Why go APR Stage 2 in a 2016 VW Golf R? 2019 Subaru STi killer!

[@vdubjetta02]

0-60 in 3.4 seconds..... I’ll just leave that info there for all the people not familiar.... I sold my stage 2+ golf R for a Porsche 911. And after a year regretted it. Golf R’s are the perfect package of refinement and sports car

[@RaitisRides]

Now that is quick! Thank you so much for sharing your input and perspective! I really appreciate it!

[@2liter8valveABA]

That’s cookin

[@colinmcdonell5034]

Great runs..

[@gerry2893]

That's E63 AMG territory. I went from thinking of an F-150 next year to strongly considering a Golf R APR 1-3 instead! Not too much of a contrast huh?

[@johnwjeromejr]

@@username-zg7lw A front-mounted intercooler is highly recommended, especially in warmer climates. There are one or two additional parts that go along with the package which your tuner will recommend. You may also want to consider a TCU tune for your DSG.

[@andre26261095]

I was never a fan of Volkswagen vehicles. But when my friend recently bought a 2017 Golf R and I took it for a test drive and seen how fast that little thing was for its size I was impressed!

[@manuelmenchaca4912]

I’ve been waiting for a Golf R on this channel!

[@RaitisRides]

I am glad I made it happen for you! This one was so amazing! I personally would just change out the exhaust!

[@manuelmenchaca4912]

Raiti's Rides yeah I feel you! But an XFORCE exhaust sounds mean on it. And you think so? The best car you’ve reviewed my opinion is either that AMG GTR or the M4 GTS bro.

[@RaitisRides]

I would love to hear this Golf R with an exhaust! I am so glad you are enjoying my channel! It is great to have you here!

[@bertito43]

Love that the R is such a sleeper

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you!

[@whitebunz]

Nothing sounds better than the STI in its class. Other cars my have more horse power but the sound of that boxer engine with the unequal headers does it for me every time.

[@RaitisRides]

You are so right! The flat-4 rumble is heaven for the ears!

[@j255c]

Until the motor blows up-lol. Subarus are the most unreliable 4 banger turbo you can own

[@deanmarr785]

Just dont add power. Kaboom goes the Subie. VW for the win

[@mavsman7449]

I’m a fan of the golf R, especially in Lapiz blue.

[@RaitisRides]

Same here! I am even a bigger fan because of being able to experience this one!

[@dylanthusing6211]

Thank you for a great video Joe and Tom!! This car is definitely not a slouch and definitely caught my attention!! Beautiful Ride!! Thanks to the subscriber who brought in the car!!

[@RaitisRides]

You are the man! We really appreciate you having our backs! Thanks for watching!

[@michaelduenas1364]

He actually put that cheesy apr badge in the back haha. Nice car though 👍🏼

[@RaitisRides]

I am glad that you liked the car!

[@89dungey]

Stfu nigga you can’t even drive

[@TheDude613]

They really are a Swiss Army knife of a car

[@RaitisRides]

So very true, very versatile!

[@lagerace227]

I say that as well. They are amazing in ice and snow, which adds to that statement.

[@andre26261095]

You are my favorite KZbin channel when it comes to cars I always watch your channel to get the latest on cars keep up the good work man 👍👍👍

[@Mr.Doctorstrange]

Phenomenal video brother your excitement makes the video 100x times better I have a GLI autobahn I’m currently buying all the stage 2 recommendations. (Clutch, downpipe, cold air intake, intercooler and turbo inlet pipe.) can’t wait for it especially after this video !!!!!

[@petercarey6883]

Well once again you took me to school on this VW. What did I learn? APR ='s Audi Performance Racing. Whoa. See, I was paying attention and not day-dreaming about my Corvette or some FRIGG'N CORVETTE REVIEWS, that I'm not see'n. lol I also learned not to judge the book by it's cover. What appears to be just a nice little blue VW Golf, very unassuming in that it has no hood scoop, no heat extractors, no rear wing or even a spoiler and no loud exhaust, HAS 354hp to the wheels! Crap, the Vette stock LS3 has 430 to the crank which is about 365 to the wheels. I'm guessing it's lighter than the Vette, so the power to weight ratio is probably superior to the Vette. So, I've learned don't play games with a Golf that has any R badging on it. LOL

[@RaitisRides]

Today you have earned an A+! Don't forget to study for the semester exam that is coming soon! I dream of one day a Chevrolet dealership will just stop leading me along and give me access. I don't understand what their issue is and it is really frustrating. I am very professional and feel I would bring a HUGE value to them and all I ask in return is access to their cars which I am probably going to help sell. So I would love to get you more Corvettes on the channel but Ferman Chevrolet and Dimmitt Chevrolet are being so unprofessional and to a point just rude. Now I feel a little better venting to you Peter! Big things do come in small packages with these turbocharged AWD setups! Save the wave and will someone wave me towards a Chevrolet dealership in the Tampa Florida area that will allow me to film. Corvette-less in Clearwater :-(

[@petercarey6883]

Dear Covetteless in Clearwater. I'm very sorry to hear about their negativity and rudeness, which to me means they make money despite themselves. (Always wish I had business like that, where it didn't matter whether I got you, or retained you as a customer.) To them you/your channel/youtube is just a "gimmick" and have no idea the power and influence that serious youtubers have. Kind of like a restaurant not allowing a food reviewer into their restaurant. Hmm, there's usually a reason for that, in that it's probably not the best place to go and eat. Your energies are better spent elsewhere. Let's see who knocks on whose door when your 16+k subscribers turns into 160+ subscribers. Their loss on so many levels. So as I used to tell my DI, he who gets up and turns away, lives to fight another day. Yeah, that didn't go over very well, but hey, it got me to wear I could do 1,500 push-ups throughout the course of a day and could peel 10 bushels of potatoes in under an hour and digits are all still in tact. lol I thrived on driving that man nuts. So, Thrive On Joe Raiti, and when frustration is beyond compare, go peel a couple of bushels of potatoes. Look what it's done for me! LOL No comments on that subject please. LOL

[@RaitisRides]

I am going to keep pushing up this mountain! I still can't wrap my mind around having 160K subscribers! All of this still feel so surreal. It's funny because my wife gets a kick out of seeing me react when someone recognizes me when I am some where locally not filming. I do love a good baked potato!

[@petercarey6883]

Ha, ha. That's great. Stay tuned, before long you'll need to hire someone to do all your shopping due to your "celebrity status." You also might want to start looking now for body-double. You gotta keep em guessing. lol I'm looking forward to the day when I can say, "I knew him when." lol Thrive On!

[@RaitisRides]

That is so awesome of you to say! I really don't want to be a celebrity. I just want to do what I love! Thanks for being part of this crazy experience!

[@TheJarat]

The golf R is a beast after adding just a simple tune

[@RaitisRides]

I am a firm believer!

[@mrglindsay3]

Love that blue. Nice performer! Kick ass video Joe!

[@RaitisRides]

I really appreciate you taking the time to watch and say that!

[@blackflagpirate3444]

We call them sleepers here in the uk Joe.Very fast car and can be used as a daily 🏁👍🍻

[@RaitisRides]

That is what I call them over here! It was a ton of fun!

[@RaitisRides]

You are 100% correct!

[@yomomma3988]

Golf Rs are anything but called a sleeper in the UK 😂😂😂

[@ClaudeOmari]

We call them Vrrr Pha’s in South Africa

[@stevecuahuizo792]

Thanks for always giving us awesome videos I own a 2011 vw GTI tuned by cobb. I can only imagine a tuned R I can’t wait to get one

[@RaitisRides]

That is really awesome of you to say. It really is an awesome car, but I am sure your GTI is a blast too.

[@Phara_2]

I have a 2017 APR Stage 3+ Golf R, which is a big turbo upgrade. Now that boost does hit you like a ton of bricks :P

[@RaitisRides]

Oh wow that sounds like a real pocket rocket! Thank you so much for sharing your experience! It is always great t hear from owners!

[@Phara_2]

@@RaitisRides It definitely is! I have to hold back a lot so I don't get into too much trouble, haha

[@RaitisRides]

@@Phara_2 I totally believe that! I would love to be able to review it for the channel!

[@Phara_2]

@@RaitisRides Where are you located?

[@RaitisRides]

Clearwater FL, how about you?

[@benvernick]

This is my dream car with the APR tune. Man what I would do! I also like the subtle APR badge on the back, only those in the know will get it. Not to be negative, but one thing that annoys me about VW is how they use the “R” badge on other vehicles as a cosmetic only upgrade. Use a different letter or even better give us R versions of the Jetta, Passat, etc. I hope one day we will get an AWD R version of the Jetta.

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that I could bring this one to you Ben! It really was a blast to drive! I totally agree about the use of the R badge on other VWs. Thanks for watching!

[@retrocny5625]

They look great but I just can't get past the move VW made to discontinue 2DR options on the GTIs/Rs. The 2DR golfs, from MK4 all the way forward just looked amazing. I had both a 2dr MK5 and MK6 GTI. Loved em both. It may not be as practical, but it sure as hell looks good.

[@abdallahmoussa1983]

After 12 years of Subaru STI ... moved to Golf R 6 and now 7. More reliable. Faster. Better engine even when tuned but I do miss the fun of a subaru as long as that 2.5 semi closed deck is still running. 😂

[@cristhosanchez5050]

For a volkswagon thats a nice car especially in that blue color and wheels

[@RaitisRides]

I can't argue with that!

[@lunozorrobo9947]

As an STI owner i will admit this thing outperform an sti easily but man is it such a dull car to own. I drove it before i got my sti and i just felt nothing driving it. The STI def has a following for a reason and it’s not just about performance but it is still one of the rare gems of the modern age that is a true drivers car! Love your videos as always!

[@RaitisRides]

I will alawys love the Subaru WRX/STi! You are right because I really miss mine! Thank you so much for watching and your awesome support!

[@chriss3594]

Until the engine blows up on your STi.

[@johnwjeromejr]

0 - 100 (MPH, NOT KMH) in just over 10 seconds is not dull, nor is whiplash caused by accelerative G-forces.

[@RaitisRides]

@@johnwjeromejr Thank you for sharing that info sir!

[@n0ly77]

I thought Tony Hawk was hosting for a second...

[@zmagg1126]

What a beautiful car especially in that color ❤️ I can't wait for the 2018 JETTA SPORT Review! 👍😎

[@RaitisRides]

I am filming it next Friday!

[@zmagg1126]

@@RaitisRides Whoop Whoop!!! 😁

[@RaitisRides]

Fingers crossed it goes well!

[@zmagg1126]

@@RaitisRides Hopefully it does I believe in you Raiti! 🙏❤️

[@RaitisRides]

That is really awesome of you to say!

[@deanmarr785]

VW fanboy here . Another job well done Joe.

[@RaitisRides]

dean marriott thank you so much for your excellent support and your compliment!😊👍🏻

[@marlez6898]

nice video, VWs are pretty good cars I don´t really get that American jokes: "check engine light. mostly like a VW" Golf is one of the more reliable cars atleast in EU.

[@nessuno5403]

Marlez what do you drive? They used to be!

[@marlez6898]

nes suno I dont have my own car because iam not 18 yet but I have a driving license (you can make it if you are 17 and drive with someone who has atleast 10years of experience) ...in about few months iam buying toyota celica 2.0gt probably 5th gen. I still dont know everything about cars but I do know some things and that golf is popular here because of price/power/reliability.But i wouldn't buy a knew golf specialy in EU because of emission regulations it made almost every new cars really bad.

[@RaitisRides]

Make a plan and get the car you want!

[@nessuno5403]

Marlez good luck with your driving licence and car ownership then :) unfortunately VW is not as reliable as people perceive it to be... and the diesel emissions scandal is something additional that they have recovered from

[@Bawla187]

@Marlez I've owned a few VW's all manual...(1999 Golf GL, 2000 Passat GLS) and recently in 9/2017 bought a new manual GTI SE. The later models are very reliable. "Some" people comment and haven't actually owned a VW. They go off what they've read from some people that may have had issues. Save your money, always test drive before you buy, get what you like dude, btw I'm American.✌🏿

[@jmsma6234]

350hp? I’ll have to check again. I thought APR touts 385hp for the Stage 2!?!

[@RaitisRides]

It's 386 HP at the crank and around 350-360 at the wheels! Thank you so much for watching!

@@RaitisRides I did 366HP to the wheels on the low torque files stage 1 on my 2016 S3, pretty sure its closer to 400 to the wheels. I just went stage 2 and I absolutely love it!!!

[@alexarias6967]

just recently got a 2016 Golf R, you might have just convinced me to skip stage 1 and go right to stage 2 😅

[@RaitisRides]

I think you will be happy that you did!

[@alexarias6967]

@@RaitisRides did the owner any chance tell you what supporting mods he did/required for stage 2? maybe aftermarket inter cooler anything like that?

[@Raudi_5pot]

Hey Joe, one of your students was wearing your shirt as a Werner truck driver. This was a couple yrs ago and we talked a bit. I have the Ralliart with a big turbo now. I also just bought a Red Misano Audi S3

[@RaitisRides]

That is so awesome of you to share! I really appreciate your awesome support! I would love to review your two hot cars!

[@ryanchu2037]

@Raiti's Rides I would love to see you drive the cars and talk about how they perform on the roads! But I also love your current reviews to! Keep up the great work love the vids especially on the Subaru WRX STI's!!!!!!!!

[@RaitisRides]

I did drive this one. Each review is so unique and different. I appreciate your support and I will have more Subaru STi videos on the way.

[@JoseGutierrez-hp6mt]

I really love all of your video Joe

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you this one was a tot of fun!

[@JoseGutierrez-hp6mt]

@@RaitisRides your welcome

[@RaitisRides]

I am just so glad I can share this with you!

[@buzzrace9095]

Yalll notice the white mark after he finished test driving it on the drivers side low corner ?

[@RaitisRides]

That is just the lighting playing tricks.

[@flopkin]

Love the Golf R. If I had the money I’d trade my GTI in for one of these in a second, lol.

[@RaitisRides]

The GTI is a great car but your right the Golf R has that something extra! Thanks for watching!

[@N3OST]

When you talk about q tune please talk about what it involves to do said tune.... parts, money Etc would be nice!!!

[@RaitisRides]

That is a great suggestion! I really appreciate the feedback! Sorry about that.

[@cerveloultegra]

it needs an APR full exhaust. stock exhaust is not so loud.

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree but the owner did not want any extra sound.

[@cerveloultegra]

Raiti's Rides yeah, personal preference

[@RaitisRides]

@@cerveloultegra yes sir!

[@robertdebarge276]

My GTI is APR tuned. Other than that, only other thing I've done is tint. I don't want to draw any more attention to it because I want it to be as sleeper as possible. I suspect this R owner is very much the same. Asides from the APR badge, nothing else to clue you in that it's not stock.

[@davidhossebian5994]

Who buys a manual car when you have the option of a DSG?!?!?

[@RaitisRides]

I guess someone who wants to row through their own gears. The DSG is great and I am glad that VW offers options for its buyers.

[@mikepic]

No doubt that the DSG performs far better but I really love driving manual. I don't have plans on racing my car so I went out of my way to get manual when I bought my R.

[@SmAsHkReW]

Who dates girls when guys are around oh yeah that’s right real men

[@-slurmdaddy-8147]

kj summerville dafuq

[@vroomgc]

Lol that's a good one kj. I have DSG but have driven many manuals over my years and I know the difference. Its a drivers thing. Most young ppl only think of the 0-60 difference and not how it feels to let'r rip with a stick.

[@ZKozak-hp5vb]

Just got a Golf R which was catless and had a borla non-resonated exhaust. First thing I did was stick the cat back onto the car. Really a shame to see how all the forums point to one thing - GO CATLESS. Have you not heard of diesel-gate? For crying out loud. I'm getting parts but will leave the emmissions equipment alone. Morally felt bad, and was embarassing. Every time I drove into the underground I prayed nobody was in there because of the smell and toxic shite coming out. Now that the cat is back on I absolutely love the thing. Getting some parts together but god does this thing feel secure in the fall in the PNW. Love to just floor it in 2nd around corners to feel the haldex shuffle power around curves.

[@dtmh2220]

Like your enthusiasm. It would be great if you gave more details about the mods.

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you for saying that! I appreciate the feedback and will add more to upcoming reviews!

[@paulscillia1274]

Who does the APR upgrade? The dealer?

[@RaitisRides]

There are certified VW dealerships that do the work across the country. This particular one was done in Tampa, FL by Reeves VW.

[@marlosese8752]

Is it still on Stock Clutch? if Not, what is the name of the clutch kit installed?

[@RaitisRides]

It has a South Bend Stage 3 clutch!

[@ericd1632]

Really nice VW. I'm a fan of the Golf R, especially the new ones 👍🏻 LOVE that color, I used to have a Tacoma TRD Off Road the same color. 386hp huh? Be a good race with the RS.......

[@RaitisRides]

Yeah I would love to run this up against my RS!

[@johnwjeromejr]

Joe, thanks again for a terrific review of my R. I just got the APR Stage 2.6 upgrade (they didn't charge me anything for it) and haven't really had a chance to try out the launch control but there is definitely an increase in mid-range torque. It's not my imagination - it almost startles me every time I get on it when passing, etc. APR claims there's no increase in power so maybe I didn't get the full load of beans when I first went Stage 2. I plan to call Reeves and ask them if any of their other Stage 2.6 upgrades are reporting similar experiences.

[@RaitisRides]

Wow! That is really awesome! I would love to do a part two if you are game? Just let me know!

[@johnwjeromejr]

@@RaitisRides - Sure, a 2nd opinion is warranted. It would be good to know it's not just me.

[@RaitisRides]

Great we will have to put something together! I'll text you!

[@johnwjeromejr]

@@RaitisRides Joe I just got the APR 2.8 update which enables you to regulate the pops and bangs if you have them (I don't, so it's merely an update for me). The earlier 2.6 update adds launch control only to DSG cars so again it was just an update for me. Reeves Motorsports did provide me with some launch control tips

[@legostarwarsrulez]

The golf all track has AWD too

[@RaitisRides]

This is so very true!

[@eligiobotts9391]

In all honesty the golf r is a great when you meet someone who isn't a car person and doesn't understand the punch a golf r can pack.

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you on that one!

[@SaintonoZ]

just chilling hitting 115mph on the freeway

[@MrSTROM26]

Im gonna sell my kidney on black market just to get Golf R :)

[@robertshetsen8691]

How safe it's for a car I have stage one apr I am a little afraid of realibility

[@marvi2941]

I have a golf R. I would have considered a STI if I didn't mind being surrounded by cheap plastics and an overall worse daily experience. I mean they're not that bad if you can't afford something nicer or want to rally which very few people actually end up doing. The Golf R is for a more refined driver. With that, the bait has been set.

[@RaitisRides]

What year is your Golf R? Is it stock? This Golf R was a pleasant surprise and just a joy to drive!

[@marvi2941]

@@RaitisRides 2018, stock. May tune it with APR in the spring. My friend has his tuned with APR. It's definitely an experience.

[@RaitisRides]

I like the changes that were done to the car for 2018!

[@marvi2941]

@@RaitisRides Thanks, I can definitely appreciate the digital dash and bigger infotainment screen. Making DCC standard was the best decision for everyone.

[@RaitisRides]

i totally agree with you!

[@audiwankenobi361]

Golf R's are just too expensive but the GTI hits the sweetspot....my goal is to sell my Acura MDX 08 for a 5 door GTI or a Passat wagon....of course I would go Audi but it's not gonna be my daily driver and more importantly, a VW is more accessible at the moment.

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you! Thank you so much for sharing your input and perspective!

[@32523Bwahahaha]

Get the new Jetta gsi

[@Kresnov]

APR = Great Tuning, RBA= Rubbish Badge Application, you had one job, put the badge on level.

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you for your perspective and input. You have some really good eyes!

[@cerveloultegra]

I want you to review a Bmw M240i with Jb4 tune

[@RaitisRides]

Find me one and I am all over it!

[@RaitisRides]

How about this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jKrQhWareL2ImKc

[@bixinhodanadodanado8061]

Good Morning. What do you think about OBDeleven? I don't mean to make big changes of course, but small things that can make R more appealing. Some sensors I know are not active, I thought to change the presentation of the lights, especially the rear, although also looking to change the headlights, but mine are still bixenon and I wanted to change to LEDs, but tell me that if the car does not come with LEDs is very difficult to change and many euros.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for your input and perspective! I really appreciate you watching!

[@bixinhodanadodanado8061]

@@RaitisRidesI am sorry that you did not answer my question. It seems that simply you want to have more subscribers and not exchange opinions about cars. what a shame.

[@Friendlyfrend]

Hey I loved this video. I’m looking to get a used 2016 golf r. I would love to see a video about the total tune up to stage 3in a golf r. How much it costs and everything. Thanks Raiti, Awesome content

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for reaching out! I will try to get that together!

[@jjacob25101]

I like this VW Golf R! Everything about it. Especially since it's a factory affiliated performance model. You have more reliability coherent with the actual design and engineering. The blue and basic styling, and all the refined and subtle performance and sporty appearance. If I got one, this is exactly want I want, like all the vehicles I mentioned before. Which is very much like my 84 Buick GN, my top if the line silver 200 Chevy Impala SS, even more so the SS that cane out at the end of that run, and my black 2006 Chevy Impala SS with Flowmaster exhaust. Performance, sporty but very subtle looks, not all gaudy and flashy. Which is why I like the Honda Civic Sport Hatchback, Si Sedan, Subaru Impreza Sport Hatchback and the new Buick Regal GS. But this one for the high horsepower German engineering and performance and refinement of VW/Porsche/Audi which I know is under the same group. I tend to think these cars are much more reliable than the BMWs and even more so, the Mercedes cars out now. The only thing not mentioned is the sound system, which I believe can be easily modified. If the radio is decent, especially with a CD player, or not integrated with stuff like the backup camera to make it hard to change, the rest of the system can be easily upgraded with processor, amps and speakers. Just the right amount of horsepower, without getting dangerous crazy if you are a decent experienced responsible driver that doesn't go crazy.... I would probably say the best VW I have seen, especially now. You went over all the details well, as usual. Great vehicle, and it seems well taken care if immaculate after two years. I wonder if Liquid Glass would make it even faster... Lol

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you for sharing your awesome input and perspective!

[@doctorrobert60]

Modified Golf R is a beast! Very fast! I had 2016 Golf R and thought about APR tuning but knew the stock clutch would not hold up long term. Also the factory warranty is gone and worried about possible turbo failure but do not know if that is issue. I went with 2017 Focus RS instead but feels low rent interior compared to the Golf R. Golf R much better suited for the street than the RS. Ride and handling combination is great.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for your input and perspective! I really appreciate you watching!

[@johnwjeromejr]

I am the owner of the Golf R featured in this video. 18 months after this was filmed, the car's reliability continues to be strong. There are just over 50,000 miles on the APR Stage 1 and 27,000 on the Stage 2. I am very pleased with my decisions to add the mods as I have never seen so much as a Check Engine light. I am a senior citizen and retired so I tend to drive conservatively and heed all of the good habits for prolonging the life of the engine and other parts of the car. I haven't taken it to the track and have never autocrossed this or any other car. I do enjoy just daily driving it and the car won't let me forget its nearly 400 HP every time I take off from a light.

[@doctorrobert60]

@@johnwjeromejr Congrats! Is your car manual or DSG? I understand the DSG is more robust and that the APR tuning helps the DSG as well. Keep enjoying it!

[@johnwjeromejr]

@@doctorrobert60 It's manual. I did have to replace the clutch but the new one (Southbend Stage 3 Daily) is light-years better than the stock clutch. It is rated for up to 500 hp so it should last forever. I still love that it's manual and a lot more powerful than most DSGs.

[@tipyyota7872]

Why dont you put focus rs killer🤔

[@RaitisRides]

Hmmmmm. the title would be too long! I promise i am not picking favorites! All of the cars mentioned are awesome and fun and I would love to have one of each!

[@tipyyota7872]

@@RaitisRides 🤔so you're saying it is a rs killer but the title is too long

[@RaitisRides]

@@tipyyota7872 I would like to put this up against an RS. That's all I know!

[@tipyyota7872]

@@RaitisRides 🤔so your saying you think it has a chance in a straight line 😆😉

[@RaitisRides]

@@tipyyota7872 It would definetly be interesting! I loves these AWD drive cars!

[@sonofspaceghost_9290]

Hoooly CRAP thank so f’n much for doing a manual👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾!!!!

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very welcome! This Golf R was a blast to drive!

[@sonofspaceghost_9290]

Oh man I bet it was!! I'm so freekin sick of flappy paddle gearboxs I don't know what to do. It's #3pedalsandaHgate for me all day baby lol.

[@kylesheehan3813]

Can’t chose between the sti n mk7 r

[@liberty0758]

I actually like the previous gen R better, but this one's nice too. Just this morning saw a station wagon R. Boy I'd like one...

[@RaitisRides]

This one with the APR tune was a rocket! I really enjoyed it and I am so glad that you did!

[@liberty0758]

Joe, which one do you think rode better, this Golf or your RS?

[@RaitisRides]

@@liberty0758 Golf R by a miracle mile! Hands down!!!

[@liberty0758]

Time to give your Focus some "vitamins" 😁😎

[@RaitisRides]

Very good point!

[@Apocalyptic656]

I have a 2015 golf R, stage 1...365 hp...505 NTS.. wow 👍

[@Driver987]

How many times do you want to say all wheel drive

[@RaitisRides]

To make sure people are listening! ;-) Thank you so much for watching!

[@williamk1800]

Goodness me there were a lot of enthusiast cars in that parking lot. Is that common for that area or was there an event going on?

[@RaitisRides]

Hi William! An event just finished at Motorsports by Reeves and then we filmed the review. Good eyes and thank you for watching!

[@Jvilleman400]

Hey man, I actually have that same car except I ha be the dsg and I have a unitronic stage 2 tune instead of apr, I’d love for you to drive it if you wanted to do a comparison video.....I’m in bowling green Kentucky btw.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for reaching out to me! Your Golf R must be a blast to drive! The funny thing is my wife and I may be going to Bowling Green in the summer! Can you email me at [e-mail]

[@Jvilleman400]

Raiti's Rides yes sir I surely can

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you sir that is great!

[@Jameshhl]

All I have is a $800 APR stage 1 tune on my 17' DSG Golf R, and that's plenty fast enough for me. Pretty expensive to go stage 2 for another 20ish hp...

[@RaitisRides]

This is true.

[@johnwjeromejr]

The HP increase for going Stage 2 is quite significant - 33 hp to be exact but it feels much faster than that - well worth the cost. The torque is unbelievable - 409 ft lbs. Makes it feel like an old-school big block muscle car.

[@DoneDeal2]

I like R's..but that sounds horrible. I assume exhaust is next

[@RaitisRides]

Yeah the stock exhaust is nothing to really write home about!

[@johnwjeromejr]

In full Race mode, the soundactor is actually too loud so I keep it in Individual mode which is race except for the sound.

[@davothegreat9990]

It's an sti killer even without any mods.

[@nessuno5403]

So you like golf? Do you focus on any other sports?

[@RaitisRides]

Well done sir! I like what you did!

[@mikepic]

STill making puns I see.

[@nessuno5403]

Mike Piccirillo that almost WoRX 😂

[@mikepic]

Hehe, quick response. You must Type Really fast.

[@nessuno5403]

Mike Piccirillo clever! I was going to say as fast as a Viper but that's off topic 😂

[@deanmarr785]

Great review. My take STI and Focus RS better track cars, Golf R and GTI stage 2 much better daily cars.

[@RaitisRides]

dean marriott I totally agree with you!😊👍🏻

[@deanmarr785]

@@RaitisRides Joe has the suspension on your RS been an issue? And how is the fit and finish compared to the Golf R. My lease is up on my GTI and I'm torn between a focus RS, Golf R, ( stage 2 DSG like my current GTI) or a 2009 Cayman S. First world problems. lol

[@RaitisRides]

I would go Golf R all the way with a Stage 2 tune. The RS suspension is pretty stiff even in the softer of the two settings! Cayman would be fun but Porsche parts are not cheap. Let me know if you have anymore questions.

[@deanmarr785]

@@RaitisRides I will keep you posted. The Cayman is in the lead. My current vw tuners are encouraging the Cayman S since they are Porsche guys too.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Dean! Well I can totally understand that! The Cayman is an excellent car! I really do love Porsches!

[@PremierChoiceFitness]

APR is the way to go!

[@RaitisRides]

You can say that again!

[@DodgeandGMkiIIingFurdDaiIy]

And then you’ll see the infamous posts “why is there white smoke coming out of my exhaust?” So glad I sold my VW. They really fucked up this time with the shitty turbos. Shit even a few people have thrown rods. I purchased an Audi S4 instead and it is a monster

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you so much for sharing your input and perspective!

[@joelyelcanio]

Bro, I’m not knowledgeable about this so may I ask: Does this tune void any warranties? How much approximately this kind of tuning costs?

[@RaitisRides]

No it does not. $3800

[@joelyelcanio]

Raiti's Rides thanks for always replying to your followers bro.

[@johnwjeromejr]

I am the owner of the car featured in this video. All of my mods through Stage 2 totaled about $7000 including Stage 1, Southbend Stage 3 clutch, APR front-mounted intercooler and carbon fiber intake, turbo inlet, and updates. All were installed by Reeves Motorsports, a dealer-owned tuner shop. I have 27000 miles on the Stage 2 and 52000 miles on the car, owned since new. The car continues to run flawlessly and is very smooth and easy to drive despite the mods. Reeves does a first-class job on all of its mods.

[@joelyelcanio]

johnwjeromejr , thanks for the input bro. This is my dream car (including color). Probably will be seriously shopping for one once this virus BS ends. What a pleasure must be for you to smoke muscle American cars.

[@johnwjeromejr]

@@joelyelcanio Get ready to start shopping soon - I predict that there will be deals galore due to the coronavirus impact to the economy. My last car was a Mazdaspeed 3 bought at a huge discount during the depths of the recession in 2008. Like the Golf R, the Speed 3 was not normally discounted when it came out.

[@markjones8599]

What clutch his he using? Thanks

[@RaitisRides]

Mark Jones I’ll find out for you. I can’t remember off the top of my head!

[@johnwjeromejr]

Southbend Stage 3 Daily which is rated for up to 500 HP

[@pcm7315]

Going, all the cars are passing him; coming back: "....even in 5th gear I just put my foot down and it just goes and goes, and he's passing everything in sight.

[@RaitisRides]

I appreciate you sharing your input and perspective. Thanks for watching!

[@incognitoguitars9999]

Just got my new 2018 R. What are your thoughts on warranty issues with adding stage 2?

[@RaitisRides]

From what I understand the warranty should still be intact. Do you have an authorized VW dealer doing the work?

[@william7763]

anyone know what kind of rims were on that 08 m3 behind the R?

[@mcursch88]

why does it sound like with every sentence he is trying to keep liquid from falling out of his mouth

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing your input and perspective! Thank you for watching!

[@TheZ3roCool]

When the 400BHP Mk8 drops :D

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you so much for sharing your input and perspective! I really appreciate you watching!

[@MrVara411]

Great car, needs new exhaust... nothing over-the-top or anything, but the stock exhaust is way too tame.

[@floyd_mph]

350HP. Too little for an APR 2. I’m running Revo 2 on my S3 sedan ‘15. A Golf R APR 2 easily kicks my ass. And I’m making 277wkw(380HP at the wheels)

[@RaitisRides]

That is a really nice setup! I appreciate you taking the time to share your experience!

[@ogrelordmalfoy202]

Holy shit, it's Joe Raiti from Raitis Rides!!

[@eligiobotts9391]

Am i finally the first comment on a video. xD

[@RaitisRides]

Yes, but it took you long enough!

[@bettadenu1]

Reviewing a car driving with the owner inside leads to a bias review

[@RaitisRides]

I don't think I was being bias one bit. If I don't own the car I have to allow the owner to feel comfortable. I truly believe what I experienced! I like the car! If it was stock maybe it would be a different! Thank you for watching!

[@bixinhodanadodanado8061]

grande coisa. o meu tem 355 só com a reprogramação.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for watching!

[@luckyhands4995]

Idk. My personal opinion ie is better. 2019 gli Is38

[@southshore74]

Guys and Gals, I cannot say this more. DO NOT due any tuning to your car. I speak from VW experience. If you have a GTI or a Golf R as your daily driver and you are paying monthly for the next 4-5 years, do not tune your car. Tuning your GTI or R will VOID YOUR WARRANTY !! If you install any type of tune, it flags your ECM and when a VW Mechanic hooks a Scan Tool to your car the Mechanic can read it. So unless you are made out of money, don't do it. It's not worth it until you pay the car off or the Normal Warranty is gone. I have noticed none of the Videos on you tube about Tuning your car mention this at all. BEWARE !!

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you so much for sharing your input and perspective!

[@saturncjc]

You're wrong! My GTI has the APR Stage 2 tune. I have had warranty work done, no problem. Some VW dealers actually do APR tunes at the dealership.

[@RaitisRides]

@@saturncjc Thank you for sharing actual real world experience! It always good to hear from the owners!

[@vroomgc]

I myself have had both a tune and a JB1 on my car when taken in for warranty work and they said nothing and I talked to the salesperson there and she said they don't care. Now if my turbo goes then maybe they might but otherwise no issues. :)

[@davidhossebian5994]

No shit

[@tomcars]

🔥🔥

[@Tigerex966]

Nice

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you loved this one!

[@00-Dima]

Nice BMW with 666 wheels

[@RaitisRides]

Very interesting analysis! Thank you for watching!

[@chunkytona6597]

You don’t have to yell

[@RaitisRides]

That's just my passion for cars coming through. I appreciate you taking the time to watch!

[@IvanHausVonSpreitler]

You lost me at the, “I like the piano black”.

[@RaitisRides]

I take it you don't like it?

[@TheRebuilt1]

GIAC all day every day for best performance and reliability.

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you for sharing you input and perspective!

[@Great_America]

Voiding the factory warranty on a $45K car? Not so smart.

[@RaitisRides]

APR is covered so it's good to go. Thank you for watching and sharing your input!

[@herschelwalker591]

As much as I bag on STIs, I can't own another VW, their dealers are fucking atrocious, which is too bad, because they make quality cars, with paint that Subaru wishes they had... The only actual complaint about the car is the sloppy stock manual transmission, its like shifting a school bus.

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you so much for watching and sharing your input and perspective!

[@legostarwarsrulez]

Herschel Walker really? Where I live the VW dealers are by far the most consumer friendly. Some of them even have special dealer warranties where they’ll still cover your car if you break it from modding it.

[@herschelwalker591]

@@legostarwarsrulez I'm in Arizona, the dealers have been shit since '99, we have owned 5 Golfs/GTis and rotate around dealers, they're all deserted wastelands which could be why the service sucks.

[@RaitisRides]

It is crazy how dealer experiences can be so different depending on where you go!

[@RaitisRides]

That is sad to hear, especially when it comes to a whole state!

[@davidjones4920]

nice!!🖒🖒🖒🖒

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad tat you liked this one!

[@SteveRunciman]

I love the Golf but after the emissions scandal I refuse to buy anything from VW group

[@RaitisRides]

I can totally understand where you are coming from. You are aware that man other companies have also been bested for not only emission fraud, but also MPG.

[@DungarooTV]

Honestly, all of these VW Golf R's look the same. I hate hatches. If I wanted a nice HATCH, I would have bought a CHICKEN! LOL

[@RaitisRides]

You are on a roll! It was fun to drive though!

[@Golfr2020]

Lol. Even stage 1 apr will kill it.

[@4rfourlife994]

I can’t stand the car salesmen routine.

[@RaitisRides]

That is my passion! I am not selling anyone on anything!

[@4rfourlife994]

Raiti's Rides ok, I can understand that. Great video!

[@fantomg100]

400 hp and 420 trq

[@senorfrog5605]

does this guy have a nose ring? or is that a coke drip.,..?

[@RaitisRides]

Interesting!