2008 Volkswagen GTI Consumer Discussions

Volkswagen GTI Lighting & Electrical Problems

• Headlights

  Written by: daytondanprice on Sep 28, 2011 6:13:50 AM

  I own a 2008 GTI and there are 4 headlights, but the two on the inside do not come on in any configuration. The VW dealership is researching but does not have an answer, although they believe that these are additional lights that were a Canadian spec and a specific code needs to be input for them to work. Any ideas?

2007 GTI vs Audi A3

• Re: The difference is in the details and quality [qbrozen]

  Written by: andres3 on Aug 24, 2011 10:18:17 AM

  I'm curious where that 163 lbs comes from. I agree with you that lighter is better, especially for handling in this car, I have the 2006 A3, 2.0T, so I agree, lighter up front, more balanced, better choice than 3.2 engine. However, you can just "chip" the 2.0T and your instantly faster than the 3.2 even in a straight line, which by the way, the V6 isn't even sold anymore. The ... Read More

Volkswagen GTI Lease Questions

• 2008 VW GTI 4D DSG

  Written by: dasgtidsg on Dec 16, 2010 7:28:20 PM

  Now that my lease is nearing a close and I am considering another would love some feedback on these numbers for a 39 month lease term with 15K per year: GCC 27156.30 CCR 2213.22 ACC 24943.08 RV 13954.20 Dep 10988.88 RC 2684.52 .00177 Sunroof/DSG/18" rims added 3K to the MSRP to raise the GCC. I tried to do my research carefully the first time around but want to be sure next ... Read More

• Re: VW GTI lease vs buy [delta737h]

  Written by: perunest on Jul 8, 2010 5:10:19 AM

  John, You are correct of course. I was trying to make a point about not having to cut a big tax check up front. Most people don't consider this. I've purchased 34 cars in my life, mostly new, and I've leased only one. Even though I rarely keep a car more than two years I have a psychological need to own. The one BMW I leased resulted in my having to ... Read More

Mazdaspeed3 vs. VW V GTI vs. Civic Si

• Re: Honda Civic Si feels like the best quality of all three [cz75]

  Written by: goose on Sep 11, 2009 3:49:18 PM

  Well I have a 2008 Civic EX and driven the 2010 Mazda 3 5 door GT. I know the Si is more "fun" than my Civic however primary difference is engine and tighter suspension. The rest is the same as my Civic such as interior design, materials, noise level and reliability. I have also driven the 2010 Accord Coupe, 2009 Lexus IS 250, Hyundai Genesis Coupe V6, Acura TSX and TL. ... Read More

Volkswagen GTI Tire & Wheel Problems

• Re: 17" or 18" wheels on a 2008 VW GLI [warhub]

  Written by: rayd8 on Mar 9, 2009 7:48:11 PM

  I'm in the same situation. Looking at an 09 GTI, i think the Huffs look great, but i'm considering settling for the Denvers if it means less headaches. Those Huffs are sweet though.. Is there really much difference in 17" vs 18"?

Volkswagen GTI Lease Questions

• Re: 2009 Volkswagen GTI 4-Door Lease Question [pfje]

  Written by: Car_man on Oct 20, 2008 4:53:52 PM

  I'd be happy to help you out, pfje. Let's crunch some numbers and see what we come up with. According to my calculations, if you were to lease a 2009 Volkswagen GTI 4-Door that has an MSRP of $26,389 and a selling price of $24,449 through VW Credit right now for 24 months with 15,000 miles per year, its zero down, pre-tax monthly payment should be around $412. The payment for ... Read More

• 2009 Volkswagen GTI 4-Door Lease Question

  Written by: pfje on Oct 14, 2008 5:29:01 AM

  Car_man, I am interested in leasing a 2009 VW GTI 4- Door. The MSRP is 26, 389 and the selling price is 24,449. Could you run numbers for the following terms: 24 months 15,000 miles/year 36 months 15, 000 miles/ year. I will not be putting any money down. Are there leases still available for a 2008 GTI? If so, what are the numbers and do you recommend going for a ... Read More

VW GTI (All styles)

• Re: Volkswagen Reliability? [ylz]

  Written by: allhorizon on Oct 4, 2008 2:01:55 AM

  Hello there. I'm buying a new car and I love the 2009 VW GTI but have heard some TERRIBLE things about Volks' reliability. People that have owned them have told me about all sorts of problems from transmissions to the brakes going. Will someone who has owned Volks please comment on this. Are they well made cars? A bit late of a reply, but I will answer. My two VWs, originally ... Read More

Volkswagen GTI Lease Questions

• Re: 08 GTI [kulaso]

  Written by: Car_man on Sep 30, 2008 5:43:54 PM

  Hi kulaso. A 770 credit score is very good. It should easily qualify you for any manufacturers' top credit tier. VW Credit's lease program varies by term and mileage allowance. For now I will assume that you are interested in a 36 month lease with 15,000 miles per year. Let me know if you want something different. If you were to lease a 2009 Volkswagen GTI 4-Door through VW Credit in ... Read More

Volkswagen GTI Transmission Problems

• Re: VW's DSG... Good?Bad? [micro_chip_man]

  Written by: goose on Sep 9, 2008 5:11:13 PM

  I bought a 2008 GTI with the DSG. If you drive it like a sports car the DSG is fun. Plus when want to drive an auto its there. If your all about the driving and expect to be connected to the car then the DSG can be just another auto with a little caffeine.

Volkswagen GTI Lease Questions

• Re: Any August incentives? [fast200sx]

  Written by: Car_man on Aug 14, 2008 3:39:46 AM

  Hi fast200sx. Volkswagen is currently providing a $500 cash incentive on leases of the 2008 GTI through VW Credit. I am not aware of any conquest cash. Car_man Host Prices Paid: Buying & Leasing Experiences Forum

VW GTI (All styles)

• Re: GTI 2008 price? [sidds1601]

  Written by: blueguydotcom on Jul 14, 2008 10:28:24 PM

  VW also has 60-72 months 0% on the GTI. The dealers are essentially giving them away.

Volkswagen GTI Lease Questions

• RE: 2008 GTI 4 Door Automatic

  Written by: mmenard on Jun 17, 2008 7:46:11 PM

  I just got an offer on a GTI 4-door automatic with sunroof package (not the autobahn) approx. $27 000 msrp for $24850. I know this doesn't include tax, but what other fees are not included. Want to use this number to determine a lease payment: 12k, 36 months, 53% residual, money factor of .00085, -500 VW cash back and $2000 down. (tax here is 8.25%). I come up with $275.50 tx ... Read More

• Re: 08 GTI [flim_flamini]

  Written by: Car_man on Jun 17, 2008 2:46:05 AM

  Here's the info that you're looking for, flim_flamini. The money factor that you were quoted is way too high. VW Credit's current buy rate lease money factor and residual value for a 36 month lease of a 2008 GTI 4-Door with 12,000 miles per year are .00085 and 53%, respectively. Volkswagen is currently providing a $500 cash incentive on leases of this car through VW Credit. If I was in the ... Read More

• Re: 08 GTI [tsa1]

  Written by: Car_man on May 28, 2008 3:17:13 AM

  Hi tsa1. Volkswagen Credit's current buy rate lease money factor and residual value for a 24 month lease of a 2008 GTI 2-roor with 12,000 miles per year are .00085 and 54%, respectively. The money factor for an otherwise identical lease of an '08 GTI 4-door is the same, but its residual value is 53%. The numbers for a similar lease of an '08 R32 are .00080 and 58%. Volkswagen is ... Read More

Volkswagen GTI Audio and Entertaiment System Questions

• Sound Sucks

  Written by: mikeinsincity on May 13, 2008 6:11:34 PM

  Hey all, I just bought a 2008 GTI and love it...BUT the sound system sucks, especially radio and iPod. CD is ok. Anyway, what would someone recommend? I was thinking of getting an Amplifier or an Equalizer? Would Best Buy or another commercial retailer know what the hell they are doing? Should I take it back to VW and pay the outrageous prices? I just got rid of my 2001 Jetta ... Read More

Volkswagen GTI Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• BOUGHT 2008 GTI

  Written by: goose on May 1, 2008 9:07:57 PM

  Woot, I just traded in my 2006 Honda EX coupe automatic for a red 2008 GTI auto. Back in 2005 I was one of the first people in southern AZ to have the 2006 coupe. It was a great car and was a significant improvement from the 1996 Civic I last owned. I loved the new 2 tier instrument panel too. The only missing thing was the navigation system. Moving forward ... Read More

Volkswagen R32 current and upcoming

• MDI pics

  Written by: rv65 on Apr 11, 2008 7:45:07 PM

  See more Car Pictures at CarSpace.com See more Car Pictures at CarSpace.com Pics of the new MDI unit aka Media Interface. This works with 2008 and 2009 models. Even the 2007 GTI's can use this provided that their radio works great. Works with the RNS-510 and other VW radios. With the iPod cable you get full integration. There are also USB and Aux in cables. This can replace the Aux in ... Read More

• Re: 2008 color choices [rv65]

  Written by: mrgreedy28 on Apr 1, 2008 5:04:19 PM

  Are you referring to the R32 or GTI? I thought VW has finished producing all 2008 R32 headed to the US and all are equipped with the older NAV system. If they are going to roll out the R32 with an RNS-510, I will definitely wait!

Volkswagen GTI Lease Questions

• Re: GTI 4dr lease question [caveman123]

  Written by: Car_man on Mar 17, 2008 2:36:36 AM

  You're very welcome, caveman. Here's the information that you're looking for. Volkswagen Credit's current buy rate lease money factor and residual value for a 24 month lease of a 2008 VW GTI 4-Door with 15,000 miles per year are .00054 and 61%, respectively. The numbers for an otherwise identical 36 month lease are .00103 and 52%, respectively. Car_man Host Prices Paid: Buying & Leasing Experiences Forum

• Re: Lease Evaluation: 2008 GTI with Autobahn & Monster Mats [kyfdx]

  Written by: adjulian on Feb 5, 2008 12:17:57 PM

  Only TTL due at signing, VW is picking up the first payment, so effectively only 35 payments.

Volkswagen GTI Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• VW 2008 in dealing

  Written by: young_vehicle on Jan 26, 2008 2:17:48 PM

  Hi, I am trying to get a new GTI with 4dr DSG Autobarn package Navigatoin w/ iPod adapter Rear airbaigs How much OTD price seems reasonable? (no loan, no trade) The invoice is about $28,000.

• 2008 GTI 2DR

  Written by: razorasdf on Jan 11, 2008 8:50:40 AM

  On Wednesday I purchased a Tornado Red 2008 GTI 2-door with a 6 speed manual off the lot and 32 miles on the odometer. It came loaded with 18" Hufeisen alloy wheels w/all-seasons, sunroof, premium audio w/ Sirius, and an iPod adapter. No Monster mats or Gorilla gear, unfortunately - I made a mistake of letting them take it off to achieve my desired price. I might buy those from the ... Read More

• Re: What do you think? [cocoseng]

  Written by: futuregtiowner on Dec 19, 2007 8:19:01 PM

  Hey cocoseng, was the price of $26,741 out the door? or was that before taxes? What part of the country do you live in? I live in Los Angeles and test drove the EXACT same car you describe in your post 2008 Volkswagen GTI (United Gray) 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM) Autobahn Package except that it has 17" denver alloy wheels They gave me an MSRP of $27,965 and out ... Read More

• What do you think of this quote?

  Written by: twisties on Dec 17, 2007 1:52:00 PM

  I just recieved a quote on a lease for an 2008 GTI 4-door. Autobahn package Navigation 18" huffs 15 k a year 39 months 369 a month 1685 out of pocket What do you think? this was the best offer I have gotten. (plus they have loaner cars) this is from new country VW in Greenwhich conn.

Jetta vs Civic vs TDI vs GTI

• Re: Jetta vs Civic vs TDI vs GTI [andreg]

  Written by: climbonboard on Dec 6, 2007 4:44:20 PM

  Andre G., Thanks for the detailed reply! Enjoy your new ride! I've crossed shopped almost every vehicle under $25,000 (optioned out) and the Jetta seems like the best bang for the buck (other than potential reliability issues). I'm probably going to lease one as to ameliorate the headache of reliability issues somewhat. I'm curious as to why you got the SEL; it doesn't seem to me like the best "bang for ... Read More

Volkswagen GTI Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• What do you think?

  Written by: cocoseng on Nov 20, 2007 5:00:28 PM

  New to the board... and first time GTI owner. Picked up my new vehicle this weekend for $26,741. 2008 Volkswagen GTI (United Gray) 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM) Autobahn Package 18" All-Season Tires Ipod Adapter Think it was a pretty darn good deal, but would love to get your thoughts.

Volkswagen R32 current and upcoming

• check this out...

  Written by: blitzebill on Nov 10, 2007 5:41:15 AM

  Around the Block | 2008 Volkswagen R32 Rabbit in a Hot Rich Sauce 2008 Volkswagen R32 By LAWRENCE ULRICH Published: November 11, 2007 TESTED: 2008 Volkswagen R32 WHAT IS IT? Compact all-wheel-drive performance hatchback HOW MUCH? $33,630 ($35,430 as tested) . WHAT MAKES IT RUN? 3.2-liter V-6 (250 horsepower, 236 pound-feet of torque); six-speed sequential transmission. IS IT THIRSTY? Can you say gulp? The E.P.A. estimates 18 m.p.g. in town, 23 ... Read More

Volkswagen GTI Lease Questions

• Sign and drive promotion

  Written by: matt_70 on Nov 8, 2007 3:54:14 PM

  $309/Month. 36-Month Lease 2008 GTI 2.0T 2-door with manual transmission $0.00 Due at Signing. Based on MSRP of $23,370.00 (more details see VW homepage) Of course the closest thing I find in my area is more like $25k. What do you think I can expect from the dealers as far as monthly payment with the more realistic MSRP? What money factor and residule value are they using for this promotion?

• 2008 GTI 2-door automatic in Los Angeles

  Written by: blackpointtk on Oct 30, 2007 8:49:10 PM

  Hello Car-man, I want to lease a 2008 2-door GTI, automatic with autobahn package for 36 months, 12K/yr, with little or no down per your advice. I should be top tier credit. The MSRP is $26,825, and invoice is $25,062. So assuming a purchase price of $25,300, what would my monthly payments be? What is the current money factor, residual amount? Can individuals find the money factor and residual amounts on ... Read More

• Re: Lease [jonahmc]

  Written by: Car_man on Oct 29, 2007 2:08:53 AM

  Hi jonahmc. $200 over dealer invoice is a very good selling price for a leased 2008 Volkswagen GTI. The money factor that you were quoted looks a little high though. VW Credit's current buy rate lease money factor for the '08 GTI for consumers who qualify for its top credit tier is .00223. So if you have to pay .00045 more than that because you don't qualify for the top credit ... Read More

• Re: October Lease Figures [jackham]

  Written by: Car_man on Oct 26, 2007 4:17:53 AM

  Hi Jackham. You actually would be better off paying a slightly higher payment and not making any down payment than putting money down to arrive at a target monthly payment. I always advise consumers against making large down payments on leased vehicles. Those who make them risk losing part or all of them if their vehicle is totaled in an accident or stolen and never recovered. Let's work up a sample ... Read More

• GTI Dilemma

  Written by: upndwn on Oct 16, 2007 12:09:38 PM

  I want a 2008 4 door GTI, "autobahn". It seems to have more rear seat head room than an A8 and is very versatile and does not waste fuel. It is a practical a fun car as I can imagine. I am about to get a A4. That is because Audi wants me to. I can't help it. The MSRP on a A4 6MT, premium package, convenience package, Bluetooth, is about ... Read More

• October Lease Figures

  Written by: jackham on Oct 1, 2007 10:44:52 PM

  Hi Car_man I am located in Los Angeles. and I am planning to lease a 2008 VW GTi 4-doors with manuel transmission. The ONLINE price (MSRP?) of my personalized option ended up to be $22,919. Looking for a 36-months period with 15,000 miles per year lease. My credit score is around 750 and I am willing to pay around 300-350 tax included monthly. Approximately how much the downpayment is need to ... Read More

• Re: 2007/2008 GTI 4-door [pfje]

  Written by: Car_man on Sep 24, 2007 3:25:32 AM

  Here you go, pfje. Volkswagen Credit's current buy rate lease money factor and residual value for a 24 month lease of a 2008 GTI 4-Door with 15,000 miles per year are .00171 and 63%, respectively. The numbers for an otherwise identical lease of a 2007 model are .00158 and 63%. Volkswagen is currently providing a special $500 cash incentive on leases of the '07 model through VW Credit, but no cash ... Read More

• Re: 08 LEASE PROGRAMS?? [pollofrito81]

  Written by: Car_man on Sep 24, 2007 3:14:40 AM

  Here's the information that you're looking for, pollofrito81. Volkswagen Credit's current buy rate lease money factor and residual value for a 36 month lease of a 2008 VW GTI 2-Door with 15,000 miles per year are .00171 and 55%, respectively. The money factor for an otherwise identical lease of a GTI 4-Door would be the same, but its residual value is one point lower. Car_man Host Prices Paid: Buying & Leasing ... Read More

Article Comments - 2008 VW R32 First Drive and Follow-Up Test

• Re: The 2008 R32 is no match for the original. [smyle12]

  Written by: eldaino on Aug 12, 2007 3:42:19 PM

  R32 with it's cheapened more rubbery plasticky interitor, and maybe you'll even opt for the stock 10 spoke 17" rims as well. Try comparing interior photos to the last version and you'll instantaneously see what I mean. first off.... I HAVE. and i did you one better, by actually SITTING IN BOTH OF THEM. i had the pleasure of experiencing my first r32 this weekend. a beautiful candy white one. the ... Read More

• Re: Article Comments - 2008 VW R32 First Drive [eljefe68]

  Written by: rwr1 on Jul 14, 2007 6:57:42 PM

  You say " how many are going to want to pay more for a car that is no faster or at worst slower" . I for one! I ordered a United Grey 2008 R32. It is already built and somewhere between the factory in Germany and the dealer in Seattle. VW says it will arrive the end of Aug. I can't wait. By my calculations the R32 is only $3900 more ... Read More

• Re: Article Comments - 2008 VW R32 First Drive [KarenS]

  Written by: eljefe68 on Jun 29, 2007 12:52:14 PM

  The R32 has always been an interesting car to me, and the previous generation was a legitimate step up in performance over the 1.8T GTIs it shared the showroom with. However, now that 2.0T GTIs are around and folks like Car and Driver are getting 0-60 times of 6.2 seconds, the new R32 is not appearing to be much of an upgrade. Sure, the VR6 sounds sweet and AWD will give ... Read More

Mazdaspeed3 vs. VW V GTI vs. Civic Si

• Re: 2008 VW R32 [aviboy97]

  Written by: 600kgolfgt on Feb 19, 2007 4:53:10 PM

  I'll give you a specific example in the form of a comparison between U.S. and German drivers. On the autobahn, when you are in the passing lane and see a distant flashing of headlights in your rearview mirror, you have a split-second to get out of the passing lane, because chances are its a Porsche, BMW, Mercedes, or GTI going at a leisurely 220 km/h (just north of 135mph). And unless ... Read More

• Re: should i buy this car [eldaino]

  Written by: fasterthanyou on Feb 2, 2007 8:03:18 PM

  "no it was lowered in 07 that is a fact! Its even been in vw's press releases! and they are now offering launch control on the 07's as well! Just check the specs! i have a manual from the 06's and the 07's and the numbers plainly show that it has been lowered!!!" I really don't take pleasure in doing this but I have to contradict you again. GTI's are not ... Read More

Article Comments: 2006 Sport Compact Comparison Test

• Re: Pointless [big_prize]

  Written by: ms3hothatch on Dec 5, 2006 5:00:56 PM

  "So here's my subjective opinion: The results of these comparisons are mostly useless. The numbers speak for themselves. All else needs to be judged by you, the buyer, when it comes time to test drive the vehicles. If you like the GTI, who cares if Edmunds picked it 5th? If you think that the Si will ne'er be in the shop, then head to the Honda dealer. In the history of ... Read More

Volkswagen GTI Maintenance and Repair

• Re: GTI reliability.... [carfanatic007]

  Written by: allhorizon on Jun 29, 2006 2:35:12 AM

  I'm sure that the GTI is a fast little car but I wouldn't call 200 hp with 207 lbs torque a "high performance engine". Many cars available today have much more HP and torque. I have owned a 1998 GTI VR6 and the 2001 GTI. The VR6 was far superior to the Turbo 1.8. The only thing nice about this particular model is that it is made in Germany vice Brazil. ... Read More