are there really as many problems with the turbo or are a lot of mechanics just looking to make money?

What is your question?

Car was running slow for awhile then it just wouldn't hold an idle for even a 5 seconds, it staled out and died. Mechanic said it was the turbo then said the cars are horrible and I need to have it towed away as it taking up too much space. It's been there 4 days. Wow- he said they were terrible cars after I asked him if he checked a couple of things VW told me it could be other than the turbo. So $1900+ to get it off my property?

What makes this problem better or worse?

going up hill

How long has your 2007 Volkswagen GTI had this problem?

few weeks