Is the 2018 VW Golf GTI Autobahn the BETTER option over a Golf R? - Raiti's Rides

The 2018 VW GTI sees a smattering of changes. Of most interest to enthusiasts will be the 10-hp bump that brings every GTI to 220 horsepower (on premium fuel) and the stronger brakes and limited-slip front differential that are standard on the upper-level SE and Autobahn models. The Autobahn also has standard adaptive dampers. Last year’s Sport model has been discontinued, and for 2018 its upgrades are available more widely across lineup: the GTI can now come in S, SE, or Autobahn trim. Every GTI now has standard LED daytime running lights and taillights, SE and Autobahn trims receive a full-LED headlight array, and every model has a larger infotainment screen compared with last year. Volkswagen has added more active safety technology, including pedestrian detection, and has made existing features standard outside the top trim level. Buyers who choose the entry-level S model will still have limited access to active safety tech. The 2018 GTI carries Volkswagen’s new, longer warranty, which offers six years or 72,000 miles of limited and powertrain coverage and is fully transferable to a subsequent owner.

[@deanmarr785]

VW fanboy here. Another great MK7 review Joe . I love my stage 2 GTI DSG. I wish I was in florida so we could trade cars for a week. lol

[@RaitisRides]

I would actually like to take you up on that offer if you were! Thank you so much for the compliments!

[@mavsman7449]

Awesome 👏, I was waiting for this review. Thinking about pulling the trigger on one of these for my work commute.

[@RaitisRides]

mavsman 7 it’s s really great car. Would you get a manual or DSG?

[@mavsman7449]

Raiti's Rides manual all the way! Looking into an SE trim, I feel like that’s the Gti’s sweet spot.

[@mavsman7449]

JDM A'F MK8 GTI is at least 2 years away.

[@RaitisRides]

Yeah I think that you are totally correct!

[@RaitisRides]

very true!

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

Hello from New Jersey. Excellent review. Keep up the good work.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks you so much for watching and for the compliments! I really appreciate your support!

[@ryanxtv3942]

Great video! I would still grab the GTI over the Golf R even if I had the extra cash! I just can't justify the price difference unless I'm taking it to the track haha

[@RaitisRides]

RyanXTV I totally can see where you are coming from! Thanks for watching!😊👍🏻

[@blackflagpirate3444]

Do love the GTI.My favourite GTI is the one from the late 80s.Nice touch with the red strip on the front,really breaks it up and gives it some contrast 🏁

[@RaitisRides]

Yeah they did a really great job with the front of the car!

[@amill1563]

I like this one a lot and now they have 6yr 72k warranty. VW will have an all new version out next year though.

[@RaitisRides]

This is true we will have to wait and see what happens!

[@padistedor]

I test drove the new GTI a few months ago. As a former early 90s VW nut I had to see what they are like now. The manual drives amazingly well. It feels very quick and nimble on the road, some of the best steering feel in any car at 30k. Only things I didn’t like was the shiny black fingerprint showing material all over the dashboard, the sun roof doesn’t have a hard sliding cover (its like a screen door so light always gets in like it or not), and the wheels are not my favorite design. Those are my nit-picks. I think its a car worth buying if you want a hot hatch. You won’t be disappointed.

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you for sharing your awesome personal experience!

[@YasumotoUS]

I had a similar experience as you when test driving the '18 MT. The clutch and shifter were very easy to use from the very first depression and shift. I wish that VW had retained the previous model year's interior surface as it was modern looking, but didn't need a daily microfiber cleaning.

[@NeloDiavolo]

Been waiting for Raiti's Rides to showcase this and I am glad to see it here. Only a few months before I grab a 2018 GTI SE\Autobahn or R. I test drove a manual SE and it was a great performer, but the R is tempting me as well. The protein bit at the end cracked me up! Doesn't matter what time of day it is, got to have your workout shakes lol. Speaking of which, time to hit the gym!

[@RaitisRides]

I'm glad you like this one! For me I would go all the way and get the Golf R. Have you driven the Golf R yet?

[@NeloDiavolo]

Unfortunately I have yet to drive an R. The samples around my area here in CA have 5 miles or less on them so I am not sure they would entertain a test drive. But I will give it a go once I start shopping around. I am looking to buy new for that 6 year 72K warranty. Once they realize I am not there to kick tires they may let me drive one, or maybe a used one on the lot. Right now I am looking to buy a manual even though the DSG is good from what I hear. The fast shifts of the 7 speed DSG sounds exciting, but the manual ways are hard to let go. All of my cars have been 5 speed transmissions. I just wish the R had a sunroof as the one in the GTI is great.

[@RaitisRides]

NeloDiavolo I’m sure that will let you drive a R if you are a serious buyer. I drove a DSG and the shifts are ultra fast. I always get worried about how much I will miss my manual if I go that route. It’s crazy how the R has a sunroof in Europe. What is that all about?

[@blazejbetkowski420]

Great review, very enthusiastic :) wish you had driven that car and compared it to rs, sti, s3, R and bmw 1/3 maybe. The most important points ale missing but still great to watch, All the best!

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you for the compliments! I drive to do more driving reviews but some dealerships are not on board with it. Stay tuned because I might be able to put together what you want!

[@kjchicago1]

My Friend Just Got Her A 2018(or 2019)VW Golf GTI Autobahn and she loves it!

[@RaitisRides]

Congrats! They really are very versatile cars!

[@Imlikethemoviesh]

I used to have a 2011 GTI and I absolutely love dthat car! But then at 60k miles it started having a million and one electrical problems that nobody could ever find and then suffered from massive carbon build up... Still a fun a shell car :D DAMN IT TOM! YOU ALWAYS SOULD HAVE PROTEIN!!! NO EXCUSES!!! YOURE LUCKY IT ISNT INTERNATIONAL CHEST DAYYY!

[@RaitisRides]

I have totally heard the same thing from other GTI owners! I wonder if the new ones are voided of these issues? Tom is working hard for his big power lifting competition. I'l make sure he keeps a good supply of protein! lmao

[@amill1563]

As an idea for a video, I am interested in how to heel toe. A short video on this in your garage would be great.

[@RaitisRides]

That is a great idea! I will try to put it together this weekend! I'm going to figure out a way to mount my Go Pro down there!

[@Jorge_Magallon]

In my opinion, for someone who doesn’t track etc, but does like canyon carving, in this hot hatch field the 2017-8 field is really great. Ultimately, I preferred the Fiesta ST. But I often have my family 4 with me even on fun drives,especially my 2 kids (with a a BMW X3 and a 2014 Mazda 6 stick). I would say that the Focus ST, RS, Type R , GTI are all great too. It’s a preference thing. I really don’t understand the Golf R. Drove it back to back with the autobahn, both in stick. GTI actually felt lighter on its feet and looked more special while a still understated. But again, I didn’t drive at the limit because it wasn’t like I was at a performance event. Maybe that’s where a Golf R would shine.

[@RaitisRides]

Really awesome feedback! Thank you so much for sharing your great perspective!

[@metaljew4456]

Joe, you are a funny dude. Check out our Florida sunset.....OK, Back to our FWD GTI. Yo, check it. ........I do like this car but you know what comes as a no extra charge option? Questionable reliability. That special German touch. What is your feeling about this? My ST3 Focus has been bulletproof throughout 70K miles and counting. Can I expect that from this German car?

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you picked up on my jokes! That was one hell of a sunset though! lol . I am totally agreeing with what you are saying! It is one of the main reasons why I bought the RS over the Golf R. I guess they are hoping that people will feel secure with that kind of standard bumper to bumper warranty!

[@vr6gls]

Philip Rosenthale That’s funny because the Focus RS has had more issues than the Golf R. The MK7 is an almost bulletproof platform.

[@westendmotel1989]

The GTI Interior and VWs approach in general with interior are always orders of magnitude better in fit and finish over other competing brands. And when you drive a car often -that with the handling are the most important aspects for enjoying a car.

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very right about that!

[@westendmotel1989]

@@RaitisRides A good barometer for fit and finish is the sound shutting the car door makes -is it tight, compressive and have low end like the frame and door were made perfectly for each other? for whatever reason German and Italian cars always have this subtle detail -Aside form VWs, have a 70s BMW who's door closing sounds better than most new US and Asian cars.

[@johnwjeromejr]

You didn't answer your own question (in the title).

[@RaitisRides]

My questions are always there for your the viewer to decide. In the end if you are looking at any of these cars it is your wallet not mine that is making the purchase.

[@johnwjeromejr]

With the GTI Audubon version costing nearly as much as a base Golf R, I was curious to find out if you would find any advantage of the GTI over the Golf R, despite the R's all wheel drive and 72 additional HP. BTW, I have a Mk 7 Golf R and wouldn't consider the Audubon because it doesn't come close to competing with the R for the price.

[@RaitisRides]

johnwjeromejr the only think that would be advantageous is the GTI is a little lighter. I personally would go with a Golf R. Thanks for your perspective I appreciate it.

[@incognitoguitars9999]

Great car. Came very close to getting one before deciding on my GolfR

[@RaitisRides]

I can totally understand why!

[@incognitoguitars9999]

Absolutely love my new 18 Golf R. Can’t be beat!

[@RaitisRides]

That is an awesome car! I am so excited for you!

[@ralphsmallblock4367]

Definitely my favourite hot hatch gti understated but packing punch and it being a german car makes them a solid riding beast

[@RaitisRides]

Very well said!

[@liberty0758]

Joe, have you ever heard about Worthersee GTI festival in Austria? Used to be just VAG group gathering, but for a few years now people bring everything, even supercars. Check it out if you haven't already.

[@RaitisRides]

No I have never heard that event! I am going to check it out. It sounds pretty amazing!

[@liberty0758]

It sure is. Tons of tuned, stanced and wide bodied cars.

[@RaitisRides]

Oh wow that sounds great!

[@cristhosanchez5050]

Love your vids!!

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you for taking the time to say that it means so much!

[@estebanmoreno9971]

Pulled a trigger on one with 9k miles super happy with it so far !

[@adamrandell7946]

I'm happy with my GTI luxury sports pack, my biggest gripe is the leather. It's really hard and over a long period of driving it sends your ass and legs to sleep, I do like the DSG it's a cool addition. Thanks the another great video Joe, Cheers!

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you sir for always watching and commenting! I am so happy to hear that you are happy with your Golf GTI!

[@petercarey6883]

Another great review Joe. When it came to the shifter knob I thought, okay, prime area for a Freudian slip. "I love the Goof Ball shifter knob." lol You're always saying how you get requests for certain cars to review. Well, here's one from me. Have you been watching the weather for up here in the Northeast? No? Let me just say I had frogs climbing my sliding deck door (literally) trying to get in, ducks have moved into my dog houses, the Canadian Geese are "honking" looking to get into my garage and I have a prize winning lawn of mushrooms interspersed with Lily Pads. (It's a myth that frogs like to basque on Lily Pads, they now prefer sliding doors ten feet about the water level.) So, I'm selling the Vette and looking for an Amphicar. How about an in depth review of same before they're all bought!? Believe it or not, in restored condition they are very, very expensive and thanks to my area becoming NJ's first Rain Forrest, prices have doubled. So please find an Amphicar to review and make it soon before I have to be airlifted outta here. Otherwise you're going to have to start reviewing boats, BIG boats!

[@RaitisRides]

Are you a writer by trade? The way you paint such a great picture with your words is amazing! Whats cool is I know exactly what an Amphicar is! My father would always make it a point to explain to me what is was every time we saw one at a car show!

[@dannypitassy]

Tom is always looking for that next protein high. It's so cool that Lori is so supportive when you're just acting like a kid in a candy store. Don't worry about those keyboard jockeys. They don't have anyone to love them at home. Hahaaaaaaa!

[@RaitisRides]

You crack me up man! Oh trust me I know there are always going to be haters. While they are typing I am doing! Thanks for having my back!

[@Tonyromeo1970]

Thanks for the info on the new Golf R coming LOL . The one problem with this car is the price. The Autobahn package brings the GTI to I think 37K . IMO for that price you should just get the R. If it was priced at 32K I think it would sell. Thanks for the video

[@RaitisRides]

I think these can be bought for less then $37k, where you might have a harder time first finding a R and then getting it for way below MSRP.

[@Tonyromeo1970]

If it can be bought for less then its a nice buy for sure.

[@RaitisRides]

DJ Tony Romeo totally agree!👍🏻. You just have to know how to work the magic.😊🏆🍀

[@YasumotoUS]

Confirming that dealers are listing the Autobahn around the $33k price point in the Philadelphia market with the transmission and seating upholstery choices impacting final pricing. I wouldn't pay any more than that for such a small, economy car based, FWD vehicle. That's not knocking the GTI, mind you.

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you on this one!

[@DanDiMaggio]

Would be interested in your thoughts on a Golf R if you can get your hands on one. Great video as always!

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you so much for saying that!

[@RaitisRides]

Ask and you shall receive: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmjMipuiZqxqbKs

[@kgthegreatone943]

Nice review!

[@RaitisRides]

I really appreciate you saying that! Thank you so much for always commenting!

[@kgthegreatone943]

Raiti's Rides no problem i try not to miss a review

[@RaitisRides]

You do one hell of a job!

[@kgthegreatone943]

Raiti's Rides dido

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks man!

[@alexitoe30]

I subscribe. Like your videos as i mentioned in other vids. Coming from an e30 an e36 m3 and e34. Bmw to a coralla IM. Im stock between this and the gli whats your suggestion? Is this a 2019 or 2018 i see no difference

[@A.ChristopherJohnson]

Right on Joe, Autobahn or Golf R for you brother, Which on my dude ?

[@RaitisRides]

I am going to spend a little more and get the Golf R.

[@brandonwright2067]

I’ve always loved the GTI but their highly unreliable their k03 and k04 turbos always went bad Electrical issues trans issues. Another great video my only gripe is anyways isn’t a word it’s considered slang or lazy English.

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you for the compliments! I will try to watch the use of my words. I appreciate you pointing that out. We will see if the longer warranty help ease people's minds! Thank you for your great input!

[@brandonwright2067]

Raiti's Rides I’m a teacher and I watch these on my break, I’m so sorry. you are amazing and deserve your own show keep up the good work god bless brotha.

[@RaitisRides]

Wow, I am a teacher as well! What do you teach? I appreciate your input!

[@brandonwright2067]

Raiti's Rides kindergarten here in far west Az I was teaching special ed.

[@RaitisRides]

I taught high school for 17 years now I am teaching middle school. I started off in special ed for three years! Thank you so much for being part of the community on here!

[@ralphsmallblock4367]

I also admired the sky it was beautiful and manual transmission. Don’t think I didn’t noticed.(A line from dazed and confused) coach scene

[@RaitisRides]

I was hoping someone would notice that! I remember when Dazed and Confused first came out! Does this mean I'm getting old?

[@ralphsmallblock4367]

Raiti's Rides Unfortunately as I am old 😅 Age is only a number and I like to think that like wine it gets better with age😂

[@RaitisRides]

I like that! Well after teaching today, hitting the gym, and cutting the grass my body is feeling it. You are right though I really do believe age is just a number and it all about the proper mindset. My lower back though....lol

[@ralphsmallblock4367]

Raiti's Rides We are not perfect but we try and that’s all we can ask for Take care.

[@RaitisRides]

Ralph Smallblock very true! You take care as well!😎

[@michaellui74]

Great video:-):-):-):-) so much better Looking than 2020 golf with fake exhaust

[@Hot-1LE]

you finger fkd the hell out of that car man

[@RaitisRides]

Big FING Box that’s the first time I’ve ever heard that’s. Thank you for your input!👍🏻

[@markg1531]

The GTI is made in Mexico, the R in Germany. That closes the case for me.

[@RaitisRides]

That is an excellent point that you bring up!

[@TheNORegretShow]

Yeah i would rock that

[@RaitisRides]

I'm so glad that you like this one!

[@TheNORegretShow]

Raiti's Rides German my friend nothing hugs the road like a German car not the best reliability but it wouldn't be German if it didn't have check engine lights and Christmas tree dashboard right lol.

[@RaitisRides]

You bring up some good points! The Christmas tree statement is classic.

[@linchester8464]

I not a VW guy but if i were to pick a Golf GTi, it will prob be the Mk5 or the Mk7 the VW diesel emission gate have def put a huge dent on the VW brand and the scandal is ongoing with Ex-CEO Winterkorn being indicted on fraud and conspiracy charges in the USA. Last year, VW agrees to plead guilty to the emissions scandal and to pay $4.3 billion in penalties.( Big ouch) Six VW executives were charged. Not only all the VW cars have to be retested, it affect other car makers and now stricter emission tests are in place. Diesel powered cars are being dropped in many car lineups. I def hear horror stories of the VW engine failing after some high mileage. The DSG failure from what i have heard are mostly the 7 speed DSG dry clutch units The new dry clutch assembly in the DSG DQ200 is much more akin to a regular manual transmission clutch than the previous DQ250 wet clutch. The control module for the transmission will attempt to adapt and compensate for clutch wear over time, however it will eventually reach a point where the clutch is simply too worn to function properly. When this happens, the most common symptoms one may experience are slipping in gears and “failsafe” mode. Slipping will often manifest as the the engine revving higher than it should. In extreme cases, it may not be possible drive at all. Failsafe mode-also known as “default” and “limp” mode-will limit the transmission to a single gear only (often third gear), as well as give some kind of indication on the dashboard. This indicator can come in different forms depending on the vehicle, such as a flashing “PRNDS” display, displaying “Transmission Failsafe”. The other failure is the Electro-Hydraulic Control Unit Failure This is the separate hydraulic system mentioned above. It contains all the mechanics necessary for controlling the shift forks that engage the gears themselves, as well as the computer does all the “thinking” for the gearbox. It is located on the side of the transmission-which is towards the front of the vehicle when fitted-and is a self-contained unit, meaning it can be removed entirely and replaced without having to dismantle any part of it. The mechatronic can be replaced within the module itself, however this is an involved task and requires manufacturer-specific diagnostic capabilities. If the electronic component fails, unfortunately, it can manifest in a number of ways as it is responsible for all the actions that take place in the transmission during use. Failsafe will be the most likely outward symptom, but some diagnostic hardware will be required to get any more information as to why. An easier to diagnose fault is a relatively common problem with the pump inside of the hydraulic control unit. This fault will often result in little or no drive, failsafe mode, and quite often the unit will spit hydraulic fluid out of the breather on top. This fluid is distinctive from regular transmission fluid due to the fact that it is green. The main fault code associated with this problem references “Pump Play Protection”. Fortunately, this problem can be repaired by a specialist, or the entire unit can be replaced entirely. It would need to be the whole unit, however, as the fault involves more than just the electronic component. The other horror story is the length of the repairs for the faulty DSG. I heard from other VW owners that their cars will be stuck at the workshop for weeks until the new DSG gearbox is shipped from Germany to Singapore. And with only a few mechanic working on the cars. The waiting time to get things fixed is excruciating and you are out of car to drive for 1 month or longer.

[@RaitisRides]

Lin Chester your info contribution is second to none! Thank you so much for sharing. I know there are perspective buyers out there who will see this and will be able to make an educated decision! Thank you sir! 😊🏆👍🏻

[@klubstompers]

Yea, like buy a manual.

[@LizzyC-nf1sv]

So better stick with a manual transmission then.

[@Jameshhl]

It's really only 2 choices, buy the R or the lower trim GTI. Autobahn GTI is $36k, R is $40k, no brainer there to just get the R.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for your input and perspective! I really appreciate you watching!

[@alphazoomii9408]

Twisty roads in Florida.... :(

[@maverickmason4946]

alphazoom II there are twisty roads where I'm at in Florida, plenty of twistiness

[@alphazoomii9408]

Where are you in Florida? I'm near Palm Beach Gardens....

[@maverickmason4946]

alphazoom II Polk county.

[@RaitisRides]

Even though you may have a few over there it is nothing like say for example the NC/TN area. Now that is twisty road heaven.

[@davisz2465]

Here in my county people who love volkswagen are called 'vagetos'... Really I don't like so much but this is the once than I buy it grettings

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you so much for sharing that! What country do you live in?

[@ralphsmallblock4367]

Davis Z I understood what you said like wise.

[@RaitisRides]

Samer here! :-)

[@RaitisRides]

that is hilarious!

[@jwake4803]

I found the perfect car Joe. It's the 17 STI. You can review mine, but you can't buy it 😁

[@RaitisRides]

J Wake I’m so happy you are happy with your STI. Where are you located?

[@andersonrodriguez8258]

The standard transmission is the way to go to save u thousand of dollars in repairs

[@RaitisRides]

That's always my transmission of choice. Although the DSG is a quick shifting gearbox.

[@RaitisRides]

I'm curious to as well.

[@andersonrodriguez8258]

Raiti's Rides the way to go is to get a Toyota Prius

[@RaitisRides]

Don't say that name. lol

[@LoveLikeaHurricane]

I rather get the type R over the GTI I noticed that Americans who ride in my car look so cramped in the mk5 Gti that I’ve been driving around. In addition, the traction control/electronics make this car less desirable. My Mk5 can fully defeat traction control. Awaiting the TCR Gti, hopefully it’s as good as seat Leon Cupra R

[@RaitisRides]

I think there are many that would do the same thing. I can't wait to see the next generation of the Golf GTi! Hopefully we get that TCR GTI in the USA, but I am not holding my breath!

[@deanmarr785]

stage 1 tune and the GTI will smoke the type R.

[@revmatchproductions]

dean marriott especially with the dsg, it would leave the civic for sure, but the type R is the better driving/ handling car. Also has one of the best 6 speed transmissions ever

[@deanmarr785]

Good point I've driven both cars and the turn in on the type r is awesome. However in every other way my stage 2 DSG GTI is a better and much faster car.

[@LoveLikeaHurricane]

dean marriott actually the type R stock has been placing top times in auto x events as well as circuits in HPDE. I have yet to see a tuned GTI do that.

[@LukeMtech55]

I like your videos but no test drives😳

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you so much for taking the time time to watch and comment. I do not get the opportunity to drive all the cars but there are some that I do: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l6WyfZuIabOdY6s I will try to get more in!

[@TheCarCrazyGuy]

I skipped the GTI and went straight for the Golf R

[@RaitisRides]

Nicely done! How do you like it?

[@TheCarCrazyGuy]

It's a fantastic car. My latest one is a 2018. I did own a 2016 previously and sold it to get my C7 Z06. Both were DSG's. Love the digital dash on the MK7.5.

[@kylieg609]

I’m Kylie you are my teacher

[@RaitisRides]

What's up Kyle?

[@kylieg609]

Hey

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for posting in here!

[@loubonnett]

Didn't even drive it.

[@RaitisRides]

Not this time.

[@kylieg609]

Can you please shout me out

[@RaitisRides]

Stay tuned and I'll see what I can do!