2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI

2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI

Episode 3343
Lucas Oil "Keep That Engine Alive"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.

2024 Mazda CX-90 Front Quarter 1

2024 Mazda CX-90

A Force To Be Reckoned With

Episode 4238
Lucas Oil "Keep That Engine Alive"Auto Value and Bumper to BumperTire Rack "The Way Tire Buying Should Be"

If you’ve been following Mazda lately, you’ll know they’ve been fielding some serious new designs; you could even say, they’re latest efforts are 10-times better than before. After all, the CX-3 became the CX-30, then CX-5 became the CX-50, and now it’s the CX-9’s turn. So, let’s find out if this all-new CX-90, their largest SUV yet, is a real multiplier or if it’s all just a numbers game.

Don’t think of this 2024 Mazda CX-90 so much as an updated version of the CX-9, as it’s more of a complete rethink of their 3-row crossover, the first built on an all-new, large vehicle platform for the brand. And this platform carries a host of surprises. Not only does it make the CX-90 bigger by every dimension, but it’s a rear-drive architecture, and features all-new powertrains, including the brand’s first plug-in hybrid, and even an inline-6 engine.

Why an inline-6 to replace the CX-9’s turbo-4? Well, in general terms, I6s are better balanced, run smoother, and can deliver more torque at lower RPM. Just ask the BMW faithful, or any of the truckers you see going down the road hauling more than 20-tons of cargo with their inline-6s.

There are 2-versions of the longitudinally mounted 6, both assisted by turbocharging and a 48-volt mild hybrid system. Output for the base Turbo is 280-horsepower and 332 lb-ft. of torque; this Turbo S cranks it up to 340-horsepower and 369 lb-ft. The PHEV, on the other hand, is based on a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter I4, working with a 100-kW electric motor to deliver 323-horsepower and 369 lb-ft. of torque. A 17.8-kWh battery delivers 26-miles of EV driving.

2024 Mazda CX-90 3
2024 Mazda CX-90 Side Profile
2024 Mazda CX-90 Quarter Rear
2024 Mazda CX-90 Twin-Turbo I-6 Engine Cover
2024 Mazda CX-90 Twin-Turbo I-6 Engine
2024 Mazda CX-90 32024 Mazda CX-90 Side Profile2024 Mazda CX-90 Quarter Rear2024 Mazda CX-90 Twin-Turbo I-6 Engine Cover2024 Mazda CX-90 Twin-Turbo I-6 Engine

It’s not the prettiest SUV, but it does have very smooth body work; plus, the longer hood and 7½-inches of wheelbase stretch over the CX-9, give it more stately proportions. All CX-90s come with i-Activ all-wheel drive and the brand’s first 8-speed automatic transmission; the longer wheelbase allows tow ratings to step up from 3,500-lbs. to 5,000.

At the test track, our Turbo S launched effortlessly with good grip on the way to a 6.4-second 0-60. The smooth vibes continued throughout the ¼-mile, with refined power delivery, seamless shifts, and a noticeably more solid and stable feel at speed than the CX-9. Our best time was 14.7-seconds at 98 miles-per-hour.

Through the cones, it still behaves like a Mazda, with very good steering feel and a solid presence in corners at low to moderate speeds. Some understeer and body roll will show up when pushed hard, but Mazda’s Kinematic Posture Control uses subtle selective braking to help the vehicle rotate, and safety systems will step in well-before it gets out of sorts.

There’s a nice firm feel to the brake pedal, delivering good stopping results of 118-feet from 60 miles-per-hour. You can feel a lot of weight transfer, but nosedive was well contained.

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Another unique element the CX-90 brings is seating arrangements for 6,7, or 8. It’s the 8-seater that’s standard with 3-across bench seating for 2nd and 3rd rows. 7-seaters get either captain’s chairs in the 2nd row, or more contoured seats for the 3rd; 6-seaters sport 2nd row captains and the contoured 3rd row. Cargo capacity varies with seating, but is at best 15.9 cubic-ft. behind the 3rd row, 40.1 behind the 2nd, and 75.2 with all seats folded.

As far as what it’s like to actually live with, the CX-90’s cabin is a clear step up, including on some trims suede-like materials, intricate stitching, and real wood, all consistent with what we’ve seen from the brand lately. A 10-inch dashtop touchscreen is standard for infotainment, with upper trims getting a larger 12.3-incher. We applaud Mazda’s inclusion of plenty of old-school manual controls for radio and climate, which keeps menu diving limited to secondary functions. PHEVs get a few unique controls and readouts to monitor drive modes and battery level.

Overall, the CX-90 is highly functional, entertainingly sporty to drive, and will be more competitive in the ever growing 3-row family crossover segment; and its posh interior may even attract luxury buyers on a budget.

Government Fuel Economy Ratings for the Turbo S are 23-City, 28-Highway, and 25-Combined. We averaged a good 26.5 miles-per-gallon of Regular.

Pricing begins with the base Turbo at Select trim for $40,970, PHEVs are available in Preferred trim and above starting at $48,820, and the Turbo S starts at $53,125.

Force multiplier is a military term for when strategic elements come together to produce results greater than would have been possible without them. Well, no high-level math skills are necessary here to see that the 2024 Mazda CX-90 is clearly more than just a much better CX-9; it’s now a force to be reckoned with in the 3-row family crossover segment.

Specifications

  • Engine: 3.3-liter I-6
  • Horsepower: 340
  • 0-60 mph: 6.4 seconds
  • 60-0 Braking: 118 feet (avg)
  • MW Fuel Economy: 26.5 MPG (Regular)
  • Transmission: 8-speed automatic
  • Torque: 369 lb-ft.
  • 1/4 Mile: 14.7-seconds at 98 mph
  • EPA: 23 City / 28 Highway / 25 Combined
  • Starting Price: $40,970
2023 Land Rover Defender 130 1

2023 Land Rover Defender 130

A Better Option For Large Families With An Eye For Adventure

Episode 4237
Lucas Oil "Keep That Engine Alive"Auto Value and Bumper to BumperTire Rack "The Way Tire Buying Should Be"

It’s not a stretch to say that the newest Land Rover Defender is the best Defender ever. But, Land Rover has a different kind of stretch in mind for their latest Defender, the kind that enables you to bring more people along for the ride. So, join us for an adventure in the new Defender 130.

No doubt this latest 2nd generation Land Rover Defender is more refined than ever; but for 2023, it’s also bigger than ever with a new Defender 130. Working with the same 119-inch wheelbase as the 5-door 110, there’s more than 13-inches of overall length added, and to be honest, stretching strictly the rear body like that does make it look a little awkward, but certainly no less ruggedly appealing.

For now, buyers can choose between 1 of 2 turbocharged inline 6-cylinder options, the base 296-horsepower P300, and our mild hybrid P400 with 395-horsepower and 406 lb-ft. of torque. A 493-horsepower P500 supercharged V8 will be available in ‘24.

Regardless of which route you take, there’s more than enough grunt to move this longer 130, which is heavier than the 110 by only a couple of hundred pounds. Power delivery is smooth and steady, aided by the mild-hybrid system which is primarily in place for stop/start, but can add a little extra oomph at launch to cancel turbo lag.

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But it’s really all about adding more space inside; so, a 3rd row is standard, featuring belts for 3, providing seating for a total of 8 passengers relatively comfortably. There’s more cargo space. Behind that 40/20/40 3 rd row, 13.7 cubic-ft, up from 10.5 on the 110. Behind the 2nd row, 43.5. While all seats down yields 80.9 cubic-ft.

Of course, one thing that doesn’t change no matter how much it has grown is off-road ability. And indeed, like every other Land Rover, it’s so capable that it’s mostly boring in rugged terrain situations, as the only hard work comes in selecting the proper terrain response mode; the Defender takes it from there.

We felt much more involved at our Mason Dixon test track where the 130 left the line more in a smooth and steady fashion than overly aggressive, but power built rapidly as we got moving, hitting 60 in 6.3-seconds. The engine whines more than growls, but the 8-speed automatic transmission keeps things right in the heart of the power band with timely and smooth shifts. ¼-mile completed in 14.6-seconds at 97 miles-per-hour. On the braking end, there was a soft pedal and a good bit of nosedive, but a very solid overall feel and short stops from 60 of just 115-feet.

The standard air suspension delivers a ride that’s more firm than floaty, but when it comes to handling, it felt a little lethargic through our cone course, with nowhere near the amount of precision we experienced over on the Range Rover side. Though steering was quick and light, and there’s wasn’t too much body roll, but that’s mostly because we had to keep speeds very low to prevent stability control systems from shutting down our efforts.

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The 130’s interior environment and seat comfort, however, are not far off the Range Rover’s luxury experience. Even if you opt for the synthetic leather, now available across the Defender line, for those wanting to avoid true cow hide. The 11.4-inch Pivi Pro touchscreen mounted in front of the dash looks fantastic, but it’s still not the greatest to use, with very small print and lots of menu diving that requires much attention to navigate. There’s also new 4-zone climate control, along with plenty of storage nooks for all seating positions.

Government Fuel Economy Ratings are 17-City, 21-Highway, and 19-Combined. We averaged 19.7 miles-per-gallon of Premium. Still, it’s just slightly below average on Energy Impact Score, burning through 15.7-barrels of oil yearly with 7.9-tons of CO2 emissions.

With numerous trim levels and multiple powertrain options, there are an enormous number of Defenders to choose from. Just know the 130 starts at $70,575 and tops out with the V8 at $118,075.

Bigger isn’t always better, but if you’ve got a large family full of adventure seekers, the 2023 Land Rover Defender 130 is clearly a better option for spending some quality time well off the beaten path. And it’s not too big as a daily driver either. The 130 truly does deliver more, and does it without compromise.

Specifications

(As Tested)

  • Engine: 3.0-liter I-6 Turbo
  • Torque: 406 lb-ft.
  • 1/4 Mile: 14.6-seconds at 97 mph
  • EPA: 17 City / 21 Highway / 19 Combined
  • Horsepower: 395
  • 0-60 mph: 6.3 seconds
  • 60-0 Braking: 115 feet (avg)
  • MW Fuel Economy: 19.7 MPG (Premium)