I Bought A 2024 Volkswagen Golf R

The 2024 Volkswagen Golf R DSG ($52,828 starting in Canada, $47,690 starting in the US) has appeared many times on Throttle House already, but this time it’s here for a more personal reason. James bought this one. After much deliberation and research, and in lieu of many other options, James has opted for the Golf R in Lapiz Blue with automatic transmission. In this episode of Throttle House, James walks us through why he made this purchase while trying to convince Thomas that he made the right decision. We hope you enjoy the episode! And then subscribe, silly.
Editor: Daniel Mason
Sound: Harrison Dickson and Daniel Mason
Magical Genius Logistics Planners: James Engelsman and Joey Alford
Thank you to @MichelinGlobal@MichelinCanada for the Winter tires on James' Golf R!
Thank you to @XPELinc for the materials needed to protect the car.
Thank you to @ampmotorsports6500 for so professionally wrapping the car in PPF!
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#VW #Golf #DSG

[@chasegaias]

Out of all the videos you guys do, the personal ones are my favorite. Car collection, personal buys, road trips, etc.

[@maverickphantom005]

Ah so you do think he is Vin Diesel lol

[@chasegaias]

@@maverickphantom005You don’t turn your back on family

[@OldSkoolUncleChris]

Agreed the road trip video needed more danger

[@MMOchAForPrez]

I was about to comment the same thing! There's something exciting to me about seeing why reviewers drive the cars they do.

[@maverickphantom005]

@@chasegaias even when family turns their back on you.

[@megatronusorionpax4900]

Seeing Thomas teleporting around with different signs was much more funny than I expected 🤣

[@BrianRoediger]

This is why they're the BEST

[@mattdevico5747]

The absolute first thing I thought when I saw the video come up was, "Why?! The infotainment system is so bad!". And then while watching he had the sign...lol!

[@deproof1234]

@8:35 I lol'd at what was written on the rear window... Won't spoil it for those that haven't seen it.

[@Paul-fo9fq]

yeah man this got me laughing haha

[@GrzegorzStyczen]

This made me hit the like button instantly. Well played.

[@sandeepspk]

I couldn't agree more with the main message in this video. I live in the Chicago area, and I have a Mark 7.5 Golf R with a manual transmission and a set and summer and winter tires. Many cars are more fun in dry and mild weather conditions, but very few cars are more fun and practical year-round and in all weather conditions! I actually look forward to having some fresh snow on the ground so I can go on a fun winter drive. The only thing holding my Golf R back in winter is the ground clearance when faced with significant accumulation.

[@purwantiallan5089]

Golf R only had one setback actually.

[@993mike]

Now they just debuted the updated mk8.5 which address some of the issues with the 8 that made folks hang on to their mk7.5's like me. The new one finally has real buttons in many places now, plus a larger screen and more power. They GTI and R are only DSG going forward, but even as a manual trans guy it's probably for the best since VW shifters are less than good. The 8.5 may finally get me to switch now.

[@legonleg1190]

I high centered and got trapped on snow twice, once in a regular Golf and once in a 328d. I imagine a lower Golf R would be even easier to high center.

[@_zigger_]

Watch out for 👨🏿‍🦲🦧🔫

[@winstonwolff]

A Subaru WRX would solve your problems it sounds like

[@michaelnievelstein5952]

So much fun watching this video, finding myself in the same situation when don't mind about the not illuminated volume slider, but having issues with wireless charger. Happyly went for the DCC instead of the Harman on my Mk8 GTI :P Two maybe informative/helpfull notes: - Engine cover was removed due to heat issues -> Can be retrofitted at VW dealer for free (at least in germany) - heated seats can be activated with a two finger tab on the heating slider ;) Have fun with the car just because it is really a great car!

[@iamandrewyang]

i appreciate how James bought a new car and wants people to roast it - this is why throttle house is a gem.

[@wp8286]

Thomas' signs during James' monologue is exactly why you guys are my favorite car review channel. 😂

[@BOOSTEDDUDE]

That was funny!

[@deez3063]

fr, they're one of the only massive reviewers who are legit funny and likeable

[@karimakiki6424]

Great video, congrats james

[@purwantiallan5089]

​@@BOOSTEDDUDEyet also an iconic one for sure.

[@purwantiallan5089]

​@@karimakiki6424the VW Golf R is as powerful like Skyline R33GTR.

[@paulchen8673]

Just test drove one today with the DSG, quite an awesome little car.. the techy infotainment is actually quite cool and not too hard to use even though i prefer more old school analog, ride quality is comfy but when you switch to sport modes everything stiffens up and gogogo.. the variable exhaust is awesome and even in sport mode is not too loud, and not to mention it handle awesome.. gonna be starting the process to pick one up as there isnt any markup at the moment... thanks throttle house for helping me make the decision ..

[@trevzy91]

A few things I do to make my mk8 GTI feel better: I always use volume slider on the steering wheel. I set up a custom page on the center console which has the seat warmer and cooler buttons, media and directions. I leave it on this page almost all the time.

[@Alikerry]

There is actually a recall on the engine covers because the ones they designed doesn't stay attached and can cause a fire. So they started leaving them off from the factory.

[@Jauzaah]

And you can get a new redesigned one from Volkswagen. At least in Europe.

[@FATmenDRIVEtrucks]

Sounds like a Jokeswagon problem

[@richscrinsonphonegg8842]

Yeah the replacement "safer" engine covers are starting to come into stock in Europe now for replacement. Same issue with the T-Roc R.

[@gavcom4060]

How do you fuck an engine cover up

[@Radek3887]

Wow, that doesn't sound very reassuring for the rest of the car

[@Trench_Wastage]

Fun fact, these did originally come with an engine cover in the first model year. Unlike the previous Golfs and pretty much every other VW, it wasn't a plastic cover with some insulation stuff on the underside. It was essentially just a chunk of foam, no plastic or anything on rop. Early on it was discovered that those covers had a tendency to catch fire, especially if it had absorbed some oil. VW issued a recall to remove those covers and chuck 'em in the bin, and they stopped installing them at the factory from that point on

[@johnyacoub69]

You’re correct, except for the fact that since the beginning of the 24 model year, they are coming through (most of them, mine for instance) with the redesigned cover on them again. But if James didn’t get one, he’ll probably have to shell out for one; they retail for $50-something in the US.

[@xorbitman]

Engineering embrassment. LMAO!

[@thatkindasux]

my 24 has one. car was built 9/23.

[@adamfehr1994]

Mine also has an engine cover, 24 golf r

[@quikgt]

I always toss mine in the trash, as I’ve found countless mice nests under covers

[@t.kmartin1026]

I have read that Golf 8 R engine covers were recalled because they could come loose/ catch fire/ get in contact with turbos. Aparrently, that is why yours came with no engine cover. For earlier cars, VW would take off your engine cover when you took your car in for service and tell you you'd get the new redesigned one when it's available.

[@trevzy91]

And the redesign has never happened lol

[@t.kmartin1026]

@@trevzy91 Would be interesting to see a comment here when someone finally gets one 😂

[@trevzy91]

@@t.kmartin1026 i still have the old engine cover since I just took it off myself when the recall came through. I’ve given up waiting for the replacement and they would probably gripe that I’m out of warranty now with 55k on my car lol

[@matthewneves9657]

@@trevzy91 Yes, it has. My 2024 came with one, as many have. It's hard plastic now. I guess previously it was some kind of foamy material.

[@purwantiallan5089]

​@@matthewneves9657why its turned into a hard plastic now btw?

[@bergelmir9970]

I love my '23 golf R 20 years. I trade cars about every 18 months or so and I have already been looking for a replacement, but I can't find any other vehicle that I like better. You can't beat the Golf R for practicality, handling, and overall performance. I am very tall at 6'7" and it fits me to a T. Plenty of leg and headroom. It's great on a long trip, very comfortable, I could drive it all day! As far as the infotainment, you get used to it, and the interior lighting is fantastic. I could go on and on, lol. Enjoy your Golf R!

[@Mav86asian]

Wow congratulations. You have a collector’s item there. Here in Indonesia they sell unofficially for about 120K USD. VW Golf has reached ridiculous speed recently. I have a Mk7 GTI with only 13000miles on it, supposedly has 327PS on paper on APR Stage 1 (never dyno it). FWD cannot handle the power and torque on hard launches. I am a foot shorter than you btw. I’m Tom Cruise’s height. LOL. Space is plentiful for me in that car.

[@nadasaba]

Yaris gr

[@NC944er]

9:55 Thomas’ utter astonishment at the lack of a third pedal and subsequent dry heaving on the automatic transmission lever is the best thing ever! 🤣

[@kilroyfrills3084]

That’s how I felt when I first noticed him tap a paddle

[@SwiftHDX]

He recreated that from a reel, that reel is brilliant.

[@richardnavratil9661]

​@@SwiftHDX Yup, it's on of those gated crooked shifters in an old Corolla or something. Thomas got it pretty spot on, it's this one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/j4KaYmppjah4osU

[@richardnavratil9661]

@@SwiftHDX Yea it's this one, right? kzbin.info/www/bejne/j4KaYmppjah4osU (I promise it's not a rickroll)

[@SwiftHDX]

@@richardnavratil9661 That's the one :D

[@wg5331]

If the MK8 had the interior of the MK7.5, it would be the perfect Golf. Edit: Yes the MK7.5 was a really good car that many love. But if you drive the MK8, you’ll notice immediately how superior the AWD system is compared to the MK7 that was already pretty good. The MK8 drives great but like others have mentioned, the overuse of glossy black plastic is an eyesore, the backseats are more cramped, and then the obvious shortfalls with lack of buttons, non-backlit controls, etc. Bottom line is both aren’t perfect but if you had that MK8 drivetrain combined with the no frill and tasteful interior of the MK7.5, it would be an amazing little car.

[@j.a.g.8689]

Have you even sat in a mk8 and played with it?

[@wg5331]

@@j.a.g.8689 yes

[@wtbanation6268]

@@j.a.g.8689pretty sure most of us have and it’s fucking royally horrible 😂

[@j.a.g.8689]

@wtbanation6268 I disagree. I think if you have a problem with it you're either special Ed or a dinosaur. People are blowing it out of proportion.

[@Garabins1]

And the front end of a mk7.5, those lights and bumper are hideous

[@doodechannel4024]

Can relate completely! I've had my Golf R for nearly 8 years and it's been nearly flawless.

[@psiturbo]

21:16 - the shortcut menu is customizable, he is correct, traction control can be placed in that swipe down screen. I have a 2024 and that is where I have mine set for.

[@nanomage]

Very nice car and nice of Thomas to approve of it. Couldn't help but notice it didn't stop him (or potentially someone else on the team) to finger in "poo" in the rear window dust... never change guys, never change.

[@jmartini2387]

I was rolling when I saw that, lol

[@Beer_Dad1975]

Well, if you are going to buy a car to drive around on salt roads, something as dull as a Golf is a good choice.

[@coreyk288]

MK7 for interior usability and Mk8 for its superior chassis. If only we could get a mixture of the two.

[@katiecannon8186]

I love the new interior. And, as much as I loved my 7.5, I love the 8 even more. Including the modern, clean, interior.

[@doms898]

An Audi S3 would be my choice for the more functional infotainment

[@David-mm5vl]

It's coming with the MK8.5 later this year.

[@MrTARIQSs]

Actually the build quality of the interior is significantly better in the mk8 My mk7 gti had TONS of rattles from new When I replaced it with a mk8 R there were ZERO rattles in the mk8, even after a full year of use

[@tsenif]

Mk8.5 Golf R is right around the corner, VW already teased the GTI interior, we've got it coming in 2025, brother. 🙏

[@bryanholbrookwilliamschevrolet]

Not even ten seconds in and I’m struggling to compose myself. You two are absolutely amazing at what you do.

[@marioreyes2009]

Awesome review guys. Right on point. The VW golf, had been and it will be my dream car for many years. It was my dream car as a I was growing up and it has not lost that appeal that attracts so many buyers. I agree, the sound system should be improved. Thanks guys. Greetings from Allen, TX.

[@macattack57]

10:00 I love that Thomas recreated the automatic transmission gagging reel. I laughed so hard at that.

[@AyoHustla]

😭🤣

[@tersy9862]

Hahahaha I loved it!

[@novaerog9921]

​@@xleftyyeah shoutout to a racist clown who thinks he's actually funny

[@purwantiallan5089]

​@@tersy9862the steering wheel column of VW Golf R looks like it came from Hyundai Creta.😅

[@purwantiallan5089]

​@@AyoHustlavery nice in fact.😂

[@BoomTharis]

Congratulations James!

[@purwantiallan5089]

Throttle House just keeps on getting better and better in every episode actually.😊

[@ERS51588]

Bought a 24 Golf R DSG a month ago. This video helped me make my decision. Love it so much, thanks throttle house!

[@diablo2815]

I love it. Back in 2002, I walked out of VW dealership with a GTI 337. It was my 1st new car ever and was told by the dealer I was lucky to get it.

[@Pindapoepert]

@18:20 If you press the hot and cold button at the same time it will activate your seat heating, no need to go in the menu.

[@ji3g4j6jo3p]

I love everything about this video. The scripts, the shots, the humor, the relatable feelings of making a decision that makes the most sense... Keep up the good work Throttle House!

[@upshifter5316]

… The dad not loving one of his kids as much as the other…. Oh so relatable! 😂😂

[@cristi95ro]

"anything" you guys are adorable, i really enjoyed every minute of the clip, huge thanks for what you're doing and keep it this way, love you !

[@lovisrocks]

How they integrated the "it's not a manual" meme is just automotive god level over 9000... Congrats on the new whip James!

[@mikefesta7984]

You can turn on the heated seats by tapping the temp slider with 2 fingers (one on hot, one on cold). You can also set them up to turn on automatically when it's cold.

[@kylehenderson1402]

Came here to say this!

[@zippin1]

Sweet. Can't wait to try this in my partners Atlas.

[@Kimasuna]

I concur, It’s the best shortcut!

[@UrUncleSpence]

Same with the heated wheel. I can be set to turn on with a certain temperature you set

[@costafilh0]

Great! Combo shortcuts... OF COURSE! WAY easier than a FVCKING BUTTON!

[@purwantiallan5089]

The 2024 VW Golf R is a masterpiece like 2005 VW Golf V GTi and 2010 Scirocco! Perfect!

[@adrianm.1910]

Great choice! I always think of Golf as my go-to car. I had a few, and I could have one again. Congratulations!

[@Mitch-oi6gu]

Thomas in the background at 4:14 is saying what everyone is thinking.

[@ramp7857]

The golf 8.5 is going to have normal buttons

[@THX1138765]

@@ramp7857Nope, it will have steering wheel buttons, which should fix reliability issues with the haptics, sliders on the dash stay the same. Haptics aren’t bad if you use it like regular buttons.

[@apocalypse487]

It snowed here earlier in the week. AWD + snow tires was amazing. It regained traction so fast when I intentionally tried to lose traction. It stopped so much faster than I expected. It just powered through everything. Loved driving in the snow.

[@SuzukiKid400]

@@virid6819 he's probably just saying it braked well with snow tires and that was surprising. Of course AWD doesn't help it stop faster.

[@thedoble]

I've owned a MK6 Golf R since 2010. Bought it new, in Rising Blue. It's been a fantastic car and I've done 160,000km without any faults. Like you, I think it's a great jack of all trades car. It's fast, fun, easy to drive and live with, and practical enough. I have just replaced it with a Porsche Macan because I wanted a bit more boot space and a bit more comfort. It's a shame the Harmon/Kardon system is not good. My Dynaudio is one of the best I've heard.

[@ipolarisi2381]

Huge respect for not getting a crossover

[@tlf361]

At 3:20, you can see James has already made his first distinct modification on the rear glass.

[@pacojones7615]

Thank you... I was looking for this comment🤣

[@geoffnash2609]

Thanks. I thought it was just my childish imagination, so went looking in the comments.

[@mclennyface2159]

As a Lapis Blue MK7.5 Owner I've got to say I love the look of the exterior, especially the rear, of the MK8 better than the previous model. However, I do prefer the interior of the MK7.5 over than MK8 (other than the new seats and badging). If they could take the MK8 exterior +seats and badging and fuse that the with MK7.5 virtual cockpit and infotainment system, I think they'd be onto a winner!

[@Exluto]

I agree except with the virtual cockpit the MK8 has a lot more customization and I prefer all the different layouts you can have + being able to change the colours.

[@Fishsticks360]

Also a Lapis Blue 7.5R owner. I'd take the Mk8 gauge cluster and keep the center console/infotainment setup of the 7.5.

[@aredd92]

Agreed. I personally looked at a mk8 and felt that it was a step down in overall interior quality compared to my mk7.5 R. When they release the version with the physical steering buttons and backlit volume/ac controls, I'll consider one.

[@MiniBull-vq2yg]

@@Fishsticks360I also have the mk7.5 Lapiz Blue Golf R, and I completely agree with you.

[@thelastemperor3704]

The digital cockpit might be good but the design of the rest of the dash is awful. The large areas of piano black plastic look like something lifted from a budget car, not a chance would I part with my cash for that regardless of it's performance, id feel cheated. The mark 7.5 is a much nicer design.

[@iavor55]

AWD has many benefits outside of snow - the better grip and weight transfer in case of swerving, the cornering dynamics, it just feels smoother and safer That being said - give it just an inch of extra ground clearance and I'd LOVE this!

[@zaahidakhalwaya306]

The T Roc R

[@zanehernandez7240]

13:10 "we don't gotta leave that in" had me floored

[@airshieldcombo12345]

Perfect choice for a city/family/fun car. I think they look even better in person than they do on camera too. Special shoutout to the person that wrote on the back window.

[@BrianRoediger]

It DEFINITELY has a presence in-person. Camera doesn't do it justice. And that rear window... 🤣🤣

[@_chipchip]

It looks like a golf mate.

[@jq3678]

POO

[@adamfehr1994]

The white looks incredible in person

[@larryhouse3776]

It's a terrible family car. The rear seat space is miserably small, and the rear hatch space is a compromise because of it. I owned one and it was the worst car I've ever lived with.

[@H3rminatorX]

For the heated seats you should be able to tab the climate controls next to the volume slider with 2 fingers to control it

[@eshraq17]

Double tap the temp up and down slider with two fingers to cycle heated seats

[@cmcolombianSh]

Yeah, tap the temperature up and down at the same time and can navigate between the heated seats settings. You can also set the heated seats and heated steering wheel to come on automatically depending on the temperature outside inside settings. It will detect if there’s someone on the passenger seat too.

[@Hawk7886]

​@@eshraq17man, that's ridiculously obnoxious

[@nicholassmith7048]

Ah, so you have to double tap a thing that disappears in the dark. Nice...Also, since you're cold, you may be wearing gloves. How is using the capacitive touch crap while wearing gloves?

[@eshraq17]

@@Hawk7886 it's really not. You get used to it and it's a small price to pay for an interior this clean

[@ripF5C]

This channel is sooo good man. Their sense of humor is amazing.

[@tripletbiguy6908]

I just picked up the exact same car and I'm a manual guy, but the dsg is freaky similar to some of the pdk Porsches I've owned. I have a manual Boxster Spyder 981 variant so for a daily this mk8 in blue with the dsg really hits the sweet spot. Some days I hate myself for not buying the manual version, but then I've drive it hard and love it. After watching this video, I honestly feel better and will sleep better at night knowing other enthusiasts and two of my favorite people on KZbin also love the dsg version. And you really can't beat the blue. I live in Colorado so I also run snow wheels and tires 8 months out of the year and it's been just as solid as my Subaru outback with winters that my girlfriend drives. Love the mk8, glad other enthusiasts like me realize as a daily this is really the best even with the dsg. And I think the lack of nobs and the infotainment issues people complain about are bs. I've had zero issues. Great car. Great channel.

[@purwantiallan5089]

Boxster Spyder 981 even on MT gearbox option is still as great as the original Boxster S.

[@tripletbiguy6908]

@purwantiallan5089 they only made the 981 boxster spyder in manual and it's so great... short throw from the factory is awesome ... love manual but golf R is great as a daily with the dsg

[@L4GGINGB4D]

You feel any ahhh moments because of the haptic buttons?

[@tripletbiguy6908]

@@L4GGINGB4D Nope...honestly not sure why so many people are against them...they work totally fine and I have not had any issues with them at all. It's different but you get used to it after 3 days then I don't even notice.

[@L4GGINGB4D]

@@tripletbiguy6908 nice nice :D

[@robervin9107]

0:04 my favorite part of this emotional vlog Also Thomas did tremendous in this. And Harrison. I’m sure he was cracking up Off camera. Love you guys. The brotherly togetherness is magnificent

[@unitronic]

This car does so many things well, congrats on the new purchase James! Let us know when you're ready for a little bit more oomph. 😎

[@ThrottleHouse]

👊

[@Hi-how-are-you-today.]

@@ThrottleHouseJames, would you buy new a Subaru WRX STI hatchback if they made one? Tip: I tell this to anyone that buys a car with piano black, when you get your car wrapped ask them if for a few extra bucks they’d wrap the piano black so it won’t scratch?

[@Jobo9O9]

@@Hi-how-are-you-today. Judging by his choice (mature adult hot hatch) and runner-up (hybrid toyota), I doubt it. But who knows

[@aymanlockhartable]

James was created in GTI!? Destiny is made!

[@Hi-how-are-you-today.]

@@Jobo9O9 that’s why I’m asking 😜

[@1019bf]

another fine video you guys hit the nail on the head with your reviews

[@ItsSpeltChayce]

Waited two years for mine, absolutely wicked! Worth the wait for sure.

[@rogersmj]

LOL Thomas with the signs. The capacitive volume button was the first thing I thought of when James said he bought this car.

[@briandunkel5733]

I work at a volkswagen dealer and there is actually a recall on these because the engine cover they designed doesnt stay attatched and can cause a fire. So they started leaving them off from the factory. Had a new arteon this year delivered without a cover so i assume its the same for that

[@volvo09]

Interesting, that would explain it.

[@Richard-rp6ns]

This has been stated since 2022

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

How sad that VW can't even design an engine cover properly. Sigh....

[@FATmenDRIVEtrucks]

Pathetic

[@axnaxn86]

​@@bigmacdaddy1234yet they designed this wonderful piece of machinery and mk2 mk4 mk7 and all of em

[@fedeboy35]

This is an excellent review, that's how everyone should be, I loved it, nice work buddy

[@JustMeinYoutube]

I got mine in manual and I love it! It’s so special.

[@lolsovs]

The winter silver wheels look so much better than the standard ones.

[@SpaceMissile]

agreed. the praetorians (sp) look awesome.

[@EmreEldelek-no6jo]

You're joking. The standard silver wheels that come OE are significantly nicer and more aesthetic.

[@dacmm]

You mentioned needing 2 touches to adjust seat heating. There's actually a faster way, which is tapping the heating adjustment bar with 2 fingers at the same time. This will cycle the heating (or ventilation if that's the one enabled) by 1 level per tap. This is the only reason why the no backlight is a pain for me, because it's difficult to nail the 2 finger tap in the dark.

[@nicholassmith7048]

Ah, so you have to double tap a thing that disappears in the dark. Nice! So, how many touches does it actually take when you're trying to tap the exact right spot in the dark? Also, since you're looking to turn the heated seats on, it's probably cold and you may be wearing gloves so how well do the capacitive touch buttons and screens respond to gloved hands and how many touches does it actually take in that situation? It can just picture people trying to double tap the invisible fiddly slider with gloves on and getting quite frustrated.

[@bperryman2622]

I agree. I have an mk8 GTI and I haven't had any issues at all with the haptic buttons. although sometimes at night when its really dark, trying to get the double tap and focusing on the road gets tricky lol. luckily i have it in my muscle memory now HAHA

[@martgsr]

Or you can just create a template screen with the heated seats so they are always accessible.

[@benjaminwhitehead9116]

I really like the buttons and volume knob on my MK7. And the convenient location of the TC. And the great sound system. And the engine cover. And the MT.

[@madmike3881]

The humour on this channel is next level😂😂 @Thomas, loved what you did there with the signs(capashitive buttons😂)

[@johannesmitkos3572]

Congrats on your new little rocket. You absolutely deserve it! Watching u since 2020 and u guys improved over time so much its an absolute pleasure to see there is a new video of u guys. The editing, humour and personal note u implement in your artwork is bonkers. Keep up the great work.

[@arjunvijayakumar971]

i love how the thumbnail for the GR corolla was timed right when james said "There's not many hatchback's that does what this car can do" at 7:18. These cheeky lil details is what i love ab TH

[@john9547]

You guys made my day, James' stories, Thomas the buttons and DSG, the great review and content. Thx much!!

[@DwainDwight]

I have one & love it. My daily. I do everything with it. ticks all my boxes. will only ever trade it in for another Golf R.

[@du3lcitiz3n]

I got one too in a manual with the Pretorias. Already modded. The car is amazing.

[@ConnorHammond]

I've had my Mk6 R for 6 years now. Still a perfect compromise for daily, weekend and track use. A tune, short shift manual, single mass flywheel and some handling bits make them so fun for almost any situation.

[@plant-based_papi6503]

Hey bro. I have a 2016 S3. It has a tune already and it's really fun to drive. What handling bits would you recommend to make it handle better? Cheers!

[@ConnorHammond]

@@plant-based_papi6503 I've had upper and lower control arms and sway bar swapped out. Better positions and beefier components. Cheep and effective. And to transform your car, some nice coilovers. I haven't done this because I'm happy with my handling and like the factory ride height + a good set can be expensive. But they will transform your experience.

[@LanceCorporal_Waffles]

10:09 Same… same… 🤣 Congratulations, James! I hope this car brings you many happinesses!

[@seinsmeld13]

My previous 07 GTI was a fantastic car. I sold it to a friend when it had 275,000 km on the dial. It had the dual clutch manual. I miss that car. Great review men.

[@TOPWEWOK]

Great choice and great video. I chose the Golf R manual for all the same reasons, it’s a super fun beast in the snow.

[@goldenageofdinosaurs7192]

I had to go back & listen to James going over the monetary numbers again, since I was too busy laughing at Thomas looking for the clutch🤣

[@shaglioni]

Congrats on getting a 24' R. I have owned several GTi's in the past and got my first R, a 20th R w/DSG in August, and I love it. Glad to finally be able to experience it. I very much enjoy the content you both create and hope it continues.

[@Chronicxeye]

Would you say you prefer a GTI or the R overall for a daily driver? How much in maintenance cost is the R compared to a Mk8 GTI, same with insurance? Thinking about transitioning over to German vehicles with my next car. I come from owning JDM types, (Celica and V6 Accord coupe) also had a 04 anniversary Mustang at one point. I've narrowed it down to Volkswagen or BMW preferably but have been told Volkswagen is the overall most dependable with the proper maintenance schedules. I take very good care of my cars but have been nervous with stories many say about German reliability. Can never resist Euros though in Forza. :)

[@purwantiallan5089]

​@@Chronicxeyewhat about the 2005 Mustang GT btw??

[@Chronicxeye]

@@purwantiallan5089 Love the 4.6 3v platform, best sounding Mustang engine besides maybe the 5.2 N/A Voodoo.

[@katiecannon8186]

@@Chronicxeye Get a low mileage 2023 GTI SE trim with plaid seats. You should be able to find one with less that 8,000 miles for around $34,000 US dollars. Avoid the 2022 as there were some important infotainment improvements in the 23. Anyway, that’s my advice.

[@freddyekren342]

Best car show ever made.. neither Top Gear, Carwow nor Fifth Gear could even compete! You guys are the best.

[@MoneyPrintingCircus]

Almost bought one, but I recently ordered the WRX RS (TR), because pricing in Canada seems very good at $44,500. I wanted something a little bigger than a golf. Keep up the good work guys!

[@AZZRMUSIC]

Currently looking for Golf R myself, amazing cars.. you guys have made me even more excited about owning one again 🙌🏼🔥🔥

[@Mark-nu3ej]

You guys are tops in the review entertainment space!! Love the car as well for pretty much the same reasons you give. As a 2 time GTI owner (Mk2 and Mk6), I'd go for one of these in the used market down the line.

[@PhilippDitfurth]

I own a '23 Golf Alltrack and a lot of what you mentioned applies to mine as well, even though it is a different beast altogether. No drift mode (unfortunately), but higher ground clearance. Here in the black forest, winter has decided to come back after many weekends with 25+ deg. C, so naturally I already switched to the summer rubber. The sudden snow didn't scare it at all, it just does its thing. Just like in winter, where it didn't miss a beat, even in very harsh conditions. The Alltrack has the benefit of physical buttons on the steering wheel, so that's another win. My only gripe is the sometimes sluggish gearbox and the even sluggier infotainment system.

[@paulf4331]

I also purchased a 2024 Golf R (manual) as my winter car. 2019 MX-5 Club in the garage as summer car. I have not had the opportunity to play much with the R yet, but I can say it is definitely competent in the snow with winter tires (yokohamas). I do not like the fact that the temperature/volume bar is not lit. I drive to work when it is dark outside and after 3 months have still not gotten efficient with the controls yet. If you wear gloves, most the controls don't work at all half the time. My doors have stopped unlocking when putting my hand in the latch to open the door. I have get my key fob out and press the unlock button (yes I know you can set to unlock when approaching, but my car always unlocks itself when I don't want it to if this is set). My panic button on the key fob seems to work too good. It has gone off multiple times when I've been walking to/from my car with key fob in my pocket. The traction control is VERY intrusive. The 2-3 shift at full throttle always activates the traction control for about 3 seconds of no acceleration. When merging onto the highway, this can be an issue. I do like the looks of the car inside and out. Power is adequate, in a comfortable sort of way. So far, I'm not overly impressed with the car for the money, we will see if it changes my mind after longer ownership.

[@THX1138765]

James, this video is already making the rounds on the MK8 GTI/Golf R group on Facebook and everyone loves it. Love my MK8 GTI, glad to see you 2 came around.

[@JCTiggs1]

Congrats James! I picked up my 2024 R a couple of months ago after waiting 17 months for it!

[@hernanhernandez3861]

Great car. Hatch is so convenient. The performance is fantastic. I had a 1984 VW GTI and absolutely loved it. I miss it.

[@a1e20]

I had to pause at 10:33 and look at your subscriber count. WHY DO YOU NOT HAVE 10 TIMES THE SUBSCRIBERS?! I love you guys' content.

[@robertwinston2496]

Love the decision making process you went through here, as this is exactly why I own a '16 Golf R 6MT DCC. It checks all the boxes for a daily driver, family hauler, and winter baller. It's really sad to hear the stereo is garbage; the Fender system that came in mine is surprisingly good! Enjoy the car and keep us posted if you upgrade the steering wheel when the new one comes out!

[@iRayJ]

My wife has a 2019 Jetta and it's nice to know that the audio issues still exist. Her infotainment would play static from start and will refuse to reset unless you leave the car off for at least 10 minutes. After the dealer replaced the infotainment, if you connect the phone during a call (for example starting the car while already on a call) the audio will refuse to work and you'll have to turn off the infotainment and reconnect the phone. Still going after 110k miles though with just basic maintenance and she still loves it

[@mach5jeep]

The Golf is the only VW that still has Fahrvergnügen

[@girikgupta8691]

Gret choice James!! It's a helluva of a car.. love it

[@HumbleMechanic]

The MK8 is one of the best driving Golf Rs ever made!!! Congrats on the dope score!

[@jtkent28]

Great choice! I bought a ‘23 GTI 40th anniversary addition a few months back and have zero regrets. It’s my 4th gti in a row if that tells you anything. One thing I really like is it has the S trim infotainment which is a little less frustrating than the upper trim. Would have loved the R if I had a bit more jingle in my pocket though!

[@LPDarkSoulsHD]

Say it with me, James! "This car is a LAWNCHA." No but seriously, mega congrats. I've only driven a Golf R once in my life, and it was a 2016 in the same color. It was smiles per gallon. The torque was addictive. Don't let anyone tell you that you bought the wrong car. This video is excellent, by the way. Thomas is hilarious, as usual. It has been such a privilege to see this channel blossom the way it has over the past few years. Great work, gentlemen. Edit: WHO WROTE "POO" ON THE REAR WINDSHIELD I'M CRYING

[@sevensixtysteve8662]

I love that the worst thing about James' Golf is that its sound system is haunted by Elton John's poltergeist. Lol funny as always guys, love your work.

[@Ari_G73]

You guys are hillarious in this video. Don't want to spoil it for those who hasn't watched it yet. Great job.

[@rafaminus5366]

The part "this is my brother" in the mk2 is the best. Congratulations James. I'm in love with my Gti mk7, and I was in love with my Gti mk2 and de mk2 16v. Golf isva legend

[@purwantiallan5089]

Dont forget the 1976 Golf GTi Mk. 1 also.

[@rafaminus5366]

@@purwantiallan5089 Never!!

[@alex_higher]

Pro-Tip: You can turn on the heated seats with pressing with both fingern on the temperature thingy. So basically one finger on the cold and one finger on the warm and then you can toggle through the modes. Makes it a lot easier

[@AnoNym-zi5ty]

What a shitty workaround and afterthought

[@tr1ckster726]

WHAT I'm going to try this right now

[@AnoNym-zi5ty]

When you need shortcuts for heated seats that's a sign of terrible design.

[@tr1ckster726]

@@AnoNym-zi5ty omg it works LMAO

[@alancychoy]

Now knowing you live around downtown Toronto, the Golf R makes sense - I agree with you it is the right size for you to get around while still have decent room in the back for your family

[@jeremytd7072]

I love the winter wheel setup better than stock. The silver looks good with the blue and I like the extra bit pf sidewall. Great car. Love it.

[@MetalJesusRocks]

A buddy of mine has the MK8 Golf R and he recently tuned it…and it’s even FASTER and it wasn’t very expensive.. Seriously consider it 🤘

[@UnratedPlayer21]

yea, but you still drive around in a VW

[@rustyscrewdrivr]

@@UnratedPlayer21you sound like you don’t even own a car

[@ms3ben]

At $50k usd, the Golf R is tough to beat as a new daily for an enthusiast It looks like 2025 is fixing the infotainment system issues and adding buttons. More horsepower as well.

[@AxcelerateRoblox]

I was debating on which car review is my favorite after you guys bought my dream car your definitely #1!

[@NaterTot]

I love your videos. Reasonable, intelligent bought cars. It never feels like humble bragging. Love the editing and the comedy always so well done.

[@Bruno-xb2mt]

I was worried James was becoming Canadian but this proves he’s still one of us 😂 Btw please modify this in some way the Golf R is a great fast daily platform

[@arlok789]

I had the same AWD conundrum about the Integra type S and ended up with an M240 xdrive. Practicality is good enough, my little one fits in the back and the car is great.

[@wildwarren]

No engine cover because it was recalled In a notice first filed March 16, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a recall for more than 4000 examples of the 2022 GTI and Golf R for an engine cover than could potentially come loose and melt if it touches certain parts of the powertrain, heightening the risk for a fire in the engine bay.

[@jpschramek]

So first off, amazing video - love you guys. Second, my wife as a Mk8 GTI DSG and we love it. I've been a manual driver forever (besides the pickup truck we have) and both my wife and I were hesitant to get the autom, I mean DSG but we both love it. it's great for when you are in traffic but can still have fun when you want to. We've had it for about a year now and I do really miss a manual so guess what??? I just put a deposit down on a 24 manual R, the last year that VW is making a manual, globally! Can't wait. One other thing about the infotainment system, yes, it has it's flaws BUT most people don't show all the shortcuts you can do with the system including rearranging the tiles, adding custom pages, shortcuts and other cool little things that are fun to discover on your own. All in all the GTI is the nicest and most fun car we ever owned and the manual R is going to make an amazing stable mate. Keep up the great work guys!!!

[@Joose]

Well done, James. I have a Mk7 R with a manual and love it. Granted, I had to do a few things to make the factory clutch feel like an actual clutch, but it was so worth it.

[@KartiacKID]

That mx5 is a very fun car for winter, I loved driving my 2004 mazdaspeed as my daily winter car and c6 vett for my summer car….the narrow tires of the mx5 dig into 6” of snow and keep going…though it starts turning into a plow

[@Topendz]

Coming from England some time ago were we love hatchbacks I own a 2019 GLA45 which I would say is a competitor of the Golf R. Fantastic little all rounder and a lot of fun. The Golf R is definitely a better looker and I wish mine had drift mode. Apart from that can’t complain about the 375hp engine and sublime gearbox. Almost 5 years old and no issues.