Golf 1.4TSi GT (170hp)
Discussion
I am considering purchasing a mid-2012 VW Golf 1.4TSi GT (170hp). I know that earlier versions of the higher powered versions of this engine, that have both a turbocharger and a supercharger, had problems. Are these problems still present in 2012 cars? I would prefer replies from owners rather than people who just have a prejudiced view or are just regurgitating negative views read elsewhere.
Any other ideas for a car of the same size and performance for around £16K. MUST be a petrol 4 door + hatch, so no MX-5 or 320D suggestion.
Any other ideas for a car of the same size and performance for around £16K. MUST be a petrol 4 door + hatch, so no MX-5 or 320D suggestion.
AdamC1983 said:
Seat leon? Seat ibiza? Audi a3? Focus ST? Focus zetec s? Astra sri? Skoda fabia? Mini cooper s clubman? 1 series hatchback?
I am considered the Focus Zetec S 1.6T (150). The A3 seems to be only available with the 122hp version of the 1.4TSi engine but I am considering the 1.8TSi (160). The Leon seems to have a 125hp version of the 1.4TSi engine or a 2-litre 210hp engine. Have driven the Astra SRi and I'm not a fan. Fabia & Mini are too small. Don't like the BMW 1-series.I really want info on the Golf 1.4TSi (170) GT reliability.
If its a 2012 it won't be a 170bhp as that was only offered in the MK5, whereas the MK6 is 160bhp (although same torque).
Reliability seems to be a bit hit and miss. The earliest MK5 TSIs are suffering gearbox syncro problems and timing chain issues. The MK6s don't seem to suffer so much from that but have been known for high oil consumption.
I'm currently running a Leon 1.4 TSI but I haven't had it for long enough to comment on the reliability. Brilliant engines though, really good to drive.
Reliability seems to be a bit hit and miss. The earliest MK5 TSIs are suffering gearbox syncro problems and timing chain issues. The MK6s don't seem to suffer so much from that but have been known for high oil consumption.
I'm currently running a Leon 1.4 TSI but I haven't had it for long enough to comment on the reliability. Brilliant engines though, really good to drive.
AdamC1983 said:
Im sure the focus zetec s 1.6t is 180bhp and is a really nice car for the money and pretty fast too, Ive just taken delivery of my new fiesta ST2 which has the same engine as the focus but with a 197bhp overboost function and it is epic! U sure you need four doors??
You are right that the Zetec S 1.6T is 180hp. However, there is a 1.6 150hp available at other trim levels.va1o said:
If its a 2012 it won't be a 170bhp as that was only offered in the MK5, whereas the MK6 is 160bhp (although same torque).
Reliability seems to be a bit hit and miss. The earliest MK5 TSIs are suffering gearbox syncro problems and timing chain issues. The MK6s don't seem to suffer so much from that but have been known for high oil consumption.
I'm currently running a Leon 1.4 TSI but I haven't had it for long enough to comment on the reliability. Brilliant engines though, really good to drive.
You are quite right, a 2012 1.4TSi GT will have 160hp. What horsepower is your Leon 1.4TSi?Reliability seems to be a bit hit and miss. The earliest MK5 TSIs are suffering gearbox syncro problems and timing chain issues. The MK6s don't seem to suffer so much from that but have been known for high oil consumption.
I'm currently running a Leon 1.4 TSI but I haven't had it for long enough to comment on the reliability. Brilliant engines though, really good to drive.
So a 2012 Golf 1.4TSi GT is likely to be more reliable than an earlier model but still suspect?
Since 1996 I have owned 3 Nissan Primeras, a Honda Accord and a Honda Civic. Total problems? A failed oxygen sensor on the Accord and replacing CV joints on the Civic. NO faults that caused a breakdown in 17 years. Can I expect that level of reliability with a VW? Seems inlikely.
Glosphil said:
You are quite right, a 2012 1.4TSi GT will have 160hp. What horsepower is your Leon 1.4TSi?
So a 2012 Golf 1.4TSi GT is likely to be more reliable than an earlier model but still suspect?
Since 1996 I have owned 3 Nissan Primeras, a Honda Accord and a Honda Civic. Total problems? A failed oxygen sensor on the Accord and replacing CV joints on the Civic. NO faults that caused a breakdown in 17 years. Can I expect that level of reliability with a VW? Seems inlikely.
Mines only the 125, as I'm young cant afford the insurance on anything fast but it's quick enough and never feels out of its depth. Very smooth power delivery and lots of torque throughout the rev range. Cruises nicely too registering under 2500rpm at 70mph.So a 2012 Golf 1.4TSi GT is likely to be more reliable than an earlier model but still suspect?
Since 1996 I have owned 3 Nissan Primeras, a Honda Accord and a Honda Civic. Total problems? A failed oxygen sensor on the Accord and replacing CV joints on the Civic. NO faults that caused a breakdown in 17 years. Can I expect that level of reliability with a VW? Seems inlikely.
A 2012 *should* be fine since they've ironed out a lot of problems but its difficult to say for sure. Obviously you'd have the manufacturers warranty for at least another 2 years so I guess it depends how long you'd keep. Its worth remembering these are fairly complicated and advanced engines compared to an older N/A petrol. Might be worth trying a few owners forums, quite a few of the Scirocco guys have the 160 TSI but the Golfs tend to be more popular with the 140 diesel.
va1o said:
Glosphil said:
You are quite right, a 2012 1.4TSi GT will have 160hp. What horsepower is your Leon 1.4TSi?
So a 2012 Golf 1.4TSi GT is likely to be more reliable than an earlier model but still suspect?
Since 1996 I have owned 3 Nissan Primeras, a Honda Accord and a Honda Civic. Total problems? A failed oxygen sensor on the Accord and replacing CV joints on the Civic. NO faults that caused a breakdown in 17 years. Can I expect that level of reliability with a VW? Seems inlikely.
Mines only the 125, as I'm young cant afford the insurance on anything fast but it's quick enough and never feels out of its depth. Very smooth power delivery and lots of torque throughout the rev range. Cruises nicely too registering under 2500rpm at 70mph.So a 2012 Golf 1.4TSi GT is likely to be more reliable than an earlier model but still suspect?
Since 1996 I have owned 3 Nissan Primeras, a Honda Accord and a Honda Civic. Total problems? A failed oxygen sensor on the Accord and replacing CV joints on the Civic. NO faults that caused a breakdown in 17 years. Can I expect that level of reliability with a VW? Seems inlikely.
A 2012 *should* be fine since they've ironed out a lot of problems but its difficult to say for sure. Obviously you'd have the manufacturers warranty for at least another 2 years so I guess it depends how long you'd keep. Its worth remembering these are fairly complicated and advanced engines compared to an older N/A petrol. Might be worth trying a few owners forums, quite a few of the Scirocco guys have the 160 TSI but the Golfs tend to be more popular with the 140 diesel.
Thanks for your comments. I will search other VW forums. Plan to keep my next car for at least 5 years (bought current car when 1 year old and have owned it for over 6 years).
Thre was a batch of these engines in 2009 which had major issues, I had one of them in my scirocco which went pop after only 12000 miles. It needed a full replacement engine.
I think the main issues were just for that specifc batch though. It was suprisingly nippy for 160hp and felt a bit stronger!
I think the main issues were just for that specifc batch though. It was suprisingly nippy for 160hp and felt a bit stronger!
Pugster said:
Don't believe the MPG figures mind. I average around 33mpg but can get nearer 40mpg on a run.
That would correspond with what I've been getting from the Leon so far. Could be better but not bad either and more or less the same as the old underpowered 1.4 N/A petrol would achieve.
Going to try an economy run at some point and see if I can get into the mid/ late 40s, but most of my driving these days is just arround town.
the-photographer said:
Thanks for the suggestion but I don't need that level of performance (or tartan seats!) and it would mean buying an older car that is out of warranty. Now if a Mk6 Golf GT was available with the 160hp 1.8T engine that would be ideal - but it isn't! The 5-door A3 Sport is, but again would be buying a 3-year+ old car.Edited by Glosphil on Monday 22 April 17:16
Glosphil said:
the-photographer said:
Thanks for the suggestion but I don't need that level of performance (or tartan seats!) and it would mean buying an older car that is out of warranty. Now if a Mk6 Golf GT was available with the 160hp 1.8T engine that would be ideal - but it isn't! The 5-door A3 Sport is, but again would be buying a 3-year+ old car.Edited by Glosphil on Monday 22 April 17:16
Well, then I would recommend the 122PS Golf (ideally with the factory fit 17" wheels) over the twincharger as you are planning to keep the car long term.
the-photographer said:
Glosphil said:
the-photographer said:
Thanks for the suggestion but I don't need that level of performance (or tartan seats!) and it would mean buying an older car that is out of warranty. Now if a Mk6 Golf GT was available with the 160hp 1.8T engine that would be ideal - but it isn't! The 5-door A3 Sport is, but again would be buying a 3-year+ old car.Edited by Glosphil on Monday 22 April 17:16
Well, then I would recommend the 122PS Golf (ideally with the factory fit 17" wheels) over the twincharger as you are planning to keep the car long term.
Gassing Station | Audi, Seat, Skoda & VW | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff