Is the VW Golf R a BETTER automatic transmission AWD car than a 2025 Toyota GR Corolla?

[@AlonzoH20]

TO THE DOOR PANEL!! My favourite raitis ride slogan

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Alonzo

[@Jay-sn7wu]

@@AlonzoH20 same

[@XXXBIGFISH57XXX]

With the point

[@EricInTampaAcoustic]

🔥🔥🔥one of the best “to the door panels” proclamation yet. The way Joe’s finger pointed .. so much snap, precision, and compassion

[@sedonamudsquid]

Joe I honestly don't know how Lori keeps a straight face and holds the camera steady when you let loose one of your subtle zingers! BTW I love this Golf R!

[@christianclaudio1838]

It’s a perfect car. Good daily drive car, plenty of space for a hothatch, really good power and what I love the most, it doesn’t scream look at me I’m sporty. Great job as always Raiti’s 👍🏼👍🏼

[@doctorrobert60]

Joe, I have 2023 Golf R in Lapiz Blue with 6 speed manual. I know the DSG is faster but enjoy doing the shifting with the manual. For the touch screen and gloss black everywhere I keep a microfiber towel in my center console and wipe down the smudges but wish there were knobs for climate control and audio as before. However once you get things set up you learn how to do things more effectively. Thanks for all the great videos you produce for all of us to enjoy.

[@archiebunker3654]

I've liked the R since 2002 but have never pulled the trigger on one. That ends next year in 2025 for the Mk 8.5. That's the one I'm getting. I've researched all of the "competitors", and I think the R is just the best bang for the buck on the market right now for a turbo, awd hatch. Maybe the Black Edition, in blue.

[@mickeybrumfield764]

I like this car. It looks really good in that color with the silver wheels. I think it would enhance the sportyness if the top was painted black. For me, it's no contest I would take it over the GR Corolla.

[@richardmichael59]

That gloss black on the front is a zonk. Without PPF it’s going to wear and craze.

[@JCTiggs1]

My previous car was a 2019 Mustang GT PP (10R80). I waited 18 months for my 2024 Golf R and it was definitely worth it. Launch control is awesome, steering feel and responsiveness are incredible, and AWD performance in any weather condition is amazing. And if you want even more power a simple stage 1 tune (034 Motorsport) bumps it up to 427 hp/402 lb-ft on 93 octane. For those wondering about the stock performance, here are the test results from Car and Driver: Curb Weight: 3360 lbs Braking, 70-0 mph: 151 ft Braking, 100-0 mph: 304 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.99 g Top Speed: 155 mph (limiter) DSG Transmission: 315 hp, 310 lb-ft 0-60 mph: 3.9 seconds 0-100 mph: 10.0 seconds 0-130 mph: 18.4 seconds 0-150 mph: 29.8 seconds 1/4 Mile: 12.5 sec @ 111 mph Manual Transmission: 315 hp, 280 lb-ft 0-60 mph: 4.9 seconds 0-100 mph: 11.4 seconds 0-130 mph: 20.4 seconds 0-150 mph: 32.3 seconds 1/4 Mile: 13.4 sec @ 106 mph

[@JCTiggs1]

@@joyceofdriving4954 The WRX is a great choice too if you're looking to save some money! It was one of the cars I cross shopped but in the end I personally feel the R is worth the extra cash. In my region they seem to hold their value much better than the WRX too. As far as driving in the snow, yes I went out a few times in heavy snowfall last winter and it was great. Even went up a steep hill with a foot of snow that hadn't been plowed yet. Make sure you get a good set of winter tires of course. The only limitation will be the front end ground clearance. If you're going in deep snow make sure its fluffy and not completely frozen or you may damage the lower front facia. I believe the WRX has a bit higher ground clearance than the R.

[@davothegreat9990]

Mustang gt is the better car. Looks better. Sounds better. Faster on a roll. Naturally aspirated. Perfect package.

[@JCTiggs1]

@@davothegreat9990 I've had numerous Mustang's over the years and still miss it, mostly for the points you made. Plus there's that rawness to it, and can easily get squirrelly in the backend when pushed hard. Fun fun. The steering feel/response, car weight/size (500lbs heavier vs R) are the biggest negatives of the Mustang for me. I may go back to the stang at some point, I do like the new S650. The R is almost too 'refined', endless grip, just point and go, no drama, but it really moves. Around town the R is definitely the faster car from my own experience and vs a friends 18 GT PP, especially in cooler weather and also damp/rainy conditions. I generally do around 80% city driving so it's the perfect combo for me, plus the usable back seats, hatch, awd and fuel economy. If I decide to keep the R for a few years I may go to a stage 1 tune. As for a performance vs my previous 19 GT PP, the R is quicker from a launch and a low speed roll, in ALL driving conditions, but by 105 mph the GT will start to pull away (DSG vs 10R80). Luckily I don't spend much time on the highway at those speeds, way too many police in my area for that 🤓

[@davothegreat9990]

@JCTiggs1 golf r are not very reliable past 70,000 miles. They have alot of electric wiring issues. I've known 3 people I work with that traded their r in due to these issues. Now I hear the mk8 are having the same electric issues again..

[@JCTiggs1]

@@davothegreat9990 Hmmm, what electrical issues have you heard about? Haven't read anything being a major issue on the MK8 forums but then again most people don't have 70, 000 miles yet. I put very little mileage on my vehicles so hopefully mine continues to be reliable in the future.

[@JCTiggs1]

Hey Joe, the DSG 1\4 mile is 12.5s at 111 mph. The manual is 13.6s at 106 mph (C&D test). 🙂 Awesome review, keep up the great work!

[@Digiphex]

Love the Golf R. Practicality with exciting driving.

[@RaitisRides]

You are so right about that

[@Hot-1LE]

Got one of these as a turo. I loved it but that sunroof felt actually has a purpose. You can open the sunroof and not get sun in your eyes but also get the air. Performance wise it spanked. Love these cars

[@benedict6027]

Love the consistent uploads. Much respect Mr. Raiti

[@tomdrummy4984]

Seems like a fun little car to drive……..love that color ! I prefer the look of this to the Gr Corolla

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing your honest thoughts on this Golf R Tom.

[@ballathug8404]

In Canada, Gr corolla is $60k (44 usd), and a golf r is less at $52k

[@GuestEngine]

🇨🇦

[@nobleman-swerve]

Golf R in Canada is borderline deal of the century for how it's priced for what you get.

[@Crazychrissy4]

@@nobleman-swervecorrect, I noticed the price differential and it made zero sense. 47k usd with exchange should have been near $60k. I waited 1-1/2 years and actually got mine with a 1 k discount 😂

[@JCTiggs1]

Yeah, mine was $55K CAD MSRP last year, at MSRP, but that was fully loaded with DSG, sunroof, carbon fiber pkg, and some all weather mats front/back and trunk. Still an amazing deal imo. A little known fact is that the MK8 R in Germany after conversion costs $80K CAD. 😮

[@plutodestroyer12]

good lord

[@johnwjeromejr]

I've had my 2016 Golf R (manual) for nearly 9 years and it is still badass with the APR Stage 2 tune. Some of the weatherstripping is cracking and the clear coat on the spoiler has seen better days, but the rest of the paint is still good (thanks to frequent waxing). It will be making a trip to the body shop to correct the issues, but at only 65000 miles, it has a lot of life left in it as it runs like new and never ceases to surprise me or my daughter when she rides with me. BTW, Raidi's Rides reviewed this very car 7 years ago - the review still resides in his library of reviews.

[@JCTiggs1]

What are the power specs with the APR stage 2 tune? I was looking at a stage 1 through 034Motorsports and it bumps power to 427 hp, 402 lb-ft at 93 octane (MK8, DSG).

[@liangfu1109]

I got the 2016 DSG, had it for little over 9 years. Replaced a water pump, and 3 batteries. rubber around the front triangle windows melted. Absolutely gorgeous car. Ready to order 8.5R.

[@CharvisFouse]

I agreed, painting that entire roof black would have been a great idea.

[@mattgreen753]

I'm loving the silver wheels and mirrors with the blue paint. I agree flared fenders would look amazing. I had a 2011 GTI Autobahn and it was fun to drive with the manual transmission - can't believe they're getting rid of manual for 2025. The blue accent lighting is super cool as well. They need to get rid of the touch buttons and bring back physical buttons and knobs!

[@famasmaster2000]

Solid car and a great review .....i have a soft spot for vw as i have owned a few. Cars are built right for sure ! Excellent work Steven on the camera ! Great job fellas 👏

[@Bread_n_Butter.]

You guys are here for the door panels. I'm here for the twinkie storage!!

[@G82Watts]

Golf has always had such an iconic design.

[@dominickirkwood]

Joe and Lori and Steve keep up the good work real true and I love the video 👍

[@davidp2888]

Thank heaven the wheels aren't black. lol Thanks for the great ride, Joe!

[@RaitisRides]

I’m glad I could share this one with you David

[@liangfu1109]

Should check out the black edition one.

[@justwingingit1]

Good Afternoon Joe! Even having owned an FK8,there’s still something about driving a performance car that is smaller/toss-able. I wish Audi sold the RS3 hot hatch here as well as the sedan version but since they don’t, a Golf R/GR Corolla are the alternatives. Reliability issues with a few Toyota models as of late has made me leary of them. I understand that Audi has a questionable track record in that department but the performance/audio soundtrack of it’s 5 cylinder(1/2 a Lamborghini 10cyl) just like a siren beckoning me to crash my performance car upon the rocks of unreliability!😂

[@DominionAnako-bb7ry]

The design looks great

[@FRL2000]

Holding on to my '16 mk7 for no good reason now that I only drive it once a week. It just puts a smile on my face every time. The R is a great driver's car with plenty of comfort and practicality if you don't need more than 4 seats.

[@Browner0707]

That Eco tip when you pressed the gas killed me 😂

[@tonyn3227]

These car prices for these type cars are out of control

[@sabrinaortega3983]

Have a manual 6 speed 2017 GTI that I absolutely loved and still have, I couldn't miss out on the last Gen Of manuals and got the 2024 AWD Golf R manual 6 speed I couldn't have made a better purchase this year for another daily car, can't change my mind!

[@GethinJames]

No handle to pull the rear Hatch down is a shame. The hard plastic rear door cards suck. Would love to see an aftermarket upgrade option on that. Great daily city car there! I have a 2025 on order.

[@steveo8015]

Other manufacturers could learn a thing or two from VW about styling a car tastefully as opposed to gaudy creases, fake vents and the over done flamboyance that screams "look at me!" The basic shape of the Golf has evolved for almost 50 years, whereas the typical treatment/design protocol is to overhaul and reconfigure... more so to create interest and get a sales bump with each successive generation, not necessarily to make the car better. This is what a hatch looks like: classic, refined, and functional with that unmistakable, cohesive shape that is instantly recognizable and still fairly compact.

[@GOD999MODE]

Love this car, but I refuse to pay more than $40k for a fully loaded trim.

[@RaitisRides]

I feel your pain

[@drnick40]

Hard to swallow the near $50k pill..

[@ArcadianGenesis]

You've been priced out of Golfs for like 10 years, then.

[@lexburen5932]

damn are you poor. 40k for this drive train is a good price. you really pay for the drive train

[@MichaelSwanson-j9l]

A GTI won’t run you $40K, and it’s just as fun in real life driving.

[@XMG3]

you don't have to hold your balls in your hand lol, love it !

[@stevennaumovski6734]

That is really nice. Great power. Its quick and smooth as you say. Very nice. But the prices keep going up. I thinks its getting out of hand. Great demo Joe and great canera work, I applaud the camera person 😊

[@andylab55]

Fog lights would have been a nice addition

[@JohnRaisbeck]

Nice review. It has rev matching for downshifting! That’s a great feature going through the twistie bits in the snow where this car really shines!

[@BroVCam]

Awesome Raiti, but I gotta semi-counter you Brother! Don't get me wrong, I love this car! And the 'hothatch' is the ultimate practical functional while still fun vehicle to persuade your lady to let you buy! But as far as best in this genre lies the Audi RS3 Sportback; which insanely we don't get here in the U.S.! And it's the matured bigger sibling to this! But thanks again! ✌🏽❤️✊🏽👍🏽 Oh, and search the Nissan Pulsar NISMO! Which Nissan crazily never made! 😂

[@martintokinaga5261]

These 2 cars are exactly what I have in mind. I will be waiting for the Golf R 8.5 with some buttons plus the GR Corolla with 8 Speed. They both will cost around 72k AUD. My current bias is on the Golf R as I have not tried a VW before except my first car which was a first generation Golf many many years ago. I am also thinking about the WRX but it seems it is not as high tune as these 2 cars.

[@PatrickHenry-t1s]

Mazda hatch 2.5S is better but its personal preference

[@andymcpherson4896]

My 2015 GTI has hydraulic hood struts, a spare tire and real buttons. It really seems like so many manufacturers are continuing to cheapen their products by doing away with some of the good things that were once standard.

[@merpasakiejingu]

I refuse to buy a Mk8 or higher until they bring back real buttons. I'll stick with the sub 2019 GTIs or Rs or go over to Audi before I go fully haptic.

[@LoveLikeaHurricane]

lol back in 2007, My GTI base model came standard with HID headlights, Full size spare, Full Traction control off, Launch control (without having to go into any menus), and it was before the more unreliable timing chain engine. Only issue was the replacement of cam followers every 15k or so. Bought that car for $23k brand new off the lot. Those who say 50k is not expensive must be a young kid who never was able to drive cars that were much better, at a much better price.

[@Theonestrongbusleader]

Yes of course Joe & I buy this car someday.

[@lynnkanable7023]

Sick of all the black wheels, so glad when that trend passes.

[@TomSmithII-g3l]

Smoke check. I like to go out at lunch and have a smoke check.

[@alengreen589]

I would go for the 2024 Audi S3 or 2024 BMW 135 M Sport because it cost the same in Germany and you have the premium touch inside and the luxury brand on it.

[@bostonezos360]

If VW sell R Tiguan or Touareg in the states, it will be awesome.

[@JulezWinnfield]

I still remember the first Joe Raiti video I ever watched. It was a similar colored Golf R, filmed at a country club if I'm not mistaken.

[@dneault333]

Given VW doesn't void your warranty for driving over 85 mph, the question seems moot ?

[@RaitisRides]

I see what you did there!

[@BrakRulesAll]

BOOM (goes the Toyota)

[@GethinJames]

Lol omg. Hold your balls in your hand? Tire woods balls? Hahahah! Jeeze

[@LuisGutierrez-pe9xx]

Totally would buy this !!!just a few upgrades wheels coilovers and engine upgrades piping nothing to crazy keep it reliable!!!

[@layne4376]

In this configuration it is quicker than it has any right to be. Stage 1 and you are almost into the 11's.

[@RaitisRides]

That is so true Layne

[@pedropllana5603]

What does the 11s mean ?

[@RaitisRides]

@@pedropllana560311 seconds in the 1/4 mile

[@cmdebate]

They're asking way too much money for these compact cars. Absolute insanity.

[@theredsalmon612]

I would certainly take this over a GR Corolla

[@ericcarson342]

Too much gloss black on wheels. Like the silver wheels better. Wish VW would have more bulging fenders, or at least Brembo calipers like the Type R or STi. Or at the VERY least offer more colors. Only 3 VW?! I would be asking way too much if they would offer the Spektrum program again. I am a big brake kit guy. I love the way big calipers look thru the wheels. The Golf R is made for the DSG. The Type R, manual.

[@marvinmurakami8828]

I'd take this over the GR Corolla. Its much better looking and that blue color looks fantastic. The silver sideview mirrors doesn't look right and should've been painted blue as well. Moderate fender bulges would make this car look twice as good.

[@artk8445]

Got mine wrapped in gloss black. Cheapest route.

[@mxtv1258]

This is a car I am considering. The 2025 Golf R and the 2025 C8 are possible too.

[@anthonyrodriguezjr.8728]

Worth every penny

[@whocares3252]

Loved running the stop sign @ 19:38 lol

[@richki.24]

nice looking VW Joe ... color looks awesome ...

[@psingone]

Love this color family they have continue sine MKIV with this Lapez Blue. R32 in MKIV was not a traditional V6 though it was I6. One piece head and block with each cylinder offset in 15 degrees at rods. Keep up the awesome comparisons.

[@wr2630]

For me I will go for the Golf R

[@chinaistheman]

Once you hit a pot hole with no spare tire you are screwed

[@xiondFirst]

Yeah I'd replace these tires after they wear out around 12k Miles.

[@aaronbaird9444]

$50k? Get out of here

[@fast2ghl]

Gotta pay for good stuff. ;)

[@darinevans7011]

Worth it

[@walukab14]

Nothing is cheap anymore 50k is the new normal people get stuck in the 80’s car prices now a days. You’re 20k is long time gone

[@JEdmund81]

If I were in a position to by a Golf R, I'd absolutely wait for the 2025 model. I drive a 2019 GTI now and I can see myself looking seriously at an R in a few more years.

[@DarkJediChrisG-1425]

Hey Joe, I heard VW had a lot coming up soon, ID Buzz, arriving this Thanksgiving. They're refreshing 2025 Taos, like the Jetta, and coming out with next generation 2026 Atlas, Tiguan, and ID 4 apparently.

[@RaitisRides]

You are correct Chris

[@DarkJediChrisG-1425]

​@RaitisRides And the blue color is amazing, by the way on the GTI

[@davonne225]

Wheels are nice, infotainment needs work, flared fenders would add a nice touch

[@ChipzsTube]

It needs a panoramic roof, nice car still.

[@ElJefe85]

Its growing on me, but still loving MK 7.5 more

[@coachmaupin201]

Happy Saturday 🎉. An instant classic car 🚙

[@JCTiggs1]

If you think the MK8 R is expensive in North America, check out the price in Europe. In my region a new fully loaded 2024 R is $55K CAD, while in Germany it's over $80K CAD after conversion. 😳 🚘💰

[@stanleetfk3823]

@@JCTiggs1 One can imagine that at 80k cad they wouldn't sell any here. Canada got great pricing , even better than US. My 24 Autobahn was 44k OTD. Factory order , 6weeks . Very few available in Ontario though, most of the available on lots were manual. This is back in May this year

[@JCTiggs1]

@stanleetfk3823 Agreed! My sales guy said VW generally splits the Golf R and GTI transmissions sent to Canada at 50/50, but there were supply issues for a while that reduced the DSG transmission equipped cars down to less than 20%, something like 1 DSG for every 5 manual cars. That was from 2022 to end of 2023 which included the limited edition 40th Ann GTI. That's one of the reasons why I had to wait almost 18 mths for my Golf R DSG which arrived Nov 2023 as an early 2024 model. Currently VW seems to have met demand for the R and GTI as there are now several on the lots in my region (even Lapitz Blue which the most sought after colour since the MK8 launched). This is in I Western Canada BTW. These stock numbers were unheard of just 6 months ago. VW is even giving $1000 off MSRP plus reduced interest rates!

[@stanleetfk3823]

@@JCTiggs1 1300 off mrsp in ON, but interest rate was 6.9 at that time. Rates went down in the meantime. Tbh, I couldn't justify paying 60k for the R. And I don't regret, GTi is simply perfect for me.

[@JCTiggs1]

@@stanleetfk3823 Yeah the rates have come down a few percentage points. I had MK8 GTI while I waited for my R to arrive. For me it was worth the extra $15k and the R is always worth a lot more when it comes time to sell it so I don't see myself losing too much whenever it's time to get my next vehicle. With the price of other vehicles all going up (especially the new Mustang), I wouldn't be surprised if VW increases the price on the Golf GTI and R for the MK8.5, especially since Canada is already getting reduced pricing vs US and the rest of the global market.

[@stanleetfk3823]

@@JCTiggs1 I believe at launch 8.5 GTI did start at 46000euro in Germany. I keep my cars 10y, actually I have two now, as the GTI goes in the garage next week. I hate the snow and salt on ON roads. Baby GTI goes hibernation few months. :))))))

[@crumsnatcher778]

I owned a 2023 Golf R 20th AE and it was a great car .....but I traded it in for a new 2024 Civic Type R and the Honda for me is more fun to drive and better build quality. Here are a couple key differences besides the obvious, Golf R get much better gas mileage, has parking sensors and sounds a little better. I also just wanted to try the CTR, doesn't make financial sense at all....buy variety is the spice of life. Next car will definitely be a BMW M2.

[@RB12377]

Maybe more fun a lot slower and vw is built much better my stage one gti beats civic r 20-100 easy

[@racer247]

I drove 2 FL5's now that they are finally going for MSRP, and I just couldn't do it. You're right, the car drives like no other FWD car, so much grip. But, for me, I couldn't daily it. The ride in comfort is worse than Race in the Golf R. I'm in the north, so the heated wheel and seats are hard to give up. And 4 to 5 months out of the year, the Golf R is extremely fun to drive in bad weather conditions. The CTR is a special car, but it's really hard to just drive it like a commuter car.

[@sfseals]

When may we expect to see the “refresh” and will it be worth the wait?

[@lego4virgo]

Joe, looking at the 2025 refresh, it has MUCH less 'gloss black' on the lip of the bumper, so that should make you feel good.

[@natebragg8189]

thank you for pointing out the details regarding the rear brakes! witch brings me to my next point when you eventually do a review on the new audi s5/sq5 that everyone is currently doing please mention the fact that they dropped the six piston front brakes for a cheap single piston caliper nobody is calling them out on this major downgrade hope that you mention this thanks again love the channel

[@wellsbengston4132]

My understanding is that the GR Corolla does not have artificial engine sound

[@JCTiggs1]

The GR also loses a lot on the top end, with much slower acceleration. The engine runs hot stock, so don't expect longevity on the 3 cylinder if you want to up the boost.

[@wellsbengston4132]

@@JCTiggs1 The 2025s have the option for additional engine cooling.

[@JCTiggs1]

@@wellsbengston4132 Are you referring to the GR? If so that's good news but it should really be standard.

[@wellsbengston4132]

@JCTiggs1 Yes, the GR Corolla. It's standard on the Premium plus, optional on the Premium, and not available on the Core, but I'm sure it can be retrofitted to 2025s that come without. The part numbers have already been circulated.

[@JCTiggs1]

@@wellsbengston4132 That's great news! I feel it should be standard on the core. In my region the core trim level seems to be the only version they had in stock, at least when I was cross shopping over a year ago vs the R. With dealer markup it was the same price as a new R at MSRP so the choice was easy for me at least, and I went with the R (although I had to wait 18 mths to get it lol).

[@guamboy46]

Car and Driver has the GR Toyota Corolla automatic list at Base: Core, $39,995. it’s about $10,000 cheaper for the Toyota.

[@GungHo1234]

Suggest looking at the features on this vs the base Corolla (or the Premium, Premium Plus) before making the price comparison to get the full picture.

[@Letsberealish]

Twinkie hammock instead of a full-size banana hammock? That's a zonk.

[@kineticU]

My 2024 manual R is so slow from 1-2 it’s embarrassing 😂. But once you get it going, it’s plenty fast.

[@tislam410]

I'm holding out for 2025 VW Golf R with the revised infotainment system (upgrading from 19' Genesis G70 3.3T AWD) . All things considered, when I look at the interior of 25' GR Corolla Automatic and similar price point to the 25' Golf R Automatic (almost 50k price point) - the corolla's infotainment system/interior seems outdated by comparison.

[@hondajacka2]

the interior of the GR Corolla looks like a 25k car. But people buy it for the uniqueness, driving experience, and Toyota reliability.

[@haviiithelegogunner907]

Golf R has only one problem: the Audi RS3 AWD 5-Banger with 400 horses Brembos (even ceramics) Pay a little extra and get a RS3!

[@racer247]

3 problems, first it's 15 to 25K more depending on options with no cooled seats option, that's criminal. Second, Audi won't send us the Hatch version. So technically it's not even a Hot Hatch. Third, even though it's the last year, the manual is a option for the Golf R, unlike the RS3. 😂

[@weroliera]

No draggy and driving all these awesome cars is a sin

[@PatrickC139]

I think down the road this will still be a good car for the car modding community.

[@RaitisRides]

You are very right about that

[@SiriasisOFFICIAL]

Manual would be so good

[@davcuts2897]

It probably won't be as reliable as a Toyota GR86, but I'd pick the VW Golf R over it any day of the week. It has options like a sunroof you can't even get in the GR86. It's more attractive on top of that. You don't have to get ugly grey wheels either.

[@williamsaunders3382]

We need the Alltrack back in the US.

[@RaitisRides]

Don’t hold your breathe on that one

[@williamsaunders3382]

@@RaitisRides 😊👍

[@RaitisRides]

@@williamsaunders3382sorry to bring the bad news

[@williamsaunders3382]

@@RaitisRides Wishful thinking! 😆

I had the same wheel in my Arteon, it looks great and functions great.

[@Paul32828]

Joe GREAT review but I would have added a couple more items. I have a 2012 2.0 T TSI engine and with 25,000 miles and love the auto. EXCEPT Golkf R auto has the direct injection which will most likely load up on carbon deposits and you will have to get the engine walnut shell blasted to fix it. Also I have had two things go wrong with my TSI engine. First at 23,000 miles the engine thermostat went bad and since the factory warranty was no longer to the auto it cost me over $1,300.00 to get the stat replaced. Then the exhaust 02 sensor went bad at 24,000 miles and cost over $568.00 to get it repaired! This auto has the TSI direct injection engine, which will cost you a fortune to get repaired if something goes wrong with the engine! These engines have had many problems in the past with defective water pumps, bad timing chain tensioners, bad thermostats and the carbon build up problems! I would NEVER buy another direct injection engine!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for that detailed commentary

[@bobcabot]

...ja Joe for 20 Grand more you should get more!

[@sotitofanschop]

I loved this car when I tested it but the interior is terrible. The blue paint looks amazing in person. Crossed shopped this one against an Audi S5, coming out of a mk7 gti. Shockingly both brand new were the same price with the dealer mark ups from VW. The touch screens and haptic buttons are atrocious. Went with the Audi, happy with the decision so far.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing that actual real life experience

[@racer247]

Yeah, glad that worked out for you, but the totally stripped S5 with analog gauges, no adjustable dampers, no memory seats, no heated wheel, or cooled seats. Was 60K, a nicely optioned car was 65 to 70K or RS3 money. 😂

[@mickeybrumfield764]

Joe, I once had a car that was this color. It is also the color of the state of Nevada flag.

[@DavidWolfer]

Looks amazing!!! Would be great to have one!!

[@waynewallace2061]

The last time this 6 ^ft. 220lb. man sat in a golf I couldn't sit comfortably in the seat bottom. it was as if it was sized for a smaller man. Has this changed?

[@kdunnigan2152]

I own a 22'. I'm 6'4, 230. I'm comfortable

[@3for4PA]

😮..,..Stop Lying ​@@kdunnigan2152

[@johngarsaud4909]

Still laughing about the comment regarding the smoothness and it’s not shaking out your fillings!

[@greglaird299]

Thinking about this as my next banging sedan!!!

[@RaitisRides]

You will love it

[@hivn58]

damn are you rich greg boy

[@juve7]

wha happened to the Scirocco...came out for one year...lol.

[@Jvilleman400]

I had a 2016 Golf R for 6 years until i got a 20th anniversary Golf R and I found the window sticker to my 2016 an it had an MSRP of 41,800. WIld to think this mk8 was 48k. AND to think that an SE GTI with leather is 41k smdh, insane

[@dusandestanovic5884]

Definitely the best choice.

[@rakhsiprayogo82]

Competitors Toyota GR Supra/GR Corolla, Nissan Z, Honda Civic Type R, Hyundai i30n, Ford Mustang GT/Focus RS, Subaru BRZ/WRX STI, Kia Stinger GT & More

[@jet_black]

This car checks all the boxes. Well worth the price.

[@kellyaustin7487]

Very nice car but a little overpriced. What isnt though? 😒 Another excellent review.

[@HungLe-oc8eh]

Love the car, it’s wonderful but expensive for a VW

[@JackFox-n1o]

Hi Joe. Could you give us some more deep dives into your cars and include your reason for purchasing them?

[@RaitisRides]

You got it Jack! Please stay tuned!