The VW Golf R is what Most GTI Owners Wish They Drove

[@rootsmanuva82]

Most GTI owners would admit they'd rather have a Golf R but can't rationalize or afford paying an extra $10-15K for what is basically the same car 90% of the time. It's that extra 10% that makes a Golf R special.

[@ericcarson342]

So true. When we think more is better we think up to point and then you have diminishing returns. Not the case with this car. I have 7.5 R and I can rationalize getting this over the GTI. That 10% difference is still a difference. My 7.5 R DSG was about 6k more than an Autobahn DSG. S and SE models were 10-15k less.

[@escos0410]

Behave 50 years old this jan in 2024 right at the last min I bought the gti cs drive one tell me I was wrong

[@ironfistscientist]

The extra 10percent is the haldex 😂

[@BREAKDANCE-mi7ik]

Thats true i have a GTI MK8 and I dream about an Golf R but honestly that is too expensive for me now but someday believe in you dreams 🙏😇

[@ericcarson342]

@@ironfistscientist More horsepower, bigger sway bars, lowered height, grippier stock tires, 19in wheels, quad exhaust, exclusive lapiz blue...

[@chriskelvin248]

I bought my GTI new and drove it for its entire life. 17 years, 297,000 miles. Then I treated myself to a Spektrum R. Besides the light years ahead acceleration and dynamics afforded by that 7 speed DSG and a chassis 3 1/2 generations newer, the awd lets me all the acceleration all year round. If you live in a rainy, chilly, snowy climate the R’s traction pays off. Smiles per gallon 365. Warm and dry climates it’s mostly a fancier GTI.

[@Alex-wl1je]

I've got a MK8 GTI Clubsport that has 300hp as standard. I've fitted a Racingline R600 intake and Racechip piggyback that gives it around 350hp. It's great fun to drive!

[@davidvilla4504]

Yeah the clubsport Is like.an R. Better look also

[@stuartpaterson7694]

I’ve never had the desire to own another car than a golf GTI. I sold a mk5 for a 6 series BMW and within 6 months I was back in a GTI. I now drive a golf r and my wife drives an r estate for the kids. I’d take a GTI again and stage 1 it and not feel I’ve lost out in any way.

[@mazpr2025]

I have driven both; GTi and Golf R, both are amazing cars in their own way. The main difference, IMO, is... when pushing driving limits of the car on twisty roads or in the highway with long open turns (not flat out straight HWs), the understeer is very noticeable on the GTi, starts getting loose almost floaty, on turns. While the Golf R will feel glued to the road, this is where the car shines and it is amazing. It has nothing to do with tires, is the fact the GTi all the power is on the front plus steering, is just the dynamics of the platform. I have to let go as I start feeling it under me the car is about to break loose or wants to continue forward and not turn, which is one scary situation. I have driven different years of both platforms trying to decide which to get, from dealers, and all the Golf R deliver the outstanding grip on wide to close corner turns that the GTi cannot. He says 20k more on the 2022/23 Golf R, the money toward modding the GTi. I would buy a 2018/19 Golf R and put the 20k for that engine. IMO for daily driving the GTi, for more spirited taking the car to it's limits, the Golf R.

[@mr.drewski158]

MK8 GTI owner here, you be amazed at what a rear anti-sway bar, lowering springs & shocks can do. It basically eliminates your complaint about the floaty rear end and understeer. You should really look into it.

[@itsonlyniles]

Simple solution, driver mod

[@mazpr2025]

@@itsonlyniles warning ⚠️ itsonlyniles Troll alert!

[@tasstychezbugu1563]

my thought exactly, only way I could rationalize buying the R is if it’s the 7-7.5 and if I had more mountain roads around me. I drive my GTI 100+ miles to work and back. It’s perfect for that with some mixed in back road driving. To be honest awd can feel boring sometimes, it’s always going to do what you ask it to if you know what your doing, the understeer and the funky character of the GTI I quite enjoy when pushing it to the limit

[@tasstychezbugu1563]

@@mr.drewski158Misha drove a 7.5 GTI with high quality aftermarket coilovers and said it was one of his favorite cars. In my mk7 it 100% needs some coils and a sway bar.. very floaty and doesn’t rotate as well as it could

[@CrimsonSlayer7]

I have an MK8 GTI and I honestly believe it is a near-perfect car. I've road-tripped 5k miles, camped in it, slept in it at music festivals, helped my buddy move with decent sized boxes, and put the hatch to work, stage 1 apr making 328, and all with getting 30 - 40mpg (computer mpgs). I'd mod for more power but honestly save that for the golf r with the AWD. Just 328hp alone is too much for the fwd. So this is the sweet spot for a fun highway, fuel-efficient car and I honestly love it.

[@devn3813]

Unlike the prior generation, the R is definitely worth the premium now. Not only is it a lot better and the difference is more substantial, but at least by me they want $42,000 for every GTI and $48,000 for the R. I would spend the money just for the AWD alone. The new R is incredible.

[@xXlURMOMlXx]

Yep. Over 40k is insane for a GTI, so 6k up isn't much of a difference. I got my new GTI on 2017 for 20k lol. Loved the car but wouldn't pay 40 for it.

[@hanx9970]

Ive had my 24 r a little over a month now, I have the dsg, so quick, sounds perfect, reasonably comfortable, looks very sharp if you really focus, if not from far just a normal golf which I like cuz I hate attentions. And honestly, I was gonna get a gti, but the r is the only awd golf, had to pick the r. No regrets, yiiiiiiiii-hhaaaaaaa!!

[@NJRacer623]

I feel like it's not really a matter of if people should get one or the other, it's whatever someone can afford. Not everyone can afford a brand new Mk8 Golf R. That's why the GTI is so nice, because even new one's aren't insanely expensive. The guy at the end nailed it on the head. GTI + mods = perfect.

[@jasonsee4041]

This is exactly why I chose the GTI back in 2016... I was like.... do I really need AWD? No not really and gas prices will keep creeping up. Power wise, I can always get it back with mods. The GTI is lighter and more fun to drive imo

[@RoadsUntraveled]

Absolutely. I want most GTI people to know they have 90% of the R, 90% of the time.

[@adamg574]

@@RoadsUntraveledthe AWD of the R is nice for those of us in snowy climates. I remember seeing multiple BRZ/86’s stuck in the snow in winter here in Nova Scotia when they first came out 😂

[@nickn7939]

@@RoadsUntraveled you are the last person to talk, you drive an mr2 turbo, you wish so bad you had an f40. Nah jk, im sure you like the mr2 turbo as is, you know like a real car enthusiast and not an elitist dbag?

[@k20dude41]

​@@RoadsUntraveled my honest opinion: Golf R has better traction and the mark 8 looks great. Mark 7 i prefer the more sporty looks of the gti. My only problem with the golf R is the weight. A GTI TCR (or clubsupport)or Cupra will destroy the golf R with the same power. My Cupra runs 8,5 100-200. Stage 2 412 hp. Thats the only thing that stops me from getting the R.

[@mattd.8775]

I mean, you can say this about pretty much all enthusiast cars though. Every M340 guy wishes they had an M3, and every M3 guy wants an M3Comp and every M3Comp guy wants an M3CS. Oh, and all Golf R guys wish they could have an RS3 ;) Like of course it's better, everyone would have the top dawg if they could afford it.

[@nickn7939]

Yeah i agree, the premise of the video is dumb. Idk why he couldn't just review the car as is, instead of taking an elitist stance. Thats not what car enthusiasts are about. He just made a touchy headline to get people to watch the vid, which kinda makes me think he is a bit of a dbag now.

[@AMBRubicon2007]

I had the Mk8 GTI for 2 years, amazing car. I just upgraded to mk8 R. Really worth it and happy made that decision

[@tunaglove]

The R is better and cooler. Stock GTI motor will run and last alot more miles being same internals. Only you can decide which one is best for you.

[@Jorsolic7]

I had a Golf MK8 GTI, wished I had the R. Now I have the R, now I wish I had the RS3.😂

[@noneB974]

the never ending human greed bro

[@Jorsolic7]

@@noneB974 true

[@rootsmanuva82]

Pro-Tip: Bolt on a torque gusset traction bar that braces the front subframe and lower control arms together and it eliminates wheel hop and torque steer for good. Even with 330 hp and 355 lbs/ft of torque I get no wheel hop off the line. Steering feel and midcorner grip is massively improved too because it reduces changes in toe and caster when cornering. Easily one of the best mods for the GTI that nobody knows about.

[@TheCinderellaman10]

You got any links to where I can get 1 of these from?

[@3for4PA]

C,Mon DUDE.... come CLEAN where can US poor GTI owner that can't AFFORD a R get that PART from🫤

[@millicentgranger6035]

TB PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS for your gusset and rear strut bar needs .....

[@Abdi_Mohamed_]

Golf R is a amazing piece of engineering but a Golf TCR is just a little bit more special in my opinion

[@schlafmuetze_9040]

Thank you… I smoke a Golf R 💨

[@alane1000]

Thank the lord a manual golf r review!!!!

[@RoadsUntraveled]

You can thank Paul at PG Performance for that! We try.

[@darkspen9306]

Wish it was DSG with a tune. Just faster. Period. prove me wrong ROFL!

[@nickn7939]

Dsg is boring compared to manual, i like to be doing stuff with my hands and legs while driving to keep busy, not flicking paddles, you want faster get a bike.@@darkspen9306

[@ms3ben]

@@darkspen9306 More enjoyable to drive as well. Rev hang is never fun. OEM clutch needs to be upgraded as well if you're going to mod.

[@tim-othy1]

The only reason I would go Golf R over GTI is for the AWD.

[@Wargwarn]

Drove both, bought a mk 7.5 GTI PP. 245bhp (320 bhp stage 1), 100kg lighter than an R. More fun to drive, cheaper insurance, not as common, better looking.

[@jtkent28]

I bought an mk8 GTI 40th anniversary edition a couple months ago. Absolutely love it. My 4th GTI in a row. Would have loved the R but for the premium it costs over the GTI it just wasn’t worth it to me. Plus the one R I did go look at the dealer adamantly refused to sell for MSRP. And while the R is cool I think the 40 AE I got is a really special car.

[@RoadsUntraveled]

The question is how many of your GTIs had 3 pedals? 🤔

[@jtkent28]

@@RoadsUntraveled every single one 😁 and every VW I’ve ever owned has been manual. I had planned to buy a 40 AE soon as they announced them but I’m even more glad I did as the ‘24 GTI’s will be it for manuals.

[@wozy]

Golf r is cool. I bought a 23 manual gti last year. I could've and am able to spend an additional 12k for the r but i Tuned the gti to my desired spec and its my summer car. I love it. It simple, drives great, sounds awesome, and puts a smile on my face. If i see another dubber, even in a R i still wave or thumbs up them. When i was in my 20s i cared what people think about my car, in my 30s a little bit less and now in my 40s i can afford most cars but only care on what is convenient and makes me happy.

[@The_Woo1738]

i can say proudly that i'm a gti clubsport 45 akrapovic owner and i got it after i sold my c43 amg...better car

[@brandonroebuck504]

had a '17 GTI for 2 years and got totalled when a cop ran a light no sirens and t-boned me insurance took care of me and gave me a payout around $7k above the sell value of the car at the time and i used it as a down payment for an '18 golf r (im only having to finance around 7k of the car) could not be happier, wish i'd gotten an R the first time but just went stage one and it's the perfect daily for me

[@MeltingRubberZ28]

7R or 8R?

[@brandonroebuck504]

@@MeltingRubberZ28 mk7.5 r

[@MeltingRubberZ28]

@brandonroebuck504 ah I see the 2018 part. Nice man. I have an IS38 GLI but man the R is a sweet car. I think the 8.5R (assuming they make one) will be ultimate.

[@brandonroebuck504]

@@MeltingRubberZ28 i tried the mk8's and they felt way cheaper inside than the mk7; i also couldn't deal with the capacitive buttons... the drift mode is cool tho, wish i could update my haldex software to do that too 😂

[@MeltingRubberZ28]

@brandonroebuck504 yeah I'm hoping the 8.5R has more of an old school infotainment/controls

[@midnight.a3]

They don't have forged internals, just wanted to point that out after it was suggested in the video. Definitely strong, but not forged.

[@nobleman-swerve]

Interesting, crankshaft and pistons were properly forged on Mk7, with the con rods being drop-forged and technically the weakest link. Where'd you hear they dropped that on the Mk8 platform?

[@midnight.a3]

​@@nobleman-swerveNo, I wasn't being specific. Crank has been forged in gen 3 and Evo4. The pistons aren't forged in gen 3 or 4, just a different hypereutectic cast and new cooling ducts, new pcv design (it's better), camshafts I think are bit different, but yeah nothing that wasn't forged before is forged now. I could be wrong though please correct me if you know. I personally have a built motor with forged internals.

[@RSXengineering]

@@midnight.a3 You're right. Forged crank but cast pistons and rods.

[@carlospacheco8640]

@@midnight.a3 Here are the engine differences from the GTI. Exhaust valves (hollow, higher Ni content, nitrided) Exhaust valve seat rings (improved temperature stability and wear resistance) Exhaust camshaft (adapted valve timings) Compression ratio 9.3:1 with different pistons Piston cooling jets (higher flow rate) High pressure injectors (even higher flow rate) Exhaust turbocharger Charge pressures of up to 17.4 PSI (1.2 bar) High performance main radiator with 1-2 auxiliary radiators Golf R a has IS38 Turbo. GTI has IS20 Turbo

[@jstoli996c4s]

Golf R all day long! I had a Mk6 GTI for 161k miles, super fun car. But then I bought a Mk7.5R… next level. Now I added a Unitronic Stage 1+ tune for 375bhp and awd acceleration regardless of conditions… so fun and quick 🏎️ 💨

[@gimusk5667]

Golf R for life!

[@timtishenko9092]

Super close comparison to my GTI you reviewed! Basically the same mods :)

[@MrWolf2212]

Last year I wanted to get the Golf R, but it was impossible to get one at MSRP. Even the GTI was hard to find with no mark up. I have settled for the GTI S at msrp, but I do wish that I could have the Golf R. It is what it is I guess 🤷🏼

[@jtkent28]

I just got a GTI 40 AE. First one I looked at dealer was asking $5K over MSRP and wouldn’t budge. A couple months later I found one at MSRP and jumped on it. Such a cool car and really loving it so far. Agree the R would be awesome but super happy with the GTI I got. Hope you’re loving yours too.

[@katiecannon8186]

@@jtkent28 I traded my 7.5 for an 8 S trim about 6 months ago. Was sad to see the 7 go, but absolutely love the 8. I find the improved chassis a huge leap forward. Even if lots of folks are reluctant to give VW the praise it deserves in doing such a great job. I even love the infotainment system and touch capacitive buttons.

[@jackoboy333]

My first video I’ve seen from this channel. Glad I’ve seen it! Great quality. Also love the golf R not sure i could be converted back to front wheel drive!

[@RoadsUntraveled]

Welcome, friend.

[@DonovanSmith-k6s]

I love my 2012 golf R. It’s so much fun to drive.

[@JW-cu7jj]

I prefer the Golf gti looks wise. And i believe the gti should be the top of the range golf considering its heritage, but in my opinion we buy these cars for performance and to put a smile on our faces, so to me the Golf R is the top dog and stupidly fast

[@simon_raya]

This spec, love the black and the fishbowl no tint. I am a sucker for the rental look.

[@petebreza8339]

I could afford either, and strongly considered the R , but in the end the GTI is the icon, and the value can't be beat. I've had a1984 rabbit, 2015, 2017mk7, and 2021 Mk7.5. Do I get the 8.5 R?? 🤔

[@redtop1705]

I have a MK8 Gti and have Out ordered the new Golf R black edition in blue can’t wait for it to arrive 😁

[@Shamedog]

I drove the R recently and this is my 2nd GTI. 21. The R has a surprisingly tight gear ratio as you bang through the gears on the speedway but it and the AWD are not nearly enough for the crazy $5k over sticker and the other security bs to take the price where a better option is Cayman. The price isn't justified. The GTI is as fun as anything. The R needs a track racer.

[@DenisDamulira23]

In states like California. All you need is a SE GTI especially the new MK8.5 that’s fixed the button issues + a bigger infotainment screen etc

[@Plupx]

sold my 7R to go back to a 7 GTI. There's something more fun about the GTI that the R can only try to emulate.

[@nickn7939]

Exactly that was the point i was making in another comment. My roommate has a mazdaspeed 3 he doesn't want or care about the mazdaspeed 6 for example, he even said the fastest mazdaspeed guys are running fwd only. Also, burnouts are fun especially from a roll.

[@Plupx]

@@nickn7939 losing traction is fun regardless if its fwd or rwd. FWD losing traction from a roll is one of the funniest things.

[@nickn7939]

@@Plupx exactly, i sold my mk7 gti but i would love punching it in 2nd gear up a steep hill and hearing the tires chirp, it was addictive.

[@mikeromano453]

Not sure what the 7R has to do with 8R. Completely different machines at this point, especially with the new diff.

[@nickn7939]

The 6R-8R have all been awd with the same engine basically as the gti except with awd. I am inferring from the Op's comment the awd vs fwd was the factor in their decision. I agree, especially since the R's dont offer much else except a bigger turbo and possibly some other stuff i am not aware of. Like the mk4 r32 was a huge step up from an mk4 gti with a different engine, but the R is not much more fun for the money and in some people's opinion less fun. I bring up the mk4 since the R32 variant brings more to the table other than awd as most enthusiasts don't crave awd in their daily life. Like a porsche gt3 owner isn't craving awd for example. So to answer your comment this would apply to the mk8r vs mk8 gti comparison as well. @@mikeromano453

[@califax007]

The cool thing about the Golf R it blends in and looks like a everyday family car except this car will demolish a lot of muscle cars with more HP. DSG and a small tune up from stock power this car is insane. That's why a lot of ppl like the golf R it doesnt scream attention but it is insanely fun to drive

[@xtnuser5338]

Had a 7.5 GTI DSG and absolutely loved it. Got T-boned by an old lady. So I started looking for a replacement, and couldn't find one I like. Figured I'd try out an R, but still couldn't find one I liked. Tried the 8th gen, but hated the new haptic crap. So two months ago I said fuck it and got a 2023 RS3. I love the 5-cyl and it still has real buttons on the steering wheel and the HVAC controls too! The idea that it's a sedan instead of a hatchback bugs me, but I can't tell from the driver's seat, so oh well.

[@bbokdoong]

The problem with GTI is that it is underpowered.

[@brandonzimmerman1667]

I'm good with my GTI 380. Better gas mileage and I can use just about all of the horse power on a daily basis

[@sixsixonefpv8318]

as a owner of MK8R Performance, i would buy the Clubsport. My Friend owns a CS45 and he is faster from 100-200 and the Car feels more Nimble on Track. The only Advantage my R has, over the CS45 is from 0-100.

[@UnicornDB8r]

Just got a 2017 blue golf r for about 10k younger brother couldn’t afford it anymore. Valve armytrix Full exhaust, intake. I remember he bought the exhaust for 4000. Selling my Tesla asap

[@trevorphillips2868]

As a MK8 Golf R guy I like the GTI logo and monthly payments better. In fact I might switch to a GTI once my lease terms are up.

[@JacesOwnWorld]

Haha, I know you knew you would trigger GTI owners with your video title. As a MK7 GTI 6spd owner, I found it funny, but I also have to agree. As much as I like that I can make my GTI faster from a roll, with the same mods put on R vs GTI, I do wish I had AWD. I tell everyone that the biggest thing I dislike about my GTI is that it's FWD. My previous car was an E46 M3 coupe 6spd, and when I bought the GTI, I immediately disliked it being FWD. But i knew its tuned capabilities, and that mixed with its practicality was the reason why I bought it. The only reasons why I haven't bought the MK7/7.5 Golf R is because: 1. Its FWD biased platform. Literally makes the car feel "too much" like a GTI. I hear the MK8 is more RWD biased, but that car is way too overpriced, and its interior is something I would hate living with daily. 2. The MK7/7.5 Golf R share's the same exact engine as the GTI. "But the Golf R has beefier internals" blah blah blah. Yes, it does, but it has zero effect on performance and its ability to hold power. Once you hit 500wtq levels, the engine needs to be rebuilt, whether it s the GTI or the Golf R. So, it is literally the same engine, and that is a letdown because you CAN make a GTI faster than a R mod for mod, which to me, just sucks. For the extra price that the Golf R is, it really should have a different engine so that GTI owners cant be faster with simple mods. Mind you, this is from a roll, not from a dig.

[@benjaminhartshorn2333]

I bought a low mileage golf alltrack then modified it. I wish VW still sold a 4 motion wagon in the USA. I can mod it just as easily as a gti, or R just not as much power.

[@RoadsUntraveled]

If the R was a true wagon with a manual it would have a legitimate cult following.

[@Lamar96]

I feel sorry for you lot over in the USA, if you got the Gti Clubsport you Americans would’ve fall in love, specially if you got the clubsport S.

[@flynnharris2816]

God I am nit picky but I hate the plain plastic engine covers. Feels so cheap and how hard could it really be to make it look decent?

[@jeldibye]

US market cars don’t even have one, & they look 🤮

[@jonmontoya2081]

Hehehee, well when the cover catches fire... got my new 2024 R a week ago. It Has a cover! lapis blue and very nice so far.

[@haro82]

I went through the same thing when i used to buy subarus. Sti vs wrx. Ive had both. Near the end i couldnt justify paying for the sti when i had just as much fun in the wrx. With vw, i just cant justify spending 50k for a golf. Thats me.

[@blam9346]

MK8 R >>>

[@du3lcitiz3n]

Not this GTI owner. I had a MKIV R32... I only drive R's or GTI's with 2 doors. The 4 door models do nothing for me. So I'll be going stage III in my MK7 GTI 2 door, and continuing to tell my VW dealer NO... when he calls me when a GTI or R come in.

[@MrMduchesne23]

2 doors are a special group. 2 dr manuals are just under 3000 lbs and can from 60 in 98 feet with good tires

[@devn3813]

People who want a GTI but want AWD should also consider the Arteon before it’s gone. It has the R powertrain but the SEL trim is cheaper than getting an R and it has 4motion

[@EddieRicks-i8v]

I have the mk7.5 gti and I am happy but the alwheel drive would be nice 😊

[@loslogo]

I have a manual mk7 gti and I wouldn’t trade it for a dsg r for all the tea in China.

[@RSXengineering]

Same. The drama that comes from fwd and manual is much more exciting than a boring paddle-shifting fake awd heavy hatch.

[@RoadsUntraveled]

What kind of tea though that's the real question..

[@MrMduchesne23]

Most would, I mean, I would, but the last markup I saw for a "used" 65 km Mark 8 Golf R pushed the price to almost 70K CDN. Sadly, at $70K I'm either waiting for the price to drop or I'm buying a BMW 4 series.

[@anhiirr]

at that price id take one over a integra s or type R....but again these "CARS" and their price points are up there for people with "car collector" kinds of expendable income XD. that will be re-selling down the road...and for good measure...bc since they own/afford so many cars they wont be putting HUGE miles on them or beating them up....thankfully the most of us will have to wait to find them second hand. IMO the 4 series is heavy and 1700 rpm torque curve seems fun just idk about the gearing i had an X drive sport as a loaner and the turn initiate and rear end communication were rather sluggish and the car lacked a tactile feel....TBH i had more fun with the RWD 2 series and removing as many driver aids as possible a lot easier to control the front and rear end respectfully. I would definitely get a FR bmw unless youre all about that OFF the line/red light "FLARE" and a crackle tune SMH

[@MrMduchesne23]

@@anhiirr Naw, I'm in Canada and need to be able to handle crazy road conditions, from 10cm of snow in one area to icy roads and no snow in another. My MK7 GTI works exceptionally well with the correct tires, but moving from FWD toys to an AWD VW or BMW is time. Even the ACURA TLX Type S made the list...with the new model dropping, those price drops of 10k look perfect; it's a slow boat compared to its competition.

[@mcphersonjohnathon]

They are 55k fully maxed on vw website brandnew

[@RoadsUntraveled]

For $70k CAD I'd just buy an RS3. UNless you're dead set on a manual gearbox.

[@brianjones9958]

I own M3. Thinking of buying GTI as a daily. Golf R surely is faster and AWD than GTI but performance isn't everything. I had so much joy in MK6 GTI when I was in 20s

[@michaelw4620]

Just got the mk8 gti, tested the R and yes it’s quick but……. 2 kids and the R has a boot that’s almost pointless, 4wd pointless unless launching at the lights after the school run! Mileages got 46mpg today definitely won’t get that in an R! Chuffed to bits with it. 245bhp is perfect all rounder.

[@pta3407]

Coming from a Mk7 R to a Mk8 GTI - I much prefer the GTI.

[@uha01]

Golf R are going around 67 and 72k in my area ....so no, will never pay that much for one.

[@landroverSV]

Give me a MK4 GTI or R32 with the awesome music from the VR6 engine anytime, everytime!

[@Irishman8404]

That R you’re driving isn’t close to stock either. At 3:59 I see that it has the Racingline piggy back tuner. That adds like 50hp. I love my GTI, just couldn’t justify paying so much for the R.

[@RoadsUntraveled]

Yeah it's got the Racingline piggy back, I mentioned it in the video.

[@Irishman8404]

@@RoadsUntraveled oh word. I haven’t been able to finish the video yet. I got paged and got sucked into work 😭

[@ReconRangersPasukanKhusus]

A new VW Golf MK8 R Performance is in the Netherlands with full options about 95k EU. The BPM taxes (because of the high CO2 emissions) are very expensive.🙈

[@nick.mk7]

I want an 8R really bad lol

[@SpaceJahm]

My mental health has drastically improved since getting one lol

[@Notasheepleandneverwillbe]

I don't fancy myself a race car driver , and I'm not a teenager . The only Volkswagen I would want would be either the older golf with the VR6 and 4 wheel drive . As far as newer ones go , I would really like to own a 5-cylinder rabbit one of these days . Preferably a two-door , but I would take a four-door if that's all I could find .

[@devinbowman8079]

I definitely have more fun in my gti and I'll smoke a R around the track. The 400lbs of weight reduction helps alot.

[@eppyz]

Disagree that most GTI owners want an R. I like the R and after owning 4 lancer Evos over the years I've had my fun with AWD hot rods. The GTI is far more practical from a cost perspective and for most people is all you really need. If i won the Lotto tomorrow would i get a Golf R? Nah would walk past it and get an Audi RS3😎👍

[@likeatree-ei8it]

And I would get an M5 comp.

[@Fedor_Dost0evsky.]

VW Golf- отличная машина, а комплектация R делает его потрясающим и конкурент, но способным на треке! Чем мне еще нравиться VW AG, тем что ты можешь улучшать свой авто без серьезных изменений конструкции авто. Допустим если у вас с завода установлен двигатель 1.2 TSI 77 кВт и он для вас не устраивает. Вы можете приобрести более мощный двигатель например CZPA 2.0 130 кВт и 320 Нм, причем не обязательно покупать от VW, можете купить от Сиат, Шкода, Ауди. Сюда можно добавить смену прошивки ECU платим 100$ а получаем Stage 1: 184 кВт. И 420 Нм Так же вы можете установить и более эффективную тормозную систему Brembo например от старшего брата Golf GTI И все это установить болтон. Ничего не надо резать подгонять использовать сварочный полуавтомат.

[@Fedor_Dost0evsky.]

Translation. The VW Golf is a great car and the R trim makes it stunning and competitive yet capable on the track. Another thing I like about VW AG is that you can improve your car without major changes to the construction, of the car. Let’s say you have a 1.2 TSI 77 kW engine installed from the factory, and it doesn’t suit you. You can buy a more powerful engine, for example CZPA 2.0 130 kW and 320 Nm, and you don’t have to buy it from VW, you can buy it from Seat, Škoda, Audi. Here you can add changing the ECU firmware, pay $100 and get Stage 1: 184 kW. And 420 Nm You can also install a more efficient Brembo braking system, for example from its older brother Golf GTA. And install all this BOLT-ON. There is no need to cut or adjust anything, use a semi-automatic welding machine

[@basterdguy2142]

I got the Mk8 GTI, I dont track or race just city and highway driving not worth the extra money. But the Golf R is the better car no argument there.

[@seinsmeld13]

Cheerio mate. Cheers🍺

[@Daveyboy_RS3]

Wow... The owner of the car with the black hoodie sounds extra Canadian.

[@philh8829]

For the price diff, R should come in at least 375hp.

[@timothyadamski6380]

easy fix with a flash

[@chs2154]

They should come with 5 cylinders lol

[@MatthiasAI]

GTI is 95% of the daily i want to pay 10-20k more for that 5%, I could do a lot more with that money to get the GTI exactly where I want it and still have some left over to pay for gas for some awesome roadtrips. Also the GTI with the weightloss and friction loss of the AWD system does safe noticeably more gas which would also make a huge budget/financial difference year to year. Ill stick with the GTI happily :D

[@MatthiasAI]

Im sure if i lived closer to twisties maybe my answer would change but any mountain roads or proper twisties are a 1day+ drive away.

[@devn3813]

At least by me the R is only $6,000 more and the AWD is worth it with bad roads and snow

[@muffinxcancer]

how did you achieve that AWESOME darkened effect on the VW badges? is it tint film?

[@BOOSTEDDUDE]

Looks good in Black. The could use more colors than 2.

[@subwoffers]

White black blue

[@MrRonan3]

I owned a MK6 Golf R. then a MK7 APR tuned (fast car). Now a 7.5 GTI TCR.the best Golf i have had to drive. The guys at APR both had tuned GTIs. i could never understand. Now owning one i understand. I don't like front wheel drive cars they struggle off the lights so no more Traffic light grand prix. but the R is a bit numb and now so expensive so when i change. RS3 or AMG A45S. VW are not bothered about the Hot Hatch anymore. cheaper feel for more money. and of course Electric Rubbish on it's way,

[@mcj2219]

My friend drives a gti pure for street racing and once raced a golf r on the road (w me in the back) we won though

[@hitmanhart6275]

Snow and ice are what bugging me with GTI/R. Im happy with the GTI in the summer, but when winter come....

[@RoadsUntraveled]

It's the ultimate test.. With the proper tires it shouldn't be a problem but, AWD certainly makes it easier and more fun. Anytime I can take a borderline problem and turn it into fun that's a win to me.

[@carlospacheco8640]

Just buy tires. Tests have shown that a FWD/RWD car with snow tires out performs an AWD car with All season tires.

[@hitmanhart6275]

@@carlospacheco8640 I have a set of winter tire. FWD on snow and ice are fine but its toned down the fun , where snow and ice elevate the fun for an AWD.

[@carlospacheco8640]

@@hitmanhart6275 100% Agreed.

[@gmarks1559]

Honest question: I daily a MK7.5 R, would I notice a difference upgrading to a MK8-8.5 R? They are quite a bit more here (Canada), would cost me an extra $10K or so. Is it worth trading in? Thanks.

[@93455Driver]

Wait for 8.5, better UI and steering. I think the rear diff on the 8s are supposedly pretty trick.

[@FeN1xDD]

@@93455Driver what's better in 8.5R steering?))

[@93455Driver]

@@FeN1xDD Sorry, I meant to say steering "wheel".....however now understand that the R still gets the haptic button steering wheel. Think the GTI will get real buttons on the steering wheel :/

[@davecubsrule]

Keep your awd

[@allanberna3472]

Is the maintenance cost similar to the GTI?

[@mattg768]

RIP they just released the revised version of the MK8. And no your wrong, i have owned many GTI'S and i now own a MK7.5 R and MK8 Golf R and believe me i wouldn't drive a GTI ever again .

[@intention21]

You can get a cheaper GTI and mod it into something like an R or better. So I wouldn’t care much about the R even though it has the awd

[@garyjohnson3751]

My golf r is nice 👌

[@MrCdt]

What gets me is they don't make a golf r mk8manual in the UK but do in the USA which is a promotional a automatic market , don't get it ??

[@final_mile_music9713]

No. It isn’t. Because this is my daily driver and I have weekend car….;)

[@michaelzero5144]

Just get a Mini Cooper JCW Clubman all wheel with 301 hp. stock. Better warranty, better build now that mini is in top 10 of quality, better looking and more unique.

[@kimboofdzners9574]

Yeah right, just visit your local junkyard, for a complete thorough review of the mini....

[@michaelzero5144]

You mean older mini which were not great but those new ones are rock solid. Check out the new info. I drive one and haven't had any issues and I drive it hard plus it would smoke most GTI's. It's as fast as a R and maybe faster... @@kimboofdzners9574

[@RB12377]

Mini isn’t as good as a golf r probably not as much fun as a gti

[@michaelzero5144]

Your wrong. Of course, the one above is not common but will smoke a GTI and is as good or better than an R@7

[@oxidalpha6350]

Not if you have a mk7 gti TCR

[@Ovrz6]

yup! :D

[@nixkann9386]

Oh bro in january i get my 8.5 black edition. And i will push it hard 😂😂😂

[@USConnexion]

Got a gti for everyday use and g80 M3 for fun

[@nav_osu3748]

Respectfully, my gti makes more power😂 that being said this R is pretty clean. The MK8’s also have ridiculous potential even just stage 1 e85 so I’m not sure why this ones only making 315, a buddy of mine with a stage 1 e85 gti is making upwards of 400 to the wheels so I know this R can make a hell of a lot more. My MK7 is fbo stage 2 but I’m only making like 340 to the wheels and just under 400 torque since I’m still stock motor and turbo.

[@anhiirr]

mk8 stock/clutch and anti stall.....such a breath of fresh air from someone that had a boosted VR6 MK4. So much weight/breaking/skill involved downhill especially. Compared to how these newer gen GTI handle and are much easier to drive. Love them though. I work at a dealership these are nice...ofc the mk4 R32 was the dream back when i was a teen.

[@nav_osu3748]

@@anhiirr mk4 r32’s are sick af

[@MrWolf2212]

GTI with Stage 2 is probably spinning wheels till 3rd gear. 😳

[@nav_osu3748]

@@MrWolf2212 always, only really good for roll races because of how much it spins in low gears

[@nickn7939]

when i had my mk7 gti apr stage 1 with upgraded motor mounts and stage 3 clutch plus cold air intake, it was not too far off from stage 2 which had bigger downpipe and exhaust, they make like 30hp and maybe 40 more torque i think....Anyway mine just spun 2nd, it would hook in 3rd so i would imagine with decent tires a stage 2 could just barely hook 3rd gear. @@nav_osu3748

[@Brettoh]

Having driven both, the GTI feels so much nicer. Can’t get away from both sounding like Hoovers though. 😢

[@nickn7939]

yeah the sound sucks, partly why i sold my mk7 gti.

[@jdmteggy2388]

jesus looks killer blacked out i want one its gnna hold value golf r or sti

[@Andre13.]

For track days GTI is better, in fact TCR race cars are FWD 😉 To drive on mountain streets R is better 😉

[@donjohnson2428]

Bro said ‘‘E’ ‘A’ Eight Eight Eight” lol ….EA triple-eight

[@bimmerlife5452]

the left side tips not seating correctly

[@justsomeguy3467]

Wrong I have both and prefer my mk7 gti

[@Hard_7_Iron]

Somebody loves the sound of their voice….😂 best of luck.

[@davidk5093]

If you live somewhere in the world where it snows, you'll be very happy you pay that extra 10k to $15,000

[@jck1101]

Just can't stand the headlights!

[@dustinr16]

Wrong. The Golf R can ONLY send 50% of the power to the rear no matter how much the front axle is slipping.

[@Joe-rv3rb]

my GTI has way more power then 315............ why would I wish a drove that?

[@carlospacheco8640]

Because the EA888 in the Golf R has much better internals than the EA888 in the GTI. Thus it can handle more power. Also has a lower compression. Which is what you want when adding more boost. Not the same engine. Get some facts.

[@anaccount7923]

@@carlospacheco8640The differences are pretty minuscule from what I’ve seen on forums. GTI internals are plenty strong, I believe the compression ratio difference is pretty small as well.

[@mazpr2025]

@@anaccount7923 you believe wrong... there is a youtuber who covers all the upgrades... stay in school kid

[@anaccount7923]

@@mazpr2025 Is the KZbinr savage panda projects? All I know is that the gti/a3 internals can still handle a similar amount of power .

[@mazpr2025]

​@@anaccount7923 kzbin.info/www/bejne/jniqlqWvqZ6ee6s So far, if I recall it is a total of three videos, stage 1 to stage 3