Could The Mk7/7.5 Golf R Be Remembered As The Greatest "Normal" Golf of All?

Today I'm looking at the Mk7.5 VW Golf R and asking if this is going to go down in history as one of VW's finest achievements.
#VW #GolfR #Mk7.5
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[@bmf5420]

Crazy how the 7.5 design is 5 years old, yet it still looks better than most new car designs. It is still simply beautiful 😍 one of the best all rounds cars ever made imo. Even still fast enough today to outpace high end sports cars on UK B roads

[@TheArizonaAssasin]

I think the 7.5 is going to be the one that is most sought after in 20 years.

[@torks2339]

I think it either does it for you or it doesn't. Personally I find them very meh. Nothing exciting but it's clearly the best overall hothatch.

[@leeg131313]

A definite one that will be remembered for being a defining car of its generation also remembered for the type of person who owns it .

[@operationgetthugs232]

Which type of person is that?

[@tufluxed3293]

@@operationgetthugs232 bald white men or mid twenties south asian men with a pop and bang map

[@Zeld322]

@@operationgetthugs232 Vape enthusiasts, driving too fast in 30 zones, basically the replacement scoobies. My money would go to the m140i though

[@rcweed4820]

@@Zeld322 m140i hahaha

[@rahulmandala4930]

@@Zeld322 Vape crowd is more Subarus. At least here in the states.

[@timw9354]

It's not turbo lag. It's the DSG. Drop a gear manually before hard acceleration and there is no lag. The DSG is dropping 2 gears in race mode when you boot it. That's why it feels like lag.

[@15DEAN1995]

One of the reasons I love my 2010 focus st is because its a simple car. It has a traction control button, bluetooth, a radio and air con. You don't need anything else and it's perfect aside from fuel economy. Only gimmick it has is a start button which threw me off for a while but I like it now. Im only 26 and I think modern cars have far too many gimmicks and screens.

[@johnnyboy1586]

For a young person that's refreshing to hear

[@15DEAN1995]

@@johnnyboy1586 ill be 100% honest i dont undertstand massivetouch screens in cars. old cars you can drive down the road adjust the radio, aircon and even answer calls with buttons presses. you can feel where the buttons are you can answer a call and use blue tooth and never take your eyes off the road. i have friends who wouldnt buy a car more than five years old. meanwhile im constantly looking at cars from the early 2000s. I genuinely think one of my next cars will be a vauxhall monaro or a mercedes c55. one has the famous ls1 the other has the practically bullet-proof m113. the question is which one wil be remotely affordable in a couple years.

[@johnnyboy1586]

@@15DEAN1995 yes I think the reliability issues with the lastest cars is all the technology ,more to go wrong,I have a 2015 Mazda 3 and it's not to bad not to much tech for a 60 year old like myself and mostly every thing is still simple buttons and a central control dial right in the center on the console between the seats, which didn't take me long to get the hang of things

[@Danny-gb2kj]

The screens are a must have now for me, can’t go back to not having waze warning me about cameras and Spotify right there. I can even text and drive legally using it

[@mc1996]

The best thing about my 2016 Fiesta ST is that's it's still a old school car. Three doors, manual gearbox, actual handbrake, no driving assistants keeping you away of the wheel, less than 1200kg, no fake engine sound on the speakers. Just pure and simple fun.

[@Jjaaccoobb..]

I’ve been wanting a R since I passed my test 5 years ago. Done 3 years in my mk7.5 GTD and finally saved enough to upgrade to a mk7.5 r

[@TheArizonaAssasin]

I had a choice between the MK7.5 and MK8 Golf R, and I chose the 7.5 and slapped a low torque stage 1 tune and TCU tune on it. Definitely still happy with my choice.

[@ashwho-6319]

was yours a manual or DSG?

[@TheArizonaAssasin]

@@ashwho-6319 I’ve got the DSG. All but 3 cars I’ve owned in the last 25 years have been MT and I’m tired of doing all that work so I decided to just get the DSG. The TCU tune was definitely worth it.

[@christopherbassit2757]

@@ashwho-6319 how you gon get a tcu tune on a manual

[@Rnbdbdjejec]

I’m doing that exact tune next week for 7.5. Can’t wait

[@CM.243]

Or if someone doesn't want a tune, definitely get a PedalBox which eliminates throttle lag.

[@CaptainShake_NA]

I've had a Golf 7.5 R 2017 2.0 4 pot turbo and a BMW M135I 3.0L inline 6 with a Biturbo, the Golf is rapid off the line with launch control and the 4 wheel drive, great in the rain too, but it's turbo is only good when revving high and the 2L engine is very slow at low speeds with the revvs below 3K. The BMW M135I is bad in the rain and not as quick off the line but the engine sounds amazing, great around corners and very well weighted car! It's also very quick at any speed and any revv range due to having a bigger engine and Biturbo. Both cars fit different needs but, I would say the BMW M135I put a smile every cold start and on every A road.

[@svenboden68]

You can switch the keyless entry option off depending where u live and you wanna make sure the car is still there in the morning.I always have it in my locked up Garage at night...

[@psiturbo]

That was the first thing I did on mine, keyless entry off, and have it with gps tracking service JIC.

[@sionjones1257]

Love these cars, they came out as I was learning to drive and I've wanted one since. Currently saving with the aim to buy an early Mk7 towards the end of next year.

[@CarsofGlasgow]

Golf R or a diesel?

[@greshamconnors4330]

As someone who just purchased their own Mk7, first "new" car for me, I absolutely cheer you on. Go get that car, the car market is coming down and these cars are the absolute best. bar none, best commuter car.

[@lagerace227]

Do it 👍 weakest point check the thermostat housing and rear plastic end links , if manual, clutch is a weak point if tuned . Haladex maintenance for sure

[@Takutak866]

Got a manual for sale cheap shout me😂

[@thatguyinthechat66]

I own a mk7 R, couldn't be more happy about it. Have owned it for 2 years now, got a little over 50 000 km on it, 0 issues so far. Put a stage one on it 6 months ago so now it's 365hp with 500 newton. It moves fast now, such a fun little car!

[@jables2255]

Have an order for a Golf R mk8 20 years edition, first VW, First new car ever I am so looking forward to it, initially I was after a 7.5 but the prices here in Australia are through the roof so I decided to go new, very excited for a new daily!

[@mattlau]

Just took the Golf R mk7 for a test drive and 7 years later, it's still a great car. In a sea full of SUVs, this car stands out and will remain a classic. Everything from styling to performance to ergonomics to fun factor is on point! VW did a great job here.

[@anthonymk7r]

I love my R. Can’t see myself getting rid of it anytime soon.

[@cullmaster7361]

I bought and still own a MK7.5 Golf R. Something to note. The 17 - 18 plates cars are 310ps. After that VW dropped the power back to 300ps due to emissions 🙄 Until the MK8. Prefer the bottom front bumper on the 7.5 than the 7. Got mine on a TMC stage 1 which gives 500nm torque and 365BHP 👍🏻 Just be careful as mine had a few warranty claims. Mostly for water ingress. Apparently the internal door speakers are known for letting water in through the doors 😳 Plus the terrible Chinese “Shebang” battery fitted from factory. Got replaced with a Varta. Luckily for me not got the keyless entry version. Even the salesman advised against it 👍🏻

[@andy_xtr3861]

Yep, the leak on golf is a joke, the boot and rear seats are always wet.

[@charliegardner6804]

Love these, my son has one and I lust after it every time I see it .I really like they're q-car understated looks. Great video thanks for sharing 👍..

[@burningpromises1]

I love my 2018 Mk 7.5 Golf R. I just crossed over 30k miles on it, kinda made me sad. But for it being 5 years old, with only 30k miles...oh yah. I baby it. It is everything I could ever want in a car. I wish people understood just how good of a vehicle they really are. I remember when Mk7 Golf was voted World Car of the Year. It also won a best interior award. Due to how the infotainment is angled to the driver and ease of use...etc. I hope that this particular model goes down as one of the best. Although....I do miss my Tropic Orange MK4 GTI....

[@seamusburke3717]

The GTI Clubsport S will be the mark 7 that will be the halo model

[@SebsTech1]

Agree, Even the clubsport 40 with the recaro wingbacks are exceptionally rare. Only seen about a dozen of both the S and the 40 on Autotrader fetching nearly 25-30k. both will likely appreciate because of the limited runs they had

[@harpreetchaggar1017]

Had a Mk7 R manual and it was a superb all rounder, did 28000 on a 2 year lease and was more than happy to pay the extra mileage. Then went into a Mk7.5 r 310 DSG, was extremely disappointed with the gearbox. In race the car held on to gear too long, normal was also similar, and eco felt to sluggish. Had to drive using the paddle shifters to change gear which meant the car was really not an Automatic anymore, and what’s more the DSG felt so much heavier. When the Mk7.5 went in for some work was given a 7.5 GTi performance DSG and the car felt a lot more nimble and adjustable. The DSG gearbox also seemed to be a lot better matched to the car and the fuel economy was so much better. After being in a M140i for a little while and a GR Yaris (too raw for a an everyday), I managed to find a Mk7.5 Performance with Pretoria’s in manual and 3 door. Very happy with the car, it’s nowhere near as quick as the R in terms of straight line speed, but the magic diff means you can go just as close to R around corners, not had it for a winter, but the car will undoubtedly not be as sure footed as the R, but doubt it’s a million miles apart. But the car feels the best all rounder in my opinion, lighter than the R, feels more involving, the boots a bit bigger and it’s much better on fuel which is important for a daily and given todays prices. Heard mixed reviews on Mk8, it may or may not be a better car to drive, but the interior is a big let down, the plastics, the feel and the horrendous infotainment system, not to mention the dangerous cruise control system that misinterprets mph signs thinking it’s in Europe and it should kph and slows the car down is awful. Will wait to see what the Mk8.5, hopefully VW try and rescue the car as the go to all rounder daily hot hatch. It’ll be the car they use for the 50th anniversary so I hope they do some work for their life long fans, but I suspect the ship has sailed as the electronic ID movement is where their focus is. In which case the Mk7 & Mk7.5 will go down as the high point imo. Other great marks imo are the Mk1, Mk2 and Mk5z

[@KC-lg8qf]

​@@harpreetchaggar1017correct! The GTI is the k e to have.

[@seinsmeld13]

I had a 2007 GTI which I sold to a friend a few years ago. At the time the car had 270,000 km on the dial. It now has 350,000 on it and is still going well. I miss that car.................

[@donachryan1]

Great car. Coming up on 3 years ownership of my MK7 and I have no intention to change it. Really enjoyed this review, sums up the R very well.

[@BikerDarren24]

Great video James, I wondered when I'd see this video.👌 Was great to meet you and chat in person and thanks for filming me and my mate on the bikes again at 11:23, keep at it man the videos and channel is great with such a variety and looking forward your next bike vid. 👍

[@SamAustin]

Great review James! Could not agree more with your points on the MK7 Golf R. I have had mine for over 5 years, sharing it on my KZbin channel, and nothing tempts me away from it. 3 door, manual gearbox and 4WD for the usual wet days in the UK. Running costs are reasonable and they have strong residuals should I do ever decide to say goodbye. Great car worth celebrating 🎉

[@robertdavis5714]

Own a 2016 GTI (manual) and installed Golf R Turbo, and words cannot express how much I love this car, kept this car and Sold the Porsche 997. Wider aftermarket rims stretching the width of the tires does wonders for the steering making a bit heavier (which I liked).

[@ElJefe85]

I had the same year. two door. I very much regret trading it in for a pickup

[@mitch8491]

Hi Robert, would you care to further elaborate? I’ve had a Porsche 997.2 CS for 2 years and now driving a BMW F33 440i.. I’m thinking for a long time about the 7.5R but am “worried” that it doesn’t connect to me as driver. I drive the car hard at times. What you think from 997 to Golf R?

[@KC-lg8qf]

​@@mitch8491golf R is faster but GTI has the driving feel. Better steering....lighter and more tossable.

[@mitch8491]

@@KC-lg8qf how funny you’d comment after a year.. Bought the GTI Clubsport 4 days ago. Lol

[@KC-lg8qf]

@@mitch8491 wow a clubsport! Congratulations! I with we could have them in the US. You made a great choice

[@stevecotterill7981]

Superb review James, I own exactly the same car… but manual on 19” Pretoria’s with active suspension and I love it. Owned from new and never given any trouble over 5 years whatsoever. A great Q car… even in Lapis Blue… and it’s classless so you can take anywhere. It’s a keeper as there’s nothing available in a 3-door format anymore (my preferred hot hatch specification) .Possibly a future classic in 3-door guise. Great balanced content as usual. All the best, Steve. 👍🇬🇧

[@lagerace227]

Great review review I’m still the owner of a 2017 MK7 R Love it 🇨🇦has handled the harsh -45C Canadian winters and +40C summers Swiss Army knife and Storm Trooper all wrapped in one. Can do 12.7 @ 105mph in the 1/4 mile

[@robsamuel5290]

Excellent video James, sums the car up perfectly!

[@alexryan4049]

I started a 3 year lease in 2018 and I have just extended for the 5th year. You can't beat it, I love mine.

[@MIK23458]

Leasing is a mug’s game.

[@ericcarson342]

Did the same. Extended it for 6 months then bought it. Could have sold it for close to msrp at peak used values. With the 72 mo, 72k mile warranty it was too good to pass up. Happy with my Lapiz DSG.

[@jermainerobinson7098]

Great video very educational keep them coming 👏🏾👊🏽👍🏾

[@JayOfBurn]

Good to see you back behind the wheel of an R. I miss my wee beastie... my Hilux just doesn't give the same thrill. When I sold my one, I had to strip the mods out, which was painful. I still have the springs and anti-roll bars! Something just keeps stopping me selling them.

[@petercole9490]

Glad to see you filming on the Crow road...I've been driving it as a daily for 25 years.Crazy potholes and logging trucks can make it a bit of a challenge but good fun in a F80 comp...cracking wee film.

[@wings9925]

Good advice on the DCC. Mine didn't have it, and the steering was consistent and with decent feedback for a modern FWD car with some horses.

[@ollieh11]

I've had my lapiz blue 3dr Mk7 with 19ins Prets for 4 years this September and I wouldn't change it for anything. I really enjoyed this video. Nice one! Those roads looked good fun as well 👍

[@AStick3Pedals]

How’s the reliability?

[@ollieh11]

@@AStick3Pedals Very good. The only outlay I have had is regular routine servicing. Every 3 years it's a bit dearer as you have a major service to get sorted as well as DSG oils and Haldex oils. Not a big price to pay if it keeps the car running sweet. But yeah a very reliable car (touch wood).

[@AStick3Pedals]

@@ollieh11 thanks for the info

[@marksinclair383]

I have a late 16 TDI R Line 3 door in Polar White. Still love the shape, the looks from the rear three quarter angle is amazing. Well made too, not quite as good as my previous car, an A3.

[@davidcooke4925]

I’ve been driving my mk8 GTI for a month now and enjoying it more than my previous WRX. The tech is easy to get used to after a week or so and the minimalist interior works for me.

[@cmarnold78]

So the touch screens are OK and not the big issue all the reviewers were making out?

[@davidcooke4925]

@@cmarnold78 correct. They use the cars for a couple of hours or a day or two and publish their opinion. I went to the dealership and sat with the VW rep for an hour, google/KZbin for another hour or so and all good 👍🏻 No lag (new operating software from Dec 2021 onwards), shortcuts are easy. If you know how to use a smartphone/iPad then you shouldn’t have a problem

[@cmarnold78]

@@davidcooke4925 Thanks! Good to know!

[@user-ul4wy2lx2m]

Mk7.5 gti here and I can say this generation is one of the best 😊

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

I was looking at a wagon of this car before prices went to the moon, owning now only in my dreams. Amazing that it still has the physical steering wheel buttons and HVAC controls. Nice video. Keep up the good work.

[@TheYBGOON]

Lol. I had 13k budget so I was about 5k short of the gold r estate or cupra 300 estate. I need the estate for my bikes and family so I’ve chosen an octavia 1.4 with the hope of selling it on in a few years once I’ve saved up enough again to upgrade. Problem is I’ve kinda fallen in love with the 1.4. Very good fuel economy and decent acceleration 7.9 to 0-60 but feels faster. My heart wants to get an r or cupra but my head is saying your fine with the octavia. Plus people are nicer to you.

[@axe2grind244]

@@TheYBGOON You’re lucky then…Mk7.5 Golf R’s with 40k miles are going for $45k in the US. It’s completely absurd and defies logic.

[@Pete7.5R]

Pre-OPF 7.5R Manual 3 door here. . . .I'm with Dom, it's a keeper! 👍😎

[@jamesreilly8455]

Great car, I have the estate version with a stage 1 map👌 Dominic should have tried Specialist Car Volkswagen, with branches in Aberdeen, Dunfermline and Kirkcaldy for his Golf R. Also if he prefers main dealer servicing they seem to be very good. However J and A Automotive in Airdrie are a great independent garage and specialise in performance VW, Audi ect. Tell him to look them up👍

[@OwenSithole]

Brilliant covering of the Golf R as a whole!✨✨🙏🏽

[@ADPeguero]

I have a red 2018 with the DSG in the USA and I love it! Been thinking of getting me smaller wheels as the 19" ones are awful with potholes.

[@chansfor]

Nice review, thanks. I'm keeping my 2016 Mk7 and putting money into fixing the problems that should never have been in the car to start with. This includes a back-up camera that only works sometimes, dash lights that have a mind of their own, auto headlight setting not working, slowing to a halt sometimes feels like a stall coming on before idle rpm return to normal. Such a shame as it's one terrific car to drive.

[@opencarry3860]

I have a 2016 3 door MK7 I bought new in November of 2015 and have had zero issues. I haven't experienced any of the problems you have described so far and I have been running a stage one tune for three years now and my stock clutch is still holding the power. From all the comments from owners, it seems I'm in the minority when it comes to reliability.

[@AdrianTechs]

Great video 😄- one thing, pretty sure the jacking points on the Mk7-7.5 are indeed the sills, its the A3/S3/RS3 that has the plastic grommets inset from the sills that can be used for jacking from.

[@andrewhouldcroft1116]

yep - if you feel along the pinch welds you can detect the double thickness section which is where the jacking point is.

[@ihavenousername1805]

I think he's referencing the plastic sill cover which was caught by the ramp leg when it was lifted on the sills. They should have put the extended jacking mounts/rubber blocks on for clearance, but some garages will just say "f*ck it. It'll bounce back into shape when it's off the ramp, and the customer will never know."

[@ianbath4776]

Golf R estate, pan, leather, performance pac. Last off the 7.5 model. I was very disappointed compared to the Audi sq2 that I bought for my wife. Pissed me off. Stage 1+ very happy, mental 💪

[@DarrenJMHughes]

It’s a shame that a majority of these cars have got into the hands of the wrong people ie owners who don’t look after them and drive them sensibly. Most have probably been thrashed and driven hard from cold. Anyway, nice review/chat thing video James. How about drive a mk7.5 GTi?

[@JoJoJoker]

The 2dr Mk7 Golf R is super cool. Wish we got it in the states.

[@mk2024b]

Can’t really blame the people who buy it. It’s a fantastic car

[@playwithcars]

Owned one prior with a upgraded turbo and bunch of suspension parts. Wot out slow speed corner it was bonkers. Pretty much dropped everything else. Was able to keep up with GTRs on the highway too.

[@neutralcorner5950]

A couple of cars I would not own are Golf R/Audi S3, if you have either the probability of you having a visitor in a grey tracksuit with elasticised ankles in the middle of night are huge. 5 have been stolen in the last year in our town, a town where not many cars are stolen.

[@andrewhouldcroft1116]

More specifically the Mark 7.5 pre WLTP is the sweet spot. No GPF and both port injection and direct injection to differentiate it from the post WLTP 7.5 but it has the updated interior with the optimal mix of digital dash and infotainment centre but retaining physical buttons for climate control and steering wheel functions.

[@Poatan.chama.]

What year would that be?

[@garethhooper3658]

Late 2017/18

[@DrFod]

Sadly, the non-WLTP 7.5s were produced for a fairly limited time. My November 2017 GTI is WLTP.

[@andrewhouldcroft1116]

Some 17 plate R's were Mark 7 and some Mark 7.5, all pre WLTP as far as I know, all 67 plate R's were 7.5 and pre WLTP as far as I know, 18 plate cars were then a mix of 7.5 pre WLTP and post WLTP as far as I know, 68 plate and beyond were all post WLTP as far as I know. Easy way to tell would be to pop the bonnet and look for the port injector fuel rail on the manifold, it is easily visible if it has one. If you are from the US and you pop the hood then you will be disappointed as I don't think any R's had port injection from factory in the US market, as far as I know. The port injection in Europe was to reduce particulate emissions which wasn't required in the US so VW didn't fit it. When the EU introduced WLTP regulations the particulate emmissions were so strict that they had no choice but to fit a GPF to the car and so they no longer needed to also have port injection. Short term this is fine, longer term this will mean carbon build up on inlet valves causing rough idle and poorer fuel economy, oh the irony of such a policy!!

[@gaycha6589]

I have one of these. Love it

[@MRVSKIN]

Another brilliant video 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@Aeletaz]

Got to be the mk4/mk5 R32 for me. Even though it understeers to high hell, the sound is amazing and in the MK5 you could get some insane (for a Golf) winged back seat options. Few gimmicks, just understeer and a brilliant noise.

[@88tmilko]

R32 is king in my eyes👍

[@CarsofGlasgow]

I love those blue Mk5 R32!

[@dimsoneill]

@@88tmilko Until you drive it..... Give me a Mk 7 any day.

[@88tmilko]

@@dimsoneill if its a daily I agree the 7 all day long, mines a weekend blaster and don’t get bored of the noise. Its worth more than what I paid for it 5 years ago which is a bonus.

[@STRmw2]

the 7.5 has a special place in my heart. it was my first new car, when i got my first good job.

[@harry89923]

Picked up a high spec Mk7 a few months ago, in love with it. Perfect other than insurance at 22 lol.

[@pmodes]

Great video. I also own a 7.5R, with DSG. I’ve had for a little over 4 years and absolutely love it. Very economical when you want it to be (32mpg+ on eco, with ‘coasting’), but always in a rush to get home after work, so race mode all the way! Only gripe I have is the ‘lag’ when pulling onto a roundabout, can feel like an eternity, when you need to ‘move it’!

[@abeltesfay1]

I have heard that dsg tunes fix that lag problem well, you should look into it.

[@chuckbiscuito]

A high torque ECU tune eliminates the lag problem also.

[@SpartanJA17]

I own a 2014 GTI (bought in 2015) and I struggle to find something that is as fun that can do Aberdeen to Donington for a show & back the same day, 3 up in comfort while getting almost 400mile to a tank. Throw the dog in the boot, shoot across to Aviemore for the weekend and not even think about it. Golfs are just the swiss army knife of motors in my opinion and the performance versions just make owning that knife more fun. (Ohlins, Revo RFO19s, 235/35 tyres, S3 Subframe & Powerflex Camber bushes make a massive difference to feel and stage 1 Revo adds to the fun)

[@Fairhavenbranch]

Great video, and great car!

[@brusselssprouts560]

My Peugeot 308 Allure HDi 64 plate has just passed 90K miles, and probably drives better now than when I bought it. It is quiet , quick enough, economical and (at the mo) zero road tax. I love it's look and have seen advance images of the new marque and prefer mine. The new one will have a digital dash, but I have analogue speedo and rev counter which I prefer, because there are less electronics to go wrong. It is all about choice though, and I like things that work well as my 308 does very well.

[@AboveTheDust]

Future classic? Absolutely. Just because something is accessible and available doesn't mean it's barred from being a classic. A clean Mk1 or Mk2 GTI will carry a premium on top of just being a 40-year old used car, while the deservedly maligned Mk3s and are a bit flat. I'd expect a clean Mk7 to be an object of desire in 20 years.

[@SenszR]

They’re not even accessible like they were when they came out. Second hand prices on these at the moment are ridiculous.

[@FleetAdmiral215]

Totally agree with you on the mk8 , The mk 7.5 is the best Golf yet, I'd love a 7.5 Golf R phenomenal motor, Great video James

[@timhahn7358]

Last december I picked up a pre owned mk7.5 Golf R. I'm in the US, so the only option here is fully loaded (including the DCC) would be interesting to see how one without DCC handles, but at the same time, compared to all the other options here in the US (or lack thereof) its still a load of fun. There just really isnt a huge hot hatch market here. now that hyundai killed the veloster, we only have the GTI/R, the GR Corolla, or the civic type R. we don't even get the hatchback versions of the S3/RS3. given that the Golf was quite a bit cheaper used than any of the new GR Corollas, it was the best option for hatchback practicality, decently high performance, and awd for the winter months

[@scottjohnson4885]

Great perspective in this video. The mk7 and 7.5 will have a better chance of being a classic in the states due to low volume and even lower mk8 products available. Own a modded 16 in limestone and have trouble find a car that I find more attractive for daily driving. 💪

[@jeebsy718]

I've got a TTS from this generation which is the same bones and a simple remap does wonders for them - mine is up to 370hp. For road use, that's more than enough.

[@JellyLancelot]

I had a 7.5 from new in 2018 to 2021. Best daily ever, so versatile and looks amazing from every angle. Had it in marketing spec lmao Lapiz Blue with silver pretz, but it was perfect. Loved every second of owning that car, from its lovely acceleration and handling to even managing to eek out 40+ MPG on motorway journeys up and down the UK.

[@blondon1050]

Out of curiosity what do you have now ? I’ve got a GTI and I need to get new car but I have no idea what to get.

[@JellyLancelot]

@@blondon1050 haha you’ll hate me for this but a Tesla Model 3 Long Range. I really like it, but really need a weekend car. Something nice, as the Tesla is the ultimate daily, but is not as petrol head noisey fun as the Golf.

[@ethanhatch1835]

I own a mk2 gti and a mk4. The Golf R is definitely something I’d consider buying in the future once it settles into my price range. Has to be manual and black with black leather though

[@TheGhiaDriver]

It's a car that does it all so well, is very enjoyable and very satisfying but not one I ever find myself looking back at. I do love that they did an estate though.

[@howster34]

I got mine just before the WLTP regs came in. Akrapovic exhaust fitted from factory and it sounds mean!

[@lordandrew1973]

Love my 7.5. Mark 8s come with lane assist which you have to deactivate every journey, good for insurance premiums, but very intrusive when not on a motorway

[@butchmeister80]

Lane assist is a pain in the ass

[@mattg768]

yes. I own a 3 door manual MK 7.5 with 20k miles. had the option for DSG, although I love DSG the manual just has the raw feel of a drivers car. pre GPF as well (17 plate) so it actually sounds better. only thing I did was a Miltek cat back race exhaust and kept the stock in my garage just in case I need to revert it back. also own a MK8 Golf R and honestly, I drive the Mk 7.5 more. will be selling the Mk 8 R asap too many minor thing I don't like built up to this decision to sell it and its just not as enjoyable.

[@eze8970]

Thanks J🙏!

[@DanJHayes]

I have a manual 2017 pre-GPF 7.5 R with DCC in Lapiz Blue with full leather and 19inch prets. It's the perfect all-rounder for me, and I can't think of what could replace it from the current cars that are on sale. I want a manual for as long as possible, so unless the GR Corolla comes to the UK I'm stuck (but I'm happy).

[@seanmursell3206]

Just put a deposit on a black 7.5 with black Pretorias and pano roof on used approved now to pay up and get it from wales ! Excited is an understatement, almost as much as when I picked up my 16v mk 2 gti recently

[@veemacks7255]

I completely agree that some cars peaked already and are worse than they used to be. The noise isn't as good as it used to be thanks to OPF. The steering isn't as good as it used to be. The interaction with important features aren't as good since the replacement of buttons with touch screens. I think my car is from when it peaked. I wouldn't take the newest version if I could upgrade to it for free.

[@nkosiyabomelvin4646]

It's part of the culture in south africa,will forever be embraced.

[@ZKhweziN]

Simple answer... YES!!! This is still the most amazing and comfortable daily driver that still feels good to drive on weekends. VW outdid themselves here.

[@Christian---]

You're entitled to your strange opinion but I'm sorry, no, the "most comfortable daily driver" is not found in a 2015+ Volkswagen. Current VAG products only "feel good" if you think big numbers on the gauges feel good (that you can by the way have larger for a lower budget if you're not model year picky).

[@SATISFACTIONZ0R]

Wtf are you on about?@@Christian---

[@thedrivebygg]

Look how good the rear of the 968 looks 👍. Big fan of the MK4 R32, always sounded so good, I think the Golf R is less attractive than the GTI and the brand has suffered because of it. Don’t get me wrong a golf r is an extremely rapid decent machine, with modern pleasures, however hand me the keys to the 968.

[@colinsavidge9121]

I have a Mk 7 estate, it's the car for all reasons.

[@richardhunt1384]

Do like an R this generation is definitely the one to get so agree 100% with you. My cousin bought one on finance and when he went to trade it in the price he was offered to buy it outright was stupidly low, he couldn't believe it..... He didn't though he went and bought a Cayman GTS instead because he was bored of driving a Go Kart (DSG equipped R) and wanted something more engaging. Only thing that stops me every getting one is.... it's a Golf..... common as muck due to everyone having one which makes it not very special (bit yawny 🥱🥱🥱🥱🥱 in fact) even in R form due them all being the same..... colour, wheels etc.

[@edthomas8486]

Hi JM. Have you ever tried a Golf shod with a set of Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S Tyres with about 3-4 extra pounds of pressure? If not see if you can-I think you might be happy.

[@adriankingdon3055]

When I was in the motor trade some 15 years ago it took me quite a few auction purchases to learn to avoid anything presented for sale by Mr Arnold Clark.

[@jkliao6486]

Will always respect any mk7 golf on the road as I had a forest green 7.5 gti as my very first car.

[@2702simmo]

I’ve been toying with the idea of one of these or an M140i as a daily

[@johnguidetti5839]

M140i

[@RKO6192]

I think these to be the perfect young person’s car who want a lot of ompf, AWD and due to the safety systems, you’d have to be an idiot to hurt yourself in one. I went for an A35 recently over a 7.5R, due to lower monthly payments + a far nicer interior (and I have a soft spot for AMG) and would love to see you review one given you hated the A45 (as did I)

[@steffydog]

Cheers, nice to see.

[@michaelcole3998]

If it wasn't beyond my budget I'd have bought the estate version over the Octavia VRS, both to me are wonderful family cars

[@TheTerrier]

Really interesting to see how this made the GTi virtually redundant with the cheap finance available. Also benefitted people who don't finance cars, as second hand variants became dirt cheap.

[@paul5683]

Dirt cheap? Those go for 40,000 dollars in the states.

[@TheTerrier]

@@paul5683 I'm talking specifically UK here, at one point about every second car was a blue golf R, hence the flooded second hand market

[@SenszR]

Second hand they are pricey now

[@teabagtowers3823]

@@TheTerrier That and the fact you can't go to any car meet without there being 15 of these. Owned by the "wagwan bruv" lot who have remapped them and drive like tits.

[@markday5797]

Had a MK7 GTI and now have a MK7.5 GTI and find the MK7.5 2019 model year. And the MK7.5 is a KEEPER in my humble opion.

[@markjago9619]

Totally agree... Just need to get hold of one 🙂

[@The888Redlich]

You can avoid the unwanted kick-down, theres a detent you can feel just before the throttle hits the floor, full throttle but no shift

[@Jonny_Justice]

I have a 2018 7.5 R with a number of nice options, no plans to ever sell it!

[@kennythomson4934]

Simple reply. Yes.

[@antonbless]

7.5 performance pack is the most desirable pre OPF 310bhp my son has a white one 18plate

[@andrewbinns3973]

MK 7.5 GTI manual 3 door is the sweet spot

[@dimsoneill]

Even better when you wrap it in an Octavia vRS wagon body. The best of all worlds.

[@RupertsTech]

I own a 7.5 Golf R. It doesn't do 40 mpg in ECO. Maybe 35 on a good day!

[@bigflo]

Good video as always James! One point, your £25k won’t get you a late low mileage car just now. C.£30k for a 2020 >15k miles is the going rate. You may get £28k private. I think the value is high atm however this is driven by 2 main factors. 1. Supply of new model stock is limited 2. Price of new model (&discounts available) is significantly more than 7.5 generation. 12 months time, you’re likely spot on in your value.

[@bigflo]

Also, mine is red with black wheels! So they’re not all blue! 😂

[@EH1942]

im in the same position as the owner but with my 2019 s3... and feel exactly the same... highly unlikely to bother changing at the end of the term.. it does all i need and the way the market has gone financially no point either.

[@JustMe-pq7je]

I bought the 2020 Golf R 7.5. Awesome power and fun to feel it too. The 2020 is the best out of the 7.5. The earlier 7.5 are renown for Waterpump leakage issues hence replacements on them. Fortunatily that was sorted on the later 2020 7.5 models. It does never the less have its flaws. The VW Voice control is useless to say the least. It keeps getting things wrong. The touch affointment system is not intuitive and some what awkward. But ok ones you get used to knowing where it all is. Steering feed back could be much better. For some reason front camera does not want to work here in Australia. Dealer states it being because of it set up for European signage. I am not convinced and will explore more. Sign recognition cameras should be set to suit the country they are destined to. Other than that. Great Car. Will I keep it long? Not sure. Will I update it for the MK8? Definitely NOT! I have more power in my 7.5 with a simple stage one and custom exhaust throwing out 330hp 247kw 430nm It makes the MK8 pointless.

[@andreasvanezi351]

I have owned a MK7 and Mk7.5 R they are simply the best all round cars on the market for the money. Don’t listen to most journalist who like shout on about it being boring because I never found it boring in my 4 years of ownership. It’s never going to be as involving as a M140i or a type R but when it rains in England 80% of the time and you just want to get a move on nothing will get the job done better, only reason I sold mine is because I had owned R’s for 4 years and wanted a change but 3 months later I still stuck on finding a replacement. Simply brilliant cars!

[@Superbustr]

The MK7 in its GTI and R versions with a manual will be looked at as a classic collectors item car probably in as few as 5 years time. But collectors will want unaltered original cars which as we all know with Golfs will be hard to find, as most serious car enthusiasts have modified them... leaving very few of them in an original configuration.

[@williamfence566]

looked at a white one recently ( not blue! ) decided against as I would always be concerned it was where i left it and would I be stopped every time I drove it at night .

[@SamFrostDigitalMarketing]

Love these. They don't seem to have the same reputation here in NZ (i.e. you don't see hooligans driving them typically). Maybe because we don't have cheap PCP finance deals etc. You'd need to pay a lot of money per month to finance one of these.