2015 VW Golf R FIRST DRIVE REVIEW

MotoMan drives the new 2015 Volkswagen Golf R - and yes, our first drive review focuses on what its like to drive a Golf with 292 HP and 280 lb ft of torque - but there’s something else that makes the new 2015 VW Golf R special . . .
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[@justinbuice]

I love how VW kept the styling fairly mild even though this is the ultimate version of the Golf. It embodies what a hot hatch is supposed to be, fast- yet unsuspecting. A non car person would never point this out as a "sports car," yet it has about the same HP as a 2008 Mustang GT.

[@lorannik]

By far the best in-depth review I have seen of this car. Amazing German Engineering. The R would have to be my pick, mainly because it comes with manual.

[@gabeslb]

Finally a good review! Keep up the good work. Im a proud Golf R owner and I have to say that your review is very accurate. Looking forward to other reviews.

[@chirikotoji]

Got the golf R over an s3, wrx sti, bmw 235, manual+awd+awesome interior and for those that think I can not afford bmw. My wife works for bmw so I can buy one below cost or get yearly leases and drive a different one every year. VW ftw

[@cockyjeremy]

+Chiri Kotoji (Chirikotoji) I got the R over the S3 because of the interior. I hate Audi interiors. The pop up screen and the vents alone were enough to make me go with the R.

[@chirikotoji]

+cockyjeremy I'm not a fan of the pop up screen either.

[@lynks8]

Yea, I don't really understand the people that constantly parrot "Audi interior is SO much nicer"! Have they actually sat in the cars? It's definitely not much nicer, and even has certain aesthetic drawbacks, namely the "out of place" looking screen way up on the dash and those awful cheap looking vents.

[@chirikotoji]

lynks8 I wouldn't say the Audi interiors aren't nice. They still feel very premium but I just prefer the layout of the golf Mk7 better over the s3 interior. The vws have come a long way with the Mk7.

[@lynks8]

Chiri Kotoji Perhaps my wording is at fault, but I didn't mean to say Audi interiors aren't nice. Audi clearly has some of the best interiors in the business, and has for some time. I am simply referring to the S3 vs Golf R comparison. I routinely see people comment that one of the reasons the S3 is worth the extra $$$ over the R is the interior. I suspect 99% of the people saying this haven't actually sat in both cars, and are simply assuming that because Audi's other cars have incredible interiors that the S3 must as well. They also assume that because VW typically has lower-rent interiors (comparably), that the R's interior must be significantly worse. This nonsensical "parroting" irks me. While beauty is certainly in the eye of the beholder, (one might actually like the S3's pop-up screen, or the first-gen TT vents), I would submit that, objectively speaking, the R's interior is just as nice as the S3's in terms of layout and quality of materials.

[@JohnInSale]

This is actually a 5-door car as it's a hatch-back and not a saloon / sedan body !!! This car is best in 3-door form, preferably in that lovely metallic blue and the DSG gearbox !!!

[@MrBratnip]

I bought the 2017 R-fully loaded tech package with DSG- hair straight back! great show, just subcribed...

[@TheMainMan318]

Honestly. I'd rather have this over the s3. use the extra $5k for a chip, exhaust, wheels/ tires, gift for the woman. I like the idea of having a hatch over a sedan

[@sickXpedder]

1. Excellent review MotoMan! 2. 5K between audi and vw is a tough call......the badge, refinement, sedan, interior of the s3 is enough for me to spend another 5k. 3. the soundaktor plays and synthesizes the"actual" engine note, it just amplifies it to make it more audible.....its not fake, just made louder. 4. I would buy the golf because I'm a cheap ass, other than that the audi is worth the 5k more in my opinion.

[@MotoManTV]

1.) Our pleasure. 2.) Copy. 3.) Ditto. 4.) Me too. 5.) LOVE your channel name.

[@sickXpedder]

LOL made it back when I was the typical pot smoking teenager that gave zero fuc** now I'm a mature adult, with responsibilities and a high paying career. #1. your the bomb #2. your awesome #3. keep doing reviews sir!

[@TheSnoopy1750]

MotoManTV Which one would you get - a CPO 2013 Audi S4 s-tronic with sport diff or the loaded Golf R with DSG? I'm in the market for the former, but like the new MQB architecture and a hatch would be nice for my mountain bike and snowboard gear. I'd love to get an S3 but the headroom is too limited from my brief experience in the dealer showroom.

[@MotoManTV]

***** That's a tough call but I like to answer questions by unpacking two things: 1.) What are you going to do with the vehicle and 2.) If I were looking to accomplish that same set of goals, what would I do? Sounds like you need some utility but want a performance to with it. That said, the Golf R makes the most sense but then there is that whole depreciation monster . . . which would sway me to the CPO Audi. That is where I would turn the question back to you to do some budgeting and soul searching . . . if you are going to drive the car for a year or two, then DEFINITELY do the CPO and take the wheel off the bike when you transport them because the total cost of ownership will be lower. But if you are going to drive the wheels off the car, give it a name and buy it a cake every year, then go with the Golf R because it will meet more of your needs. Hope that helps . . .

[@TheSnoopy1750]

MotoManTV Thanks for the feedback - very useful. I plan on using it a lot for skiing and mountain biking for 3-4 years so the hatchback is pretty useful but I can just take the wheel off as you said as it has a fold down back seat. The S4's slightly less convenience is offset by the lower depreciation of the CPO S4 and I think the S4 is probably a nicer car although performance is probably quite similar to a Golf R. Outside of the convenience factors, do you think the S4 is as enjoyable to drive? Not sure if you've driven one, but it still wins comparison tests vs. the 335iX sport and others despite being an older platform.

[@JoJoJoker]

Thanks @MotomanTV ! Can't wait to drive one. Waiting 'til 2016 and cross-shopping the updated CarPlay model with a CPO S3 Prestige Performance & Active Cruise. Thoughts?

[@MotoManTV]

Joel D Lots . . . HOWEVER . . . we have our S3 episode coming up later this week . . . have a look at that and let's come back to this thread then. There are a couple of things in that episode you will find interesting. That said, if the transmission is a deal breaker like it is for me, you may only have one choice.

[@JoJoJoker]

It will be exciting to see. Although the manual is very tempting, the DSG has my vote. Both are excellent depending on driving style.

[@EricBeckman]

I pre-ordered one. Cannot wait until it is delivered!

[@tyranelewis6936]

I have a Mk6 GTI 2DR Adidas and after your Golf R review i'm seriously considering trading to GOLF R. APR can do wonders with that vehicle

[@esoj37]

I have been doing a lot research between both cars, the Golf R and the Audi S3, and the only reason why I am going with the Golf R is solely because the S3 does not offer a manual transmission.

[@commercialking]

I've been trying to decide between the R and S3. 1) I use a sunroof a lot and because of this alone, I was set on getting the Audi. But I just couldn't bring myself to get it. I'll have to get an aftermarket sunroof on the golf r. 2) I hate the Audi MMI system. I've used it on friend's audi's and it sucks. it really does. And Audi charge $2600 for it. A top level garmin is like $250 and works better. 3) I found the Audi's seats to be uncomfortable. I'm 5 foot 10/ 250 lbs and the seats didn't fit me at all. 4) I'll take the Golf R's hatch over the audi's trunk. I'm just left trying to decide on red or blue for the golf r. I'm going to get one.

[@marcg611]

Have you sat in the R or leather GTI seats? I think they may be a little tight on you, no offense. I have a 16 GTI with leather (Identical seats) and I am 6" 210lbs semi muscular build and feel like the seats are too narrow for comfortable daily driving, better than the focus st but still very tight!. My buddy which is about 6" 250 said his back wasnt even touching flush, just all bolster, and noticed some bolster creasing after he got out. Look at pics of used, almost all have outer bottom bolster creasing like mine even though im only a 34" waist and apply lexol leather care monthly. Just FYI

[@KirilG1]

Another great review! I started liking your channel more and more, who knew?

[@JacobFrey]

I'm with you MotoMan, I'd take the R in a manual 4 door - perfect! (I love that eurospec big screen in the center of the dashboard.)

[@MotoManTV]

Jacob Frey Thanks for the vote, Jacob. A couple of other things to note about the car featured in the film: You guys have been VERY good at pointing out the screen - that is different between the two markets. Also note, the wheels on the car I am driving are not the wheels that make it stateside. I have to admit, the US wheels are pretty killer looking. And last but not least - ALL 2015 Golf Rs will be DSG. The manual transmission cars will be 2016.

[@vladsaghin7644]

MotoManTV Don't forget about the LED tail lights that aren't available on the US spec car :)

[@tungol00]

MotoManTV I guess I will be waiting for 2016, I am planning to trade my Fiesta ST, should be a good upgrade don't you guys think?

[@tvanb]

Vlad Saghin luckily, you can purchase the oem lights and swap them out...im quite sure the screen can also be swapped out for quite a high price.

[@MrVara411]

Vlad Saghin I have just one question for VW on that.... WHY?! They look so nice! Is that something we can switch out later?

[@tvanb]

I'll be looking for a new car in 2016 and it will definitely be between the Golf R, Focus RS, or a used BMW M235i... can't wait !

[@juanmj93]

MotoManTV Sorry if I'm late, I just saw both reviews, so my question is, ignoring the transmission difference (or supposing you could get the S3 with the same manual) wich car would you rather solely based on driving dynamics, (with the adaptive suspension of course) I'm in a country that does not get the Golf R but the S3 has been here for a while and it's been quite successful among enthusiasts (and it's actually much cheaper than the Subaru STI and the A45) however I'm kinda wondering a lot about the R specially after how great the las GTI is, everyone loves it.

[@samankhosravi7835]

How is reliability with VW's? For as long as I can remember it seems that they breakdown 10x more often then any other car. I've been looking for something that's fun to drive, practical, and reliable. WRX, Golf R, IS 350, EVO, Cooper S????What's the best choice?

[@digitaltouch35]

Out did yourself again motto man. You be teaching, always giving us in-depth knowledge that others fail to inform. This car is so smooth looking i love it. I would choose the R manual vs the Audi for sure. Oooh and i read that the states will be getting the bigger touch screen next year, but not sure. Gb

[@MotoManTV]

jungle jingle Thanks! Had a great time with that episode . . . we have a TON more footage we shot that didn't make it to the final cut because of length.

[@IceDree]

I like the new Quad Pipes much more than the old center Twin. The rims are cool too. You kept the German plates upfront on purpose didn't you? ;) Regarding your questions: A) I'd order off the menu ... a few months back, I had to deal with our local Audi\VW service\part center & they made my Kia experience sounds pleasant... i swore I'll never own Audi or VW or deal with them again ... which is too bad, because i like Jenkins' A8. B) Does the interior quality, fit and finish feels considerably better? If so, a 5k difference sounds about right (only applies to Golf & A3) , if its more like Ford-Lincoln material difference, then No. As always, excellent work M.

[@MotoManTV]

Wie haben Sie das erraten . . . :) Can't honestly say the fit and finish is markedly different between the two - which is not a bad thing. That said, VERY different execution in ergonomics and overall design. I cover this is some detail in an upcoming episode on the Audi A3 Cabriolet.

[@IceDree]

eine wild Vermutung ;) cool. Looking forward to it :)

[@husnainabbas8294]

that engine sound is just like my saab 9-3 AWD turbo X but not synthesized pure sound.......i love that music

[@AGC828]

Looks like the 2015 has LED taillights yes? In another review they said the 2015 DOESN"T get LED tail lights...I'm assuming they meant in North America and said the Euro version DOES get LED taillights. Was there a last minute decision to give North American versions LED?

[@skrads]

I would have to test drive the S3 for sure but based on practicality and manual 6 speed option, the golf R would be my choice. 5 k is not much difference but you are getting good quality material with the golf.

[@fairclought7]

I have SEAT Leon Cupra R mk1 and ive had it for years, it replaced my much loved Golf GTI 16v mk2 and right now if I get a new car the new Leon Cupra 280/290 would be my choice, hopefully there will be a Cupra R version coming. Any chance of doing a report on the new Cupra??

[@tjreganrx]

Just test drove the S3, utterly amazed. The DSG is better suited for this engine, and the sound although synthesized, is fantastic in dynamic mode. Audi's fit and finish is top notch. I would like to drive the R to see the difference in ride and handling, but my vote is for the S3.

[@IvanBosnjak89]

Is it really only 5k difference between the two in the States? A loaded Golf R (with DSG) goes for 48k in Canada, and the S3 goes as higher as 62k?

[@payasofeo69]

Why didn't we get the Eco mode... How hard is it to leave stuff in?!

[@ScotchPolo]

Just waiting on my order being confirmed for my Golf R DSG with DCC model. I've always driven manual but just can't wait and extra year for the manual to come to the States. I'd never touch an Audi S model, I'd only an RS.

[@prescottspivey]

Im having some a real difficulty deciding whether to get a manual or dsg in this car.. whats your opinion?

[@HanLi1984]

+Sergeant Baggins commu, then dsg. if you want fun, manual. I will get dsg since my wife will be driving, also dsg is fast for tracks, though I probably learn more with a manual, but we always have other things to learn.

[@ElliotMcDonell]

Would definitely love to own/drive that Golf R! I believe I read it is a fake engine noise coming from a speaker, in another review (lame), but oh well, sounds like great power! I remember so much torque steer in my dad Scott McDonell 's peppy-old 96 Jetta GLX, glad they've fixed that now too.

[@genericdenizen1]

Nice review of the Golf R, Moto-Man. R seems to stand for Refined, since so many journalists use this term to describe the Golf R. I'm a longtime VW fan, having owned six over the years, including a modified GTI VR6 which I still own. But I really wish VW would finally, finally make a car where the R stands for Race. Or better yet, Raucous? The Golf R is marketed as the enthusiast's choice but isn't yet sold with a manual transmission? And uses an electric "Soundaktor" to make a fake engine sound? The 2015 Golf R still has less power than my Evo 10 manual transmission from five years ago!? I'm sorry but that's lame for an R car. Heck, my wife's Ford Focus ST has more R in it than the VW, and the ST has a manual transmission (and our kids really like that car too). I recently purchased a 2015 Subaru STI and it's a rally-bred blast! And in the real world, with bumpy roads and potholes, I bomb over them at speed in the STI, while my buddies have to slow down in their Tarmac-focused VWs. Sorry VW, other car companies keep earning my money with better cars for us enthusiasts.

[@DeniJasmina]

Where in the world did you get to test the euro spec R in the US? Looks like it was filmed in the US, am I right?

[@tanhansel92]

Excellent review! Is that the euro spec one?

[@MotoManTV]

Yep . . .

[@rootsmanuva82]

2015: “Not since the GM 3800 V6 has an engine been beaten into our heads as the VW EA888” 2023: The EA888 is STILL the standard bearer in its class. It’s wonderfully refined, powerful, torquey and durable. It can handle 500+ hp on stock internals and still get 30+ mpg.

[@RobertLeBlancPhoto]

I need a new daily (about 20K miles/year commuting) but I can wait a few years if need be. Should I order a 2018 Golf R DSG DCC, or wait for the Mark 8? 🤔

[@scottsterry8119]

Rob L. Order NOW..IF YOU CAN. It may be too late already. Maybe you did?

[@centerphil17]

I'd have to drive both back to back but I'd take the S3 over the Golf R...BUT I'd rather the GTI over the A3. I equate the A3 to a Buick Verano but the S3 to the S4.

[@MotoManTV]

Thanks Phillip . . . have to say that is an interesting and rather insightful look at the landscape.

[@damiano2146]

+Philip McMillan i agrees with that. i got an s3, over the r, but wouldn't get a3

[@Hunter1Lane]

I’ve seen every mk7 R review and this is the best and most comprehensive even does his research with education on how Hans Stuck was responsible for the chassis suspension and breaking, not even Chris Harris a Porsche nut mentioned this, keep up the good reviews

[@dongidongi]

Long live the manuals! I will pick the R any day!

[@lesliedlomo6073]

since this car is an all wheel drive, can it drag and spin like the BM does?

[@N3OST]

Golf R for me! MUST have 6 speed..>MUST!

[@Netminder1ca]

I'm pretty sure if you are comparing a fully loaded R (DSG, DCC, NAV, Fender) against an Audi S3 Prestige, the difference is more like 10K USD. For that I'll grab the R and its utilitarian, kick-in-the-pants, stealthy hatchback. Although I'm lucky enough to have grabbed one the first 500 US pre-orders, I will saying goodbye to my Audi A4 3.0 Cabro. Thanks for sharing the knowledge about Hans Struck.

[@MotoManTV]

The US$5000 difference is generally the same no matter how you equip each car. The Golf R starts at around US$36,000 and can go up to just a shade under US$40,000. The Audi starts at US$41,000 (we feel strongly that you MUST have the sport suspension which is US$1,500) and relatively fully loaded car - like the one you will see in our episode this week - is about US$46,000. Now, that said, Audi does offer a number of options that can not be had on the Golf R - which could increase the price difference but for most of the cars you will see at dealerships, the US$5,000 - maybe US$6,000 is about the difference.

[@mlamesq8]

R - No doubt. Though no slight meant for Audi. I love my 2014 S8.

[@skrads]

Excellent presentation!

[@thebrownguy79]

I would have to say -- Golf R. Just like the GTI, fly practically under the radar to most people.Discreet enough make most folks do a double take when you buzz past them on the freeway.

[@tommyd3811]

I have an S5 so I am all in for the R in manual.

[@goodcar96]

i would choose golf R over audi s3 any day... something so cool about hatchbacks. its a shame that the u.s. market doesn't like hatchbacks

[@Gr8mate13]

Driven both and bought the DSG the manual is slower for sure DSG is pure driving experience and you cannot appreciate the car properly if you stuffing around with gears. Your mental if you by a manual box , the launch control system is off the hook

[@2monche]

When are they bringing the golf R with a sunroof to the U.S.?

[@Antenox]

Audi S3. Still super-fun to drive, but WAAAAY more tech available. Adaptive cruise control (available on the Golf in Europe but not in the US) completely takes the stress out of rush hour traffic, and Google integration in the nav system actually makes the nav system useful. (And I put my money where my mouth is; I got an Audi A3 TDI fully loaded a couple of months ago.)

[@richard165s]

Lol TDI...

[@Antenox]

+richard165s Dude, I know.... Still fun as hell

[@davisflyer]

If the S3 were available with a manual, I'd get it over the R, but since it's not, R it is!

[@angelcabral7061]

Golf r they are just so much fun to drive

[@مالىدلم-ب8و]

am in love with golf r I have 1 is beautiful car blue colour

[@rcatank]

is this a UK model? why don't we have a 6 speed in the US?

[@DeniJasmina]

The Discover Pro 8" touchscreen in the US only on e-Golf..

[@KealeyOnCars]

AH! You admitted it! You liked the DSG! :D

[@MotoManTV]

sean kealey Ah yes . . . but would I BUY one????????????

[@KealeyOnCars]

If it's good, you should! It makes taking selfies and drinking easier while driving. Obviously.

[@FishBoyBlue]

MotoManTV I am extremely thankful for Volkswagen's push of paddleshifters for their Automatics. The debate on placement aside, I think the ability to control is more important than how you control. I've driven stick shift for every car I have driven. However, I'm reaching a point in my commuting life where the traffic is sucking the life out of owning that third pedal. My next car is going to be a GolfTDI with DSG. And you know, I'm really looking forward to that.

[@trackstarpope]

Hey MotoMan methinks you're contradicting yourself; though some of us [dare I say you especially?] are indeed a contradiction {me included} of sorts aren't we?!? Anyway, around the same time frame (i.e. "3 weeks ago") you posited to tungo100 above that you'd be trading your Focus ST in on one of these. And now here you reply to Jamie it will be a GolfTDI w/dsg. Anybody else catch that?!? So what gives? Which WILL it be?!?

[@MotoManTV]

Marcus Pope Hey Marcus . . . Thanks for reaching out . . . While yes, I am a contradiction in terms - the comments you are referring to are TO me, not my replies. For example, Jamie McNeill is the one writing to me that he is going with a Golf TDi . . .

[@RichardJoashTan]

I am hoping that I will buy a euro-spec, fully-loaded Golf R here in the Philippines because VW also sells the GTI in my country.

[@carnut9193]

What is wrong with you? It seems to be common across the board with people from the Philippines.

[@razorworks111]

Nice review. Unfortunately the sound you hear inside is the soundaktor, which creates synthesized noise throughout the cabin.

[@MotoManTV]

Thanks for the clarification, Stephen . . . Sadly, next time I drive a Golf R I will need to talk myself into believing it's the engine noise coming through the insulation . . . :)

[@tungol00]

MotoManTV Just like a sound symposer in the Focus and Fiesta ST.

[@MurilloBalbo]

MotoManTV Why is it sad? The sound insulation works so well that you almost can't hear the engine and the exhaust. That's the only reason they use the speakers to ENHANCE the sound insde the cabin. The only way to sound really loud would be with some straight pipe thing... those turbocharged engines are too quiet in my opinion (AND the sound insulation very effective).

[@razorworks111]

Thats just it though. There are some of us that would prefer to hear some real noise, not that synthesized garbage. All those things do is make the interior rattle. Instead, VW should offer the consumer a choice of either a sport exhaust (as an option) or the soundaktor. As for insulation, its a great thing...in a LUXURY car. This is a sports car, so sound is part of the experience, and this is ruining it.

[@anomaluigi]

The Golf R with DSG transmission over manual all the way. Better lap times and more seem less gear shifts

[@seinsmeld13]

Great review, thanks. I would take the S3 for $5,000 more however I would go with the R to shut up my coworkers, clients and neighbours. Both great cars. The Audi would be worth more 3 years down the road but 5 K?

[@RickSanchez__642]

Golf R for sure

[@Spinal2111]

Alas a year on and the North American version still loses out - I should know I have one. Lucky in Canada we get the 8" discover pro touchscreen whereas in the US only the 6.5" is available. Neither of us get those sweet dark cherry LED tails - and a note on the lights, 'sport mode' makes them turn faster as they are adaptive. And for whatever reason, we don't get a spare tire here in NA, just some silly inflation kit. And after a few software updates we still don't get the 'eco' mode Europe does for whatever reason, along with the performance monitor the GTI gets - go figure that one out. But at least for 2017 those amazing pretoria wheels will be available. I love my .:R - now all that needs to happen is for the R400 to come out. The S3 is $10,000 more here, and its about the same in the US, not sure where the $5k difference comes from when its similarly equipped. That kind of money isn't worth a slightly nicer interior when all the mechanical bits (with the exception of some aluminium suspension components) are the same.

[@lynks8]

Great points! I'm considering an R, but as trivial as it sounds, the lack of the 8" discover pro screen and euro tails bothers me enough to hurt the R's chances at becoming my next car. Doesn't hurt its chances enough to completely dissuade me...and I can maybe understand the euro tails not being compliant in the US, but wtf is the deal with the tiny 6.5" screen? Why VW? Why?

[@marcg611]

Wanted an R since the 2014 euro announcement, The dealbreaker for me was the NA Spec lack of Pano sunroof. I compromised on loaded 16 GTI performance pack manual w/ DCC & lighting pack, after some tuning I really need/want the AWD traction of the R. For you, honestly the 6.5" screen is very adequate and well laid out infotainment in comparison to other mfg and there is also an 8or 9" aftermarket screen replacement that utilizes the OEM MIB2 brain(The system is actually in the glovebox, the screen is just a screen). You can easily remedy the Euro LED tails for ~600-700 for OEM R tinted with adapter harness as almost everyone driving an has. Those 2 points should not be a dealbreaker. For me I'm most likely going to jump to CPO B8.5 Audi S4 with the rear biased sport diff and beautiful supercharged V6 that can sound like a GTR with awe exhaust for same money as a new R.

[@nrnccrdn]

S3 all the way. Would get the hatchback or sportback, not sure. $5k is pretty much worth the Audi materials and finish... you feel like every bolt is screwed just a little bit tighter and gives more confidence compared to the Golf.

[@farhan007]

Actually the Golf R is probably tuned better and has less body roll and has a higher lateral grip limit.

[@ErikThureson]

Good work!

[@supercooled]

The Focus RS will spank this but you get more toys and luxury with VW as per usual.

[@jetlee7743]

i drive 50000km a year. i enjoy to drive a fun car but need fuel economy as well. why caint they build the GTD with a little more power, more sexy and AWD. for say $36500?

[@StanO011]

Golf R, hands down!

[@neildavis4876]

My R with DSG is ordered 😃

[@chrislopez4299]

Definitely take the Volkswagen R. Been in a S3 and theres not too much of a Difference with space interior and also manual transmission. In my own opinion i believe that those $5,000 will be going to name brand nothing else.

[@carlosascencio9560]

Reliability???

[@kenshinmoriame3624]

Golf R all day, but honestly the golf is getting expensive, but at least the quality matches the price tag, now if VW could keep the quality but drop the price down a bit it would really help with selling against it's competition

[@JasonBryantGreen]

I would have bought the Golf R if it were in a two door version. Now I'm looking at the BMW 2 series.

[@hussainsafar4697]

does it include a magnetic ride like the audi s3 ??

[@cockyjeremy]

+Bo Ali It isn't called the same thing, but basically, yes.

[@marcg611]

Very similar but they are different technology: Golf R is adjustable valving system, Audi S3 is a magnetic fluid that changes based on electrical current. Both have different neg /positives. I have DCC and it works pretty well, mainly for comfort mode when on the highway so you dont get the high-speed bounciness.

[@msterpeter1]

Well to start off here in Canada more so in Quebec, the price is more like in Australia, round 15 to 20G$ more for the S3.. Also the big problem I have heard is the quality,,both Audi or VW is poor,service is poor also not always the dealers fault more so the company doesn't have enough parts to fix the cars and its always some part that is B/O for weeks... the price well a VW R will go for around 50G$ fully loaded a S3 close to 60G$ and here in Quebec we have a great sales tax of 15% to add to that..so you do the math. YES its expensive and no I would not get a audi. Friend of mine has a TT 2013,,piece of crap been in the shop more then on the road. so ill stick to my JEEP Wrangler and enjoy the rough ride but at least I know ill get where I want to go ..so far 2012, with 50000 Miles and ZERO trouble.

[@kamaukinyanjui8739]

The golf R is the best fit for me

[@cperr2000]

The Audi is more realistically $8000-$10000 more than the R. Therefore I'd choose the R. Plus the R has a great "sleeper" quality!

[@powerofpinesol8002]

I'll choose the Audi as 5k is really not much and you get the brand and prestige that would come with the Audi.

[@JoJoJoker]

Can also be seen as having the best VW over the entry model Audi. It's a 2-sided coin...people who care about the badge will be equally impressed with an A3. The S3 interests me because of the options they offer not the badge. It's a tough call: nicer tech which is really useful or a better driving experience. The R I'm more likely to tune.

[@spl1011]

The A3 interior is barely $5 more than what a Golf offers. How about you throw in a longer warranty with the Audi as well and that $5k is not so bad.

[@ExotiKZBoy17]

Golf R, no questions no doubts

[@vikingbase]

Waiting for the S3 Cabriolet

[@MotoManTV]

So are we . . . well, really the RS3. That said, we have an A3 Cab episode coming up in March.

[@damiano2146]

I would take the R. Audis options list is off putting

[@DRAGONIKification]

+Damian OToole i'd rather shit in my shoes and wear them for a week than drive a VW

[@DRAGONIKification]

Damian OToole Yeap,VW will always be a piece of crap!

[@damiano2146]

+Lucky man you are a bit dumb, aren't you. did you mean yep or yeap? you spelt buy correctly which I'm putting down to luck

[@DRAGONIKification]

Damian OToole This will not make VW better.

[@damiano2146]

+Lucky man cock

[@ssemichael1]

hello MotoMan, are you interested in reviewing VM touareg 2015? or it's a boring car to you?

[@MotoManTV]

I would not say boring . . . Just tough to fit it in our production schedule right now. We did have an opportunity to drive the refreshed model but were out of town.

[@spinnetti]

Drove the S3 at 51K... Meh. Not special enough, especially the exterior style for that kind of money. Golf is better buy - take the $5K and put a good turbo/tune in it to maximize its real potential. I'm due for a new car, but waiting for the B9 A5 to see if that will be worth it, or if I'll get the golf.

[@josebisquerra8269]

The golf R with manual. Oh! and VW please bring the Golf R400 to the US..............

[@inezding5710]

you really sound like the actor steve carrell

[@supremewhip]

For the money, neither. If i must choose one, it would be the Golf R. It has a manual and it definitely feels more special as opposed to a cookie cutter S3.

[@lilskel]

Guess nobody thinks the 4yr/50,000 warranty on Audi is worth anything over the 3yr/36,000 VW warranty

[@nrvous309]

Wish I could've enjoyed the video, instead all I noticed is this guy's busy hands

[@IMWEZL2]

I would take the Golf R with the DSG and fully loaded. Audi's are nice (I love the TTRS) however their interiors always seemed a little too boring for my taste.

[@tymac3306]

This is the car for the grown up who loves to impress.

[@TheAdventureAuto]

Even if they were the same price id still go Golf R.

[@fatwalletboy2]

yanks always banged on that there no replacement for displacement.......

[@carvdecarv]

one question; why is your jacket so big haha

[@DieselDrives]

I'd say the Golf R is a better value than the S3 for two reasons: 1) manual transmission. 2) hatchback. The $5k difference will show it's ugly face when it comes time to insure each car as well.

[@hipposnakeyo]

golf r for me, even if its the same price.

[@MotoManTV]

WOW . . . That's a bold statement . . . Respect.

[@nyoussef2623]

the fact that is Audi always fail short for BENZ and BMW in every range and it is the same car as the VW, you will be paying 5 to 10 k for a badge.

[@nickL7389]

There's only one problem with this car...the Focus RS now exists.

[@michin53]

and...

[@ChoppsyV]

nickL7389 And unfortunately for the RS the A45 and RS3 exists.

[@nickL7389]

NissanGTR4eva 24 In the US, there is the CLA45, but that's at least $10,000 more than an RS, so that means nothing.

[@jimmyivankovic3872]

A car cannot be the coolest car in the world if it does not have a manual transmission. Therefore, I would pick a Golf with a manual transmission, any day, over an Audi with an automatic transmission.

[@killamagnum9718]

manual all day

[@kimberbowers]

No led tail lights? What gives? 40k...

[@rvtBC]

I think that I'd spend the extra $5k and take the S3. The Audi offers a higher level of quality interior materials and fit and finish, along with a better information screen and interface; just more refined. The VW still has too much hard plastics and, IMO, cheap looking black plastic centre console.