TCR or Clubsport? Which ONE is THE best GTI?!

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In this video I finally get the new Golf GTI TCR up against the reigning GTI champ (for me at least), the Clubsport Edition 40.
I've been desperate to do this as at first the TCR looked like a weak impersonation of the Clubsport but then I saw the bigger brakes, higher (permanent) power output, unique colour option and heard the fruitier exhaust note and was impressed.
I was then disappointed by the fact you couldn't order bucket seats, or a manual gearbox or (eventually) even 3 doors. The fact it lost the Clubsport's aero kit was a shame too, instead it got standard GTI bumpers with more aggressive bits clipped onto them to differentiate it from the GTI Performance (and GTD/GTE).
So it was all to play for when I visited Brackley to drive APS (www.autops.co.uk) director Ed Jackson's brand new example with just 700 mile on the clock.
Ed's car was specced in quite an unusual way which made comparison a little bit tricky but ultimately we got there in the end, keep watching to hear the verdict!

[@darrencottrell5541]

Finally caught up with all your videos post my holiday. Another tour de force VAG content. VW really need to do some research rather than rely on subscription numbers. Without a doubt, you are the most knowledgeable and enthusiastic VAG guru, befitting your brand. I'd wager many purchases are made on the back of your reviews, for certain the up! GTI which you championed with an exquisite touch. You deserve to have a bigger following, your efforts go beyond quality. All the best Andrew.

[@volkswizard]

I wondered where you'd got to, everything OK with you Darren? Thanks for your kind words, would love to do more with Up! GTI but it just doesn't fit my needs or budget right now but hopefully one day soon 👍👍

[@darrencottrell5541]

All good thanks mate. I was away for two weeks, back to the daily grindstone now though. You richly deserve the plaudits you get from your followers, keep believing.

[@joealexzander7270]

I know it's kinda randomly asking but do anybody know a good place to stream new movies online ?

[@raybronson5539]

@Joe Alexzander I dunno try flixportal. You can find it by googling:D -ray

[@joealexzander7270]

@Ray Bronson Thank you, I signed up and it seems like they got a lot of movies there =) Appreciate it !

[@adamandersson9663]

Clubsport all day long. Special bucket seats, great looking aero, alcantara steering wheel and way cheaper. Regular Clubsports have been holding their value really strong here in Sweden. TCR's are roughly 50% more compared to when clubsport were new.

[@tredfxman]

Check out my Swedish Clubsport at my channel in Carbon Steel Grey Metallic & 90 % Tinted! 😎 Exacly iwas so happy i bought at the right time before the crazy price increase.. 👍

[@johnquinn1836]

and, manual!

[@adamandersson9663]

@@johnquinn1836 very true!

[@stevesje71]

Certainly not 50% more here. The Clubsport was very gimmicky with a 286bhp only on boost. The TCR trumps it in looks and performance. The only Clubsport I would have again is the Clubsport S. The Clubsport was restricted to prevent it treading on the Clubsport S shoes!

[@maxfrederick7703]

Got a white TCR with PP and sunroof (I live in Marbella so...... Needed). I adore it, such a good package it’s our family transport aswell as another fun car for me (keeps the mileage off my M2)..... thanks for another great vid, you and Joe Achilles vids on the TCR helped me make the choice.

[@mariodiniz21]

How do you like the TCR compared to the M2? I know this is a strange situation and comparison, but I'm choosing between buying a TCR and a M2.

[@matthewbourner5242]

Interesting video and good content! I feel like there's not enough exposure of these rarer models due to the golf r; unlike the golf r I think these will be future collectables / classics in the not too distant future

[@martinlyons9460]

Hi Andrew , really enjoyed the video. Was actually hoping you might be able to answer a question I have. I bought a used my 7.5 gti performance pack golf last week and as you mentioned in your video regarding the SOS button I hooked the car up to carnet with the we connect app so I could have on my phone the location of my car if it was ever stolen , but it doesn’t seem to show it on the app or even how much fuel I have like it’s supposed to. Have you come across this issue before ? I tried to contact Volkswagen customer care but they still haven’t responded to me. Any advice from yourself or any of your subscribers on here would be greatly appreciated 😃

[@nickcook7408]

My preference would be a Golf Ltd. Everything that came after, from Vr6 to R32 to R to TCR eat cetera, have all paled in comparison to the Ltd. A close second place is the G60 syncro with the 16v options extra cylinder head.

[@mikemayers9353]

Im looking to add to my gti collection and have to choose between the tcr or edition 40 . (I have mk3 16v , passed on gti mk4 , ed30 , ed35) which one ? The logical train would be ed40 , all my cars are standard bar the mk6 which is stage 1 (mk6 is a useless car in a lineup anyway)

[@danjones2493]

nearly 3 years on and i'm just finding myself in this position. would you still pick the TCR over a clubsport? Thanks Dan.

[@mbingham10]

Nice cars both of them, never realised that the boot was so big either, when you said you can take your gran and grandad out in it, would you need to drop the seats to get two coffins.

[@d.kashani]

Andrew, I can’t believe you got rid of your CSS, smh. i wish we had the CS CSS and TCR here in the US. My dream car is the CSS along with the 911 R and LFA.

[@st33fie]

Dear Volkswizard at 6:00 you talk about a plug for the DCC coming out of the shockabsorber. can you tell me if this is the same with the MK8 GTI? thanks in advance

[@tomscotland]

You are by far the best car critic on KZbin. It’s not even close. Cheers man.

[@aspiratedaloha2946]

Love this comparison. Helps a lot with my buying decision.

[@d.kashani]

i’d still choose the CS. It still looks better and tune will fix the power gap if you even need it.

[@MrTraveler85]

Get my TCR next week can't wait!

[@stevesje71]

Great video! I’ve bought a TCR after seeing this video and doing a bit of research for myself.

[@volkswizard]

Glad it was helpful! I bought one too as the video influenced me!

[@stevesje71]

Interesting video for all the R is faster brigade kzbin.info/www/bejne/jKvbc2Nsl7mGedk

[@cracker2514]

My dad's got the TCR with an akrapovic exhaust and diamond cut wheels, it's rlly fast Nd loud ngl

[@eklektikTechno]

I can deal with the club sport a little better it still has some understated looks with the exception of the larger kick up on the spoiler

[@PsyentifiqueLtd]

Does Akrapovic add hp over the standard TCR? Because they usually do around 10hp??

[@leweee]

Erdem Pulcu If it's a catback don't expect any gains and the price of that akra certainly isn't worth what they claim

[@phil.i.am2]

Great find this review, and great knowledge 👏🏼 Can't believe VW are getting into customer selection process like Porsche, that's just ridiculous! I'm thinking of either TCR, CS, CSS or an R but can't make my mind up and then there's the dsg or manual question! Argh 🤯

[@TIM612826]

I got a golf mk7 manual, no regrets!

[@Jonnyicey]

Are the Pretoria alloys on the TCR just as fragile as the one you get on the golf R?

[@nickhorne5493]

Yes lol

[@andrewjohnston2901]

i checked out all your vide before buying my TCR cheers andy

[@RaWinstinctNI]

I thought the clubsport came with the carbon back recaro seats

[@ShamyTV5k]

for me the TCR is worlds better overall, the exterior and the active info alone makes it the better car, then the Akrapovic also makes it more special, for me its clear

[@DzekoTV401]

I got 2019 Golf R Oettinger Sport 👌

[@yannickjakobs6433]

Clubsport without racing Motorsport seats isn‘t a Clubsport

[@mc4130]

Friend of mine is in the enviable position of having just taken delivery of a 2016 R estate with stage 2 revo. It’s nuts. But shows me (as you say), it’s a licence loser! Both these are amazing and decent value on the 2nd hand market. Desperately want a back to basics lightweight experience! I am loving the CS 40 - esp. with bucket race seats and akropovic - sounds like a bargain!

[@FarideLadak]

Yes, the TCR is a better car, but it’s at an additional $ 10k, that’s 30 to 35% more $ than a GTI

[@PPGNI]

3dr TCR much better looking than any 5 door GTI

[@lilbabyvideos7168]

The golf 7 40 edition clubsport will still be the best car💥💥💥💥💥

[@luxurycars254.4]

let's not ignore the Aston martin in the parking lot.

[@PatrickEVRAable]

WHY WHY WHYYYY didnt they do a manual TCR

[@volkswizard]

Probably emissions as 7 speed DSG shuffles up the gears quickly which suits the emissions test. Plus clutch issues are rife on R so probably for the best TBH. It's still quite involving to drive if you use the paddles but if you can heel and toe then clearly that's no substitute!

[@PatrickEVRAable]

@@volkswizard I'll be getting a mk7.5 gti performance 3dr manual to replace my fiesta ST. I absolutely love the idea of turning it into a homage to the Mk7 Clubsport S.. until I found out the buckets are about 12k to source from from VW.. and I can find anyone who makes a Clubsport S type rear spoiIer which looks amazing .. Wish they offered the 19inch Pretoria wheels on the performance, they are a stunning wheel..

[@PatrickEVRAable]

*Can't find anyone

[@d.kashani]

CS and CSS is the best GTI

[@robtoogood201]

No wingbacks? They make the clubsport

[@volkswizard]

True but do they make any difference to how it drives? TCR here has DCC, CS doesn’t and that really is significant

[@robtoogood201]

@@volkswizard No very true but they are the best seats available for the Mk7. They give the car a whole different look/feel. It's a shame you couldn't add them to the GTI and R. I think VW missed a trick really, many people would of spent money on them for sure.

[@mikemayers9353]

I read pretorias are soft and like to bend

[@TheSimplexArtz]

Tcr is the Best gti !

[@GlasgowBandit]

We All Know the R is the Daddy

[@lastnamefirstname520]

Never! take these to the track stock. You need about 10k worth of mods to go the track without damaging the engine/chassis....

[@Spocksgoat]

I traded my R for a TCR just under a month ago. I specified 18” wheels (Bridgestone Potenza’s). I was nervous that I’d be downgrading, a bit disappointed that I missed the 3 door option. However, after 3 weeks/900 miles I am so happy with the TCR, it feels more nimble and more fun to drive, its certainly better looking than my R. The 5 door felt like a compromise but again thanks to the pure grey and the body kit it just looks like a proper performance Golf. Initially when I was told I couldn’t order a 3 door I started looking at 718s (previously had a 987 S) but once I saw the Golf in the showroom my opinion about 5 doors evaporated. Great car, can’t recommend it highly enough. I am very pleased with the engine sound too! Great video!

[@mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm420]

I'm old enough (54) to have had a nearly new mark 1 GTI (1983 Lhasa green) and I found having only three doors a pain in the neck. Asking friends and family to crawl into the back was daft and I've never owned a 3 door hatch since. I also consider the aesthetic of later Golf GTIs with a body shell which can accommodate 5 doors being produced in 3 doors form rather incongruous. The doors are just too long. I'm not surprised in the least that demand for 3 door hatches has fallen to such a degree that most manufacturers have stopped making them.

[@jryalls]

I’ve got a MK7.5 GTi Performance and is recommend changing the Potenza’s for Pilot Sport 4’s. The difference is other worldly in grip and noise levels in the dry and wet. Completely agree with you on the GTi being way more fun to drive than the R although I don’t think the TCR is worth the money over the standard Performance, it’s basically a remapped performance with a body kit.

[@volkswizard]

There is a bit more to the TCR than a remap and a bodykit - for a start you can remap your Performance model to 290 but it won't have a warranty then so it's kind of academic - 45 bhp more from the factory will never come cheap. Plus you get the two piece brake discs, a more tuneful exhaust system, the option of a unique colour (Pure grey) which VW have been very unadventurous with when it comes to every other Golf, you can have a black roof, there are 3 wheel options inc a semi-slick tyre. You can even order it with freckles via the decal option and it does feel more special somehow - unique interior, dead ahead marker on steering wheel, TCR logo on side and yes a bodykit! Specced correctly it will knock the standard GTI (Performance) for six in nearly every area but admittedly at a price. I like it because it's not limited but it's pretty hardcore. I like the Performance too especially as a discreet daily driver but I'd be more excited about getting a TCR out of the garage at weekends - both great cars at their respective price points👍

[@tredfxman]

@@jryalls Very nice to hear! Now i know what to put on the Clubsport when those Potenzas are worn out... Heard it from another hardcore Clubsport user that drove on track too! 😎 👍

[@tredfxman]

@@volkswizard Now thats a detailed fact sheet. Are you thinking of converting to one..? Hehe 😉

[@pokest225]

Clubsport a little better handling. Tcr a little better straight line performance. A remap to remove the power limiter in the clubsport gives you the best combo.

[@joelbriiito8773]

Bro im thinking betwen picking the tcr brand new on the volkswagen dealer here where i live or buy a second hand clubsport full equip with the backets and all and also with 2 wheels, the specials from the clubsport and then the brecia in black, for just 33k€ and i thini this video and the coments are making me think like a 85% of the clubsport and only add that unlock of speed and full 290hp and then 15% for the tcr and add some stetics to the car, what should i do? Hahahahahaha

[@pokest225]

@@joelbriiito8773 get clubsport, and get the power unrestricted. Tcr only has a flashy name.

[@jaimerodriguezgonzalez6405]

because of whats cs has a better handling?

[@pokest225]

In my opinion, clubsport handling is better because is lighter, and has better aero. Remember that this car was the basis for the "record" car, the clubsport s. Car reviewers said it had pointy front end and very playful rear end. And on top of that, it has unique look with the aero pack, the front optional seats are so much better, and it has also the "anniversary" factor. It also has dual injection, and it doesn't have opf. Because of that, it sounds better. Also you were able to choose between manual or dsg. In the tcr, you have more power as standard, but only dsg, only direct injection, opf, and less sound. Same standard seats as every other gti, and barely different look aesthetically. The handling was a little bit more understeery because the slightly higher weight, and less hardcore factory geometry. Still very good. The brakes were slightly different, but didn't make any difference in performance. In my opinion tcr is better in power and some tech equipment details that the clubsport didn't have. But the more special car, for me it's the clubsport without a doubt.

[@pokest225]

@iNSTAGiB it's weird because both clubsport and tcr are supposedly the same underneath. But according to some, they not handle the exact same. The optional seats are more focused sport seats, both in looks and functional aspect.

[@tommicky6296]

Three doors! I mean...that alone would be enough for me. I just love it, and that grey. I agree with you on the mirrors. Not feeling those at all. But...three doors. I’m in love.

[@nemtizz]

I have an ED35 currently and don't plan on getting rid of it for at least a couple years as I really haven't started yet, but one of these will be my next car. They're so similar but different in conflicting ways. TCR has a slight edge, though, I really want to hear it with a full exhaust + OPF delete. The seats suck, though. Convert some Wingbacks into a similar style to the ED40 seats maybe? Grey looks dope. Great video once again.

[@markwilliams2257]

Cannot believe that due to subscriber numbers you hadn't tried TCR prior to this. Poor that is. Have VW not realised your high quality reviews, production detail and undoubted enthusiasm for GTi's of all varieties. They need to wake up and see your videos such as this are simply great ads for the Golf Gti. They're also really useful for what's good (and not so good) in the options spec sheet.

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Mark. To be 100% truthful I did ask to borrow a TCR but instead got invited to drive the TCR at Millbrook Proving Ground - I had two slots, officially 15 mins each, the second of which was limited to 100 yds due to to no fuel - it can easily take 10 mins to set cameras up. The ensuing video was acceptable mainly thanks to help from Parkers' Adam Binnie showing me the way around. I've watched a lot of KZbinrs come through the ranks and nearly all have at some stage been frustrated by a manufacturer's reluctance to lend them cars (even Mr. JWW and a a Ferrari a few years back!). It's just funny how good Audi are at this, lending me irreplaceable RS2 and RS4 and an R8 worth more than my house cost & yet VW who are in the same building only work with bigger channels it would appear. The irony is when I did the early Up! GTI video that beat every other UK review, I was told a customer car is not necessarily representative and I should use a press car....

[@clivedarley325]

Great video I’ve been thinking of getting a golf r for ages but something was stopping me , it’s not got that fun factor because of the looks and four wheel drive. Think the tcr will be limited due to mark 8 available next year

[@alistairpowers8129]

Great video Andrew, regarding the items on the TCR, sometimes less is more in my view.

[@ed40lew]

Great video mate, had been looking forward to this one for awhile. I myself before purchasing the ED40 did check out the TCR....just was not a fan myself of that colour interior, or looks of it on the outside. I mean, if i was to drive one & hopefully will get to at some point (or even go as passenger) to see what it's like then i can probably appreciate that side of it. But still.....ED40 for me, the limited edition, looks, alcantara/interior - and having the option if wanting manual or DSG (dsg imo is best) and i think value of them. But this is always going to be down to people's own personal preference. Maybe do a instagram vote/poll? Anyway great video. r600_clubsport

[@volkswizard]

Instagram vote is a great idea, will get onto that 👍

[@baktzara6208]

Again love this video with extra details and information about the GOLF,s.. ie the dcc and the plaque which only u.k dealers introduce. Honestly how else would we know.

[@smiler921]

Enjoying my TCR, never driven the Clubsport 40 though. Controversial, but as my first DSGmI’m very pleased

[@michaellavictoire1384]

Great video and comparison! I have 2018 GTI Performance (Manual) and very happy with it. Does everything a GTI should and for the money is a good package. Not sorry I missed out on the TCR, and look forward to the Mk8!

[@volkswizard]

Performance GTI is a great car, hope they don't muck it up with Mk8 -we don't need faster nor do we need larger so be interesting to see where they go

[@stevehastings6802]

I have the same car just with dsg.. I don't like the golf mk2, mk4, and mk6 so I'm convinced I'm not going to like the mk8. 🤔

[@volkswizard]

LOL🤣

[@tredfxman]

@@Martin-yu4vz Interesting information! That must mean it wont be wasted money putting a more expensive exhaust on the Clubsport seen on my channel. Iwas thinking of the IPR Valvetronic with a CTS Turbo downpipe.. What you think? (regarding wasted money, its more like an investment for cars like these lets say, esp if less interest for the newer models.. 😉)

[@MrDarrenNice]

Fantastic video 👍🏻 And WooHoo, even more excited now about my TCR coming in October. Also, which I'm not sure it's common knowledge or not, because as standard now, the TCR comes with the Akrapovic titanium exhaust as shown on the original concept. There is the small fact they've pushed the base price up by £2360 😱 However, get a good deal from your local dealer then the extra cost is negligible. Especially when you know it will sound even better then the standard exhaust on them now 😍👌🏻

[@volkswizard]

Good point Darren re the Akrapovic, I had heard that but had forgotten to mention it. Be interesting to hear how much better it sounds compared to stock - sounds like the subject of a good video!

[@MrDarrenNice]

@@volkswizard Agree, that would make a great video. Happily offer mine... Would love to see my own car on KZbin with someone who knows what he's doing 👍🏻 However, I'm all the way down near Brighton. Unless you fancy a trip 😁

[@volkswizard]

You never know, you aren't that far away 😎

[@charlesharrison6291]

A great video feature of these fantastic golfs. Keep them coming and I will carry on watching them.

[@lewisratford2908]

Didn’t know the TCR was available as a 3 door! I do agree that it should have an alcantara steering wheel. I mean if VW offer graphics for £400 why not a steering wheel option ? Love these cars and they are just so good at everything. Do you know how VW bumped the power up on the TCR?

[@harrisonread2545]

Love the TCR. Would love to have one.

[@michaelglisson8240]

I want to move to England to get one of those! Great video!

[@lbottrill9097]

Lovely comparison, thanks Andrew 👍🏻

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Lee - do you want one now though?😉

[@rossowen83]

Bagged myself one of the last 3-door TCR's :)

[@PORTER24]

Great video just recently purchased a Golf GTi performance pack and love it . had a good browse through a-lot of your older content great work you've gained a new subscriber!

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Michael, glad you like what you see but if you like your GTI Performance then you've come to the right place, thanks for the sub 👍

[@paultaylor9652]

Always interesting, and never disappointing.

[@davidbrady1551]

Great to own either car but very lucky to have a TCR!! I do think that the alcantara wheel and proper racing seats would have make the TCR cockpit perfect as that is what you see and feel when driving it but hey you can't have everything I guess. although it would have pushed the price up even more and now the upgraded exhaust is standard fit at an extra cost. anyway I'm delighted with mine after covering 1800kms and would urge anyone thinking about the R to try the TCR first. I let my son's friend (22) drive mine who is very lucky to have had an R for the last 3 mths as he works for VW Ireland and had their demo. He also does a bit of rallying so knows about cars and he reckoned the throttle response is far better on the TCR than the R and feels more aggressive through the gears which I agree with. Great comparison video Andrew from a real VAG enthusiast

[@bluetitan20]

Hi David,it's great to hear that there are a few of the TCR model's in Ireland and that you own one of them.Is yours a 3/5 door?I must try and get a drive in one hopefully and see what their like. Great review video as usual Andrew

[@davidbrady1551]

@@bluetitan20 5 door with performance pack in pearl black. Sunroof, rear tints,start stop,upgraded nav and blind spot monitor. Only 20 cars came to Ireland and I got the only black one. It's a cracking car. This is my 5th performance golf including 2 r32's 07 and 08. My last was a 2018 perf pack model which I really liked but this is on a different level.

[@bluetitan20]

@@davidbrady1551 From the couple I've seen for sale they've been all in what looks like primer grey,black would be nice colour alright.I would have thought the TCR would have the Performance Pack as standard?

[@davidbrady1551]

@@bluetitan20 no it's an extra €3850 over here for different suspension, dynamic chassis and 19'' wheels. Same in the UK

[@Scorpionbe]

Very nice, the TCR looks like fun car to drive. I hope if you ever get your hands on a T -Roc R. Keep doing the great videos 👌

[@Scott555ish]

TCR look ok but I find the mix n match of matt and gloss plastics on the front grills an anmoying cost saving. I would have to get them removed and painted/dipped gloss to match. I'd still prefer an ED40 with buckets and DCC if I could find the holy grail.

[@volkswizard]

Oddly a 3 door Edition 40 with buckets, DCC and the Pretoria/Cup 2 wheel/tyre option is probably rarely than a Clubsport S in the UK - I'm pretty sure it cost more than the £33995 for a Clubsport S but there were deals to had on them unlike the Clubsport S which VW insisted on taking nothing less than the full asking price for. In retrospect, as a road car it has to be better car.

[@malcolmscott4150]

Have to agree the TCR is the spec I’d go for although not a fan of the side stickers :) Great driving Andrew.

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Malcolm! I think I will get one with the stickers just to annoy everyone :)

[@JPWest020]

Don’t like the digital dashboard. Prefer the analog one - much better looking. I have the MK7 performance with DSG. Changed the standard (passive) suspension to the Bilstein B12. In combination with 19 inch wheels it handles really great.

[@NiceGuyAidey]

I had nothing but bad luck with my clubsport ... smashed windscreen, scratched paint, shoddy seats, the whole entertainment system just packed up and never worked again, but it was quite fun to drive...

[@volkswizard]

Sorry to hear that NiceGuyAidey - I supoose a lot of that you can't blame the car for though, just bad luck. Were the seats the buckets'?

[@NiceGuyAidey]

@@volkswizard Yea had bad luck, had the 3 door version number 29, yes i had the recaro bucket seats and hated them lol, so uncomfortable and made a terrible plastic creak with every move , probably due to the huge black plastic back to them?

[@volkswizard]

That's an early one! Yes the seats do creak, good point. They also get stolen so at least we know nobody will have a TCR written off for the seats only for it to end up in the criminal underworld who, coincidentally, have a set of seats going spare!

[@NiceGuyAidey]

@@volkswizard I look forward to seeing what VW have next for the GTi though, not sure from the spy pics if im too keen on the new shape?

[@soranrix]

only minus to me on the tcr is that the mirrors are flat black and the small pices on the front bumper are not painted black, looks wird that the rear is painted and front is not?? like the seats though regards Sören

[@VSTV1993]

Clubsport is aimed for handling so yeah id have the clubsport

[@PUU7]

Fantastic video! I don’t really comment on videos but have to let you know how much I enjoy your channel. Great insight from someone who is experienced and genuinely really knowledgeable, just awesome!

[@volkswizard]

Thanks PUU7, that's very kind of you to go to the trouble of posting, especially when you don't do so very often. Comments like this are much appreciated and the sole reason I keep on making videos.

[@PUU7]

volkswizard My pleasure! I dislike a lot of the bigger car channels if I’m honest, I don’t really think they know what they’re talking about and they aren’t very articulate either, particularly when it comes to what a car is like to drive. That’s why your channel is different for me, and I hope you’re able to continue making these videos for many years, it’s a gem!

[@volkswizard]

🙌

[@jameswillis7242]

I’d definitely take a TCR over an R as it’s far less boring

[@kimiroihanz9924]

But R the Faster

[@stevesje71]

Not on a track

[@jamie3499]

@@stevesje71 not on a roll either

[@rockyforever78]

Just beautiful! Woow good presentation of the Legends "GTI" 👌👍

[@tredfxman]

Awesome video! Own the Clubsport Edition 40 - Not swapping until Edition 45! But wait... VW will most likely make it a hybrid. Probably only the Golf R will be petrol/gasoline from the rumors iv read. Anyone got updates what will happen for the MK8 GTI/R's yet lol... 😇 😉

[@volkswizard]

I've heard GTI is safe from hybridisation, R though I think is more likely to be hybrid as it's not trying to be light. And the fact the ID-R racing car that's been doing the rounds recently setting records at Pikes Peak, Goodwood, the 'ring and elsewhere is R branded would suggest to me that electrificatio of R models is a given. 48V mild hybrid is nothing to be scared of though and nothing like as hefty as GTE for example.

[@TIM612826]

I'll buy your edition 40 if u upgrade as long as its got the bits and bobs I want! 👍

[@scottnodding3289]

Really enjoyed your review. Have been considering a TCR or R for a while, your review has me leaning towards the TCR.

[@volkswizard]

Hi Scott, glad you enjoyed it. I'd be running towards the TCR over the R unless you real need 4 wheel drive. Both are impressive but the TCR is just a lot more exciting as you'd imagine from 290 PS through just the front wheels. Some deals to be had right now, happy hunting 👍

[@chawenhalo0089]

Haldex is fairly pointless unless you go skying a lot. Any car with winter tyres does just fine on snowy roads including RWD cars. AWD systems are pretty unrealiable and add an easy 100 kg more weight. Plus you'll get sharper / purer driving dynamics with a Gti than an R.

[@rsdene]

😱 stepped up the cinematics😎👍🏻 Nice review really enjoyed watching it

[@volkswizard]

The benefits of having a helper (Ed) even in just 20 mins and we got some useful bits, glad you noticed 👍

[@Prij95]

I have a normal gti, not the club sport or the tcr...so I can’t comment 🤣but still a gti is a gti 👀

[@cosmicheretic8129]

Especially with a proper tune.

[@philipguacci6452]

Shame it's not available down under until next year. It will be high $50-$60k.? That said my 2008 Mkv Gti that I don't drive a lot, would not get much as trade in. It only has 72,000 km from new. Have not driven any other Gti or R models. Hard to justify the expense or need!

[@davel8byr]

Brilliant video. I do have a big soft spot for those new TCR’s

[@volkswizard]

I know you love your RS3 and I don't blame you but the TCR finally gives the GTI a fair bit of character so I'd find it hard to choose between an RS3 (any) and this TCR - curiously the real appeal of the RS3 would be that you could make one look close to an S line if specced discretely (especially saloon) while it's less easy to do that with a GTI. I saw a 16 plate RS3 in black with silver wheels on M40 yesterday it looked cool - just needed the badges off it :)

[@davel8byr]

Yes I know exactly what you mean. I’ve seen someone has put a TDI sticker on their RS3 saloon, would definitely confuse a few people haha. Personally I don’t know where I would go from the RS3, I would probably have to look at the RS4 or RS5. I’ve had the taste of Quattro and I think that’s where I want to stay

[@stevehastings6802]

Can I have the Tcr with the clubsport buckets, steering wheel and rear spolier please... Those seats in the Tcr remind me of an old astra gte. The mk7.5's look much more aggressive.

[@volkswizard]

No! I really don't know why not but it's no. What's funny is that CS was in theory limited yet there are probably 500 different configurations for the spec (seats, DCC, 19", black roof, colours, doors, gearbox, nav, rear tints). The TCR is a standard model in the range and you can't change the seats (apart from for leather - leather, in a race inspired car FFS), the gearbox or the doors. I don't even think you can have 19s without DCC. Usual VW weirdness.

[@justinevans1894]

This is your best film yet, think i would like a TCR!

[@volkswizard]

Thanks Justin. I could be very critical of this video for a couple of reasons not least because you probably couldn't get 2 more different cars when it comes to spec. However just for the fact you get a special colour, it hasn't got the silly overboost, it has better brakes and it sounds better, whatever the spec of each car the TCR would always win. The video has made me want one too and if I lived somewhere where I could enjoy it without fear then I definitely would. Keeping it locked away for occasional use defeats the object of a GTI.

[@Tambo74]

I think the best one to have is a white 3 door GtI CS not the S though.

[@volkswizard]

I can see the appeal of that, used demand is strong by all accounts with bucket seats, great car

[@faisalrahman7]

I would love to see VW Golf Mk3 VR6 content or Corrado VR6. A comparison would be fantastic. Shame they arent very common on the road anymore, they were the hot cars when I was a child.

[@smiler921]

Faisal Rahman Corrado VR6 is still fun!

[@volkswizard]

I still have a soft spot for Corrado VR6 but they need so much work and parts are so hard to come by - it's one classic I'd own though (and drive!)

[@davonpointer2310]

I had a midnight blue Corrado VR6, such a great handling car, sounded meaty too. Really hard to find a clean one these days. Would be great to do a film on one 👌🏼

[@SuperDigitalMe]

I have a clubsport with bucket seats, 3 doors. its a nice car!

[@smiler921]

The tcr has a key not keyless? Was this a limited 3 door thing?

[@volkswizard]

That's interesting. Have they forced keyless on people with the 5 door?

[@orbytl2799]

both really nice so much better looking in 3 door though

[@jamescarson6681]

I disagree about "every steering wheel with a 12 o'clock marker should be made out of alcantara". As far as I know, most people on public roads don't wear gloves to make full use of the grippy alcantara wheel so as years (or even just a few months in places with hot climates) go by, the oily fingers and palms make the alcantara wheel wear off and make it look like an old towel that a guy dried his hairy sweaty back on. I believe Nick Murray made a dedicated video on alcantara steering wheels. I'd imagine its not exactly fun or cheap to retrim the rim of your steering wheel every year or so.

[@volkswizard]

Funny you should mention that, this car came in with a dirty wheel but 5 mins with some warm water and a microfibre and it was as new as per the video. So no need for a retrim. As for grip, isn't alcantara grippier with or without gloves and gloves are grippier whether on leather or alcantara? I agree though leather is more practical- but then so is an SUV 😉

[@bruts82]

Wizard I’m in a bit of a pickle, new taxation system comin to Ireland so next year these cars maybe be unbuyable in 2020,so I’m torn between TCR AND R 2019/2018 No clubsports available over here all sold.

[@Jabber-ig3iw]

Easy the one with the correct number of doors is the best one. And in this case it’s the tcr.

[@clivedarley325]

I will be ordering one with the pet wheels dcc sunroof in grey

[@volkswizard]

Great choice Clive👌

[@johndearn9457]

Great video again, poor on VW to say that you don’t have sufficient subscribers,

[@volkswizard]

Thanks again John! VW haven't specifically said that it's due to low subs numbers but it has to be a factor as they have to work out the amount of coverage per £ and I wouldn't rate very highly compared to Autocar, Auto Express, CAR, evo, Car Throttle etc. VW don't really deal with people like me much, at least not here in the UK but hopefully this will change soon :)

[@johndearn9457]

volkswizard thing is, your average car bloke, like me, just wants to see these reviews in plain English without the BS. I’m 60, and been into the VW scene since I was 14, and was bought up on Safer Motoring magazines, which I’ve still got actually, and it was those magazines that sort of set the tone for how I perceive a particular car to be. If that makes sense. Anyway, sod em,, I’ll watch your reviews and so will a good many others, next time I see you at Caffeine and Machine I’ll come over and say hello, you were there a couple of weeks ago, I drove past you, I was in my V6 4mo, in Black.

[@mirkol.3105]

Golf gti tcr without recaro seats,alcantara steering wheel,rear spoiler and why not Brembo brakes? Sorry but i prefer my "old" clubsport manual gearbox stage1👍👍

[@richardbainbridge3240]

The club sport still for sale? Inbox please if so how much please ? It’s Isaac blue too looking at it right? Thanks

[@rlakhay]

The gti is not the reference performance golf anymore and the prices are ridiculous.... when you can buy a mk7 r instead....the best gti is the 3dr edition 30 with mods, it is the best gti ever and ive had one for 8 years..... i also have a 3dr dsh mk7 r now (lapiz, dcc, pro nav, dynaudio, rev cam, revo + more) which really is the reference performance golf now in the 7th generation.... not the gti... but i prefer the drive on my ed30 over the mk7r tbh!!! wish the mk7 r and gti were more hardcore tbh...and the stock brakes are rubbish imho....... looks like vw are trying to wring out as many sales as.possible at the tail end of the mk7 run... they did this with the mk6 with the ed35 and then the pirelli edition on the mk5. That.tcr.in grey does look good though!

[@volkswizard]

It's impossible to compare a car "with mods" with a standard car as it's not a level playing field. I ran my lovely Edition 30 (with mods) for 2 years and did Nurburgring, UK tracks, snow driving, daily commuting and it was OK but the mpg was always atrocious. The Mk7 cars drive just as well in standard form (if specced well with DCC) and do 20% better fuel consumption. And if you modify them I am sure they are even better. Not seen any have rusty wings yet either 😉

[@chawenhalo0089]

If its got more power doesn't it have more turbo lag?

[@pokest225]

No. Same turbo.

[@gh__]

Would be better without the OPF/WLTP regulation, that's the reason i'm looking for 2018 GTI/R, they sound much better.

[@volkswizard]

I didn't even think about WLTP as TCR sounds so much better than CS and that was pre-WLTP!

[@gh__]

​@@volkswizard That is true, the TCR still has the pops and bangs, they're just dulled down on the 2019 GTI Perf/R

[@volkswizard]

@@gh__ Gotcha - the Perf that Car Wow drag raced last year (67 reg I think) was a really loud, probably louder than Clubsport S and any Mk7. Weird how TCR can be WLTP presumably with a particulate filter and be loud yet they felt the need to quieten the Perf?

[@gh__]

@@volkswizard hmm, not too knowledgable on the technical side of things regarding how they adjusted the exhaust sound on the new 2019 models. The 2017/18 models are some of the loudest though I believe, yes. Weird how the TCR does have pops at standstill whereas the other 2 don't.

[@thiscocks]

Fake sound generators just make me sad. Otherwise perfectly nice cars.

[@ricks45]

I think you have managed more miles in Ed's car than he has ;)

[@volkswizard]

More revs yes, not more miles as he'd nicely run it (don't tell Ed🤐)

[@mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm420]

TCR list price is ludicrous and I find the plastic addenda hurtful on the eye. It will be a tempting used vehicle.

[@volkswizard]

Ignore the RRP, I specced one when they came out with DCC and probably something else and it was £29k brand spanking new from Joe at TL Darby

[@ferrygti8867]

i have normal VW golf GTI 7 220HP 350NM :-( manually :-)

[@Mr330d]

ferry cornu 350NM torque is not to be sniffed at 👌🏻

[@stephenphoenix-roberts9447]

I can not make my mind up this gti or schroco r love them both.

[@volkswizard]

Both good but TCR does move things on and it's got the VAQ diff when Scirocco makes do with XDS which uses the brakes as an electronic diff lock.

[@stephenphoenix-roberts9447]

It down to character I think were schroco is better looking the gti is understated. Not sure 😂. Both are quicker than my mark 6 have at the mo but keeping that anyway.

[@m1lkb0xx]

neither is available in the US, but i watched this video anyway lol

[@cosmicheretic8129]

Canada either but incredible tunes and handling upgrades are available.

[@carllynch8798]

I looked at one last Sunday at Tonbridge VW. Might exchange my B5 RS4 for one .

[@volkswizard]

I hope you aren't going to px a B5 RS4 with a main dealer - hang on a minute - haven't you had it for ages?!

[@carllynch8798]

volkswizard yes nearly 14 years. Just getting worried about parts getting scarce ! For the B5.

[@carllynch8798]

volkswizard probably best I keep the B5 and wait until the TCR deprecates to about £20k then buy one.

[@volkswizard]

@@carllynch8798 good idea! It's good but you can't sell your RS4 for one, like I can't sell my R8..

[@volkswizard]

@@carllynch8798 The parts are becoming a huge issue - Audi are really rubbish at this unlike Merc - 15 years and they go obsolete. Not a good way of keeping your important historic cars on the road and looking like good ambassadors for the brand.

[@j911k]

Clubsport is limited run with better aero , I love mine and wouldn’t swap it for tcr

[@tredfxman]

Same here! We know why we bought them! 😎 👍

[@dont5363]

Woudnt swap my TCR for a clubsport :D