Dissapointing GTD Reviews

[petecollie]

Don’t you think that the reviews for the new Golf GTD are disappointing compared to the new petrol GTI’s which are very, very good. I know the fuel economy is better in the GTD but everything written about the GTI is so brilliant. My budget just stretches to a GTD but I know if I could have either it would be the GTI.

[Sootchucker]

I think the problem is that the GTi is just such a very good car, that reviewers are comparing the GTD to the GTi and saying it doesn't give quite the same buzz as its petrol sister. The GTi is a hard act to follow and the GTD was never going to perform the same.

To be honest, I never expected it to feel like a GTi (otherwise why would you buy a GTI), I expect it to feel like a fast diesel that looks like a GTI, with supreme comfort, prestige and dashing good looks. I think we won't be too disappointed (I hope).

[CraigW]

Don’t you think that the reviews for the new Golf GTD are disappointing compared to the new petrol GTI’s which are very, very good. I know the fuel economy is better in the GTD but everything written about the GTI is so brilliant. My budget just stretches to a GTD but I know if I could have either it would be the GTI.

Are you positive you can't afford a GTI. The price differential is only £600 and you are getting some really good discounts on the car.

However, if you can't afford one then don't worry because the GTD will be a terrific car in it's own right. Both cars look pretty much identical from inside and out. In terms of the reviews I would take these with a pinch of salt to be honest. If you get a test drive in a GTD when they hit these shores i'm sure you will be impressed 

[master_hayabusa]

Don’t you think that the reviews for the new Golf GTD are disappointing compared to the new petrol GTI’s which are very, very good. I know the fuel economy is better in the GTD but everything written about the GTI is so brilliant. My budget just stretches to a GTD but I know if I could have either it would be the GTI.

If you're interested in getting a GTI, I can ask my dealer to get you a price. I got an amazing discount.

Let me know if you're interested and I'll ask me dealer.

[gjf]

I have had both a mk6 GTI and GTD, had the GTI new in 2009 and changed to the GTD in 2012.
Both cars are brilliant and I have enjoyed owning each one - however speaking from my experience the GTD should not be considered as a substitute for a GTI! Although they both look similar that's about where it ends.

For me the GTD is a superb mode of transport which offers great style and quality with excellent economy, the GTI however is all of the above but also made me smile every time I drove it.

I guess what I am saying is that the GTD lacks the excitement of the GTI.

All the above is purely my opinion.

[Bill_the_Bear]

I really doubt anyone will be disappointed with the GTD.  Looks like a fantastic car to me!

[Hawaii-Five-O]

I think Norbreck got it about right.

It's my view that the GTD should have been launched BEFORE the GTI. That way it would have received rave reviews and only served to whet the appetites of the hacks for the forthcoming GTI. That would have been the right way to launch them both. But they got it wrong again. Like many things about the GTD/GTI Mk7 roll out. Shambles.

I too am a bit naffed off that the GTD is being compared so unfavourably against the GTI. Not a fare match really. One is high revving, much more powerful machine, while the other sails on a wave of torque.

We'll just have to wait until a knowledgable motoring jurno gets to ride in the real thing. Of course what they should be doing is compare this new GTD against the Mk6 GTD and NOT the Mk7 GTI.

Basic really.

[mcmaddy]

VW driver have a full road test in next month's issue. Shame it's another month to wait for it 

[mjh_056]

Most of reviews I have seen so far have been by the numbers and constructed from varying different information sources that I could have written just as well and I have not been near one!

So I am looking forward to some UK based and in particular Video reviews and obviously then from those who receive first here.

The GTD is not a hot hatch it is however still pretty quick at 7.5 seconds (Parkers state 7.3 seconds and state official Volkswagen manufacturer data?) and I think those who have GTD/A3 with the 170BHP Diesel will understand there is still plenty of satisfaction driving it around as mine certainly is no slouch

If I am not disappointed now how could I be with something that is lighter and quicker?! 

But it depends what expecting if disappointed? If want a Hot Hatch then you would be! because as quick as mine is I have never seen it as a head to head competitor

My satisfaction comes from the balance of performance, economy, and bang I get for my ££ due to C02 concessions in purchase and BIK

So if a reviewer is disappointed they are obviously looking for something the GTD will never be and should have bought a GTI or one of the other hot hatches.

My guess is that most who have selected the GTD will know full well what they are balancing and be very happy with performance

[Gordor]

Agreed... I am looking forward to a great big smile on my face when I tip my right foot and the torque floods through. In the real world....with my A4...if I was trying to get a half decent MPG (34) all the diesels would sale past me probably delivering 50 -60 mpg.... therefore more often than not, imo, it has to be diesel.