2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI

2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI

Episode 3343
Auto Value and Bumper to BumperTire Rack "The Way Tire Buying Should Be"

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Volkswagen Golf, the most popular VW of all time. While we knew it as the Rabbit back in 1974, like the rest of the world, we grew up to love these compact two and four-door hatchbacks for their combination tidy looks, oodles of interior space, and no-nonsense driving enjoyment. And what better way to celebrate then with an all-new Golf. So, happy anniversary to us!

We didn’t expect a big physical change for the 2015 Volkswagen Golf. So, we weren’t disappointed to find that the 7th generation only improves on Golf’s basic formula that, while slightly larger, is still “so right” even after four decades.

While all powertrains are more efficient, even the base TSI Golf with a 1.8-liter turbo I4 feels peppy and very refined. Ratings are 170-horsepower and 200 lb-ft. of torque. And the top-line GTI comes in at 210-horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque with a 2.0-liter inline-4 turbo.

A late arriving Performance Package holds peak torque longer and boost horsepower to 220. The Performance Package also includes a torque sensing, electronically controlled limited-slip differential, a first for a front drive car. It can transfer up to 100% of torque to either front wheel to help eliminate both torque steer and understeer.

A 5-speed manual is standard in the TSI, with an optional 6-speed automatic. TDIs and GTIs can be fitted with a 6-speed manual or DSG gearbox. 

There’s even a very well done new eGolf. It’s super quiet even for an EV, and has some of the best feeling EV brakes. Range is EV typical at 70-90 miles. 

But, during our early San Francisco drive time, we focused on the hot-hatch GTI, as it is the first model to the market, and along with a Golf Sportwagon due next year, is a key to growing Golf sales in America.

Yes fans, that means the GTI is going more mainstream. Both two and four-door hatchback bodies strike us as less visually distinctive than the previous GTI. Even the rear spoiler is subtle. Stance is noticeably improved, however, as the Golf’s new front-wheel-drive MQB chassis is stretched in every dimension.

Having been on sale in Europe for over a year, U.S. buyers had to wait for Golf production to start over here down Mexico way.

But drivers should not notice that transatlantic transformation, as the new GTI has all of its spirit plus a new level of sophistication. There’s a slightly heavier German feel; very solid, almost like driving a small bank vault around. It’s a more agile yet nailed down car than the Jetta.

Even without the Performance Package, all GTI’s sport VW’s updated XDS traction system that monitors suspension load to help contain understeer. Standard too is selectable drive mode with Normal, Sport, and Individual settings.

Even in Normal, the GTI corners great and feels nice and compact, and while steering feel is not all there, it’s better than the Audi A3 that uses the same chassis. 

The GTI’s interior was already a step above most of its competition, and it still outshines them with improved material quality and simplicity. GTI highlights include color stitching, paddle shifters for the DSG, and a sweet flat-bottom steering wheel.

All trim levels have touch screen audio and connectivity, with similar controls to the rest of the VW lineup, only the screen is now larger. A backup camera is oddly not standard, while Forward Collision Alert and Park Distance Control are also options. GTI convenience upgrades include Fender Premium audio, automatic climate, and pushbutton start.

The new Golf adds to its already plentiful rear seat space, while low load floor cargo room now rivals many mid-size cars with station wagon-like versatility.

Government Fuel Economy Ratings for a GTI with an automatic are 22-City, 33-Highway, and 28-Combined; an overall gain of one. That makes for a good Energy Impact Score of 11.8-barrels of annual oil use with 5.3-tons of CO2 emitted. 

More features for less money is always a good recipe for success, as a base GTI 2-door hatchback begins at $25,215. The story is even better for the TSI with a sticker drop to $18,815, both partially due to a new entry level S-trim.

Except for the new electronic diff, the 2015 Volkswagen Golf projects little wow factor. Rather, it adheres to a “more of the same but better” approach. Still, we are wowed that VW can build such an affordable small car that is rock solid and totally entertaining to drive. And that makes the 40th anniversary of the Golf a milestone we’ll not forget.

Specifications

  • Engine: 1.8-liter/ 2.0-liter
  • Horsepower: 170/ 210
  • Torque: 200 lb-ft./ 258 lb-ft.
  • EPA: 22 mpg city/ 33 mpg highway
  • Energy Impact: 11.8 barrels of oil/yr
  • CO2 Emissions: 5.3 tons/yr

Long Term Updates

Mileage: 6,082

Well, that was fast…after a short 3 months, and enjoyable 6082 miles, our Volkswagen GTI is rolling off the MotorWeek lot. Our SE 4-door hatch was well equipped, with back up camera, leather seats, and a quick revving 210 horse 2.0-liter with slick shifting 6 speed DSG transmission.

Final fuel economy was 28.7 miles per gallon. That beats the gov’s Combined Rating of 28, but keep in mind it does require premium.

A small price to pay, though, for the sheer fun that the GTI brought to everyone on the staff. Plus with generous cargo space, it’s just a great all-around car.

Now, if we don’t sound too torn up over losing the GTI so quickly, it’s because another one is taking its place!

This 4-door, base GTI drops the backup cam and leather seats, but gains a third petal. That’s right, a proper 6 speed manual trans is how we roll now. Fuel economy jumps one, but we think the fun factor will go up much more over the next 90 days.

Mileage: 1,000

Does the weather cooling down have you feeling down? Not us! We’re pumped up from taking delivery of this 2015 Volkswagen GTI for our Long Term test fleet!

The 7th gen GTI already won us over during our initial test, and we just had to have more!

The 2.0 liter turbo inline four only puts out 210 horsepower; but with the GTI’s lightweight design and spot-on setup, that’s plenty. Through just over 1,000 “break-in” miles, we’re seeing an average of 30.9 miles-per-gallon, already above the government combined rating of 28.

Our GTI came well equipped in 4-door mid-level SE trim; with added features like Fender premium audio, a power sunroof, leather seating, and backup camera, among others. The optional Lighting package brings Bi-Xenon headlights and LED runners, while the Driver Assistance Package adds front and rear proximity alerts, and Forward Collision Warning.

All that, plus 52.7 cu. ft of cargo room makes it a great staff support vehicle.

Easy to drive; even easier to live with- that was our first take away from the all-new GTI. So we’ll see if some extended seat time keeps that feeling alive.     

Mileage: 2,340

With just 2,340 miles added to the odometer, we’re still in the honeymoon phase with our 2015 Volkswagen GTI.

So naturally, we’re still in love with just how fun and easy it is to drive. Even a quick trip to lunch can be entertaining. More often than not, our staffers keep it in “Sport” mode, which tightens steering nicely.

But like any relationship, we’re discovering a few flaws as well. Nothing that’s a deal breaker, just minor annoyances. Some with longer legs are getting bruised knees from the steering column protruding too far into the driver knee area. And the requirement for premium fuel has fooled a few of us, who’ve put in regular grade, and noticed some engine sputtering and delayed throttle response as a result.

Fuel economy gets no complaints from us at all, as we’re averaging just over 35 miles per gallon after some long highway commutes and work-related road trips. We don’t expect the numbers to stay this high from the 210 horsepower turbo I4 and 6 speed DSG transmission, though, especially as fall turns into winter.

Mileage: 6,000

“Row, row, row your gears…” That’s what’s been going through our heads driving our long term Volkswagen GTI.

The 210 horsepower turbo 4 and 6 speed manual combo still charms us. As we’ve finally thawed out from our winter freeze, the GTI has too. And it’s no worse for wear, as we’ve had no mechanical issues. 

After 6,000 miles, fuel economy has settled to 28.1 miles per gallon of Premium, right on its Combined government rating. 

For $26,000, you’d be hard pressed to find a car that delivers this much fun, functionality, finesse and funk. The GTI does it all, without being pretentious. And that’s the way we like to roll.   

Mileage: 4,000

A six speed manual is where it’s really at, right?! And we’ve found our first 4000 miles in the 2015 Volkswagen GTI S to be a perfect cure for the winter blues.

Call it “Easy Rider”, as this base model 4-door hatchback provides an effortless driving experience from the 210 horsepower turbo 4 and slick shifting manual combo. Great bolstered seats and a solid chassis up the fun factor on otherwise boring commutes.

During a 1,300 mile round trip down to Savannah, the GTI was a compliant highway cruiser.

Things can get uncomfortable on bumpy streets, however, as it is a tightly sprung little car.   

But being small has its benefits. Namely, for fuel economy. We’re seeing 28.3 Combined miles per gallon of Premium; just above the government rating.

Honda Prologue Reinvigorates Brand’s Electric Efforts

2024 Honda Prologue

Honda Shows Up Late To EV Party, Brings Best Appetizer

Episode 4329
Auto Value and Bumper to BumperTire Rack "The Way Tire Buying Should Be"

Except for some very limited run vehicles over the years, Honda has largely been sitting out the EV revolution. But that all changes now their first high volume effort, the Prologue. So, let’s find out if it is indeed the start of a great run for Honda.

The 2024 Honda Prologue is not only the brand’s first serious battery electric effort, but it’s also a substantial midsize five-passenger SUV, coming in about 3-inches longer than the internal combustion Passport. Though it’s worth noting, they got here with the help of General Motors and their Ultium EV platform.

So, Honda came to play, both with ultra-competitive pricing and segment leading 296 miles of range. That’s with the standard single-motor front-wheel drive EX rated for 212 horsepower, but top Elite doesn’t sacrifice all that much, coming in at 273 miles. The additional rear motor raises total output to 288 horsepower and 333 lb-ft torque.

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Relatively low output numbers in the EV game, but the Elite’s all-wheel drive setup delivered plenty enough acceleration to get our blood pumping during some early and very wet drive time through the recent historic downpours in Northern California.

And while Honda did get here with the help of GM and their Ultium chassis, the multi-link suspension bolted to it has been optimized by Honda for a “dynamic driving experience.” It was indeed plenty of fun to drive, nimble for its size with responsive steering, though we were also happy to find it comfortable and safe feeling in those weather conditions. It also has great visibility and a very natural feel to it that quickly has you forgetting you’re in an EV.

Comprehensive drive modes address just about every aspect of the driving experience, from power delivery to steering response and even braking power; but also changes things up inside with lighting and displays as well as active sound control.

For now, all Prologues come with an 85-kWh battery that will accept up to 150-kW fast charging for 65 miles of range for every 10 minutes on charge.

It also has great visibility and a very natural feel to it that quickly has you forgetting you’re in an EV.

As we’ve come to expect from Honda, the Prologue’s interior is minimalistic and practical, though not fully simplistic as there is plenty of tech on display, including the very high-mounted 11.3-inch touchscreen display. It has a Google-based operating system built into it like in the latest Accord Touring, and you can still use your Apple Carplay and Android Auto phones, both of which connect wirelessly.

Just below that display is some refreshingly easy to use traditional climate controls, and behind the steering wheel is a hoodless 11-inch tablet-style gauge display. Honda worked with Bose to develop an EV-specific sound system with 12 speakers. The standard EX’s system works with six speakers.

Being an EV means more space inside for both front and rear passengers than a vehicle built around a conventional drivetrain. Though with a substantial dual-level center console it doesn’t have the open floorplan of some EVs. The top layer of that console houses dedicated cell phone storage, mega-sized cupholders and Honda’s first use of a pocket-type wireless phone charger, which is standard. There’s space in back for 23.7 cubic-feet of cargo; 54.5 cubic-feet with the 60/40 split rear seatbacks folded; plus, more space under the cargo floor.

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And while length and ground clearance are in the ballpark with the Passport, the Prologue’s wheelbase is nearly a foot longer, and it sits much lower, with a design theme that Honda calls “neo-rugged.” Its slick shape and smooth body panels are clearly designed for enhancing aerodynamics, yet the overall design doesn’t necessarily shout it from the rooftops. Aero-optimized 19-inch wheels are standard, with Elite rolling on 21s, a first for Honda. Roof rails, panoramic roof, and power liftgate are standard on all but the base EX.
With the launch of this new generation of Honda comes new badging that looks to the past with throwback-looking Honda script now spelled out across the back. The Prologue and future Honda EVs also get a new “e” series logo.

Comprehensive Honda Sensing safety features are included on most Prologues, with just rear pedestrian alert and a Surround Vision camera system reserved for Elite.

Pricing starts, before incentives, at just $48,795 for a front-wheel-drive EX, top Elite comes with all-wheel drive and starts at $59,295.

Like most brands, Honda has big plans to deliver a full array of battery electrics in the near future, making significant investments here in the U.S. to make it happen. It may have taken a little help from General Motors to get them started, but Honda is in the EV game for real now, and it arrives at a great time when competition in the midsize SUV EV ranks is getting serious. So, the 2024 Honda Prologue does indeed look like the start of something special for Honda, and for all of us.

Specifications

As Tested

  • Motor Setup: Dual Motor
  • Horsepower: 288
  • Range: 273 miles
  • Battery Size: 85-kWh
  • Torque: 333 lb-ft
  • Peak Charging Rate: 150-kW
2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Roebling

2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse

Not Just a One-Trick Pony

Episode 4328
Auto Value and Bumper to BumperTire Rack "The Way Tire Buying Should Be"

The Mustang name alone is about as nostalgic as it gets, but it seems like whenever Ford ups Mustang’s performance ante, they double down with throwback names like “Boss” and “Mach 1.” But now they’ve actually come up with something all-new for the seventh-gen pony car. It’s the Mustang Dark Horse… and around the race track, it’s anything but stealthy!

Recently, MotorWeek awarded the all-new, seventh generation Ford Mustang with two top honors in our Drivers’ Choice Awards: “Best Sport Coupe” and, even more impressive, our 2024 “Best of the Year.” There are lots of reasons for that ultimate decision, from the modernized take on the iconic profile, to Ford’s unwavering support of the V8 engine and manual transmission. but another reason is this, the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse, the first new Mustang livery in decades.

Bred as the next evolution of Mustang performance, the Dark Horse takes that pony car formula and really kicks it up a notch. It roars to life with Ford’s fourth-gen 5.0-liter, naturally-aspirated “Coyote” V8, cranked up to 500 horsepower–14 ponies more than a GT with active exhaust which is, by the way, standard here. This modern “five-oh” cranks out 418 lb-ft of torque, sent to the rear wheels through your choice of transmission: six-speed manual or, in our case, 10-speed automatic. Note that six-speed is the same Tremec used in the last Shelby GT350 and Mustang Mach 1, an upgrade from the GT’s MT-82.

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2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Grill
2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Hood Decal
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2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse 3/4 Rear
2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Rear Detail
2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Wheel
2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Hood Graphic
2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Badge
2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Splitter
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On track, our drivers certainly would have preferred the six-speed, as the 10-speed felt more reactive than proactive, with automatic downshifts rather unaggressive. Manual mode using wheel mounted paddle shifters does improve things, allowing us to find better footing through all nine corners of Roebling Road Raceway.

However, for acceleration runs, there’s no doubt about it: this 10-speed rips! After a few trips to warm up the tires, we caught grip for a 0-to-60 time of 4.3-seconds. We have no doubt sub-4.0 seconds with this 10-speed is doable in ideal conditions.

But, the 40-degree air temps didn’t slow us down too much, racing down Roebling’s front straight to hit a 12.7-second quarter-mile at 117 miles-per-hour. Talk about warming us up!

And the day’s fun didn’t stop as we wrung out this 5.0-liter V8 to its 7500 rpm redline. Like Coyotes that came before, the Dark Horse’s V8 loves to rev, and with an exhaust note like this you’ll be compelled to oblige. We managed to hit 147 miles-per-hour before pulling back the reins: six-piston front Brembos that made easy work of hard stops. Joined by four-piston calipers clamping on the rear discs, these brakes were remarkable.

We enjoyed interrogating them lap after lap, but it took a lot for the Dark Horse tires to squeal: grippy Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS rubber; 305’s in front and 315’s in back, both wrapping 19-inch wheels. Those wheels and tires are part of the available Handling pack, as are adjustable top strut mounts and revised chassis tuning. This $5,000 upgrade also adds the performance rear spoiler and Gurney flap– low enough to not limit visibility, but big enough to show you mean business.

And on the topic of appearance, the Dark Horse, despite the name, will stand out from your neighbor’s fresh-off-the-line GT. Available only as a coupe, it wears bespoke “Dark Horse” badging and graphics. The front end is almost evil with large nostrils sending air directly to the dual intakes, bookended by the seventh-gen’s tri-bar headlights. Opting for a bright color will show all these blacked-out elements even more, but we think it’s rather appropriate in this Blue Ember Metallic paint, reserved for Dark Horse Premiums.

2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Dashboard
2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Center Display
2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Shifter
2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Backseat
2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Engine
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The interior isn’t too far removed from the GT Premium. All models come with two large displays, a 12.4-inch instrument panel and a 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, mounted in one continuous housing. The Deep Indigo cloth seats can be swapped for these leather-trimmed RECAROs; quite comfortable on the street and very supportive on the track.

And although that’s where this machine truly shines, the Dark Horse is perfectly capable of gallivanting you around town too, as the standard MagneRide adaptive suspension means great handling in both scenarios.

Government Fuel Economy Ratings are on-par with a GT running on Regular, 14 city, 22 highway and 17 combined.

The Mustang Dark Horse pricing starts at $61,080, stepping up to $65,075 for a Dark Horse Premium. Add all the bells and whistles, and you can easily exceed $70,000.

But that still smacks us as a supercar-style bargain. So, is Dark Horse worthy of a permanent slot on Ford’s high-performance mantle? Or, does it simply live in the shadow of 60 years of Mustang greats?

Well, its name is “Dark Horse.” That’s far from “Black Sheep.” It’s loud, proud, and does everything a 5.0-liter Mustang should, and a lot more. So, our answer is undeniably… yes!

Specifications

As Tested

  • Engine: 5.0-liter NA V8
  • Horsepower: 500
  • 0-60 mph: 4.3 seconds
  • EPA: 14 City | 22 Highway | 17 Combined
  • Transmission: 10-speed automatic
  • Torque: 418 lb-ft.
  • 1/4 Mile: 12.7 seconds at 117 mph
  • Starting Price: $61,080