesla Model 3 just about gets away with its even more button-averse interior because its touchscreen is so intuitive and accessible; on the basis of this first meeting, the Golf's just isn't slick enough.
I wonder if there are again 2 different MIB units - a low powered one and a "pro" one like in the Mk7...
The lack of illumination on those sliders is a bit of a crap thing too.
The interior shot of the Golf also highlights the glare coming off of that football pitched sized slab of piano black plastic:
(https://car-images.bauersecure.com/pagefiles/93277/1040x0/golffocus1series_103.jpg?scale=down)
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Also:
The 1.5-litre Golf intoppy R-Line trim will set you back £26,630 but will be more given its options, including DCC and LED matrix headlights (which we'd pass on, given their lack of urgency to dim for oncoming cars at night during our test)
So matrix LED is just as bad as the old system... interesting. The VW UK brochure lists these as £1750 inc VAT. That's a lot of money for something a reviewer would say was questionable.
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Also:
The 1.5-litre Golf intoppy R-Line trim will set you back £26,630 but will be more given its options, including DCC and LED matrix headlights (which we'd pass on, given their lack of urgency to dim for oncoming cars at night during our test)
So matrix LED is just as bad as the old system... interesting. The VW UK brochure lists these as £1750 inc VAT. That's a lot of money for something a reviewer would say was questionable.
In 20+ years of driving, I've never really struggled to use full beam myself. I get some things automated are great, wipers and lights coming on is useful. But I certainly wouldn't shell out the best part of £2k for slightly brighter lights that are supposedly slightly cleverer than the normal ones.
I even still like to unlock and lock my car with a key, part of which is that keyless systems mean that approaching the car in the dark your lights don't come on until you are actually at the car.
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Golf vs BMW 1 vs Focus:
https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-reviews/comparison/2020/vw-golf-vs-bmw-1-series-vs-ford-focus/
Some not very good things said here about the Mk8's touch screen:
the touchscreen itself can be recalcitrant and slow to respond. It has an interface that needs concentrated learning, rather than intuitive menu-hopping on the fly. We might have been saddled with an unusually latent screen in our pre-production car; we've tried another that was far less laggy.
But the system can be so obfuscating you wonder if some traditional Golf buyers might be put off by a test drive. The modish slider controls used to adjust volume and temperature also don't illuminate at night, and are slow to register your inputs, while the navigation map is awkward to pinch, swipe and pull about. The Tesla Model 3 just about gets away with its even more button-averse interior because its touchscreen is so intuitive and accessible; on the basis of this first meeting, the Golf's just isn't slick enough.
I wonder if there are again 2 different MIB units - a low powered one and a "pro" one like in the Mk7...
The lack of illumination on those sliders is a bit of a crap thing too.
The interior shot of the Golf also highlights the glare coming off of that football pitched sized slab of piano black plastic:
(https://car-images.bauersecure.com/pagefiles/93277/1040x0/golffocus1series_103.jpg?scale=down)
Got to say, the interior of the Mk8 does look great although the lack of proper buttons would definitely annoy me!
In my opinion, the rotary controllers are much easier and safer to use than any touchscreens. Having had a Mk7.5 since July 2017, I am obviously now used to them but quite looking forward to having a rotary controller again.
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Also:
The 1.5-litre Golf intoppy R-Line trim will set you back £26,630 but will be more given its options, including DCC and LED matrix headlights (which we'd pass on, given their lack of urgency to dim for oncoming cars at night during our test)
So matrix LED is just as bad as the old system... interesting. The VW UK brochure lists these as £1750 inc VAT. That's a lot of money for something a reviewer would say was questionable.
In 20+ years of driving, I've never really struggled to use full beam myself. I get some things automated are great, wipers and lights coming on is useful. But I certainly wouldn't shell out the best part of £2k for slightly brighter lights that are supposedly slightly cleverer than the normal ones.
I even still like to unlock and lock my car with a key, part of which is that keyless systems mean that approaching the car in the dark your lights don't come on until you are actually at the car.
One of the things that liked on the MK 7.5 over the MK 7 R is the improvement in lights, creating a really bright 'tunnel' on full beam and find the automatic lights work really well, never had a car flash at me yet and you can visibly see the drivers side lights dipping and then going back to full beam if a car approaches
I have got into a habit locking my car with a key and giving the handle a brush to deactivate the keyless and back into the habit of pressing button to open, and like you said it makes it easier to see what doing as approach the car - if literally just popping in and out of somewhere will use the key less feature but having the flexibility to deactivate the keyless with the MK 7.5 is another nice plus.
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1500 quid discount being offered on Mk 8 R line already :)
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Actually, I am not convinced the reviewer had Matrix IQ.... just noticed the VW UK brochure offers "high beam assist" as well as "Matrix IQ".
We all know that HBA wasn't very clever (I had it on my Mk7 and it often failed to spot oncoming traffic, particularly on motorways).
Matrix IQ is described as:
t is characterised by interactive lighting control. This makes night driving even more convenient and safe: light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that can be activated individually replace conventional bulbs. Seventy-five LEDs are used for low and high beam. Seven front LEDs (in five reflector chambers) and three indicator LEDs are also available. All of them are activated for various intelligent lighting functions by the car’s electronics. The decisive factors are signals from the front camera, digital map data from the navigation system, GPS signals, steering movement and current speed. The individual LEDs can thus be activated in a fraction of a second with pinpoint accuracy to offer the best lighting for the situation. With “Dynamic Light Assist”, the driver switches on the full beam. The rest – for example dipping the headlights, activating the full beam, city light, optimal motorway lighting or off-road lighting – is carried out by the car itself
Sounds complicated. No wonder its so expensive. However, from what VW have said, the hardware is already there, it just needs enabling.
I guess with Lane Assist being standard equipment, it has the camera - we already know from the Mk7 that this is the key to dynamic lighting. After that it needs the multi component LED's - again, standard. Finally it needs all of the driving data - and the Mk8's all have nav units, so it has that too.
Ultimately then its just a piece of software that reads available data and controls those.
Funny to read then a VW public statement that says:
Democratisation - lighting technology must remain affordable
Over the course of the decades, lighting functions have developed from static lights in the Beetle to highly complex, sometimes interactive lighting systems. And Volkswagen has never made participation in these innovations dependent on the customer’s wallet: the respective Golf generation was always a reflection of technical progress. This also applied to lighting development – and still does. The Golf was fitted with halogen headlights early on, which, as time went on, became increasingly bright. This was followed by the first xenon headlights, LED tail lights, LED daytime driving lights and, with the e-Golf (energy consumption in kWh/100 km: 14.1–13.2 (combined); CO₂ emissions in g/km: 0 (combined); efficiency class: A+.), the first LED headlights. It is also clear that IQ.Light and the subsequent innovative lighting systems will make their way into the Golf and other Volkswagens.
Maybe someone somewhere in VW thinks a piece of software licenced for your car at 1700 quid is a "democratic price".
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1500 quid discount being offered on Mk 8 R line already :)
Just got a quote for £26,500. That's with a £3200 discount, so around 11% discount already.
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£4k off the 150ps 1.5 R Line at Drive The Deal, plus a 'free' Nav Pro. Doesn't seem unreasonable to me.
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Given the state of the world right now, I am not surprised to see VW furiously discounting.
I should think their financial projections are pretty grim for the next 2 quarters - assuming they have any realism in their numbers.
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............not that they will be alone in that!
There will be bargains and opportunities out there, for people who are able to take advantage, but a lot of companies, and individuals, are going to suffer, some badly. A difficult year ahead.
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Mine goes back end of May so I'm into my last few months of GTI 'ownership', which is actually just me looking after a hired car :grin: Seriously though, I have really enjoyed both GTIs and have been considering what to replace my current GTI P with. Been looking at opting out of company cars as get hammered on tax and don't do too many miles and can get a reasonable allowance. Really fancy a TCR but was thinking an R might be a better option and a bit different to my last 2 GTIs. There are a lot of other things I've been considering... But we are just moving house, taking out a new mortgage and worked out I'd be no better off money-wise with an allowance as I'd blow it all on a car.
So I'm moving over to the dark (green) side and ordered a plug-in hybrid... :whistle: The monthly tax benefit is well worth it and also my new commute to the office (if we aren't all working from home by June!) is 5 miles so I'll be able to get there and back on electric-only so will probably save a good chunk of fuel as well each month (currently ave around 20-25 around town).
Going to get the GTi fully cleaned up this weekend as it has been used for moving stuff and not washed for about 6 weeks and start enjoying some drives out. Plus got the Standford Hall show coming up so will be great to meet people from the forum :smiley:
I'll also have a few bits for sale in May which are genuine black gloss mirror caps, the alloy footrest (from Super Skoda), and my VagSport res delete. If anyone is interested in these in advance, drop me a PM but will post in parts section nearer the time.
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Which hybrid did you go for?
Company cars became a mugs game and I pulled out of that 3 years ago to go it alone with a cash allowance instead. Worked out quite a bit cheaper for me, but I guess it does depend on how your employer was charging you for the car in the first place but can't imagine a GTI would have been a bargain. BIK rates drove me away from petrol decades ago.
Interestingly this year HMRC have given a zero BIK on fully electric. I went back to look to see what deals were being offered only to discover that my employer had cancelled the whole car scheme and moved everyone to cash allowances.
I hadn't noticed because nobody I knew still had a company car - everyone had swapped to cash, I was pretty much the last holdout.
Shame, because zero BIK would have been rather tempting to go fully electric.
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Which hybrid did you go for?
Company cars became a mugs game and I pulled out of that 3 years ago to go it alone with a cash allowance instead. Worked out quite a bit cheaper for me, but I guess it does depend on how your employer was charging you for the car in the first place but can't imagine a GTI would have been a bargain. BIK rates drove me away from petrol decades ago.
Interestingly this year HMRC have given a zero BIK on fully electric. I went back to look to see what deals were being offered only to discover that my employer had cancelled the whole car scheme and moved everyone to cash allowances.
I hadn't noticed because nobody I knew still had a company car - everyone had swapped to cash, I was pretty much the last holdout.
Shame, because zero BIK would have been rather tempting to go fully electric.
BIK at 40% is £351 a month on the GTI P. You need well over £500 a month car allowance to buy and run a GTI to be any better off than paying the tax. But decided I'd rather have some extra money in my pocket for the next couple of years.
Yes, the full electric option is tempting but there are no lease deals on anything remotely interesting.
So I've gone for the new 330e M-Sport. And they are dropping the BIK rates on PHEVs so from April I'm looking at 12% which means £160 a month tax at 40% rate. Real-world range is 30-35 miles as it's got a bigger battery now so with the fuel-saving as well will be quids in. And it's tested as 0-60 in 5.5 secs using the Xtraboost function so nippy from the lights if needed :smiley:
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So your company pays for the lease and you just pay the BIK?
I had to pay the lease (salary sacrifice so from my gross pay), plus a figure for company insurance and then the BIK....
Its a big company, so you'd imagine that they'd get a far better deal than me... and it was for many years until HMRC started piling on the BIK. Once effectively I was paying everything from net pay, I could actually achieve a better deal myself - ironically.
HMRC's argument was that salary sacrifice for company cars was an unfair benefit, because not everyone in the UK was offered a car scheme.
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So your company pays for the lease and you just pay the BIK?
I had to pay the lease (salary sacrifice so from my gross pay), plus a figure for company insurance and then the BIK....
Its a big company, so you'd imagine that they'd get a far better deal than me... and it was for many years until HMRC started piling on the BIK. Once effectively I was paying everything from net pay, I could actually achieve a better deal myself - ironically.
HMRC's argument was that salary sacrifice for company cars was an unfair benefit, because not everyone in the UK was offered a car scheme.
Yes, they pay the lease, insurance, etc and I just pay BIK. So the last 5 years I've picked decent cars and thought, its no bother. But my salary has increased and now feel it's a good time to advantage of the PHEV option.
Plus I have my Ducati for when I want to make a lot of noise and have some serious fun!
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Which hybrid did you go for?
Company cars became a mugs game and I pulled out of that 3 years ago to go it alone with a cash allowance instead. Worked out quite a bit cheaper for me, but I guess it does depend on how your employer was charging you for the car in the first place but can't imagine a GTI would have been a bargain. BIK rates drove me away from petrol decades ago.
Interestingly this year HMRC have given a zero BIK on fully electric. I went back to look to see what deals were being offered only to discover that my employer had cancelled the whole car scheme and moved everyone to cash allowances.
I hadn't noticed because nobody I knew still had a company car - everyone had swapped to cash, I was pretty much the last holdout.
Shame, because zero BIK would have been rather tempting to go fully electric.
BIK at 40% is £351 a month on the GTI P. You need well over £500 a month car allowance to buy and run a GTI to be any better off than paying the tax. But decided I'd rather have some extra money in my pocket for the next couple of years.
Yes, the full electric option is tempting but there are no lease deals on anything remotely interesting.
So I've gone for the new 330e M-Sport. And they are dropping the BIK rates on PHEVs so from April I'm looking at 12% which means £160 a month tax at 40% rate. Real-world range is 30-35 miles as it's got a bigger battery now so with the fuel-saving as well will be quids in. And it's tested as 0-60 in 5.5 secs using the Xtraboost function so nippy from the lights if needed :smiley:
I’ve gone for the 330e m-sport too. Not quite as generous at our place as we pay the lease as well as BIK....but it’s costing me the same as I’m paying for the gtd even though the retail price is ~£15k more.
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Which hybrid did you go for?
Company cars became a mugs game and I pulled out of that 3 years ago to go it alone with a cash allowance instead. Worked out quite a bit cheaper for me, but I guess it does depend on how your employer was charging you for the car in the first place but can't imagine a GTI would have been a bargain. BIK rates drove me away from petrol decades ago.
Interestingly this year HMRC have given a zero BIK on fully electric. I went back to look to see what deals were being offered only to discover that my employer had cancelled the whole car scheme and moved everyone to cash allowances.
I hadn't noticed because nobody I knew still had a company car - everyone had swapped to cash, I was pretty much the last holdout.
Shame, because zero BIK would have been rather tempting to go fully electric.
BIK at 40% is £351 a month on the GTI P. You need well over £500 a month car allowance to buy and run a GTI to be any better off than paying the tax. But decided I'd rather have some extra money in my pocket for the next couple of years.
Yes, the full electric option is tempting but there are no lease deals on anything remotely interesting.
So I've gone for the new 330e M-Sport. And they are dropping the BIK rates on PHEVs so from April I'm looking at 12% which means £160 a month tax at 40% rate. Real-world range is 30-35 miles as it's got a bigger battery now so with the fuel-saving as well will be quids in. And it's tested as 0-60 in 5.5 secs using the Xtraboost function so nippy from the lights if needed :smiley:
I’ve gone for the 330e m-sport too. Not quite as generous at our place as we pay the lease as well as BIK....but it’s costing me the same as I’m paying for the gtd even though the retail price is ~£15k more.
I've had company cars now for 20 years. Never once have I been charged for the car, always just liable for the BIK tax. Guessing that must not be the case for everyone.
So, in essence, I still consider being able to get a brand new car of your choice for £350-400 a month in tax with just fuel to pay for not a bad deal. I had a W205 C200 AMG for 2 years, then the 2 GTIs. To be fair though, it's only the last 5 years that I've been able to pick and choose myself and most of my previous company vehicles have been fairly run of the mill diesel chuggers. Hence why I got my first bike at 21 to coincide with my first company car :smiley: And then ran an S2000 for a few years when biking became a bit of health risk!