Used 2013 Volkswagen GTI Driver's Edition PZEV 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) Consumer Reviews
Excellent All-Around Vehicle
This car does everything well. Interior and exterior fit and finish are excellent. The car has plenty of power and delivers it uniformly with almost no turbo lag. The gearbox shifts easily and quickly and clutch uptake is very smooth. Handling is precise with just a bit of understeer which can be corrected with a little extra gas. With 18" wheels, the ride is firm but not punishing. I might consider switching to 17" wheels when it's time for new tires. Fuel economy matches the EPA estimate around town and it's easy to exceed the 31 MPG rating on the highway. It's a pleasure to drive this car anywhere under any conditions. Update: After three years of ownership, this is still a satisfying car to drive. I am about ready to replace the original Pirelli Pzero tires but will keep the 18" wheels to reduce costs. The car still rides hard on rough roads and I hope a switch to different tires will improve comfort. There have been two problems covered by warranty: The water pump leaked and was replaced by the dealer in Flagstaff, AZ during a road trip. The car was later recalled for this problem. The infotainment system stopped working and was also replaced. The body and interior have held up well. We have taken several 1,500-mile-plus road trips and there's enough room inside for two people with their luggage and a bicycle. The infotainment system with Sirius XM has lots of options and the sound quality is good. The navigation system is comprehensive and easy to use. I'll be keeping the car for several more years. This is the last of the German-built GTIs and it has been a good experience. Update 8/2019: Now, after six years and 52,500 miles, all is well. I replaced the 18" wheels with 17" and the car is now much lighter on its feet. I also replaced the Pirelli P Zero tires with Falken all-season radials and the ride is smoother and quieter. There have been no mechanical issues. Interior and exterior remain in good condition. Update 11/5/2020: Beware the check-engine light. The light came on in August but I didn't notice any drivability issues. However, the problem turned out to be a sensor in the intake manifold which required replacement of the entire manifold. This was an expensive repair but it did slightly improve drivability and fuel economy. This is a known issue in some VWs and its repair is covered by VW on other models but not this GTI. After 67k miles and 7 years, the GTI remains both practical and fun to drive. Not planning on replacing it anytime soon. Update 6/12/2022: Good news from VW: Received a letter extending the warranty on the intake manifold to 10 years or 120k miles. They reimbursed me for 90% of the repair in 2020 by my mechanic. Others in this discussion should also be happy. Only one minor problem: had the A/C Schrader valves replaced and system recharged. Continues to be fun, practical, and reliable. Update 1/5/2024: The GTI developed a small leak in the water pump that required replacing it; the same issue that arose in 2015 (see above). This was an expensive repair but worth it for an otherwise reliable, fun-to-drive vehicle. Overall, the vehicle is aging well, now with 87k miles. The car is always garaged so no significant wear on the interior or exterior. No plans to replace the GTI anytime soon. Update 7/9/2024: No problems to report at more than 89k miles. The A/C system remains powerful and the interior is cold even in this broiling AZ summer. Plan to keep the GTI on the road as long as possible.
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The biggest [non-permissible content removed]
Fuel pump goes at 14K under warranty. Water pump goes at 17K. Under warranty. Front suspension bushing breaks at 38K. Under warranty. LED headlights stop working at 45K. Under warranty. Map sensor for fuel pump goes at 61K (not under warranty). 67k miles, car switches off for no reason at 75mph. Had to get towed. 21K, 43K, 89K and 132K burst tires from bumpy roads. Low profile tires suck. Replaced tires. 95K engine deposits are excessive had to get that fixed. Car starts burning excessive oil at 121K. 1 quart every 2000 miles. Constant low oil warning lights on bends. A/C stops working at 110K. Must have spend at least 15K getting everything fixed. The car soldiered on to 170K miles. The transmission is now done at 170K. Car was maintained per service schedule and oil changed every 5 K miles. The engine in good but that is about it. i cant wait to drive it into a lake to get rid of it.
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