Should You Buy The MK 8 Golf R in 2025? After A Year And A Half Of Ownership, Here Are My Thoughts.

[@ManualFlying]

I am glad you found so many positives and found a reason to keep the car. A lot traditional VW problems are related to sensors and tech... the fact that they changed all the interior buttons to heptic buttons or buried it within the screen, is just asking for trouble. The issue I have with the VW company as a whole, is that they didnt have to create all these problems. The previous generations of cars (including Golf R, Tiguan etc), had the perfect level of technology and physical buttons. VW should have learned from Honda about the lack of physical buttons... Vw also received tons of complaints on the new screen and yet they are keeping it (& making it larger) for the mid cycle refresh.

[@Drivers-Edge]

Thank you, I really appreciate that! I truly agree! It was really frustrating that VW decided to ditch all the practical buttons for the haptic ones. I hope the next generations will be a bit more intuitive and have more physical buttons. It seemed like all the complaints were understood, but let's see how much gets remedied.

[@tsenif]

ayyyyy I caught that reflection @ 4:14, looks like a fellow OnePlus 12 user!

[@Drivers-Edge]

Haha you caught me! Yeh I love OnePlus! It's my second one. I had my last one for 5 years and I expect that this one will last as long. How are you enjoying yours?

[@tsenif]

​@@Drivers-Edgeone of the best phones I've owned. Extraordinary software & pretty great cameras. Great phones.

[@Drivers-Edge]

i completely agree!! Nothing comes close in terms of build quality, features, and hardware. ​@@tsenif

[@cwx8]

​@@Drivers-Edgefifth one for me. Have the 12. Camera is incredible. And I just bought a golf R! Also have 2 kids. Calgary.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@cwx8 Haha no way?! You have great taste ;D! How do you find managing with the Golf R and your two kids? Do they treat it with respect, or do they destroy the back seat? How do you find driving the Golf R in the Calgary Winter? I was there once in the winter many years ago and it was crazy... lol

[@lauraaharonov5198]

Yosef,I absolutely love your videos! I appreciate your strategic & logical approach as well as your enthusiastic, interesting and informative insites! Way to go! Can't wait for the next one!

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@lauraaharonov5198 thank you so much!!! It's so nice to know that my videos are insightful and fun!! I'm really glad you enjoyed it!

[@backtoshallabal6662]

Been one year since I had my 2024 GLI my guy, and I love the thing. My first ever German vehicle. didn't wanna spend on a BMW. Not as fast as a GTI or Golf R, but its great. Well built!

[@Drivers-Edge]

Thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching the video, I really appreciate it! That's amazing!! The GLI is a great car! We are so lucky that we have so many performance options between the GLI GTI and R! I feel the GLI had a lot of the great features of the GTI and R with a better more intuitive user interface and it's way better than the civic si, so well done;

[@backtoshallabal6662]

@ it is my guy! I was gonna consider the Si, but there was no DSG option, and the GLI had way more power. If I wanted significantly more power I’d have to opt for the Type R, and at that price point for what they’re going for, I’d probably get a luxury car at that point.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@backtoshallabal6662 I completely agree. I think the GLI really hits the sweet spot in the entire level performance sedan space, especially because it offers both transmissions. The civic type R is nice, but is overpriced in my opinion.

[@Quadruple-Vaxxed-Boomer]

The GLI is almost the same as the GTI, the difference is slim and can be eaisly fixed with some upgrades. The GTI is over-rated, I personally think the GLI is a superior car overall compared to the GTI.

[@backtoshallabal6662]

@@Quadruple-Vaxxed-Boomer Well I like some features on the GTI, like power folding mirrors, and welcome lights on the door handles.

[@blackabooo]

I really want to get the Golf R too, but can't get over the non-physical buttons, the screen was kinda laggy to me when I test drove it. I ended up getting an Elantra N instead and saved myself more than $10K CAD. I do really like the new Mk8.5 Golf R black edition, maybe in a few years!

[@Drivers-Edge]

Thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching the video, I really appreciate it! I'm so happy that you ended up with the Elantra N, it's also an amazing car! I haven't yet had a chance to test drive over, but from what I have seen, it looks like a lot of fun! I think they have solved a lot of the MK8 issues with 8.5, but the jury will be out once they can be tested here. You will have to let me know what you think of the Elantra N relative to your golf R test drive experience.

[@jos1515]

honest to gawd ppl are so blinded by the touchscreen thing. It's a miss but not a showstopper of so MANY improvements over the 7.5. I traded up to an 8 and i won't go back. More power, less front heavy in the turns, more planted, wayy better seats, better internals like the upgraded turbo, awd, aluminum structure updates to improve unsprung weight, hell it's finally a metal oil pan! If ppl want the auto, wait for the 8.5. It's a tablet thrown on the dash but at least the climate sliders are illuminated lol The 7.5 is not a bad car but the mk8 is hands down a better car to drive. It has more "lux" features than the 7.5 as well.

[@Drivers-Edge]

Thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching my video, I really appreciate it! I completely agree!!! This car gets way too much hate for what it deserves. I made another video about the things I love and hate about the car and to be honest, nothing was a deal breaker for me and likely isn't for most people. The problem is that there is always the same thing that is said in every table video that makes people think it's the worst thing in the world and as a result don't even consider it. It's really too bad. The mk8 is an awesome car, but with some flaws. Every car has flaws though.

[@ericfan9149]

I considered getting the same Golf R in Lapiz blue. It checks so many boxes for me in terms of style, daily usability, fun factor, AWD (I live in Toronto too). I just can’t quite get past the reliability issues of VWs and this video reinforces that reservation. I’ll probably end up just getting a Civic Hybrid or something instead lol. I’m glad you’re still enjoying the R though, despite some of the maintenance issues. It’s definitely a beautiful car!

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@ericfan9149 thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching the video, I really appreciate it! It's funny because reliability was my biggest concern when buying the golf R, especially because I have never owned a German car before. That being said with a good warranty, hopefully it won't be too bad 😎. So far it's been a really great car, but time will tell if I'll feel the same in a few years. I hope you find something enjoyable! It's also great to know you are local as well!

[@bucknut2000]

glad you like the car. I got a 24R same color, put on 25 K miles so far. Problems so far, driver door makes somes sounds over bumps and the overhead light sometimes go crazy , they turn on and off for no reason . I still like it though.

[@Drivers-Edge]

That's amazing, it's a great color! I'm so happy to hear that you have had a relatively worry free ownership experience with your first 25k on the clock. I have always said there is no such thing as perfection, everything has is drawbacks, but the annoyances of the mk8 golf r are worth it in my opinion

[@_Marc_D]

@Drivers-Edge did replacing the overhead panel fix your issue with your vehicle trying to call SOS. I’ve got a 2024 Golf GTI and it just started to do that.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@_Marc_D thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching the video, I really appreciate it! Yes, it did!! I was so happy that was fixed. Now the dome lights and the sunroof work as well. Somehow it was all connected.

[@babadoom4]

I have the issue currently, it kept calling the sos and sending diagnostic information. My sunroof didnt close properly few times too…

[@Drivers-Edge]

@babadoom4 that was such a frustrating problem with the car. Did you get yours fixed yet?

[@gmarks1559]

I have a 2019 R. Been good reliability wise, only 1 major issue at 80km. EPC light came on, and the entire turbocharger had to be replaced. Good thing it was still under warranty 😂

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@gmarks1559 thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching the video, I really appreciate it! That's amazing to hear! Man what get timing!! Its always helpful when the warranty covers big replacements just in time lol!

[@ashypravs4866]

Always the case with the turbo but still what an awesome car

[@Drivers-Edge]

@ashypravs4866 I agree! These are things that are worth reading with for the other benefits of the car

[@gmarks1559]

@@Drivers-Edge Other than that I cant complain. Its been my daily driver for almost 5 years now. I just keep up with all the scheduled maintenance, and its been good. Very fun to drive so its been worth it.

[@Drivers-Edge]

That's amazing, I'm so happy to hear that! I feel like most cars take care of you when they are taken care of 😎​@@gmarks1559

[@gymclasshero88]

In Australia these are now $13000 less than the original asking price with the new one on the way and with people being against the model because of the lack of buttons and back lighting. I also can’t get over the lack of buttons but then also choosing to now have the dash back lit is ridiculous. This was my realistic dream car when I was young and now I can afford it I don’t want it. Also reading maintenance issues online is a massive turn off.

[@ruki9043]

I've had mine for 2 and a half years now and love every day I've had it. Just cracked 60000kms, touch wood haven't had an issue at all.

[@katiecannon8186]

I’m a 61 year old female. I just have the base trim GTI, but the infotainment system is super easy. The haptic buttons are great because they’re multi-functional If I can figure it out & find it easy, I’m sure a machine man can too 😉

[@dannz3]

The golf mk7.5 is the ultimate golf R and it has gone backwards since this version. Had mine for 5 years and it has been absolutely flawless

[@ruki9043]

@@dannz3my personal opinion is completely different i think the mk8 is way better but again that's my personal opinion. The 7.5 feel out dated internally. From sitting in my friends 7 and 7.5 I much prefer the 8. Then on performance the 8 flat out does better. Stock for stock or with a tune the only way the 7.5 passes the 8 is maybe stage 3 but that's because the tcu is locked on the 8 so no one is even touching the limits of the car yet

[@Tapot_goo]

The mk8.5 looks so nice tho The screen and software is much better. Test drive one

[@loseerich493]

Very much appreciate your truthful feedback. Wife's car, a '24 VAG product, has been in 2x in a little less than a year for an electronic gremlin that was periodically knocking out lane keep assist, side-assist, rear cross traffic etc. At least on the Audi side there's a loaner car provided when you're in for maintenance. I can't imagine being down as much as you were with no gratis loaner car. There's no excuse in 2024 for crap builds, no matter if it's year 1, 2 or whatnot. The electronic issues that've been going on with say GTI & R's is flat unacceptable. The sheer volume of folks that've had to endure 1, 2 or more steering wheel swap outs, it's just terrible. I hate it is what it is b/c I love VAG designs & their driving dynamics. I've owned a 1/2 dozen of them over the years but at this point I'd be pissed at myself if I waited for the 25 stuff to show up, bought one, then had issues. There's enough data we can see to be able to make a call & at this point 'I'm out'.

[@Drivers-Edge]

Thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching the video, I really appreciate it! I feel like it's really important to say it as it is. Cars are a big and important purchase and people want to know the truth. Yeh it's crazy how in today's world we still have to deal with so many Tech and mechanical issues in New cars. I feel like it's because every manufacturer is trying to cram in so much Tech to keep up with the market that the isn't enough time to test and vet out the design and UX and inevitably it leads to poor experiences and unreliability. It's great that Audi gives you a loaner! Thankfully VW at least gives me a ride to and from the dealership everytime I go in for service. I actually got a small scratch on my steering wheel and was kind of hoping for the driver assist error to get a new steering wheel, but I guess it's good I didn't have to put up with that issue too. I also preemptively dealt with the shift knob cracking by getting an aftermarket one put in before I picked up the car.

[@MishtahPoog]

So, in 1.5 years of ownership you’ve had a factory-misaligned bumper, a mis-manufactured headlamp, an engine check light for a faulty intake component, a faulty infotainment system that glitched out and needed to be replaced, and a faulty sunroof that stuck open for multiple days and had to be replaced. You call this “relatively reliable”. What sort of other cars have you had that have had more problems that that within the same timeframe? I completely respect your decision and opinion on your car - I think if it’s the right car for you and your life, you should definitely keep it and continue to enjoy it. I’m just curious what your experiences have been with other vehicles compared to this one.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@MishtahPoog haha when you put it that way it sounds rediculous, but I had a lot of random things go wrong when I bought my 2016 Mazda cx9 as a demo and my 2007 Nissan Altima. This was relatively easy to deal with compared to those lol

[@MishtahPoog]

@@Drivers-Edge Okay -- I'll take your word for it! It still feels to me like a lot of problems in a very short time -- especially for a new car. Usually, I'd expect things to start going wrong after about 60-80k miles on German cars. Still, as a fellow car enthusiast, I can totally understand wanting to stick with it 🙂. I have a Mk 6 GTI, which is generally considered to be the least reliable generation. I bought it used about 3 years ago and it now has 97k miles on it. While I do most of my own maintenance and really make sure to take care of it, I've only run into one MIL/ECL for a camshaft position sensor, which I was able to fix by changing some simple parts. If I were to get a newer car, I'd definitely look at the Mk8 GTI and R, but reliability and quality concerns would definitely be something that could hold me back from buying one.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@MishtahPoog I totally hear that! It is a lot on a very short period of time and I hope most owners don't have to go through so many issues. The Silver lining is that I would rather everything go wrong while it's still in warranty so I don't have to deal with that kind of stuff out of my own pocket. It's amazing that you have been able to do most of your maintenance on your mk6 GTI, that's really impressive! Its definitely off-putting with all the maintenance issues with the mk8's, but it is a great car when it's sorted. Hopefully the long term ownership won't be as rough. Ill keep you posted!

[@FaceliftGT]

Had my Mk8R for over 3 years!, had Zero isues! :). And that was tracked a lot. But got to buy some new.. AND the Only on the market in this price point, the Mk85R is the ONLY choice!.... And now i have a Mk85R home, and can´t be more happy :)....

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@FaceliftGT thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching my video, I really appreciate it!! that's amazing!! I guess the solution is to track the car and that gets rid of all the bugs 😎. I completely agree it's such a great platform. I can't wait for the 8.5 to come to Canada to see it and experience it in person. Congrats on your 8.5!

[@FaceliftGT]

@@Drivers-Edge Thanks!. I might have been lucky ;)...or maybe not 🤫 i had a mk7 and mk75 before and never had some big isuses. These are great cars! . And a bit jelous that you got the manual mk8 :). It is so funny that it wasn´t sold in Europe :)

[@Drivers-Edge]

That's amazing that you had such reliable experiences with the mk7 and 7.5. I feel like they were generally more reliable than the mk8 has been. It makes sense though because the mk8 is such a departure from the mk7.5 in terms of technology and design that it is expected. Honestly I'm shocked that they didn't sell the manual mk8 in Europe. I would have thought the market there would have been more receptive to the manual transmission than the North American market, but I guess not. It really is too bad. I wonder if anyone would import North American models to Europe and try to turn a profit.

[@5150SP]

I had the same issue with my MK 8 GTI where the infotainment system screen kept shitting itself. Kept going from menu to menu saying 'roadside assistance license required'. It was so frustrating. It actually just stopped so I didn't have to take it to the dealership.

[@Drivers-Edge]

Thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching my video, I really appreciate it! That's awesome that you're resolved itself! I was really hoping that would be the case for me as well, but unfortunately it got worse over time....

[@r1nlpagain]

Even Honda and Toyota are having their share of issues today. Coming from a '23 Integra to '24 GTI the build quality in the GTI is much more solid and the vehicle feels way more capable.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@r1nlpagain thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching my video, I really appreciate it!! I was actually really curious about the Integra, I really wanted to do a review on one. But Yeh I agree, everyone, including Honda and Toyota, are having issues right now with production and build quality

[@katiecannon8186]

I’m 60 & bought the base trim GTI. I just adore it. My favorite car by far, including my BMWs I do kinda wish I had gotten the next trim up because it has proximity open/lock. Oh well.

[@r1nlpagain]

@katiecannon8186 Hey I'm 49! I'm sure there's a meme out there about older GTI drivers wanting to feel young again 😂.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@r1nlpagain haha I feel like the GTI is a car everyone can enjoy regardless of age. It's not a mid life crisis convertible situation lol

[@katiecannon8186]

@ I really love it. It’s so practical too.

[@paveldaitch6183]

Thanks for sharing your experience. I have just preordered mine at Maple Volkswagen. May I ask you where did you service your Golf and if you were happy with the level of service. Toda.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@paveldaitch6183 it's an absolute pleasure! I'm thrilled to hear that my experiences and the video were valuable! Congrats on the pre-order! I'm excited for you to get yours! I know it's early, but titchadesh! 😎. I bought mine and service it through Villa Volkswagen. For the just past in happy with the service. I have a good relationship with the service manager so that helps, but I have had my challenges with them too. It's always hard to trust a dealer and I still struggle with that. I feel like every time I take it in I find a scratch somewhere that I didn't have before, but no one will ever be as careful as me.

[@michaeljordan6008]

Good video - are full power seats available in the R for driver and passenger? I’m trying to sell my wife on the R and a power seat is a must have for her.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@michaeljordan6008 thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching the video, I really appreciate it! Unfortunately it's only full power seats for the driver. The passenger has a manual adjustment for the sliding but has a power adjustable back rest. If it helps at all, the drivers seat has memory😎. I'm happy to back you up on this though, it is a great second car! It's practical, fuel efficient, is safe, holds it's value relatively well and is very comfortable.

[@maguila7777]

Thanks for the video! I'm interested in one! My 2018 GTI suffered many issues with the sunroof so I am not taking a sunroof anymore.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@maguila7777 thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching the video, I really appreciate it! I'm so happy to hear that you are interested in the upgrade! I made a few other videos about my mk8 golf R, that could also help out. I remember when I was speccing my golf R so many people on the forums complained about faulty and leaking sunroofs. I still took it with mine, so fingers crossed, but I completely understand why you would want to stay away from it.

[@hothondansx]

After 3 test drives in a new 2024 GTI Autobahn (manual)...tried to overlook the infuriating infotainment system , but moved forward anyway & negotiated a satisfactory price (including VW $ incentives - Jan 2025). Finally just to make sure I was OK before closing, took another test drive (20 min). My conclusion: The car drives great. Love the manual along w/fit and finish, but in the end the Mark 8 info screen /setup + all the haptic touch buttons to control what's important to me, I concluded the electronics in this car are VW's "self will run riot". Even if they they knocked off another $5K , I would not buy this car. .....sadly walked away. Nice review BTW

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@hothondansx thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching the video, I really appreciate it! I think you made the right decision. It's so important to know what you want and how you want to use a vehicle before buying it. Sometimes it can be perfect but if there is a deal breaker it's not worth sacrificing on that for everything else. I'm curious, what did you end up buying instead?

[@hothondansx]

@@Drivers-Edge.... LongTime NSX owner (multiple Gen 1 ending in final year 2005). Haven't decided, but prior to my Golf GTI /R obsession, test drove a '25 Acura Integra Type S. FWD + only manuals.....equal feel to the VW's shifter IMO. Doesn't have the "boy racer" look as much as the Honda Civic Type R. Acura has familiar tech controls that are more intuitive to me. Nice car overall, but now sort of burnt out for the time being. Many videos on the Golf 8.5 (soon to be the '25's here in the USA). There's still something about the VW that keeps calling. Dislike waiting when I'm primed to make it happen.....What else is new ha ha. Keep up the good work!

[@Drivers-Edge]

@hothondansx oh wow that's amazing! How was your experience with the nsx? I really like the integers type s, but haven't had a chance to drive one yet. That would have been my second option had I not gone for the golf r. I hear you! It really sucks waiting... You will have to keep me posted with what you get in the end! Thank you so much for the words of encouragement! It's been a fun journey doing this and I truly enjoy knowing that I'm providing value along the way

[@BoshPony]

If you ever get caught with the sunroof open that won't close hold the lock diple on the door and it will close the sunroof even if the sunroof slider button isn't functioning

[@Drivers-Edge]

That is really good to know, thank you so much for sharing that! I had no idea that would work if the module wasn't functioning. Hopefully I won't have to try that 😎

[@BoshPony]

@Drivers-Edge yeah the same thing happened to my 24 R and I had to get the sunroof module replaced it has been fine ever since. Sunroof wouldn't close, interior lights would randomly turn on and off, and it would call road side assistance over and over again so annoying!

[@Drivers-Edge]

I'm so happy you got yours sorted out as well. I think this was the most frustrating issue because it really affected the drivability of the car. I hated getting in first thing in the morning and not being able to change drive modes, adjust the HVAC, or adjust the stereo​@@BoshPony

[@TJW0428]

Hi Yosef. Thanks for the great Golf R content. I really appreciate your ownership experiences and insights regarding your operating travails. As a fellow GTA resident, I'm considering the purchase of a new '24. Like so many on this thread have stated, reliability is a prevailing concern for VW products. That said, I was wondering if you purchased the extended warranty and if so, for what period? I'm also wondering what size of winter tires you have installed? Have you looked into sourcing a spare tire? All the best for the holiday season!

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@TJW0428 than you so much for your kind words and support, I really appreciate it; I love my golf R, so I enjoy sharing as much as I can about it, the good, the bad, and the ugly lol. Yes, the reliability is a concern, but with the extended warranty it doesn't scare me as much. I got the VW protection plus for 6 years, so that covers me until 2029. I also got the Tricare hazard protection for 5 years. If you have any questions about them, I'm happy to answer! Thank you for introducing yourself as being local as well! It's so great to know of other golf r enthusiasts in the GTA 😎

[@TJW0428]

@@Drivers-Edge Thanks for the additional insights. I am planning to include an extended warranty as part of the purchase. Should I be able to negotiate a reasonable reduction on the quoted price for the warranty? Does these prices generally include a considerable margin for the dealer? I'm not all that familiar with Tricare. What protection does it offer? Are your winter tires 225/40R18? Thanks.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@TJW0428 it's a pleasure, any time! Yes, there is automatically $1000 profit built in to warranties, so you can definitely negotiate a better deal. I made them strip out all the profit for the rim and tire warranty and I told the dealer he can put $100 of profit in the extended warranty so that he could make something. They already overcharged me for the car itself. For the winter tires, I have 235 40 r18.

[@nathanc9297]

Hello, I'm up north of ya's, I'm running 225/40r18, studded Firestones. They hook up!!! It seems each dealer has a different extended warrenty plan they sell..... the last 'lifetime'undercoating i got was a scam and my '12 vw is rusted badly. Another vehicle needed annual inspections to keep the warrenty. We moved in the meantime... I got 5 year worth of tire/rim for the cost of a tire and rim, it took some haggling. I'm on the hunt for a spare tire just in case.

[@Drivers-Edge]

Thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching my video, I really appreciate it. Crazy that you had that experience. I hope that things improve moving forward! I really like the rim and tire protection too! ​

[@sleepwalker31]

Very good video. I live in UK and have the dsg version. Like you I wouldn't trade it in foe anything else. Enjoy

[@Drivers-Edge]

Thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching my video! It's so great to get your perspective as well! It's an awesome car overall and well worth the challenges that come with it.

[@chorseundgrd]

Buy an oil extractor and do the oil changes yourself. It’s pretty easy. These 888 engines drink oil, you really need to watch consumption if you want to own it long term.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@chorseundgrd that's a good call, I'll keep checking every so often. Thankfully I don't drive too much😎

[@uweboker5983]

Thank you! It's a great car in my opinion too.

[@Drivers-Edge]

Thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel I really appreciate it!

[@cwx8]

Ended up going from an X3M comp to this. I noticed the 2024 year is the last time VW will be offering a manual and the X3 was my first automatic. So I made the change. I like it a lot better than my mk7.5 as it addresses a lot of the boring driving dynamics of that generation. The infotainment is absolutely absurd though. I hate it.

[@Drivers-Edge]

Thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching the video, I really appreciate it! Thats a really awesome upgrade! I wouldnt have put the two together as options to consider in a head to head. That being said, I think the X3M Comp is really cool and awesome. I havent yet driven it, but I would imagine its a great driving experience. You make a really good point in that manual transmission cars are dying very quickly, which opens up a lot more options for enthusiast to now broaden their scope of what they would be interested in purchasing.

[@sasapejovic1337]

Perfect video ....all exactly same questions that i asked myself these days....i own 2023 GLI .....amazing car ....i love it ...but Golf R is my dream ...i have to be money cautioned a bit since i am 53 ....so it worth to buy used 2022 .....is it better to go with beand new 2024 model and pay more....am i crazy of thinking of Golf R when my GLI is perctly fine and fun car to drive ...should i get a few months old fully load GTI....great video it helps....i am actually realisric guy and know that its going to be some issues since its mechanical thing with 3000 components...Thank you i am your follower now and from Toronto...

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@sasapejovic1337 thank you so much for your kind words and support, I really appreciate it! It's funny but i have never bought a new car in my life, this was the only one I was willing to get because I figured the depreciation is slower than more cars, the repair cost savings from getting an older one will also justify the additional cost, and at the time used Cars were more than the new ones. In today's world however, I would have happily bought a 2022 model that has been well cared for and save a good 5k. The GLI is a fantastic car but if you are considering the upgrade I would have a golf r over the loaded GTI any day.

[@sasapejovic1337]

No problem and thank you for solving one issue ....I won't look GTI since I was thinking if you go for Golf it has to be R....difference between my GLI and GTI would not be that noticeable comparing to R...

[@Drivers-Edge]

​@@sasapejovic1337it's a pleasure! I'm always happy to help! I truly enjoy helping people with car decisions, but also with everything in life. If you do get it, you will have to send me a picture 😎

[@antikytheramechanism7909]

I had the previous gen before all the touch, haptics and stuff. The only thing I didn't like about it was the hard seat compared to all the Audis I have owned. I may get another one but I'd have to test drive it for a few miles and check out if the seat is still hard like a park bench with 1/2" foam on top.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@antikytheramechanism7909 thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching the video, I really appreciate it! That's interesting, I do remember the seats on the mk7 being firmer compared to the mk8's. The mk8 seats are more plush and supportive, I think you will find them more comfortable, but you definitely want to go for a good test drive.

[@katiecannon8186]

I’ve had my 2023 GTI base trim for about 1 years. It’s been perfect. I broke my back windshield wiper & my dealer replaced it for free. Don’t know why. I did an oil change after 1,500 miles. My dealership threw in a free hand wash & wax. I don’t know why. Anyway, it’s been a great experience so far. Including my weirdly nice dealership

[@katiecannon8186]

So, I’ve had two oil changes & am almost ready for a second one.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@katiecannon8186 that's amazing, thank you so much for your comment and sharing your experience, I really appreciate it! Where is your dealer located? That's amazing that they are so kind. I wish the dealers in my were as awesome! To be fair they include a wash every visit but I don't want them putting my car through a touch wash that could scratch the paint.

[@katiecannon8186]

@@Drivers-Edge In Orlando Fl. They’ve actually done other nice stuff too. Too hard to explain, but they fixed something another thing I broke for free too - lol. Their tech person spent an hour with me showing how everything works because I just couldn’t follow the handbook. Etc. They’re like a mom & pop shop even though they actually own at least 3 dealerships

[@katiecannon8186]

My dealership has a full house detail shop. So they’ll do hand washes They also have an *old* drive through wash that’s free to use for their customers. But 😬 I never have.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@katiecannon8186 that's amazing I'm so happy to hear that!! What a great experience! I'm so happy to hear that you have such Great dealership!

[@DynamicAttraction]

iam outside the GTA 40mins, own a 2024 golf R perfect driving record iam shocked ur insurance is 2000/year mines 3264/year w.e company benefit ur getting its doing you good.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@DynamicAttraction thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching my video, I really appreciate it! It's great to meet another local golf r owner! No way?! I guess I really appreciate my discount. I wonder why there is such a difference with my price and yours .

[@DynamicAttraction]

@ well it went up 52/month cuz they said increased accidents with ur type of car in addition to crime/thefts. + I optioned the additional 40/month for new car insurance if I totaled it within 4 years I would get the full amount paid back I bought it new in cash so the added security of getting my 60k back worth 40/month which goes away after 4 years. Also iam single male, I hear married ppl get discounts

[@Drivers-Edge]

Ah that makes a lot of sense! Yes married with kids gives a discount and I also told them I only drive about 6k per year and it's garaged with winter tires. I guess all the little things add up. I also live a little north of Toronto, so it could be that my area is a little cheaper e​@DynamicAttraction

[@nicholaswilliams6697]

I'm intensely cross-shopping this with the Civic Type R and the GR Corolla. what do you think it came down to, to tell you that the Golf R was the one for you?

[@Drivers-Edge]

That is a really great question! There were a few things that pushed me towards the Golf R. The Civic Type R and GR Corolla were more difficult to get a hold of. I also needed the 5th seat, so the Civic Type R was out of the question. The GR Corolla was a bit smaller on the inside and I wasnt a fan of the very cheap feeling interior. It was also lacking a lot of creature comforts. I felt that the Golf R was a good balance with the styling luxury features and also had a great AWD system, which the Civic Type R was missing. I also happen to really like the look of the Golf R, although the Integra Type S really caught my attention :).

[@richardmichael59]

GR Corolla rides very, very firm. Not comfortable on rough roads, and interior is meh. Type R has that stupid wing in the back that looks like a “boy racer”. Pass.

[@Drivers-Edge]

​I agree about the firmness of the gr corolla. I'm very happy that the civic type R got a bit more tasteful lol, but the interior of the golf R is way ahead of all of them.​@@richardmichael59

[@ShafikHabal-zt3sw]

You could just buy an extractor and save the $210 takes about 20 mins to do an oil change

[@Drivers-Edge]

Thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching my video, I really appreciate it!! That's a really good point. I am thinking about that because I hate it when I have to let other people touch my car. When someone else gets in and uses the car they are never as careful as I am and I always find scratches and little damages after every service. I just don't know how doing my own oil changes will work with the warranty. Have you had experience with that?

[@SymbolicLogic24]

​@Drivers-Edge idk how it is in Canada but you can still do your own oil changes in the states. Just be sure you're sticking to the manufacturer recommended oil/filter and keep a detailed log each time. So month/day/year, mileage, type of oil, type of filter and keep your receipts. The only thing is if you damage your car somehow changing the oil yourself then the warranty won't cover it.

[@Drivers-Edge]

That's really good to know, thank you for sharing!!

[@r3games1985]

Sold my Golf R for an Elantra N. I like it way better, cost about $8000 less money and way less problems.

[@Drivers-Edge]

Thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching the video, I really appreciate it! That's great to know! I always wanted to do a review on the Elantra N! I think it's a very compelling offer too! I'm really happy to hear that you are enjoying your ownership experience of the Elantra N!

[@katiecannon8186]

The base trim GTI is the best beginner’s car out there in my opinion. Reviewers are really under valuing the safety features Including the large side mirrors with the large blind spot light on the inside of the casing. Versus a little light in the glass. I actually bought my GTI for my son. But then he moved to Germany. So I sold my car & kept his. Lol

[@Drivers-Edge]

I completely agree! It's also very safe and a good balance between being fun and practical. It definitely has more too it than a base corolla or civic.

[@gymclasshero88]

Thank you so much for the video, just saved me from buying! 7 times is ridiculous

[@Drivers-Edge]

Haha I'm glad you found the video helpful!! I hope it was just my experience and the newer ones don't have as many issues, but unfortunately it was a rocky road at the beginning

[@cleansweepbayarea]

1 oil change per year? I guess it depends on how much you drive. I do 4 per year every 4k on my gti daily and I do every 3k on my AMG. You should never wait over 4K maybe 5k for a change that’s just how I see it.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@cleansweepbayarea thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching the video, I really appreciate that! Good to know! I only have about 7000 kms on the car after a year and a half.

[@user-ef9er4vz8g]

Every car has problems. I'm like you and can't find a car that I would buy other than the Golf R

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@user-ef9er4vz8g I really appreciate that!! I'm not the only crazy one 😜. While I was waiting two years for my allocation everyone around me thought I was crazy for waiting and not getting something else, because they couldn't comprehend that there was nothing else I wanted to get that would fill all the criteria I wanted the car to fill. It's nice to meet someone who thinks the same!

[@azbabby]

Hey mate! Out of curiosity, what was the CEL code that popped up on your dash? I’m currently dealing with a P045200 code on my relatively new 2024 GTI and I’ve started to see others have the same issue on enthusiast forums. Other than that it’s been blast.

[@Drivers-Edge]

Thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching my video, I really appreciate it! That is a great question, I don't have an obd Reader, so I don't know what code it was, but on the service report it says variable intake manifold flap valve. I'm so glad you are enjoying your GTI, it is an awesome car!

[@blackabooo]

My guy, 1.5 year old car with that many problems = unreliable!!!

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@blackabooo haha Yeh I hear that. Most people wouldn't want to put up with all that, but sometimes when you really like something you are willing to look past the logical decision. 😎

[@raumeywilson4684]

MK8.5 in 2025? absolutely!

[@Drivers-Edge]

Haha the mk8.5 will be better than the mk8 on every respect except for 1.... It no longer offers a manual transmission. But otherwise, I absolutely agree!

[@raumeywilson4684]

@@Drivers-Edge I do agree, but am also fortunate enough to have a 6MT on the side to scratch that itch....also getting older and the auto daily is just more practical. Appreciate your content!

[@Drivers-Edge]

@raumeywilson4684 that's amazing! It's always important to have a manual to scratch the itch 😎. Thank you so much for the kind words, I really appreciate it! I enjoy making the videos, but it's always nice to know they are enjoyable and add value to people. 😎

[@JacesOwnWorld]

0:54-1:18 That’s why I’ve chosen to stay single lol. Rather be single than eventually have half of my stuff taken from me…🤷‍♂️

[@Drivers-Edge]

Thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching my video, I really appreciate it! Haha I hear that, it is always a concern lol. Thankfully my wife and I have been going 12 years strong😎

[@garylyons101]

Oil change for my 22 stonic at least $400nzd minimum

[@Drivers-Edge]

Wow that's crazy!!

[@sasothestrategizer]

At least it hasn’t left you stranded.. In the cold. I’ve owned five Audi’s and one VW. I don’t have a story like yours on any of them. The depreciation on the VW was pitiful. Bought a R- Line Passat 2017 (new) for 30K, it was worth 18K after one year. Oh, a Civic Type -R would get smoked by the Golf-R!

[@Drivers-Edge]

Yes, that is very true!! To be honest, I was really concerned when I couldnt close the sunroof for a couple days, that freaked me out. Thank god it was in the summer and I had a garage to put it in. Its good to know that your experiences with your Audis and VW's were better and more reliable. Yeh depreciation is a big question in my mind at the moment, but I intend to keep my Golf R for 10 years, assuming it doesnt completely fall apart by then. That is crazy depreciation!!! Yeh, absolutely! I love how quick the Golf R is :)

[@TheYorkshiregolfbandit]

@@Drivers-Edgebought the wrong model Gti CS 33k 2021 plate 25k trade in or cash to take it 6 dealers more or less same within £500 Mk8 R same plate same mileage 22k, 23k and that’s absolutely max! more people buy a model thinking it’s better the less it’s worth

[@Drivers-Edge]

@escos0410 it would be best to get the GTI CS, but they don't offer it in North America. I feel like there are a lot of cool hot hatches in Europe that we don't get here unfortunately.

[@andyk8822]

Volkswagen group is in trouble, the 2025 golf r will be delayed or not come to the US at all. Workers striking no one to build cars.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@andyk8822 that is very true and so sad. I hope they can get their stuff together this year.

[@mikecollins2388]

Do you think this will make used gti/ r prices go up? Right now there are some great deals on new 2024 gti but used values are still dropping.

[@Drivers-Edge]

Thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel, I really appreciate it! Truthfully I don't believe that they will get more expensive used because the market is still inflated. That being said the rate of depreciation should show down in the coming years (in my opinion)​@@mikecollins2388

[@tsenif]

​@@Drivers-Edge there are currently no delays for the Golf R into the US... Talk to your dealers. They're expecting them around March 2025. Lol.

[@Drivers-Edge]

@tsenif That's really refreshing to hear!! I was worried with everything going on with VW that they would be delayed. Thank you for sharing that! @tsenif

[@YouTube_Executive_01]

Basically 1-2 service trips not 7

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@KZbin_Executive_01 it's true that normally should be just two services but everything happened sporadically, which made me go in so many times

[@Kiss__Kiss]

3 kids? this looks to be very small for 3 kids. Of course YMMV.

[@Drivers-Edge]

Haha yes, this is a little small to do all the daily activities for the kids, but I have a seven seater SUV also.

[@Kiss__Kiss]

@@Drivers-Edge Then, these aren't the droids you're looking for. You can go about you business, Sir.. Move along, move along lol

[@Drivers-Edge]

Haha I love the star wars reference! Im a big star wars fan too! Well played sir!​@@Kiss__Kiss

[@Kiss__Kiss]

@@Drivers-Edge lol Although I'm a little older than you. As I went to the premier of "A new Hope." I am a big Star Wars fan too.. Enjoy the rest of your weekend, Sir. And Happy Holidays to you and yours.!!

[@Drivers-Edge]

@Kiss__Kiss haha that's amazing!! I loved that movie when it came out! Still one of my favorites!! So cool that you got to see it in theaters!! Happy holidays to you and your family as well!!

[@Madeiniran420]

Mazal Tov

[@Drivers-Edge]

Thank you so much, I really appreciate that!

[@du3lcitiz3n]

No, cuz it's missing a pedal

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@du3lcitiz3n mine is a manual, three pedals all the way! 😎

[@MartinLloyd-w1u]

Sadly VW quality has dropped ,cheaper materials being used

[@Drivers-Edge]

Thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching the video, I really appreciate it! I generally agree, but I feel like the mk8 golf r got more hate than it deserved.

[@MartinLloyd-w1u]

@ you may be right! But I loved the 7.5pp

[@Drivers-Edge]

Yeh the 7.5 is an amazing vehicle!! I still get excited when I see them drive by​@MartinLloyd-w1u

[@johnadair6108]

Nice presentation...

[@Drivers-Edge]

@@johnadair6108 thank you so much, I really appreciate that! I'm always curious to know if my format is well received. If you ever have any ideas on how to improve my Videos, or ideas for content, please don't hesitate to reach out!

[@gymclasshero88]

In Australia these are now $13000 less than the original asking price with the new one on the way and with people being against the model because of the lack of buttons and back lighting. I also can’t get over the lack of buttons but then also choosing to now have the dash back lit is ridiculous. This was my realistic dream car when I was young and now I can afford it I don’t want it. Also reading maintenance issues online is a massive turn off.

[@Drivers-Edge]

That's crazy!! I can't believe they are so much less in Australia!! Yeh the lack of buttons is annoying. If this was my only car I would probably not be happy with it. It's too bad when you idolize something and then it's not what you expect when you are finally in a position to get it. What are you looking at all an alternative?

[@gymclasshero88]

@ yeah I don’t want to take the risk with car issues and then not have buttons on a daily use. It’s hard as the competition also have issues. Gr yaris and corolla is a bit too rough ride for where I live. The Audi s3 is $20k more than the golf r and for me is too expensive. The Hyundai i30n has dated interior and don’t feel too happy with driving a Hyundai and don’t know how I feel about it as it ages. Sucks but we in a weird era with the combustion hot hatch. I think I would get an i30n as the best bang for buck and then keep for 5-10 years and take a depreciation hit and then either go electric or get a S3 in the future

[@mikematzaridis8803]

Great video I have a 2024 that I have had since 2023 November and I drive it a lot as I have 40k already and it has been bulletproof. The only thing is I do an oil change every 7500km at the dealer which they only charge me $180 Canadian I’m just north of Toronto.

[@Drivers-Edge]

Thank you so much for your comment and for supporting my channel by watching the video, I really appreciate it! I agree, there really isn't the perfect car, but as long as the car has more positives than negatives, it's a good buy. I really made up a list of priorities to make my decision. But I wish we had more reliable options lol​@@gymclasshero88

[@Drivers-Edge]

​@@mikematzaridis8803thank you so much for watching the video and for your comment, I really appreciate it! That's amazing! I'm so happy your experience has been a great one! I would hope that more people have your experience. It's great to know that your oil change is only $180!!!