Review: 2018 Volkswagen Golf R - APR Stage 1

I review this 2018 Volkswagen Golf R with an APR Stage 1 tune on it. Huge thanks to Patrick for letting me review his car! His Instagram is @lapiz_mk7.5r What do you think of the refreshed Golf R?
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Track: Rogers & Dean - No Doubt (Rival x Cadmium Remix) [NCS Release]
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[@BigHeadClan]

The Golf R with a tune is honestly one of the best bang/buck all rounders money can buy, there are other cars that can do some things better but none really manage that perfect blend of comfort, practicality and fun that the GTI/Golf R has.

[@Eric-qx7fg]

gti does not include in this statement, that shit slow

[@BigHeadClan]

​@@Eric-qx7fg It's quick enough in stock form and more than enough for a street car with APR Stage 2. You are also missed the entire point of these cars if you're looking at them for strait-line speed, that's not what they are about.

[@Feedfront]

BigHeadClan even straight line is pretty fast for stage1

[@nick.mk7]

@@Eric-qx7fg stage 1 gtis spank stage 2 e85 stis

[@sameerpai4112]

The digital dash definitely has a map function, you can either send it to the cluster from the nav screen or go to the nav page in the cluster and hit the "OK" button on the wheel. I love mine!

[@Cadmiummusic]

Thanks for using mine and Rivals song "No Doubt" Really appreciate you considering us for you video and I think it really fits perfectly!

[@EdisEvo]

I just bought mine yesterday. It's absolutely insane!

[@jakebower2515]

Great video as always! The first video I ever saw of yours was a mk5 r32 review which I now own partially due to your review

[@rabbitss11]

This is my next car, I love that the R doesn't over-sell itself, no crazy stripes, no big logo or flared wheel arches, most people would think it was a regular saloon and I love that

[@2Aqua1]

Matt, you have the best job in the world 👍🏻

[@connormckay9429]

Everytime I watch these videos,especially in the beginning, im always just blown away by how clean and awesome your editing skills are Matt! :D

[@MattMaranMotoring]

Thanks! I’m not a pro but I try!

[@Treizez34]

Just test drove an R last week; it's a phenomenal driving machine (way better in corners than the GTI, but not to say that the GTI is not great in itself). Can't imagine how it feels on a stage 1 tune

[@MrGovenator1]

The stock tune to the APR 1 tune is a night and day difference.

[@andrewcrandall2123]

Treizez34 I have a tuned golf r and let me say you will not regret it.

[@MrMduchesne23]

I've tried both and honestly, the GTI is better in corners, assuming you know how to drive properly. On the track, entry speed the same, tires the same (good tires make a huge difference on the GTI), the GTI with the limited slip front will out corner Golf R, which has an open front diff. Yes, it's down on power but it is also lighter if you find a 3dr version from 2015-2017 with a performance pack the weight difference is even more extreme (3,000lbs GTI compared to 3,400 lbs R). The Golf R is more a slow in fast out cornering machine that excels at putting huge power to the ground in a straight line but understeers like a dog if you try to put the powerdown early. While the GTI is a momentum drivers car going fast into a corner, inducing lift-off oversteer, and put the throttle all the way down a little before the apex of the corner to get max thrust out. Source, GTI driver who beat lap times for the golf R in is stock GTI. Once I went stage 1 the stock golf R's couldn't keep up in the corners or the straights.

[@JCTiggs1]

@@MrMduchesne23 How much hp and tq with the GTI tune and does it induce a lot of wheel hop or torque steer? I recently had extended test drives in both and honesty found the GTI Rabbit (has adjustable suspension) more fun than the R. The GTI is more lively and despite A/S tires, grips extremely well with quick turn in and a lot less understeer than the R.

[@MrMduchesne23]

@@JCTiggs1 I'm using a stage 1+ Unitronic tune + stage 1 dsg tune that brings wheel performance to 260-270 and torque to 290-300. APR high torque tunes bring it closer to 300 hp and 350 tq (please confirm). I use unitronic for the high RPM performance while maintain closer to stock HP and Torque below 3k Rpm. The performance profile comes closer to that of a Golf R. I found the APR tunes to spool up the turbo really high, much earlier then dropped off as we approached 5k rpm. There is next to no torque steer if you have the performance pack, standard on GTI rabbit, optional on older GTI 2015-2017. You will feel wheel hop on a prepped surface, but that is just fwd life when launched hard. The adjustable suspension further reduces this. There is also a software safety switch that can be turned off, that will keep the engine from cutting fuel with wheelspin in 1st gear on hard acceleration (makes it feel like the engine is bucking). This can be disabled through VCDS coding with a ross tech cable or ODBElevn dongle. the tunes do not turn this off so you'll have to do it. The car will also limit power when the wheel is turned more than 10 degrees in first gear. I haven't found a way to defeat this. Best mod to make is to change out the A/S tires for dedicated summers and enjoy 1g cornering forces and higher on a track. highest for me was 1.22g on a hard right turn on Vancouver Island Motorsport circuit. With the electronically controlled mechanical limited-slip (A Haldex clutch for locking up the front end) the car can maintain speed very well and accelerate hard out of tight corners without understeer, like the Golf R. Enjoy, stock or modified the GTI is a fantastic everyday car and with the proper tires, it is an adequate once in a while track car that you'll find comfortable driving at 9/10 tenths. This is my experience as an owner of a 2015 Canadian GTI performance edition. Mods drop in air filter, Stage1+ ECU flash, Stage1 DSG flash. Driver mod, 5 hrs theory, 40+ hrs track experience. Sorry for the essay.

[@MR-wp5dz]

While I agree that the R is a quiet vehicle, it's intentionally made that way, keeping in line with it's "sleeper" status. Its customer base also generally seems to prefer a quiter, under the radar type of car, and a loud exhaust defeats the purpose. I'm currently shopping for an R!

[@AlmostAlwaysband]

Matt, Awesome review as always! I just bought my own 2018 golf r a few months back and it has easily been the best decision I’ve ever made. The best daily driver that can also throw you back in your seat. I wanted to clarify that you can in fact put the map display in the gauge cluster like Audi. In your video at 4:45 if you hit either the map or view (I forgot) button it will put the map display between the gauges. Not quite google maps like the Audi’s but still awesome and has live traffic updates. Keep the videos coming!

[@chanaascruuzz1396]

“Above average”? The golf r leaves the competition for dead when you compare interior quality against the RS,Type R ,STI ,the latest gen Evo, even my GTI is nicer than those cars. The R and GTI have a better interior than everything in it class maybe except the A45 AMG but as far as US market it’s the best

[@colejackson3968]

chanaas cruuzz except the Audi s3. Which beats all those cars if you're considering the full package of performance and luxury combined. It's slightly more expensive than everything you mentioned, but not when compared to the A45.

[@chanaascruuzz1396]

Cole Jackson the s3 is a Golf R with Audi badges and more leather but it’s also heavier and I don’t consider it in the same class as affordable hatchback since it’s 45k$+ base

[@lcameeno1]

Lol still prefer an evo over anything else

[@hondaftw1234]

chanaas cruuzz it’s nice inside but it’s not as nice as you VAG guys make it seem.

[@jtkent28]

Agree 100%. Had 2 GTI’s (2010, 2016) then made an impulse decision to get a new WRX. It was an ok car but the interior felt like something from years before my 2010 GTI. Cheap plastic and overall low quality materials. Traded it in on a new ‘18 GTI SE and never looking back!

[@jeff5777]

My favorite hot hatch. This thing sounds sick with a akropovic exhaust

[@dillonhughesrt]

rockn roll the US is getting the a class. Itll be the new entry under cla/gla, unless that changed in the past week or two

[@Manny24_8]

How much is the exhaust for this car?

[@AS-oo4gv]

@@dillonhughesrt not the same A claas

[@andrewdubin5530]

@@dillonhughesrt not the A35, which would be mercedes' contender in the golf R segment

[@dillonhughesrt]

@@andrewdubin5530 I thought we were getting the a35? Though last I heard about that was car and driver earlier this year,I knew we weren't getting the a45 cause it's pretty much the cla45 the US is getting

[@Don-sc1vz]

I'm about ready to sell my 13 mustang gt (upgraded suspension done right, short throw shifter with fat aftermarket tires and wheels, under 30,000 miles) and trade in my old audi a4 for one of these. As a man in his mid 30's, with a toddler, who also lives in Ohio and deals with the weather, I can't think of a better daily car than the Golf R w/ a tune. I'm too old for the looks of the other cars in the Golf R's class and not old enough to drive slow. Thanks for the review Matt!

[@mattiloponen92]

Rocking the humble mechanic shirt i see. Fun to see youtubers watching the same channels as i do.

[@mohamedhussein5190]

Nice touch wearing the humble mechanic shirt in a vw review

[@TheCarCrazyGuy]

Now I have a 2018 Golf R DSG. Love it!

[@TheDutchTexan]

Pretty much the same reaction I had when I reviewed a 2017 APR stage 2 and got on it from a dig! It was so quick, almost GTR like, it surprised me a lot. And I just love the fact that it has great usability with the quick package. Very well rounded car IMHO! The one I reviewed had the AWE exhaust. It made those pops just that much more noticeable. That car was not off the radar anymore when engine noise was concerned!

[@JJ_ExMachina]

TristansAdventures APR shows 400+ HP with proper supporting mods (proper cooling, intake and exhaust). They have gotten around 450 WHP from their stage 2 kit, on stoke internals... BUT I would not push it any further then stage 2 with out doing the connecting Rods... However once those are done, and ARP head bolts are used, I have seen people get over 500 WHP from these engines, in the Audi A4 (same engine in the Golf R).

[@JJ_ExMachina]

TristansAdventures I agree it is pretty amazing how much you can get from a 2 liter engine, and have it still be reliable and get about 26/28 MPG...

[@Flakey86]

The map can be displayed on the digital dash. You need to enable it via the center console nav screen. Edit: see at 4:46 that button that has the dash and the nav screen with a little arrow pointing between the two? Push that.

[@MattMaranMotoring]

Good to know, thanks!

[@gtidamon]

GadgetsNGear I litteraly was about to say that since I have the car! 😜

[@MichaelRodriguez-vl8by]

I just went APR stage 1 on my GTI and love it

[@user-xt1mr6wk8m]

I would actually love to talk to you about the APR Stage 1 cause I just got my R a week ago!

[@nirhaber6279]

Adrian A. Echevarria have fun!

[@NOLANATION9]

Michael Rodriguez Does the stage 1 tune also tune the transmission or do you have to do that separately?

[@michaelsmith9308]

@ the GTI is great and even better upgraded, HOWEVER, the R is the unknown super car unchallenged with a APR stage 3! It will bring tears to all mustangs with higher horsepower and the fact they will not see it coming! I had mustangs asking me what engine was powering my VW:) No big wheels, no whale tales, no screaming exhaust or stickers that scream BOY racer-haha HAD THEM CRYING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! AT ever light is was their DOOM:) hahahahahahha

[@dreamcruzer4743]

@@NOLANATION9 separate

[@alexandercascioli1689]

Hey Matt, great review (7.5 r owner myself). Just wanted to say all you had to do on the Nav Map page was click the eyeball with the arrow on it and it'll throw the map up to the digital dash similar to the Audi's.

[@siegler1]

Nice review. Small correction: earlier build dates of 2018 golf R's have locked armrests. Fortunately it can be easily unlocked.

[@x7wolverines7x]

Thank you so much Matt. Your awesome. Literally the exact car I plan on getting with exactly the same tuner

[@BobThe9534]

VW's don't have good engines

[@x7wolverines7x]

If it was your money would you go golf r or gti

[@vr6gls]

Noah Damoose I would look at other tuners besides APR. I have had GIAC tunes on my three previous cars and never had any issues.

[@BT-ls5zk]

I have a GTI and plan on upgrading to an R next year. If you have the money, definitely go with the R. The GTI is really fun and nimble but it eventually meets its limits since it has FWD. However, the GTI may be all you need and you can really pep it up with a simple tune. It really comes down to how much performance you want and how much your willing to spend. I've seen some well equipped GTI's being discounted under $30k so its up to you if you want to spend the extra $10k for AWD, bigger turbo, upgraded internals, and digital display.

[@ArtVandelayOfficial]

How unique

[@Mattism78]

Great review. However if you want dramatic from the Golf R you should have demonstrated launch control. It’s why the DSG version is substantially quicker than the manual.

[@matts6551]

Mattism78 - wrong! Yes stock it’s slower, but tuned it’s just fast if not faster. The only difference is the manual requires skill to drive & launch, and the auto simply does not. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nHa0qId7mbSrn6c

[@Mattism78]

What's the world's fastest manual? The DSG is faster. I know it hurts egos but you can't shift as fast or accurately as the DSG.

[@1white_rs399]

Matt S DSG trumps manual. In roll and dig. What don’t you understand that you can shift instantly w DSG tune v manual? Not rocket science inbred

[@mikescott5469]

Just bought a new '18 R, exactly as your car, except stock, no Stage 1 upgrade. I've been SO pleased with it having traded in my loved 2007 Audi S4 V8 Avant (wagon). In stock trim it's a beast and handles amazing. I'm now looking into the APR upgrade - 3.8 0-60 would be amazing and agree, that's super car speed. Thanks for a great review!

[@NOLANATION9]

Mike Scott Does the stage 1 tune also tune the transmission or do you have to do that separately?

[@jtkent28]

Just picked up an ‘18 GTI SE and absolutely love it! Wish I could have afforded the R but the GTI in SE / Autobahn trim is a close 2nd : )

[@flopkin]

I own a MK7 GTI now and I love it, but this is the car I REALLY want. I can’t wait for the 8, I hear there might be big power increases... Hopefully by the time the 8 comes I can trade my GTI in and get it. GTI/R’s are the best cars for practicality, performance, and fun that you can still bring to your girlfriends parents house without them thinking you’re 16 years old. They’re definitely second to none as far as hatches go. Ok maybe the BMW M1 can give them a run for their money, but that’s not even sold in the US lol.

[@JJ_ExMachina]

OK so you are saying I can have a 2018 VW Golf R with a simple $600 tune and get about the same 0-60 times (3.8) as a: 2017 Aston Martin DB11 (3.8) 2017 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat (3.6) JUST examples..... BUT still what the hell, I am seriously impressed with how quick that thing is. Very interesting....

[@BriefCarBreakdown]

MasterMech77 yeah but the long term reliability

[@JJ_ExMachina]

BriefCarBreakdown Long term reliability is NOT an issue or a concern. I owned a 2001 Golf GTI that was running a REVO Technic Stage 2 tune with all the supporting mods. The factory 1.8t made 160 whp... after a few bolt on mods and tune it made 240 WHP... I bought the car in 2001 new after break in period, I took it back to the dealership, they installed the intake exhaust, and extra coolers... as well as performed the tune... They still honored the factory warranty as well, since they performed the work. I sold the car in 2009 after I had put over 200k miles on it. I always did proper maintenance using AMSOIL for all fluids... Only a couple of minor issues, the alternator died and the thermostat housing sprung a leak... then a few odd switches inside had issues... BUT other then that there was no major mechanical issues. The new engines are even better then the one in my 2001 Golf GTI... most people consider the MK IV to have been the worst when it came to reliability in the "Golf" line... OH and I sold it to a friend of mine and he still owns it to this day... no major issues and he has now over 400k miles on the engine... DID replace a few suspension components and things that were getting a bit worn out after all the miles on them... BUT he said a few years ago he had the turbo replaced with a newer ball bearing one, and they redid the head gasket for preventive maintenance... they checked everything on the engine and it was within acceptable tolerances, and did NOT need to be rebuilt. Goes to show you how strong VW makes their engines... as long as you don't try to push crazy HP numbers through them. MY story is not rare, get on to the VWVortex forum and there are TONS of stories of lightly modified, well maintained VW Golfs with over 300k miles on them. HERE is an interesting article from there: forums.vwvortex.com/showthread.php?5663082-A-new-record-for-stock-1-8T-AGU-engine-600hp-30psi

[@willyjameshuff]

BriefCarBreakdown yeah ‘cause Dodge and Aston are so reliable hahaha

[@JJ_ExMachina]

willyjameshuff I think what BriefCarBreakdown was asking, is "modifying" the Golf R going to reduce the reliability of the vehicle... In my experience, there is a threshold of added performance vs reliability... You can improve performance to a certain degree with out reducing reliability (using quality parts, NOT cheaply built stuff), however there is a threshold, that once you cross it, the reliability of the vehicle will suffer. For the Golf R it is right around the APR "Stage 2" HP mark... so 450 with minor mods and tune OR 500 HP if you do connecting rods, ARP head bolts and the other minor mods... I know people who have put 200k on builds like that with no major mechanical failures... BUT it all depends on how you treat the vehicle... You can take a factory vehicle, never do maintenance and beat the crap out of it everyday... and have the vehicle only last a few years (if not less)... OR take a modified vehicle like the one I used as an example in my comment above, and get over 400k out of the engine.

[@mr.bluenotedoobop]

The stage 1 tune from APR will retain the factory warranty. VW has a deal with APR. great deal for $600 bucks

[@billyhughes9776]

I'm close to test driving one of these -- been looking for months at them and pretty much have seen every review possible on KZbin. Seem to be the perfect balance of power, refinement and fun to drive.

[@BenHughes-Rubiety]

I have an APR stage 1 Golf R - it's a phenomenal car for the money, and almost comical in how fast it is while still appearing to be a "normal car" to most onlookers and a very pleasant car for around-town driving. It really does feel like a 3.8s car, even though Matt is very right about the acceleration being deceptive - no fuss at all. Although comparing cars only in stock form has a lot of merit, missing from most analyses is just how tunable the GTI/R are compared to their competition. Adding nearly 100hp from merely a software flash is insane - and these tunes are showing to be very reliable on the EA888 so far. Throw a software-only tune on an STI or Focus RS and you're not getting anywhere close to that power bump. With some light hardware, APR stage 2 pushes close to 400hp / 400 torque. If you can find a slightly used one for $30k and drop another $2k on the ECU/TCU tune with APR plus warranty, go for it - you'll have an incredible car for $32k. Only real downside of the Golf R is the Haldex AWD system isn't nearly as good as Focus RS or Subaru's, but it more than sufficiently puts the power down.

[@froesesp]

Ben Hughes The gains aren't that big, the engines underrated.

[@BenHughes-Rubiety]

Fair enough, but it's still a 60-70hp gain from the actual output of dyno'd stock cars (300-310hp). Having extensively driven the car both before & after tune I can say it's a pretty big difference. And 0-60 in 3.8s vs 4.6s w/DSG launch control is non-trivial.

[@NOLANATION9]

Does the stage 1 tune also tune the transmission or do you have to do that separately?

[@caseh5111]

Video says apr stage 1 review... Dude talks about the cup holders and interior for half the video...

[@popi785]

You must be new here.

[@BobThe9534]

At 10:02, it was backroad time

[@lifenz1]

His reaction feels like its a normal car. Disappointing

[@BobThe9534]

@@lifenz1 no

[@mapledawgy]

Man I love your reviews. I nerd out and watch a lot of car videos and yours are always solid. I like the fact that your voice bumps up an octave when you first hit the gas in a car with good power, that on its own is a good metric. Keep it up.

[@Roguchii]

Great review! I still have to run my 3.6R Legacy into the ground but the R will definitely be my next whip.

[@romeofrosty]

You are wrong about the center armrest. It still won’t open. It will slide forwards and backwards, but can’t be opened. Your friend installed a kit that mods the hinges so it can now open, but once you do that it won’t slide anymore.

[@nolongerhuman13]

I’ll tell you what tho. With the APR STAGE 1. You should ABSOLUTELY upgrade the clutch. Especially if you plan to have some fun with it. Bcuz the stock clutch on the manual is meant to hold about 300 ft lbs of torque and you will start to slip the clutch quite shortly after the install and then obviously more so as you wear on it. Once the boost kicks in the clutch will spin. ESP if you’re in 4th and you should be in 3rd for example. If you get on it ( but not crazy mashing it) the turbo kicking in will push the clutch to the point that it will let go of the plate. U will smell it and u will think you are spinning the tires at first ( the first time it happened to me was in the rain so that’s why I legit thought I was spinning the wheels but staying straight. Was an odd sensation. ). Took but a second to realize what had actually occurred. So APR stage 1. Upgrade the clutch AND I did the low torque flash initially to AVOID having to do the fkn clutch bcuz I didn’t want to drop the 2k atm. But the performance clutch will make a little more noise than the stock but it grabs like a mthrfkr. Hope this helps.

[@Michael-wk1kj]

On the manual, DSG is fine though yeah?

[@717StreetMedia]

Hey matt !! I would love if you we're to review my 2016 VW GLI Unitronic Stage 2 !!! Super fun little car. I won't have it by the end of the year as I am trading it in but would love to know what you think of it :) Fingers crossed.

[@kennyaguilar8492]

Why u trading it?

[@717StreetMedia]

Time for an upgrade ! I’m going for a track car that can do potential 9’s so decided on a corvette stingray! Love the Vdubs tho and always will

[@joshvaz00]

Be nice to see another GLI review. Email him!

[@MattMaranMotoring]

Hey man, thanks for the offer! I'm booked up on reviews until the fall but if you're not too far from Pittsburgh and still have it by then I'd definitely be interested in doing a video on it! If you could send an email to [e-mail] that would be great, thanks!

[@717StreetMedia]

Matt Maran Motoring will do man !!

[@johnelcock7734]

People need to learn about buying a car if you want performance don’t ask about Bluetooth the golf r is an amazing car I own one but I am liking a cayman s

[@VEDEMRACING99]

Great sleeper! Great video man!

[@stevenivankin9613]

Very nice review. I have a 2016 gti with sport package and DCC. It is an option available on the GTI as well so slight correction on that.

[@MattMaranMotoring]

Ah okay thanks for the correction!

[@LIFEWITHSAL_]

This have the map display, on the middle screen once you are on the navigation page on the bottom of the screen will have a button that says map with a curved to the left arrow you just touch that and the map will switch to cockpit screen.

[@sanityinaseaofmadness7353]

I love Cthulhu lurking with the cup holders. Quick question: why did you call inclusion of the stop/start feature in the 2018 R "unfortunate"? I enjoyed this. I don't think I've seen a review of the 2018 US R yet, and beyond fantasizing about being able to buy one, this was informative/useful. Well done.

[@thezeek2745]

It absolutely has the map display in the center dash. Or turn by turn directions with the map on the center infotainment screen. Map can only be on 1 or the other.

[@bonqeeqee]

I want to hear everyone’s opinion on my next daily. I currently own a manual 350z that I don’t plan on getting rid of. Will be trading in my 2011 g37s. I’ve been debating a 2010-2014 Cadillac CTS-V or a Golf R. Both are going to be automatic. I like the idea of a dual clutch on the golf r. But also like the idea of having a 550hp from factory. Reliability, comfort, and a car that will do very well on track days is important to me.

[@braidkid]

Great review Matt. Would have been cool if you touched on some of the drive assist features as this is what swayed me over to the golf r from it's competition (Focus RS, STi, etc)

[@thillyard1]

Owned a 2016 R and it was a great all around car. Now drive a 2017 Focus RS and love it. Both cars have their pros and cons but I wanted something a little more aggressive and drivers focused. Even with mods my Golf R just never felt as fun as my RS.

[@muizawan]

i can second that - when i was shopping for a hot hatch ive driven the RS, stage 1 golf r stick, and audi s3 stage 2, and the RS put the biggest smile on my face :)

[@derekliljequist1086]

I was disappointed to find the backseat in the RS was too small so it won't fit car seats. If I didn't need a dadmobile I'd pick one up. So it's pretty much between the WRX/STI and Golf GTI/R.

[@BobThe9534]

Hi Matt. Nice vid. Liked before watching because I knew it was going to be good

[@whiteandnerdytuba]

Only thing about going from a hatch to a hot hatch is just making your steamed rice fried rice, at the end of the day it's still rice

[@cantfindanamefree]

There is a map display for the gauge cluster. You need to select it to move over on the main display.

[@barbabarba5534]

Yes I have it in my 2018 golf 7.5 R

[@BT-ls5zk]

Awesome review! Maybe next time could you ask the owners permission to demonstrate launch control?

[@frankmazzeo2302]

You can show the nav map from the gauge cluster, you just need to go to the nav from the head unit first. Then it will show up.

[@harleyjamesgeorge]

Been waiting for the Golf R. Thanks dude!

[@dreiz.]

Avg MPG 26~ for a 370hp hatch?..... not bad.

[@AznBoi871]

Not bhed!

[@chickenricesteak541]

It front wheel drive and AWD turns on when you start losing traction.

[@jobbo89]

@@chickenricesteak541 so it's carrying around all that extra weight for no reason?

[@chickenricesteak541]

Josh no cause people can drift and drive in the snow with it.

[@danmurphy1994]

Wow, sometimes that's all you need is a stage 1 kit from a highly regarded group of professionals, this car was already fast but this one really seems to set your hair on fire and has a more aggressive burble. Nice

[@chucko83]

Thanks for tempting me to get the APR tune for my S3. I have the JB4 but it doesn't seem to be increased power all the time.

[@MartinDeschambault]

Great review, Matt. I've watched a lot of Golf R videos over the past 10 months and yours is really good. I own the 2018 and I was wondering what's involved in the Stage 1 upgrade?

[@kidcaspy8976]

My favorite interior feature (I own a 2018 GTI APR stage 1) is that the center arm rest actually extends, and upon opening the small hatch is the ability to lock it in at certain heights, depending on your taste! Not the biggest deal, but it makes a big difference when using the golf as a daily driver!

[@NOLANATION9]

Kid Caspy Does the stage 1 tune also tune the transmission or do you have to do that separately?

[@technoxtreme178]

Hi Matt, who provided the APR tune and what exactly was done besides the ECU (exhaust, intake?); did you have an experienced tuner do the work, or do it yourself?

[@aaronchase38]

There's a big difference between Sport & Drive and im hearing lots of D rpms around corners. . But agree with everyone else..what a stg1 tune can do 👍

[@nicholaslever-naylor8315]

Seeing the Nav icon pop in 2 clicks away as he said he couldn't get maps on the cockpit stressed me out.

[@klasseact6663]

Also Matt I heard you pronounce the common name for the rev counter correctly, thank you for that, my ears can now heal, LOL😄

[@eddiearreguin4722]

Keep up the great work! I was wondering, if you ever get a chance, can you review a MK 7 GTI with a Stage 1 COBB or APR tune? I plan on getting that exact car with either of those modifications in the near future.

[@MrHav1k]

I love VW, great cars. I only wish their reliability was better. No issues with mine at all yet though.

[@aaron5222]

TheHvk I agree. My new mk6 GLI was just bought out. I just got a mk7.5 GTI so we will see

[@aaron5222]

Yasir yeah it leaked oil from day one had a rough idle and other issues with the sun roof. It took 6 months and lots of videos and pictures of proof it was lemon

[@aaron5222]

Yasir it was very stressful lots of time lost from traveling to the dealership I had to go to a different one because the first one said i caused the issues. Then after it all I had issues with the tint and the dealership falling back on things we agreed on then had the guts to call me and ask me to call VWGA for a check that was already sent to the dealership and processed

[@JJ_ExMachina]

VW has decent reliability... YES they are German, so there is going to be a few things, like switches inside the cab and other minor issues... BUT overall they are pretty rock solid. I have owned VW vehicles since 1994...

[@carsaregood911]

Great review! Love my MK7 R 😍

[@BVBUli09]

In Europe you can order the Golf R with Performance Pack, which includes Akrapovic Exhaust - which sounds like AMG A45! :)

[@BiGMoFFen]

Matt can you review my 2004 bicycle? It has 10 gears so it’s surprisingly torque-y

[@gaivoron]

I wish Gold R looks more aggressive and different that GTI.

[@j.a.g.8689]

Best hot hatch out there, good review matt

[@turbota899]

You can get the gps map to show up between the speed and tack, you must have missed it in the settings.

[@TheCarCrazyGuy]

I used to have a 2016 Golf R DSG. Great car!

[@awd_gli9632]

How would you compare this to the 2018 Audi S3? Is the Audi worth the extra money for the same car under the skin?

[@jimnorris4600]

Great review. I wonder what the stage 1 tune does to the warranty?

[@longbowdt]

the MK7 R is one of a few cars I'd sell my mk6 R to own. very nice interview. I think you did an excellent job in presenting the car, and in clarifying where it fits in the scheme of hot hatches. It's definitely a stealthy and refined hot hatch, just like my mk6 R...only more better! :)

[@stephenhendricks103]

Exactly my sentiment when I replaced my Mk6 GTI with the 2018 version. I would have seriously considered the "R" if it were not for the fact that I couldn't justify paying $10,000 more for the R. Here in Washington the GTI is considerably discounted while the R sells for MSRP or above.

[@longbowdt]

I hear you. It's quite a bite to take.

[@tonybailey89]

Skip to 10:00 for the part on the APR tune... Constructively speaking, there are plenty of reviews on the standard stuff for this car... The first 10 minutes was kind of a waste... I clicked the video for the APR portion, which was good I must say once you finally got around to it!

[@Justin87878]

Matt, just suggestion: when you mentioned trunk space. Please mention the exact L amount or at least compare it with the competitor, which one is the largest, or which one is bigger. etc. Thank you

[@stephenhendricks103]

Space behind the second row is 23 cubic feet. (651 liters). More importantly, however, is how "square" the space in the Golf (all models) is. Without a sloping roof found in some vehicles, the space is much more usable.

[@MrSundayDriver]

I bought my 2019 Mk7.5 R in January because I'm really disappointed in what they've done with the Mk8. Sorry, don't hate on me...but the Mk7.5 is the pinnacle of the hot hatch for now. I'll go stage 1 soon and stage 2 when I get bored of wasting cars way out of my league. The combination of performance, grip and practicality in this car is unsurpassed by anyone else. Period.

[@MrSTROM26]

When you go to dealership you have a option which stage you want ? does this only work for golf R or also for GTI ?

[@grabberblue12]

Is the turning radius still laughably bad? '16 R owner here, and my big ass Pilot can perform a U-turn in spots the Golf cannot!

[@gingerbreadman5756]

Sweet ride, good review, keep’em coming

[@aaron5222]

Suprised you miss the fact you can make the trunk deeper might be a gti only thing

[@ruqqo]

NO SUNROOF? I think it’s stupid that they got rid of it. I’m one who actually enjoys having a sunroof

[@BarbWaltersMusic]

I've heard the clutches can't handle more than 300whp which is super disappointing.

[@drewj5764]

It probably has a dsg tune? I know Cobb has been tuning dsg and pdk. I'm not a vw guy but pretty sure apr tunes the trans

[@glovesguy1936]

Love ur channel ! Badass review

[@benvernick]

Does anyone know if the APR Tune voids the warranty? These new VW’s come with a 6 year warranty I’d hate to have that negated. But an extra 100 HP would be amazing!

[@stephenhendricks103]

Technically, the APR tuning(and other tuning brands) void a warranty only if a problem can be traced to the tune, itself. However, most owners would rather not get involved with a dispute with a dealer over warranty issues even if they'll win the dispute. For that reason APR avoids the problem by offering a third party warranty that duplicates the VW warranty and can be used if any issues arise. See the APR website for details.

[@ScottPC]

What was this channel called before? I remember I used to be subscribed to this guy

[@Pearl3Drummer]

Love the car but prefer it had a sunroof option

[@lsowner10]

I'd like an R but, I'm waiting to see what they do for the Mk8. Or, are they just going to keep slightly adding to the 7.5?

[@MattMaranMotoring]

Mk8 is coming, but a couple years away.

[@mbrunnme]

Yeah 400 HP from a hybrid drivetrain. Worth the wait if you love what you're driving now. If you can't wait pick up a '18 or '19 and stage II it and you're there anyway.

[@1991BMWM5]

G. Warren VW has said they may use a 48 volt hybrid powertrain to compliment the 2.0T !

[@JJ_ExMachina]

I am waiting for the Mk8 R400.... :)

[@Its_dr.proctor]

Bear in mind there's more risk being an early adopter of a new generation. For instance, when the Mk7 first came out, they went through a couple revisions on the turbos because quite a few were blowing before 10,000 miles. The shafts were out of balance. Just something to think about if you're looking at getting one

[@MarcraM82]

i personally think the physical dials look better than the digital virtual display..

[@71vwdriver]

When are you going to review more Acura’s Matt? Would love to see a TL SHAWD 6speed;) or tsx 6 Speed.

[@MattMaranMotoring]

6 speed Acuras are pretty rare around here. I'd be up for it if given the opportunity though.

[@Mediamarktfreak]

I own a basic golf 6 1.4 122hp model. I want something really fast and nicer. And I'm saving for a Golf 7R. What other optios do I have as a german car enthousiast?

[@paulfairchild8942]

Matt, since you're a big WRX fan, I have to ask the question: which do you rate higher, the Golf R or the Subaru WRX STI? I love the STI but that decade plus old EJ engine drags it down a lot, no low end torque etc.

[@vincemelson9655]

I think the golf is more refined... It's hard to compare them

[@MrAdodex]

Hey dude, could you give me one advice. Im buying golf 7r AND im thinking about optional akrapovic titanium, should i buy it ? Cause its not much difference im sound...

[@robertshetsen8691]

Did you like it better than type r .sti or dodge challenger scatpack

[@mcfistoyourfood69]

How about a jcw mini/Clubman/countryman review?

[@stephanechamberland8486]

30 more colors are available here in Canada for the Golf R and the Golf E. Go to see The Straight Pipes channel to see two of them !

[@clublulu399]

Does an APR stage 1 tune void the factory warranty?

[@TestTest-fm2cu]

Matt the whole time were you thinking “but it’s not as cool as a highland green 2019 bullet” ? 😂

[@MattMaranMotoring]

Haha I filmed this before the Bullitt arrived, but each car has it's strengths and weaknesses.

[@dha588]

Thank God no one's complaining that it's an automatic.

[@JJ_ExMachina]

Well it is a DSG... SO we will forgive it :)

[@Fedor2010p4p]

It is??? Unsubscribed. 😄

[@matts6551]

MasterMech77 - DSG is automatic! Does it have a clutch pedal? No. If you don’t feel like “manual” shifting your gears in the car do it for you? Yes. That’s The definition of an automatic transmission. It also has an automatic gear selector.

[@JJ_ExMachina]

Matt S .... *** Wow OMG a DSG transmission is an automatic... I had no idea *** .... That was a joke if you can't figure that out... My original comment "Well it is a DSG... SO we will forgive it :)" Where in there do I say anything about a manual transmission? * For you information a DSG is: * A direct-shift gearbox (German: Direkt-Schalt-Getriebe). a "DSG" is an electronically controlled dual-clutch multiple-shaft manual gearbox, without a conventional clutch pedal and with fully automatic or semi-manual controls. SO in other words it is an automated manual transmission, similar to BMW's SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) II Drivelogic transmission, is a manual with a computer controlled clutch... Which can be shifted manually or automatically. BUT thanks anyway for the information...

[@alisamer7472]

U should try the manual VW golf R , VW golf R and Mercedes A45 AMG best car to pay