Is Buying a Base Model GTI a Bad Idea?

[@xoliminh]

I got a base 19 gti for 22k new. Best thing I ever did. No regrets, was able to take the money I saved for not getting an SE (Was 4k more) and spend it on IC, DP and tune. Would suggest getting the base every time to someone if they plan on modding it later anyway. Great vid man.

[@ckly]

S life best life. Buying an autobahn is like saying, “I don’t have the extra 5k to buy an R”. LOL

[@xoliminh]

@@ckly that’s so true! Haha. I also like how the is20 spools up a bit faster too. Especially with a nice tune.

[@DerreckTM]

same, absolutely love my car

[@notyourgrandmasgolf8950]

@@ckly Buying an S is like saying, "I don't have the extra 5k to buy an SE. You can literally apply that logic to anything lol

[@JohnDoe-xw1jk]

I got a 17gti base for 13k at 39,000 miles. pretty good deal

[@AdamEatsTrees]

I have a 2017 Sport. It’s basically a base model with the Performance Package and Lighting package, and different wheels. That’s all. No sunroof or leather. Was only an option for 2017s.

[@wheelerdealer2105]

It included the VAQ diff, a big plus. Everything I wanted and nothing I didn't, the only year they offered this model. At 29K a Zero defect car. I had not noticed the different badges.

[@AdamEatsTrees]

@@wheelerdealer2105 mines at 37k and hasn’t skipped a beat.

[@TarzanGTI]

Mines at 43K now. Best trim for an enthusiast imo. Avoids the sunroof problems and heavy weight, while having all the desirable packages. Only thing that's missing is the fender audio.

[@HarryTwatter]

Sport club, love my 17

[@JacobFrey]

The best Mk7 GTI value by far! You get xenon headlights, LSD, R brakes, keyless entry, plaid seats, no leather, no sunroof, no fogs, no pointless auto climate control, very decent sound system).

[@kalooch4529]

Love my 2017 autobahn GTI. moved out to Arizona 6 weeks ago with my first car being a 2009 Jetta. I love the look with the bigger breaks and love having the lighting package, and climate control. The dynamic cruise control works really well and I dont think I would want a car without it now that I have it.

[@jareemisthebest]

I have the autobahn too but it got a little damaged in this Colorado hail 😭

[@2ZH]

I have a 19 GTI S with DSG , and have to say I really enjoy it. At times I feel my 17 civic SI handled a bit better (got more compliments too) but the GTI has better performance, sound system, and better tuning potential.

[@Hexxum001]

In 2016, I was either going to go all in on a new 2016 Lapiz Blue Golf R or I was going to get a new base 2016 Pure White 2 door 6MT GTI and use the extra money on performance parts. I decided to go with the GTI. Shortly afterwards, VW announced that they would no longer be selling 2 door GTI's in North America. So I got one of the last 2 doors ever sold in North America. Needless to say, I don't regret my decision one bit. I still have a smile on my face 5 years later driving my EQT stage 2 E30 GTI around town.

[@Ragged.09]

EQT rips! Or so I’ve heard! I love my 2DR R, got a steal for it, but man the GTI is such a good option too. Just so very “moddable”. It’s actually harder than you would think to find aftermarket parts for the MK6R

[@Hexxum001]

@@Ragged.09 EQT definitely rips! I've had a few tunes on my MK7 GTI and EQT is by far the best.

[@blackrippin]

I opted for the SE in my 2019. I was very close to getting an S but in the end decided to the thing I wanted so I wouldn't have any regrets and I could make the budget work. I don't regret it because I do enjoy the sunroof the interior looks very classy.

[@maxfitzsimons8362]

I’ve got a 2017 se and idk if you’ve done this already but removing the hood insulation material that’s clipped in is an absolute game changer. Gives you tons more turbo sound and engine noise in general.

[@dnttrstliam443]

Wdym by hood insulation

[@totallynotbluu]

@@dnttrstliam443 the sound dampening material thats on the hood

[@madern7]

You forgot about: - Fog lights - LED LIGHTS FRONT - LED LIGHTS REAR - DYNA AUDIO ( FENDER IN THE US ) - Different levels of the Discover media Infotainment system. I think there is like 5 depending on country excluding the facelift version. - Argo massage seats. - Lane assist. - Radar cruise control. - PDC 2x4 - PDC 2x6 (Park Pilot) - Tow hook - 3 door 5 door - Rear Power Windows. - HIGH center display / LOW center display - Folding Mirrors - Blind Spot - Automatic dimming rear mirror - different trim colors, from high gloss to carbon. - wheels, - suspension version, with DCC. Without DCC. There’s 3 versions of DCC in Europe. - Pre Heater. - Can’t remember the name but some golfs come with the purple front windshield that protects you from the sun. - Privacy Glass, theres different levels. - Driver alert system. - Pre collision warning I probably forgot some stuff. I’m from Europe and I own a normal MK7. This is my third. And it’s decently specced. But I’ve had one that had all the bells and whistles. I’ve retro fitted a lot of stuff, but the way they come from factory when they have al the boxes ticked is something you can’t replicate. Even whilst working at the main dealer.

[@Leeoh949]

Why did you get rid of the one with all of the options

[@hamididdy]

So, US didn't get rear LED lights, even as an option. Bro like 80% of your list we didn't get lol I have a 2015 autobahn w the lighting package. HID headlights, leather, nav, Fender radio. There really isn't all that much to option, at least the 15 models.

[@madern7]

@@Leeoh949 could sell it for a huge profit. I had already bought the one I own now (for shits and giggles) the color is actually the same. If you’re really interested you can check my cars out on @grits.nl on Instagram. I also have an 8V that I retrofitted to an S Line / S3.

[@madern7]

@@hamididdy damm really? Did you know that in Europe we get the electric parking brake? Lol. We also don’t get the 1.8 TSI in the standard golf. Our Golfs have: 1.0 1.2 1.4 1.4 Hybrid 1.5 2.0 In gasoline form. And 1.6 and 2.0 TDI in diesel. Also there’s a lot of different seat patterns. like a lot. Some examples you can google; Golf 7 trend line interieur Golf 7 comfort line interieur Golf 7 highline interieur Golf 7 all star interieur Golf 7 lounge interieur Golf 7 match interieur Golf 7 crème interieur Golf 7 GTI/D suède interieur Golf 7 R Line interieur Golf 7 Connected series interieur Golf 7 IQ DRIVE interieur Golf 7 TCR interieur There is also an e golf witch is based on the comfort version, it can be specced out to a highline though. Highline Seats get optional Argo massage input. Fun fact about the 1.8 TSI, it’s pretty much the 2.0 but smaller. It’s the same block. And that’s why the turbo’s from the GTI and R (IS20 / IS38) are a possible upgrade. We rarely see that engine here. Sometimes in the skoda octavia, in the Seat leon, and in the A3 8V. Although I’m not sure if it’s the same code. The face-lifted Polo GTI (6R) uses it aswell.

[@timdevisser4947]

@@madern7 1.8 is fucking awesome

[@StealthGTI]

Good video with reasonable decision-making! FYI, the standard trims are S (base), SE, and Autobahn. I believe that's true throughout all American Mk7 GTIs. The "Sport" trim was available in 2017 only and is basically a "tweener" trim which sits between the "S" and the "SE." It's basically an S with the Performance and Lighting packages as well as unique wheels and minor cosmetic differences. The same is true of the "Rabbit" trim in 2019. I have a 2017 Sport. I considered the "S" since I wanted cloth and no sunroof; but I was also attracted to the VAQ differential since I enjoyed my Mk3 with Peloquin torque-biasing differential. Everything else on the Sport was just icing. Little did I know that I would really like the Lighting Package with Adaptive Frontlight System. The brakes are shockingly effective, but probably more than I need for my driving style. Keep up the good work! -Scott

[@tanovw]

I got the mk7 gti s and I have no regrets love the car so far.

[@scottroberts5529]

I recommend you upgrade your rear sway bar makes a huge difference in the turn makes it feels more go cart like

[@eval7952]

Which sway bar? Which position on the car.

[@scottroberts5529]

@@eval7952 rear sway bar when I had my gti I had the neuspeed rear race sway bar it made a huge difference

[@eval7952]

@@scottroberts5529 thanks !

[@htowndct832]

@@grahams5146 lol

[@KorruptAbyss]

I bought the 19 se pp+ep edition and have no regrets. My car dcc and lsd was why I went with this model. I wanted the comfort mode for daily driving and the lsd for ripping corners. Now I’m waiting for my unitronics tune to shop and for the down pipe to be available.

[@teppens71]

I got super lucky with mine. Bought it about 4 months ago. 2015 PP. 2 owners before but they both took damn good care of it. Very little interior issues at 109k miles. Still original clutch. They always serviced early and before they sold it to the dealer I bought it from it was fitted with new brakes, filters and all of that jazz. $14k wasn't a bad price for it and it has no issues. I've driven 10k miles and love the thing. I treat it just like they did. My baby❤️

[@teppens71]

Won't lie though..the leather seats aren't the most comfortable on car rides above 2 hours. Hurts the ass a bit

[@Bawla187]

Not sure if you have yet, get your timing belt/chain checked/replaced..

[@dlandry63]

I have a 2017 GTI Sport package, it was basically a S but with the performance enhancements, but without the premium interior upgrades like leather, sun roof and what not. Also has a set of one off 20" rims that aren't available on other models.

[@TarzanGTI]

They aren't 20", they're still 18" Nogaros. I have one myself.

[@Bawla187]

I have the 2017 SE manual(bought new). It came with sunroof, leather seats, fog lights, lsd, Golf R brakes, Fender audio and adaptive led head lights. So as I remember for 2017 it goes Base model S, Sport(cloth seats, no sunroof), SE(leather seats w/sunroof) and then Autobahn.

[@cameronweber]

Just as a heads up guys the red badge doesn't necessarily mean a performance package setup, always double-check when buying. My 2018 SE badge is silver with the performance package You need to go into the car's individuals setting to find out if you have and can alter the lsd.

[@justincook6139]

2018 was the one year model that they didn't include the red badge. All 2018s have chrome regardless of trim and features

[@cameronweber]

@@justincook6139 Yeah for some reason VW just likes to make their trims and changes year after year completely ridiculous. Every year is confusing and each has its own slight differences. Thxs

[@alexbraun7162]

Get the base. The clark plaid looks so good

[@BadPhD777]

I have a base 2013 MK6 GTI I bought two years ago and have no regrets! Three things I had to have: cloth seats, sunroof & DSG. I have upgraded the car with a Kenwood head unit and front and rear cameras. The A/C blows ice cold - I don't care if I don't have the fancy temperature control. I thoroughly enjoy this car on twisty mountain roads!!

[@xxhypedupxx8336]

I've had my 2015 base for over 5 years and I don't regret nothing. I've been slowly building it to my liking of course Im only able to mod when I can afford it. I didn't care for leather seats and sunroof. Would do it over again.

[@nach0201]

I've done the exact same thing you did. I bought a base 2015 6 speed manual except with the sunroof and the leather seats lol. *Fuck the sunroof never opened it once.* Ive been slowly modding it to my liking and I just recently got a uni stage 1+ tune, gotta love it man.

[@xxhypedupxx8336]

@@nach0201 hell yea!! What mods you have so far? I only did coil overs rear sway,cat back, mud flaps, rear wiper delete. My downpipe should ship out 2m. Hopefully. Already have a tune. But I need a upgraded clutch. Even with low torque it slips. So I flashed back to stock with Cobb.

[@flats87]

I had a 2015 GTI S model from 2018 to February of this year(totaled it), and loved the car so much I bought a 2017 Sport model. Love the Sport so much more. Sport is in between S and SE for the 17 model year. Has the sport package and updated lighting but nothing more(plaid seats too). Best of both worlds cheaper yet you still get the big brakes and LSD. Love the car so much that I’d recommend to anyone that wants fun but doesn’t wanna break the bank. Love the channel bro!!

[@J0S3R]

I'M happy with my S. Upgraded my smaller brakes with Audi TTS brakes and got a wavetrac for lsd. Even with those upgrades i was way below what a sport and autobahn would have cost me

[@skateking959]

Just bought 2017 S GTI. Planning on doing the same. Would you say it was worth the price?

[@gabethagreattmc2125]

currently saving up for my GTI and watching this whole series is so helpful! im aiming to have it by the end of next year, i already wanted a gti but im barley getting into cars really… but you made me want this car even more!

[@smyc3408]

Im in the same position as you:) almost got enough for a mk6:), and i can agree with you that this series has totally convinced me on buying one! Wish you get yours really soon too🤝

[@gabethagreattmc2125]

@@smyc3408 hell ya only im saving up for a mk7 im still undecided if i want to save up for a gti or the golfR just becuase i live in colorado and the awd on the R would be so much better, but either way im saving up for one! i bought a mk5 jetta last year without really knowing much about cars for 5k with 108k miles and i love this thing

[@smyc3408]

@@gabethagreattmc2125 I live in the NorCal area and it snows bad too but i already got a truck, and me too bro I also got a mk5 jetta 2.5 tho, this thing sounds amazing, this O7k engine has more potential to it, it has me thinking of boosting it as well instead of going for a gti but im undecided as well. But whatever your choice is I bet it’ll be good since you’ll be putting the work into something you really like:)

[@gabethagreattmc2125]

@@smyc3408 crazy mine is a 2.5 i like what vw does to their cars and its nice bro for my first car not gonna lie i was looking into mods for it too, thats when i heard of the gti and fell inlove lmaooo were gonna see what happens by the end of 2022 i hope ill have one

[@jareemisthebest]

Dude it’s amazing. I have the mk7 gti autobahn and even while stock I had a lot of fun with it. And it basically has everything including performance

[@Brandyn13]

I have a 2021 Base model and it came with the performance package. I love the plaid seats which turned me onto the car. Only this I wish o had was the SE headlight other than that. No regrets getting the base model.

[@iiPeep]

Since you’ve owned and built both, after you’re done with the GTI, you should compare the Focus ST and the GTI. Go over pros and cons of each, and ultimately which one you prefer.

[@Whiponized]

Golf is way beter

[@guitargeometry]

i have a gti now and had a fbo focus st before and the gti is so much better

[@zed0k]

Focus ST is trash compared to the GTI. It was great before the MK7 GTI came out, but once the MK7 hit the market, the ST took the backseat.

[@guitargeometry]

@@zed0k so true

[@ODH3]

The torque-vectoring differential is huge and you feel the benefits every single day. You can't compensate for this with aftermarket mods (at least not reasonably). The only thing I don't like about my '20 S are the headlights...but I can replace/upgrade those at some point.

[@jconsentino]

I have a base 19' GTI and absolutely love it. Comes with the bells and whistles I wanted out of the box. The only thing I seriously hate is the halogen headlights. Literally everything else on the car is LED except for the headlights. Will be upgrading to the replicas in the future.

[@MattStrike]

I’ve owned a 2012 mk6 gti for a few months, just as a base car it’s so much fun to drive. All the passengers I’ve had love it and find it comfortable not only a good daily but a good car for weekends as well

[@berniepardo8180]

Got me a 2021 S and couldn’t be any happier. It came with the big R brakes , lsd dif, front and rear pedestrian sensors , blind sport monitor, the extra 10 hp , and also High gloss rear wining and mirrors just like the rabbit edition. All that on an S mode . 😎

[@simplesimonh123]

I’ve owned a 2017 autobahn for a couple of months now. It’s low miles, dsg, and the only option it doesn’t have is the performance pack. Don’t regret it one bit. The only thing that I’m not a huge fan of is the sunroof can make a little bit of creaking noises when it’s closed. Apparently it’s a normal thing on these cars and it can be fixed with some felt strips under neath the sunroof. I still love having the sunroof. I plan on keeping my car stock for the time being, and as a daily driver not having the performance pack isn’t something I even think about. It’s a very capable vehicle regardless of trim, and it’s the best daily driver all things considered.

[@t-mo199]

The OD vs LSD chart was a super helpful simplification. 👍🏼

[@cyclistman6358]

Just recently purchased a clean used 2017 MK7 GTI SE DSG low mileage, with the performance pack. I always drive it in full manual mode as the DSG should be. This car just rips down the road when I want to. Stock power and torque is good, but more would of course be better (Tune). I wouldn’t consider a GTI without the performance pack. Truly is worth it in my opinion. The ELSD is great and FWD cars really need it to diminish under steer and enhance handling and performance. The steering wheel and front wheels don’t fight you in hard cornering and the front end tracks and pulls hard in corner exit. R brakes have a nice feel and stop well for a stock setup. With the potential power the engine is capable of, solid and confident braking is essential. Going to install a 034 rear sway bar and a 034 stage 1 ECU & TCU tune next. As the budget allows coil overs will be in the future too. Any GTI is great but GTI’s with the performance pack just make more sense to me and are worth the cost, especially the ELSD! ☮️

[@issakorean]

Im so happy i watched this. I probably never wouldve known about that badge thing with the performance package

[@christianverdugo2148]

You mentioned you were starting off with the 2017 trim levels as if you were going to continue on through 2021 and pointing out the main differences like the discontinuation of the "sport" trim in 2018 and the new "rabbit" model. Furthermore, you managed to mention the sport trim twice as if there were two types. Not to mention you said the sport models have leather seats which is not an option on these models. A sun roof is not an option either. You failed to mention the lighting package that comes standard on models above base. As well as the convenience package. The Sport trim is also in between the "S" and the "SE". If anyone is looking to buy and GTI and wants the performance pack, lighting pack and convenience pack, I suggest going for a 2017 Sport. They are issued with the performance pack, lighting pack, and convenience pack as standard. They also don't have the annoying leaky sun roof or hot leather seats. The Sport model in 2017 brings all the performance, without breaking the bank.

[@blackrippin]

Yeah I was confused when he said sport twice.

[@TarzanGTI]

Couldn't have said it better. I'm very glad I bought a Sport.

[@wheelmanwheel4389]

I have a golf 7 GTI Performance from 2013(EU version). But i live in Europe and the models/options were a bit different classified in the catalog. On the 2nd hand market you will almost only find them with the Performance package. On the other hand, the Golf 7 GTI From 2013-2017, then the Performance package was an option. And then when the Golf 7,5 arrived, the performance package was standard at all new deliverd GTI’s. The only scarce thing is now, that you almost find them all with a dsg gearbox, and not so much with a manual. And they are also most of the time without leather. I had the luck to find a Golf 7 from 2013 with the performance package, leather and a manual. I bought it in 2019. At the moment the 2nd hand market is saturated with Golf 7/7,5 GTI’s, so a good moment if you want one😉

[@HugoHardinge]

Production quality is insane. You boys are killing it. Keep it up Cam

[@mikewite4025]

The Mk7.5 has the performance pack on all trims, with Golf R DSG as well.

[@34hassler]

Yea, 2019 SE owner here and if you can afford it the Mk7.5 is money well spent. Absolutely love the car and drive it like I stole it everyday

[@AGBoost]

Only the 19+ 7.5 gets the R’s DSG right?

[@mikewite4025]

@@AGBoost I believe so, could be some 18's too.

[@RushIndustries]

I have a late 2016 Mk7 S with Performance Package and Lighting Package. I wanted the plaid seats and I did not want a sunroof as I never use them and they are a weak point for leakage issues. The LSD in the Mk7 was a game changer coming from my 2013 Mk6, which had horrible torque steer shudder under hard acceleration.

[@Kmaitland89]

I just bought a 2021 GTI SE (It's a Mk 7.5 so the options are slightly different) with the moonroof, leather seats, bigger display and golf r breaks, and the LSD, with the Pretoria wheels in black. In SO glad I decided against the base model but, if I werent in as good of a financial situation I'd be completely fine with a base model.

[@raulvladddd]

This comes in so clutch as I'm currently shopping for a mk7 GTI in Europe. Looking ONLY at performance package as I've had a mk6 GTI before and I want the Diff and brakes upgrade, otherwise wouldn't be much different. I think that makes a huge difference, imo. Drove a stock 2018 manual one and it was something else over my stage 2 dsg mk6 in terms of handling, chassis, interior quality and feeling

[@BabyCharlotteschannel]

If you get winter weather then there is NOTHING that will help like the limited slip!!

[@raulvladddd]

@@BabyCharlotteschannel already bought a Seat Leon Cupra 280, which is a mk7 GTI clubsport equivalent or a FWD mk7 R. Really satisfied with the purchase

[@BabyCharlotteschannel]

@@raulvladddd oh i figured ya had gotten yours already.. i just got bit by the bug again and im searching everywhere within half a days drive for either a mazdaspeed 3/6, another gti(though i only owned mk2 8valve gti's!), Or even a wrx if i found a decent one..

[@HDynasty]

I got my ‘16 S for $13.8k with 60k on the odo. For a taller, slimmer guy, it’s perfect. The cloth does a little better job of keeping me in the seat, no sunroof gives me more headroom, and the standard heated seats are heaven-sent when you’re daily driving in Michigan

[@jameslaraia]

I have no room to talk, I got really lucky and found a mk6 golf R when I was looking at mk7 gti's. It was in great condition, and the fastest color, Tornado Red. I really love the creature comforts, and I'm a sucker for leather. So its a little older being a 2012, and a tuned mk7 gti can keep up pretty easy. But man, I wouldn't trade the AWD for anything. Haldex is the business. Once I tune it, I'll have more than I would ever need for around town etc, and It's pretty quick from a dig of course. That being said, I plan to upgrade the golf R brakes to larger Porsche brakes, because I would like even more stopping power. Thats probably my biggest complaint, if you could even call it that. Love the channel, and love watching what you do with the car! Subscribed.

[@JacesOwnWorld]

It depends on your car goals. 1. If you’re going to keep your car completely stock, then getting the Autobahn version might be best suited for you, as it gives a bump in power, handling, and braking. 2. If you plan on only doing minor performance upgrades, such as a tune, downpipe, and wheels, and leaving it at that, the a base model with PP will be the best for you, as it provides good brakes an an electronic LSD. 3. If you plan on uprgrading and upgrading, just because you love having a car that performs, and you want to send people to gapplebees, then buying the base model with no options is the best suited for you, because it’s the lightest and will give you the most bang for your buck. Since this car uses the same engine for all the Golf GTI versions, including the R, then best value is the base model, and upgrading from there. You can make a 500whp base model GTI for under the price of a stock Autobahn version, if you do it right.

[@glubibobi]

S is base model. Then in 2017 is the Sport which has PP and lighting package but cloth seats and no sun roof. Up from that is the SE which has PP, leather seats and the nice headlights and the Autobahn is at the top with all the bells and whistles.

[@TheNok610]

Bought my 20 GTI S knowing that I was going to mod it. I prefer the plaid seats, the auto climate control is something nice to have but not a deal breaker for me. I like the fact that 7.5's come standard with PP, the halogens are the worst and replacing them with LED bulbs was the first thing I did. Thought about replacing the headlights but preferred performance over form. Since last April, I've installed an FMIC, dp, upgraded rear sway bar, helix sub, full chassis reinforcement (nothing visible in the truck area type reinforcement). I have no regrets going with the S. I saved myself a few bucks so I can afford these mods.

[@pwdt4r313]

One thing I want you to know is the SE model was available for all years. The Sport was only available for 2017 and no sunroof or leather options. Any trim from 2017 and before can have the PP, it’s not subject to trim. You can get autobahn without PP and an S with it. Sunroofs come standard on all SE models 2018+ for sure but I think it was optional beforehand (not sure on that one)

[@Soloplayer08]

Got the 2018 SE brand new with 32 miles on it and never looked back. Super happy with this car

[@xButterz92x]

hows your sunroof?

[@Soloplayer08]

@@xButterz92x no issues actually. I’ve had the car for 2.5 years now and have 8k miles on it. I’ve heard a lot of people having leaking issues, but I haven’t so far. Lol. I also don’t really drive this car often and it’s always covered so I haven’t really used my sun roof that much. Side note: (I daily drive a Lexus IS250 that’s why i don’t have miles)

[@xButterz92x]

@@Soloplayer08 ahh gotcha. I also have an 18 SE with 36k miles. Mine doesn't leak but it does make a creaking sound. have to place something between the sunroof and the piece it like rests on so it doesn't make the sound.

[@Bawla187]

@@xButterz92x I have a 17' SE bought new 4 yrs ago, no leaks, rattles or noises.

[@pollo.888]

Porsche Macan Front Brembos are a straight swap with RS3/TTRS front hoses and MK6R rotors. Pad availability is wild with these. Slap a big rear sway and a wavetrac up front and handling will be insane.

[@jakeoshea2319]

I’ve got a 2017 Sport, no leather but it does have a partial electric seat, and it comes standard with the PP, has a push button start, black mirror caps and Nogaro wheels.

[@Whalub]

I have a 2017 base model GTI and my wife has a 2019 Rabbit so after driving both it does feel like the steering is very different and overall the car just feels better on the 2019. But I still love my base model and I’d never regret buying it

[@Alexfoleyphotos]

I've had my 2016 S for about 4 months or so now and honestly don't miss the bigger brakes with the PP, especially considering my commute is pretty lax. Solid car all around!

[@TheJhhj777]

I got the base model, and I’m happy with it. An LSD would be great, but once you learn how to deal with the under steer you can take the corners pretty fast.

[@xyw1895]

我是中国人，我的英文水平不是很好，但是我非常努力的看完了你所有关于mk 7.5的改造视频。我觉得很棒。虽然我听不懂说什么，但是看到你很认真的样子我愿意为你点赞。这条留言就是告诉你，继续加油！

[@DubbaDaveski]

I have the SE. Leather with no performance pack but has sunroof. Perfect amount of creature comfurts and tech for me.

[@eppyz]

Here is my prospective. It all depends on your mindset. If you want something luxurious and fancy then the higher trim models are the way to go but in my mind I'm a car guy and I think what is the best performance version of a car because that's just how I think and in the GTI the best performance version is the S model. Now this applies to the 7.5 I can't speak for earlier versions because I don't have an earlier version I had a Mark 6 but sold it a few years ago to a friend I had that car for 5 and 1/2 years was a great car and was not a base model but my current car is a mark 7.5 S. Now why I went with this version is quite simple one I wanted the plaid seats in my opinion a GTI is not a GTI without the plaid seats. Second most performance versions of cars that you can buy are lighter versions of The originals now if you look at it the base GTI is the lightest of all the gtis but yet has the same power and same braking power doesn't take a rocket science to figure that part out what that means. The only thing that I would have liked the base model to have were the upgraded headlamps I think for a car in this price point having refractor beam halogens is kind of low rent when you can get a Toyota Corolla with LEDs as standard 🤔 With that aside I think the base model with DSG is the best bang for the buck you have the lightest car with the same power the tires that you get on the base model are all seasons so they're not as grippy but you can always upgrade those when they wear out you're not going to have problems with the panoramic roof that tends to leak and adds weight and the stock sound system is fine and does everything you need it to do. That's just my 10 cents to each their own 👍😎

[@goodeffects1503]

I have the 2019 Rabbit. Awesome middle ground. Dodge the sunroof and high end radio but get everything else plus a cool color. LSD is a game changer and for a daily.

[@stevieraye69]

Well I feel like the old dawg here.. lol I've still got my 2010 mk6 base 2 door, and hell no regrets, the money I saved vs the absolute blast of driving... I've driven them all, and I still love mine. So I think the base checks all the boxes. I've owned it since new, 138,000 miles and still amazing.

[@bryanmartinez727]

I just purchased a GTI a little over a month ago 2016 SE and what was a deal maker for me is that it came with a APR stage 1 tune, nonetheless I strongly encourage that you get a base or s if u plan on modding currently wanting to add a catback exhaust 🤝luv the vids

[@brandonroebuck504]

Managed to snag a 2017 autobahn for just under 17k about 2 years ago with under 35k miles I would have loved the manual but the DSG has been nice since going stage 1 and the fender audio has been bangin Also the LSD and brakes are great Couldn’t be happier coming off an MDX through college and missing my old RSX from high school

[@BenOz22]

I have a 2019 S. Best bang for your buck because it has lsd and the golf r brakes. I wish I had a sunroof and the better led headlights. But no regrets, I love it

[@justincook6139]

The thing I don't like about the base model is the lack of lighting package. The upgraded headlights make a HUGE difference on the looks and with some tweaking with the OBDeleven it looks badass with only DRLs and fog lights on. On a different note the LSD can be turned way up with OBDeleven. I just did that change yesterday and now my FWD gti can oversteer

[@Wastegate13]

SE trim was available since 2015 when the mk7 debuted. Source: owned a 2015 SE from brand new.

[@tman9281]

Absolutely love the performance pack. I owned a mk6 gli before my mk7 GTI. The LSD in my GTI is very noticeable when driving aggressively. Love the content. Keep it up!

[@davidfroehlich4598]

I have a 2017 S Manual. The only thing I regret is not having the lighting package. Otherwise, the car is fantastic.

[@stealz9790]

My parents and I picked up a GTi S trim with 20k miles for 17k for me. If you want to get a steal keep looking guys! I already have a custom intake already and I love the GTi. Great first car.

[@michaelelliott3559]

I have a 2019 S With thr LSD and let me tell you it is amazing. I drive 40 miles one way to work (13,000 miles since december) it's a blast.

[@Slipperystick73]

Just picked up a 2016 ED40 here in Australia.. or clubsport in every other country… has everything plus more.. brilliant car .

[@mountainliger9434]

just needed to correct something you said. around 5:38 you said the SE started in 2017, however my 2015 gti was an SE trim level. i believe sport was the trim you were thinking of that was new in 2017 but i honestly dont remember that far back lol i got my mk7 gti when they first came out in 2014. but everything else you have said so far is accurate as far as i know. im loving seeing the stuff you're doing to this car its a super fun car to mod and drive.

[@YungSheerCold]

Ended up picking up a 15' Autobahn without knowing, just picked it up cause my local dealer had a red GTI. I didn't know there was an optional performance package on these cars before buying and I kind of wish I did beforehand. Took the car to several track events and the non-pp model just isn't enough at times. Ended up grabbing a pair of pp front calipers off the forums for $250 and a Wavetrac diff for $900. The new brakes and diff paired with my Titan7 wheels wrapped in PS4Ss makes the car a whole new beast whether I'm on stock or stage 2 power. IMO, the trims are all personal preference, but the performance package is a must if you're trying to do any HPDE events.

[@ggbabybabybaby]

Sport only available in 2017, also has no fog lights. Not all with performance package have red GTI logo. (Mine didnt). Autobahn also has DCC (Dynamic Chassis Control). May be available as an option for SE in certain years. Way to tell is the addition of the Comfort option in the driving modes.

[@SilentCanary]

I got a 2018 Golf TSI S with the help of a friend. My neighbor has a GTI SE and while I’m sure I’ll get roasted in the comments, I think I made the better choice. I love my car and just started upgrading it and with the help of my neighbor it’s been fun! I get to mod it how I want and I still have it for way under cost. It’s what I’d recommend for anyone looking. Once you get into the higher trims then that’s sort of preference and a bit more worth it. Lower trims tho? Not much of a difference.

[@ZigArrok55]

So a couple months ago now I bought a 2015 2 door S. No PP but I do have the Fender Audio sound system. Sounds great I love it. I DO wish I had the PP though for that diff.

[@Sandstorming99]

I own a 2015 SE w/o PP - $uper happy with my purchase, adding a wavetrac diff soon

[@josfern7968]

Just bought a SportWagen 2017, I think is base model with an OBDEleven dongle, amazing car!

[@louisparks1999]

I think it may be different in Australia, I have a 2014 mk7 GTi base model similar spec but it has an electronic handbrake and automatic climate control and this was the cheapest car for sale in Australia at the start of this year. Love the vids

[@doctaC07]

I'd say in more normal markets, hold out for a performance package/19+ model at all costs. But right now is just difficult, and I think GTI is better than no GTI personally. I grabbed a 2018 S with lower miles and warranty left over and love it.

[@KweisiDaniels]

If I’m correct, the SE all come with sunroofs and passive entry/push button start, but the S and the Sport do not option a sunroof

[@SeanJuan_]

Just got a 2016 SE and couldn’t be happier with it. Am admittedly feeling a little FOMO in regards to the LSD. I’m never going to track it though and with the driving I do I’ll probably never get to a point where I’d notice much difference. I have lowering springs and spacers on the way and might throw a cat back on it. After a heavily modified Subaru I’m very much enjoying the refinement in the SE. For a daily driver and the occasional road trip it’s exactly what I wanted and love how it drives. Thanks for all the informative videos!

[@goodmusic4063]

If you dont mind me asking how much did you get it for ? Found a 2015 SE for 18k 42k miles , 2017 S for 22k 31k miles.

[@SeanJuan_]

@@goodmusic4063 I paid 22k for it. Possibly could have found one cheaper but needed a car immediately.

[@jacktibbett7062]

If you haven’t already, you should see if you can get your hands on an Evo or Speed3/6, maybe a fiesta ST! I’m a GTI guy but I love all of your content man. I want a subie myself, your vids give me some pretty good ideas of what I could go for. It’d be really cool to see all of these popular comparisons reviewed after ownership. 2016 GTI SE with lighting and performance here

[@isaacteal]

I got an autobahn 2019 with 1400 miles on it earlier this year for the same price that the dealership was willing to work with me on a new 2021 base model. My one wish is that I didn’t have the Adaptive Cruise Control stuff/radar in the front emblem. The emblem is different as a result and the aftermarket are just a flat skin whereas in the base model the front emblem is like the rear emblem. If I had been able to get my preferred color in the 2021 I would have bought the base model. OH! One other thing. The sunroof is cool and I use it often BUT the cover for it is a screen mesh so there is no fully blocked off sunroof. I wish the screen was opaque. Outside of those things I love the car. I got the 6MT and it was a tough choice between that and the DSG. Upside to the MT is that my wife has no interest in learning manual so I am the only driver.

[@matthewharmon5518]

I have a 17 base model too like yours and I love it didn’t feel I need the lsd other than to just to say I have it. I don’t use the canyons much at all and my plans are to make it a drag monster. I feel I can always put an lsd in time which I will but im so happy with the car coming from a 15 1.8t Jetta.

[@desmondh7844]

I have a 2019 GTI S and for the 2019 year VW started offering more options standard so the perf package is standard now on all models. I got it for 24k and with the couple grand I saved I bought led headlights and replaced most of the items I was missing from the higher trim levels for cheaper minus things like the sunroof or software items.

[@somethingawesome9547]

I would take the bigger brakes. The ability to stop reliably, determined by brakes, tires, and even suspension, is crucial. Too many times here in LA I see people having to surprise-brake to prevent a car accident and the car just can't come to a stop or they lose control and the car loses stability and wants to spin out (the latter situation seems more due to budget tires and soft suspension). In either case, the driving trying to brake will wreck. That scenario also plays out in like half the clips in those car crash compilation videos. I always buy quality tires and I always service my brakes at a dealer. Do not compromise on stuff like this or you will regret it. Sacrifice leather or other options if you need to, but don't skimp on a performance feature if it doubles up as a safety feature.

[@somethingawesome9547]

By the way, I would not even call the 2022 Golf R a track car. It is NOT a track car. If you push the car hard at the track, your brakes will catch fire quickly. The brakes are not bad at all, but they are not truly track ready. Definitely perfect for spirited driving though.

[@bknoxx]

we have the exact same trim as you and color.. i went for the S because of the plaid seats!

[@andrewpacheco3541]

Brakes are sometimes an over rated thing, all you have to do is upgrade the lines to Steele, better brake pads then drilled slotted rotors, limited slip diff. depends how you treat the car, track yes spirited driving not really needed.

[@carsonvinole6906]

Hate to say that my autobahn is a down grade from the car I had before.. I had the mk5 r32. To this day I haven’t been in a better car than the R32. I love my mk7 to death but I’m speaking the truth

[@BadShadd1]

Cameron, I used to have a 2016 Autobahn with the 6 speed manual. I can tell you, even with the LSD it still understeered like crazy. Dunno how much difference it made as I have not driven a non LSD. It still blew the tires off in first gear even with the LSD as well. I have a 2018 STI base now.

[@josephdandy8521]

I’ve got a 2015 3 door SE and I LOVE IT! Also love the content bro! Keep up the good work.

[@mynameisnotcory]

Honestly i went for the fully loaded 1.8t golf over the base gti. SO gld i did. Is it faster? No. But theres some cool parts to keep it fun and ive got amazing speakers and seats

[@JacobFrey]

Important convenience fact for Mk7 GTIs - Android Auto and Apple Car Play were NOT available in 2015.

[@boriquais]

Got a 18 s poverty spec. One thing I hate on all the vw I have ever owned is the sunroof(they have all leaked). So I was happy with my s. Purchased some macan calipers for to “fix” the small brakes.

[@FastRedPonyCar]

Problem I'm facing is that I'm interested in a 7.5 GTI but want the Autobahn edition...which puts it within close enough price to a low mileage mk7.5 R that you may as well get the R... but the low mileage mk7.5 R's are the same price as brand new MK8 Autobahn GTI's...

[@Kingvvolf]

I have the a 2021 S which comes standard with the PP. No regrets!

[@zachvw5349]

I got a 2017 sport with cloth seats and no sun roof only did it for power package and lighting package

[@richardledesma1675]

Great video man, I don’t even own or plan to own a gti but if I did or know somebody who will I will recommend this video to them!

[@VoxVirtus86]

I personally think that if you're wanting to buy a performance car you should get as much car as you can afford. If you got the extra $1-3k then get the LSD, if you can't afford it then don't. If you're going to modify the car to any significant degree though you'll eventually regret not getting the LSD and wish that you had IMO. It's not necessary, but if getting the most for you money is important to you then get it. It was the same thing for me with my Focus ST. I bought an ST3 (full leather recaros, Sony stereo, CF trim etc... ) I would have gotten the exact same care for 5k less, but I feel like I got a lot of car and features for my money though and have no desire to change up like anything on the interior of my car.

[@BabyCharlotteschannel]

If ya get winter weather there is absolutely NOTHING that will help like the limited slip!!!

[@POTPaste]

Bought 2015 SE and only thing I regret is not getting a 2016 that has apple car play. Also leather seats are painful in the Las Vegas Summers.

[@cajunstrat]

I’m waiting for MK8s to finally come out. Dealerships are telling me 4th Quarter deliveries. I’m planning on selling my 2019 Golf R and getting the MK8 version. Wifey wants a GTI, so I’ll get her an MK8 Autobahn. After owning a Golf R for 2 years now, and the fact that I will be driving her GTI from time to time, I wanted something closer to Golf R level performances.

[@TheTfunk1999]

So im currently in a 17 wrx and debating if I want to jump over to a GTI. Biggest holdup right now is reliability vs my WRX. I just moved out to the city so the rex is becoming quite the hassle manual trans, max low on my coils, wheels are a little to big so rubbing and all that is getting accentuated. Its just becoming a hassle to drive but I cant get myself to undo the mods cuz thats realky what makes me love the car at the same time. I’m thinking i can get into a DSG gti, save some money in the initial transition for bags, and have the ultimate city daily. Im just worried that its going to be a headache to own. The wrx has given me one problem that wasnt my own fault so far and that was relatively simple.

[@Lewis_Treff97]

Here in the UK the choices are GTI or GTI Performance pack. Even a base model comes with the Xenon headlights, led tail lights and the climate control as standard