Used 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 2018 Golf GTI, so we've included reviews for other years of the Golf GTI since its last redesign.
A Brilliant, Sport Hatch
John, 08/11/2018
updated 02/21/2020
2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI Sport 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
7 of 9 people found this review helpful
The GTI Sport, 6 speed manual, is extremely docile yet responsive in city traffic and a beast on the back roads. Rarely have I driven a car on a daily basis that is as sorted out as this one. I have plenty of space for four adult passengers, great visibility, room for all my stuff, a delightful engine and transmission, strong brakes and solid, timeless styling. I could put down the rear seat, crawl into the back and curl up to sleep through night if I needed to. It is a solid vehicle that drives way above it's class. It's a breeze to park, reliable, and I will say it again, quick in real world conditions. The OEM tires leave something to be desired and I look forward to replacing them in due time for a set that is more tactile. VWs depreciate faster than Toyota and Honda. The only way to offset this is to drive the car for many years---which I plan to do because I do not see anything else on the market or coming to the market at its price range that comes close to the current GTI. Update 2/19: Now two years into ownership and the VW GTI continues to be a solid, problem-free performer. I am very pleased with the car. Update 2/20 Three years into ownership the GTI remains rock solid. No issues and my mechanic reports very little wear and tear on the car. My tires and brakes for example are holding up exceedingly well. Car is a delight to drive. Solid and safe. Nothing compares with it if you like small cars and dislike SUVs as your daily driver. When I bought it, the GTI was considered one of the ten best cars in the world. Three years into it I agree.
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Great Purchase, best year GTI 2017
G. W. Williams, 09/13/2017
updated 04/14/2023
2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI Sport 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
The Sport (hard to find here) model is everything it was advertised to be. Owned 13 days, driven only 200 miles. Learning the new technology, and much to learn yet. I know one thing: every VW I've ever owned, I regret selling/trading. This will be the end-all of my dreams. I still drive a 1999 Jetta TDI...so reliable and economical. I've decided to drive my GTI Sport like I want to drive and disregard "economy". I am going to enjoy this fine piece of machinery. Oh, retired law enforcement officer, 18 high-speed pursuits (successful), Vietnam Era Vet. I just want to make sure I can handle this superb vehicle supremely before I unleash her. Will do. Now owned 6.5 months, just under 4000 miles. (3/18/18). Still everything I had hoped it would be. To avoid tickets (none thus far), I have experimented with "economy". Filled up today, 32.7 mpg driving locally (mostly 4-lane trip to and from work, 55 mph zone), two traffic lights, 40 miles round-trip. Occasional bouts with 70-80 mph spurts. I think on a real interstate trip, I can achieve 37-39 in flat-terrain (as in going to the beach & return). Mountains? I expect 29-31. This is NOT my 1976 Rabbit (which I loved). Torque steer could be a major problem for less than professional (retired police officer) drivers. It's the "poor man's Porsche", in my humble opinion, with front wheel drive. (I wish I had my 1974 Westphalia camper van back, too). I could do without a few of the electronic gimmicks, and wish navigation was standard. Also, the special "xenon" lights limit visibility on these hilly roads locally on "dim", with very low, flat-line reach. I would opt-out for them. Brakes are excellent (two incidents have already prevented a collision). Overall, I expect the 2017 GTI Sport model to hold its value better than many cars. I look forward to owning at least another 2 1/2 years. Three years seems to be the breaking point for devaluation on most cars. I'll be looking to the future to VW and other German engineered vehicles for my next winner. This is a winner! Update: 9/19/19 Fantastic vehicle. Consumer Reports rated this the most favorable year of GTI until this time. Now with 13,600 miles, has even better performance all-around! More acceleration, better fuel economy (even had a trip with 41 mpg); the wind must have been with me! One problem: must buy replacement oil-drain plugs...they seem to be disposable according to my service adviser. Carry extras in glove box, he says. Performance: Engine just gets stronger and stronger. Fantastic little car. Rides like a go-cart, but that's the sports-car result. Wife, (69 next month) has a difficult time getting in & out and complains about the rough ride. Oh, well...been married 50 years in March; put up with it! Sooooooooo, many times we take my 1999 Jetta TDI (which rides better than that go-cart). Oh, it still gets 53 mpg, and 49 local. Just repainted and a wonderful VW too. 134,000 miles. Go figure. Other vehicles: 2000 Ford F-250 7.3 turbo diesel, 2002 Maxima SE 3.5, 1984 Jeep Grand Wagoneer (for sale) on Classiccars.com. 9/20/20. Three years young now. Out of full warranty. 16245 miles. Only complaint: Re-setting service reminder @ last oil change. Service @ non-VW service station failed to reset @ my request. Other computer monitors not functioning as a result (mpg, trip, etc.) and I (age 69) have not conquered that yet. I have paperwork, so......... Otherwise, this is one mean Son-of-a-gun! Wife can't stand it for sports car ride characteristics, but what a performer! One trip last year averaged 42 mpg!!!! Outstanding. So, you see, I can treat her very gently at times. She seems to be holding her value very well. Checked asking prices a few months ago and they were asking $22k-$23k with many more mile than mine. Not bad. Being retired law enforcement officer, I cannot say I've tested her limits; only can say there were "targeted areas" of testing. Way above the performance of my last Police Interceptor Crown Vic! Enough said? ******************* April 12, 2023 ******************* In Aug, will have owned GTI Sport six years. 21,177 miles. Super dependable; Recent 800 mile round trip, I was disappointed fuel economy, but I think the Premium gas (93 Octane) may not have been 93 octane! Performance gets better and better, however. (Wife's previous complaints about uncomfortable ride has been fixed by buying 2022 Equinox for trips that she accompanies with me. Disappointing VW news (see previous ratings reports) My 1999 1/2 (2000 body style) Jetta TDI bit the dust....broken timing belt 8000 miles before one recommended to be replaced. Could not find anyone (in time) to evaluate damage. (had just repainted, tires, etc.....nobody wants to work in this area! In 2022, I believe I could have sold this car for what I paid for it (while car lots were vacant due to the chip shortage), but I"m keeping this VW!
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2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI for sale near you
Showing 3 of 19 listings
- Autobahn 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $15,9902 mi away
- S 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $11,99018 mi away
- S 4dr HatchbackMSRP: $19,99511 mi away
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GTI Sport - Perfect Drivers Car
Glenn Migliorino, 10/04/2017
2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI Sport 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
My 1st experience with a VW, and I'm pretty impressed with the quality of the interior/exterior. Car is reasonably quick and handles extremely well. In addition I'm getting over 30mpg, pleasantly surprised especially since more of my driving is not highways . Its a fairly small car but is bigger inside than you would expect - plenty of room for 4 passengers - 5 in a pinch. Trunk is a little small but works well since it's a hatchback. It's certainly hard to find a "drivers car" anymore, especially one that is practical and reasonably priced - if that's what you like this is about the only game in town.
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A perfect car?? if not as close as you can get!
mel, 09/13/2017
2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI S 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I traded in my 2015 GTI coupe last week for a 2017 4 door- i got almost 4K over what i owed on the car- plus an additional 3 K off - promotional deal - not only is this a great car for the money - it is just a great car period- I have owned over 25 cars in my life- almost all new and kept for 2-3 years- i have never been more satisfied with the driving experience - comfort- performance of any car i have owned- on my last long drive - about 500 miles in my previous GTI i averaged 40.7 MPG- yes it uses premium - fit - finish- refinement- i honestly do not know how they do it at this price point- i do not like gadgets and my car is a S with a 6 sp manual and NO OPTIONS- i love the apple car that now comes with it- so intuitive even for me - i did add the wheel tire protection as i had a bad experience with tires and wheels on the 2015 and for $1200 for 5 years if i use it once a year to refinish the wheels it will pay for itself- if you love to drive- love the connection of car and response - i highly recommend this car to anyone!
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This is a blast to drive and own!
Horatio, 11/07/2017
2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I purchased this vehicle when I returned my leased 2013 Passat SE. I liked the Passat, but I really, really like my new GTI - Autobahn and I'm glad I purchased it. I've owned a Mustang GTs, a regular GTI, and other vehicles. I must admit that this is car is the most fun I've had driving! Handles great, acceleration is surprisingly quick and responsive! The Autobahn has tons of features and options!
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The Full Package!
MassGTIDude, 01/03/2018
2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI Sport 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I knew I wanted a sporty hatchback coming from a 2002 loaded Passat GLX wagon that I loved and hated giving up. But when the heat goes and you're dealing with single digit winters, you don't have much choice. I didn't need quite as much car as the Passat, and it wasn't fast or sporty enough for my needs now anyway. The choice was narrowed down to the GTI or the Mazda 3 with the 2.5 engine. I was also on the fence about an auto trans or stick, since I was missing a stick for many years but have a 30 mile daily commute in traffic. So the choice was clear finally. Get a 2017 GTI Sport DSG. For essentially the same price after discounts as the Mazda, you get a better motor, suspension, brakes, and interior. You give up a few gadgets and get a big smile every time you push START and give it some gas. I'm torn as to whether I'll mod the car because it drives exceedingly well stock. I bought new a '97 M3 and kept it 7 years because it drove so well. Nothing could touch it for performance or practicality. Nothing that is until this car! It matches it in performance and handling at half its price. So yeah, I like this car.
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2017 GTI Sport DSG
Le Nguyen, 11/26/2016
updated 06/04/2018
2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI Sport 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
5 of 7 people found this review helpful
Like most people in this segment who are shopping for a fun to drive affordable sport car, it was hard chosing btw the GTI and the WRX as both car diving dynamic and performance are excellent. I chose the GTI for its quality interior and DSG as a daily driver over the WRX CVT. However, if you need awd, then get the WRX.
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Good car but not perfect
Brewno, 05/07/2017
2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6AM)
8 of 13 people found this review helpful
I've been driving an autobahn trim for the past four months. Overall, I think this is a very good car for daily driving but it's far from perfect. The DCC in comfort mode does improve the ride quality significantly, giving a firm but smooth ride around town. However, the ride deteriorates at high speeds (70 to 75 mph) and becomes somewhat rough and bouncy. It wouldn't be my first choice if I was going on a long road trip. I think the blind spot monitor system is unsafe. The warning light comes on late, and I can often see a vehicle in my blind spot before the light turns on. I do think the adaptive cruise control is useful and easy to operate. For everyday music listening, the Fender system does not offer much more than the lower level 8 speaker system. For comparison, my daughter drives a golf sportwagen with a base sound system, and I think it sounds just as good. For what it's worth, my recommendation to VW is to offer both 17 inch and 18 inch wheels so drivers who want a more compliant ride can choose the smaller wheels. Also, VW needs to work on their blind spot detection system.
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First and last VW I will ever buy! (S, 6 spd man)
Steve McCroskey, 04/19/2019
2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI S 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
9 of 15 people found this review helpful
The water pump is made out of plastic. Why would anyone make one of the most vital parts of the car out of plastic? I have already had the plastic thermostat housing replaced at 34k miles. The clutch makes a growling noise after the car has warmed up, when you take your foot off of the clutch and the car is in neutral. The dealer says this is normal for all of their GTIs. So apparently dysfunction is the norm. First gear sounds like a tornado siren, but again, this is considered normal. The blower motor makes a loud chirping noise when it is cold outside. (Replaced at 35k miles). I can't wait until the car needs to have the intake valves cleaned because of the carbon buildup issues with these direct injection engines. The steering wheel is an awkward shape and is uncomfortable on long trips. The road noise is so bad at times, people cannot hear me when using the phone through the car's audio system. Every tiny imperfection in the road is transmitted from the wheels to your spine. This car is terrible for long trips. When the car is cold, there is a misfire that can be heard and felt yet the dealer could not duplicate. The fuel door says 87 octane, but unless you run 93 octane the engine knocks horribly when accelerating from a stop or just patting the gas. You cannot actually disable the traction control or stability control. Why have the buttons? The positives: the car comes loaded for the most part and it is quick and agile.The gas mileage is surprisingly good (32 mpg avg).
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GTI Sport 6M - Most fun I've had in a long time
Mike, 09/08/2017
2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI Sport 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I purchased this Sport 6M after a long search for the right manual transmission car. As one of the dinosaurs who still likes to shift his own gears, my options are getting more limited. I previously owned two BMW 328i models that I loved, but as they grew older, they became a lot less reliable. I wanted to find a car that has a strong track record for reliability but is also fun to drive. Every comparison test that included a GTI mentioned that these are near-perfect cars. The more I read, the more I realized I'm missing an opportunity. This car is such a blast to drive. Enough power to get me through my commute, but also makes weekend drives so much more fun. I forgot how much I love to drive and feel that connection to a car. The interior is better than I expected, the Clark Plaid seats aren't just a talking point, they're comfortable and so supportive. The shifting is easy and precise, although it took me some time to adapt. It took me a minute to get over the fact that I'm a 40 year old who drives a "hot hatch", but it's not a mid life crisis car. It is practical as much as it is fun. Overall I am thrilled with this choice. I have a 9 year old car enthusiast son who is begging me to keep this car until he is old enough to drive...he may get his wish because I see no reason to move on.
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