VW Golf R Review | Why it changed performance cars forever

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  • čas přidán 9. 07. 2020
  • #VW #GolfR
    It might seem a strange choice, but the VW Golf R really has changed performance cars forever. Why? Well, it’s a combination of blistering performance, affordability, usability and tunability (if that’s a word) that makes the previously humble Golf stand out. Overcoming the presence of its legendary GTI sibling, the Mk7 Golf R really did change performance cars forever.
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Komentáře • 460

  • @howardkerr8174
    @howardkerr8174 Před 4 lety +66

    This is the first video from CAR that I have ever seen. The magazine is the top of the heap among ALL car magazines on this planet, with both phenomenal artwork and writing, so it makes sense that the videos they produce set a gold standard.

    • @CARmagazineTV
      @CARmagazineTV  Před 4 lety +6

      Thanks for the support Howard. Very much appreciated. Glad you’re enjoying CAR.

    • @howardkerr8174
      @howardkerr8174 Před 4 lety +3

      @@CARmagazineTV
      Guys, I started buying your magazine nearly....50 years ago. (I can't believe it, either.) Unfortunately, with this pandemic I haven't been to the newsagents in months (I live in Florida.).
      I hope to go back in the near future and view the other videos here on CZcams. Many, many thanks for putting them here, from a long time reader and occasional subscriber.

    • @martingetliffe
      @martingetliffe Před 4 lety +2

      I’ve been buying Motoring Magazines for nearly 40 years.
      In my memory, I can honestly say that CAR Magazine has always been the Classiest available, in my humble opinion. It just looked Rich.
      It was a stand out choice, I would buy about 4 Mags a month, CAR would always be my 1st. Choice.

    • @CARmagazineTV
      @CARmagazineTV  Před 4 lety +1

      Thanks very much, Martin. Greatly appreciated.

    • @martingetliffe
      @martingetliffe Před 4 lety +2

      CAR Magazine told it how it was. It’s a Yorkshire Trait; being brutally honest, sometimes people don’t like it but we aren’t bothered. Keep up the good work..........

  • @donovan5939
    @donovan5939 Před 3 lety +107

    I watch this video once a week just to remind myself how awesome my car is 😂

    • @pete7523
      @pete7523 Před 3 lety +1

      What do you think about the mk8?

    • @eklektikTechno
      @eklektikTechno Před 2 lety +5

      I’m now doing the same since recently picking one up ☺️

    • @Dukesy
      @Dukesy Před 2 lety +2

      I want one so bad

    • @nicolasrose3064
      @nicolasrose3064 Před 2 lety +1

      @@eklektikTechno
      If you haven't already, check out NoJack South Africa, "Golf GTi 7 stolen off showroom floor chased by Golf R 7.5", ofcourse since you "picked one up" you won't be unfamiliar with the car, but these guys drive the car hard and fast, oh, the engine, it's just so sweet.

    • @chungkitlam3406
      @chungkitlam3406 Před rokem +2

      I thought I did that was a kind of weired. So that makes a R club 😂
      Indeed, Golf R is all you need for a CAR. It surprises some supercar at traffic light start off😊

  • @agentkay2002
    @agentkay2002 Před 3 lety +67

    I've owned four different GTI's (mk3, mk4, mk5 & mk7) and now I have a mk7.5 Golf R. It puts all of my previous (chipped) GTI's to shame. This is the fastest, most well balanced and practical vehicle I've ever owned for the pricepoint. It's essentially a 4-door Porsche in a hatchback configuration. Best of all, NOBODY knows what it is. It's the ultimate daily driver sleeper.

    • @vwgolf499
      @vwgolf499 Před 3 lety +5

      Very nicely put into words...enjoy your subtile VW Porsche...💪

    • @bashlove9641
      @bashlove9641 Před 3 lety +1

      @@vwgolf499 No way! Porsche handling is way better, and yes I have owned one. You can't really ask of a hatch what a porsche offers in terms of grip, road handling etc. They are different beasts.

    • @liamjames-hendriks4895
      @liamjames-hendriks4895 Před 3 lety +2

      Mate, love that you love it. Around my area there's a clean golf R and seeing it brings me joy

    • @agentkay2002
      @agentkay2002 Před 3 lety +8

      @@bashlove9641 Oh I totally agree, I was really saying that only half-serious. I too have driven many Porsches (my neighbor at my previous home had a 911 Carerra--incredible car). I'm just pointing out the fact that for a quarter of the cost, you can own a 4-door hatch that can do 0-60 in 4.4 seconds with AWD and the most comfortable seats I've ever placed my ass in. It's a bargain sports car in every sense of the word. It also uses a ton of parts from the Porsche parts bin because VW owns 53.3% of Porsche.

    • @jayonefive234
      @jayonefive234 Před 3 lety +1

      not a sleeper. everyone knows what a golf r is now

  • @ruubiecool
    @ruubiecool Před 4 lety +132

    Why is no one talking about how good of a presentator this guy is?! especially when considering he has less than 100k subs

    • @sergiosaunier
      @sergiosaunier Před 4 lety +3

      Ruben_526 James has presented stellar reviews for a while now; he is probably the best of the new generation of car reviewers.

    • @CARmagazineTV
      @CARmagazineTV  Před 4 lety +3

      Thanks both ☺️

    • @GrrMeister
      @GrrMeister Před 4 lety

      *Needs to fit the strict BAME profile to ever have a chance of a job at the BBC*

    • @harryscorah2091
      @harryscorah2091 Před 3 lety +1

      He reminds me of a young Tiff Needell

    • @funkymonkey1198
      @funkymonkey1198 Před 3 lety

      @@GrrMeister like all those on top gear? Numpty

  • @modlifecrisis3875
    @modlifecrisis3875 Před 4 lety +45

    Someone grew up watching Tiff Needell on 5th gear. The intonation in your delivery is almost an exact match (not an insult). Close your eyes and listen carefully

    • @CARmagazineTV
      @CARmagazineTV  Před 4 lety +3

      Glad you enjoyed!

    • @dremarcos
      @dremarcos Před 4 lety +3

      Came down to comments to see if anyone else was hearing Tiff too. Glad the style is being carried on, Enjoyed this one. Kudos @CAR Magazine

    • @dannyeldergolf
      @dannyeldergolf Před 4 lety

      Spot on 👏🏻

  • @unbarredbear189
    @unbarredbear189 Před 3 lety +8

    Hands down, one of the best reviews of a car I've seen. Anywhere. You sir, are a top class presenter destined for huge things. It was like watching something from "old Top Gear" or Fifth Gear. You have a brilliant way of delivering your lines but also keeping folks engaged. And everything you said was relevant, there was no padding or waffling. A rare quality of car reviews these days. I could watch you present & review cars for days.
    I'm actually in the market for a second hand Golf R MK 7.5 at the moment, and I'm so glad your video showed up in my recommendations.

    • @CARmagazineTV
      @CARmagazineTV  Před 3 lety

      Thanks very much for the kind words. Glad you enjoyed. New video out today so please do keep an eye out! ☺️

  • @sallehasamad9543
    @sallehasamad9543 Před 4 lety +16

    Been owning 7.5R for the past 1 yr. loving every bit of it. Fast and practical.

  • @rendanirotshimukhovha2435
    @rendanirotshimukhovha2435 Před 3 lety +11

    As a car fanatic, the Golf 7.5 R review done here can make a person want to own one .. Best review seen

  • @CarStory
    @CarStory Před 4 lety +4

    30yrs ago I had a 88 GTI and a 90 GLI at the same time. I loved those cars even though they liked to fall apart and needed repair often. Two yrs ago I wanted another GTI. I was able to teach my wife how to drive manual and a few months later she drove home in a new 2018 GTI w/manual transmission and autobahn trim. We wanted the Golf R but it was about 5k more and the dealer would not budge on price. I think we got an amazing GTI, the interior is very similar to an Audi and it's so practical and fun to drive. We await the the Golf R and hope it comes here to America. We would be tempted to buy it.

  • @cklam8722
    @cklam8722 Před 3 lety +4

    I owned an R for four years now. It's really a family super car for all occasions. Never mind the mundane golf hatch look. It has personality to show that it is special. Good presentation again, James.

  • @Iwillfindonesoon
    @Iwillfindonesoon Před 4 lety +14

    Another great review from the lad.
    It is rare to find a motoring jouno who doesn't repeat words and phrases to a noticeable degree during a film.
    Here we have an exception.
    Looking forward to the next one !

    • @CARmagazineTV
      @CARmagazineTV  Před 4 lety +1

      Glad you enjoyed the video! Plenty more on the way ☺️

    • @sergiosaunier
      @sergiosaunier Před 4 lety +1

      James is really good. All his reviews so far have been remarkable.

  • @iwells079
    @iwells079 Před 4 lety +38

    Loved my Golf R. Had it for 3 years, took it to 380bhp. Recently moved to an RS 3 which is a step up in intoxicating noise and perceived quality but a drop down in engagement and handling finesse. Ultimately faster in a straight line the RS 3 might be, but very few cars could keep up with me in my Golf R.

    • @Jeremy-yi7zm
      @Jeremy-yi7zm Před 4 lety +1

      Same, just traded in my 2016 Golf R for a 2019 RS3 a couple months ago

    • @salessiteboost7665
      @salessiteboost7665 Před 4 lety +4

      Agreed, I have an RS3. The Golf R has much better handling and driver feel. Awesome little chassis.

    • @BLAZINGINGPHOENIX
      @BLAZINGINGPHOENIX Před 4 lety +1

      Probably all down to the 50kg less weigth over the front wheels meaning the steering will be much sharper and quicker too

    • @phil.i.am2
      @phil.i.am2 Před 4 lety

      Interesting discussion, I'm thinking of a fast daily that I could take on a track day purely for fun. Is it worth considering Golf R or stick with the GTi CS or even Golf GTi CSS?

    • @iwells079
      @iwells079 Před 4 lety +2

      Phil for track day fun I wouldn’t bother with 4wd and go for the GTi CS

  • @tintdlb
    @tintdlb Před 4 lety +2

    i own a golf R going for 2 years this november, upgraded from a gti and love it every time i sit behind the steering wheel, just makes me feel like a kid

  • @stevew6426
    @stevew6426 Před 4 lety +26

    Love ours, 2014 model year, Stage 3 Revo, 500hp+ and usable daily. Cars don’t get much better than this.

    • @weilandcock
      @weilandcock Před 4 lety

      Damn!

    • @jitkr1489
      @jitkr1489 Před 4 lety +1

      Bud, I was considering on buying a used R. What is your opinion about their reliability? I would appreciate any inputs man. cheers

  • @bongofury3176
    @bongofury3176 Před 4 lety +7

    2 years in to mine. absolutely love it. does everything, proper fast and 40mpg !! I no longer notice if the road is wet or dry...

    • @MK6CHRIS
      @MK6CHRIS Před 3 lety +1

      your golf r gets 40mpg???? maybe 30

    • @bongofury3176
      @bongofury3176 Před 3 lety

      @@MK6CHRIS 38.9 current long term average. drive steady most of the time...

    • @MK6CHRIS
      @MK6CHRIS Před 3 lety +1

      @@bongofury3176 that has to be a record

  • @neilwatson5864
    @neilwatson5864 Před 4 lety +7

    Great Review. Enjoyed It. Well done. Thank you James Dennison.
    Seems we need to be taking note of this young guys name people!

  • @FTFLCY
    @FTFLCY Před 4 lety +4

    I went from a Velar 3.0d to my 7.5 R. A plunge into the hot pool. I couldn't wait for a new one, and the manager of local dealers had just taken delivery of a crazily specced R for his company car. He'd been waiting 6 months so was gutted, but he sold it to me LOL! It's got akropovic exhaust, performance pack, full leather, intel upgrade - and every other option, AND is in Nada Grey (special - hence the long wait). It was not cheap. I had a MK5 GTi when it came out, then a succession of exec stuff, and I'm delighted to be in the R. I won't remap - it's more than fast enough for me - and with the adaptable dampers, is still comfy on my 25 mile commute up the cratered and broken M11.
    It will certainly be in my favourite 3 of all time. Such an incredible all rounder. Oh - and I was reading Car Magazine loyally from the age of 12 to about 35. 60 in two weeks HA!

    • @CARmagazineTV
      @CARmagazineTV  Před 4 lety +1

      Thanks for your loyal readership and glad you’re enjoying the Golf R 👌

    • @GundogJake
      @GundogJake Před 4 lety +3

      I also went from a Range Rover Sport (dreadful POS lasted 8 weeks) and bought an RS3 for my 60th 👌

  • @BrianSmith-fn3rl
    @BrianSmith-fn3rl Před 3 lety +3

    Great video! When buying my 2015 I drove a stock R, a stage 1 R, a GTI and a subie wrx. It’s amazing when driving the Rs back to back how much of a difference a $600 APR tune makes.....it’s HUGE! And while the WRX was fun to drive it was simply not in the same class as the VW with fit and finish. The GTI was also fun but I missed the power and the AWD from the R. And what’s really cool, after over 4 years with my stage 1 R, I still just go drive it for no reason other than to have fun.

    • @Golfr2020
      @Golfr2020 Před 2 lety

      But it is an all wheel drive. Lol
      Power is transferred to the rear ehen needed making it an all wheel drive system. Wether most of the traction is often on the front wheels or not is irrelevant

  • @Spinal2111
    @Spinal2111 Před 4 lety +2

    Couldn't agree more, I love mine! Really wish here in Canada we got the performance pack option though.

  • @Pete7.5R
    @Pete7.5R Před 4 lety

    Great review 'Tiff' - 7.5 R (310+) manual 3 door, enjoying my cake! - look forward to your review of the Golf 8 GTI and R

  • @sinnaever
    @sinnaever Před 4 lety +3

    Love my 2017 MK7 R with Stage 2 ECU and DSG Tune. Can't go wrong with a Golf R.

  • @alanthecat59
    @alanthecat59 Před 4 lety +19

    wow the first decent vid from car since i can remember , long time for sure , great job , really good lots more please with this presenter , whats his name ?

    • @henryhealy
      @henryhealy Před 4 lety

      It literally says at the start of the video.

    • @sergiosaunier
      @sergiosaunier Před 4 lety

      His name is James Dennison.

  • @yedum321
    @yedum321 Před 3 lety +2

    Seriously, this guy is so articulate. I had to replay parts of this video just to hear him talk.

  • @Jsah11
    @Jsah11 Před 4 lety +3

    Miss mine so much, had one 2016-2018. I drive a car twice the price now but still pine for an R.

  • @chriscowan6630
    @chriscowan6630 Před 3 lety +1

    Outstanding review brother....just terrific..thanks for the great content

  • @flintmonz
    @flintmonz Před 3 lety +1

    Great review ! My favorite to date ! As a 2019 Golf R owner, I appreciate your excellent review.

  • @andy00grant
    @andy00grant Před 4 lety +2

    I was very very close to buying one of these but opted for an M140i. It's a decision that I do not regret as good as the R is.

  • @loganz28
    @loganz28 Před 4 lety +3

    Love my 2018 Golf R. The best car i have ever owned, and it's my first auto. Can't beat the 7 speed dual clutch....

  • @its_ben_carter
    @its_ben_carter Před 4 lety +1

    Beautiful camera work guys well
    done

  • @rowancostello3491
    @rowancostello3491 Před 3 lety +1

    His presenting is brighter than my future. Wonderfully enthusistic - and measured.

  • @SolarisCarLife
    @SolarisCarLife Před 4 lety +2

    very good review!

  • @stubailey9433
    @stubailey9433 Před 4 lety +1

    Good vid. Love VW. We've just bought an Up G.T.I and love it!

    • @robmiller3029
      @robmiller3029 Před 4 lety

      Those Up GTi's are absolutely brilliant. I say that as someone who's had a R for five and a half years.

  • @elliotthale1835
    @elliotthale1835 Před 4 lety +6

    This guy is great, hope to hear more reviews from him.

  • @garethbrown9355
    @garethbrown9355 Před 2 lety +2

    Superb review! I've gone from a 2014 M5 into a 2018 Golf 7.5R (ecu tune now) and whilst I miss the M5, you cannot beat the daily drivability and performance the R dishes up. Parts are inexpensive, fuel economy is decent and it looks good! Love my little race car🚗

    • @aaa84gt
      @aaa84gt Před rokem

      I've owned a few BMWs too and I always thought VW's was a league below. I now have a Mk5 GTI with 6 speed gearbox and I really get the whole hot hatch thing! You can drive comfortably, but if you're in the mood you basically have a five seater sportscar. Mine has 270 hp and it's just the perfect daily driver. Looking forward to getting a Golf R estate now, I don't want AMG/M/RS now, this is plenty enough and I LOVE that you can park it anywhere over night; a brilliant roadtrip machine!

  • @davidlovett7905
    @davidlovett7905 Před 3 lety +1

    Very well said. I love my R. I bought a MK6, so I could get a manual & 2 doors. It's an Awesome car!!! I plan on keeping it for life.

  • @Sijray21
    @Sijray21 Před 4 lety +32

    Even better with a used '19 model I picked up a few months ago. Still has the standard b2b warranty through Aug of 2025. Crazy.

    • @robertohebshalom6494
      @robertohebshalom6494 Před 4 lety +1

      Jason R I got a used '19 model too ! I love it

    • @agentkay2002
      @agentkay2002 Před 3 lety +4

      I've got the 6yr/72,000 mi warranty PLUS a "lifetime powertrain warranty" through the dealership. A lot of dealers are going to this because the next-gen mk8 is going back to a 3yr/36,000 which is really dumb in my view. 2019 Mk7.5 is where it's at!! Forget the mk8, they ruined it.

    • @robertohebshalom6494
      @robertohebshalom6494 Před 3 lety

      Agent Kay exactly!!! No manual either

  • @TheFunkyair
    @TheFunkyair Před 4 lety +6

    Brilliant
    And love this new kid on the wheel

  • @Sargonarhes
    @Sargonarhes Před 4 lety +3

    I couldn't afford a Golf R. I had to settle with it's little brother the basic Golf, and if the way the Mk7 Golf S handles is any sign, the R must be a hidden monster. Even GTI are a beast.

  • @ibrahiimNjr
    @ibrahiimNjr Před 4 lety +23

    After owning my MK7 R for 3 years, I truly can't think of any car that I can possibly replace it with. It's an amazing car even in stock form, even if it is a little quiet for my taste, but an aftermarket exhaust have made it the most perfect car i've owned. And its gonna get even better when it gets tuned soon.

  • @RevoHQ
    @RevoHQ Před 4 lety +5

    Thank you for the mention. Great review. We still have our 2014 Golf R, although it's now over 520bhp with a 0-60s touch around the 3.0s ;)

    • @CARmagazineTV
      @CARmagazineTV  Před 4 lety +2

      Glad you enjoyed! Sounds like that Golf R needs to be reviewed ;)

  • @rootsmanuva82
    @rootsmanuva82 Před 4 lety +3

    The MK7/7.5 Golf R is the best all-around, refined, understated, every day performance car for the money... after the GTI. I say that because in every day driving the GTI is 85% of a Golf R for considerably less money. It's only when your going foot to the floor, 100% hoon when a R truly distinguishes itself from a GTI (or in the snow... because AWD). But if you can afford a R I see no wrong in going for one over a GTI.

  • @hellboy1976
    @hellboy1976 Před 4 lety +2

    I picked my new 2019 up last April, after a lot of research and repeated viewings of CZcams video reviews.
    Lapiz Blue with the Black Pretoria wheels and carbon fibre mirror caps.
    I absolutely love it. Fast, handles amazingly well, great to drive when you aren't hammering it. Fit and finish is top-notch too.
    My :only: gripe is the piano black, or rather over-abundance of it. Too scratch-prone. Hopefully that gets sorted in the new gen.

    • @johngraydon506
      @johngraydon506 Před 4 lety +1

      Clark W worse the interior lacks glass! I have a mk 7 gti performance model a great car fully loaded but ther screens are crap,no lock on new mk 8 glove compartment carpets are shite too and wear quickly where the lux over covers can’t cover, i love mine keep it totally mint but VW are Penny Pinching paying for diesel gate little things are happening that should not me a near 40k car with crap carpet more like cheap old weave ! Soory i find it annoying nut might go R or TTS

    • @hellboy1976
      @hellboy1976 Před 4 lety +1

      @@johngraydon506 Yes! I couldn't believe how cheap the carpeting is. But I have the 'R' rubber mats for the summer, and Weathertech for winter, so the carpets don't get abused (plus my daily kilometers are low). I emailed them about the cheap carpeting (not that it will help), but it should definitely be better for the cost of the ride.

  • @kubrick2635
    @kubrick2635 Před 4 lety +5

    Great review, love the camera work!
    Traded my 5yr old Merc A250 Sports fwd for a golf r mk7.5 last year. It's a much better value daily hot hatch to drive, love the boring mature sensible look inside and out! Goodbye Mercedes from Australia

  • @5cmpersec
    @5cmpersec Před 4 lety +1

    Absolutely on point. Been driving my 16 golf R in stock form and not a single reliability issue yet. It’s a high performing car that doesn’t ask you sacrifice a single bit of daily usability. To me the R is more of a C class competitor than a hot hatch really. It is not a track day machine and was never intended to be. I do however think VW should look into a more hardcore and trackable version of the R to satisfy the enthusiasts.

  • @SteezMctweez
    @SteezMctweez Před 4 lety +2

    This dude is awesome. Loved this video.

  • @Golfr2020
    @Golfr2020 Před rokem +1

    Great review.
    I think the mk 7.5 is the best out of the lot including the current mk8.
    I added a ecu and tcu tune and it now performs like a monster with 370hp and 500nm on tap. Most of the time i drive it in comfort mode though. 😊

  • @windexxtor2
    @windexxtor2 Před 3 lety +1

    I can agree with being your forever car. I currently own a 2018 R in Ginster Yellow and its sitting at 464whp. Great daily driver all year round. I use studded tires for winter and it is just as fun as summer driving!
    Great car, Great presentation

    • @garethbrown9355
      @garethbrown9355 Před 2 lety

      Wow what Mods apart from a tune and exhaust have you done?

  • @MarcraM82
    @MarcraM82 Před 3 lety

    Very good point re tune-ability. This was the reason I bought it over other options. Flashed an Apr stage one tune on mine and it's perfect 👌 and mine is manual so much more engaging than the dsg for my tastes.

  • @nucksrule1
    @nucksrule1 Před 4 lety +3

    Fun fun fun and practical at the same time! Love my mk 7R~

  • @TurnStyleGames
    @TurnStyleGames Před 3 lety +1

    One of the first MkIV R32s that I sold as a VW salesman many moons ago...was to an extremely well off guy who owned a handful of Ferraris. He wanted a "cheap" runabout but still wanted the car to be nice and have a bit of style. He was particularly fond of the sound of that old 3.2 VR6. Nice rig.

    • @SouthEastCashew
      @SouthEastCashew Před rokem

      Them R32s were mint. I see they going up in price too now even with crazy mileage on em. Someone's definitely got one tucked away with low mileage. Future Sierra cosworth esk.

  • @jstoli996c4s
    @jstoli996c4s Před 4 lety +5

    I love my new Mk7.5 R! Best daily driver out there, and blast to drive. My previous Mk6 GTI was a very fun car to drive, but the R is on a different level. Can’t wait to go stage 1 tune, it will be a rocket
    🏎 💨

    • @AdarisTempest
      @AdarisTempest Před 4 lety +3

      I came from a Mk6 GTI too! While I maintain that for most people, the GTI is all the car anyone ever really needs, the R is the perfect car for those people that love everything about their GTI but want _more_ without losing anything about what makes that car great. The Golf R is on another level.

    • @robmiller3029
      @robmiller3029 Před 4 lety +1

      I've had my car mapped twice and had it removed twice. It's easier and more rewarding to drive quickly in standard form IMO. remap made it feel more like my Mk2 Focus RS.

  • @pentagrammotorsport
    @pentagrammotorsport Před 4 lety +2

    There was a car in the past that ticked all those same boxes, it also sold a good 17k more examples. The Delta HF of the 80’s and early 90’s.
    Drive one. They’re drama free, they just go quickly but they done make a song and dance about it like the Subaru and Mitsubishi cars that followed. They were also cheap, half the price of an Audi quattro and had all the practicality of a hatchback.
    Not only that but back then Lancia had as much desirability as the likes of Audi and Alfa do now.
    The Golf R is certainly on the crest of a wave but it’s not the first hot hatch to touch those peaks.

  • @popsandbangsareoverrated
    @popsandbangsareoverrated Před 4 lety +1

    The fact I'm picking up my Golf R 17 pre facelift this week, to watch this video it's like I've been chosen the right decision coming from a Vauxhall Corsa 1.4T tuned at 185bhp. Golf R seems to hold it's value well compared to VXRs

    • @pineman10
      @pineman10 Před 4 lety

      VX_Rozayy .......and how did it go?

  • @chopsauce2397
    @chopsauce2397 Před 4 lety +3

    I want one. I have an ancient MK5 2.0 TDI GT and the R is perfect for me in every way. I will keep dreaming.

    • @jamesbutler606
      @jamesbutler606 Před 4 lety

      aside from the fuel consumption, i went from a mkV tdi sport to a mk7 gti - halved the fuel! doesn't drive as nicely nor is it as well built as the MkV either. but that could just be me.

  • @kiwihame
    @kiwihame Před 4 lety +1

    Such an awesome car. Great video.

  • @bashlove9641
    @bashlove9641 Před 3 lety +1

    Had 2 GTI's and they still remain the best all round cars I ever owned and really fun to drive. I considered upgrading to an R but I went for a BMW 135i. BMW was a better experience at the time and better priced. I also felt that 4 wheel drive hatches are brutely fast but not that fun compared to rear wheels or even front ones. BUT! The 135i I found was not safe or controlled at higher speeds. Hatches need to be 4 wheel drive once they peak past perhaps 260bhp. I often felt if I pushed the 135i too hard it would come off the road so I never really felt I go the full juice out the car. So if I was in the market again I would go for this or a used Audi RS3.

  • @stephen2649
    @stephen2649 Před 4 lety +4

    Enjoy mine ..DSG gearbox superb!!

  • @anthonypallen7919
    @anthonypallen7919 Před 2 lety

    Great information bud. I agree 100 percent. I love this little banger.

  • @jeetsingh3393
    @jeetsingh3393 Před 4 lety

    Impreza's boxer engine cause gaskit leaks. Though I am gentle on race always. Confused between golf r and impreza. Both are AWD and thats why one of them gonna be my new ride. Please suggest.

  • @svenboden68
    @svenboden68 Před 4 lety +1

    Own one since 2018 all flaws have been fixed under warranty(waterpump,thermostat,washerbottle)and as i am going on in live(51)
    its the Perfect all-rounder on the Market with Fun Factor Speed Handling without looking a Plonker behind the Wheel.Agree 100% with conclusions of this video...

  • @GrrMeister
    @GrrMeister Před 4 lety +1

    *I have got some 'R' Stickers off EBay and put on my Polo, 50 HP more and 0-60 in 5.2 Seconds. Fantastic performance for 6 for £4.95 (P&P Free)*

  • @griltig
    @griltig Před 4 lety +66

    I love them so much I have two!

    • @KaGiLelaka
      @KaGiLelaka Před 4 lety +2

      Insane

    • @ehrlouisd
      @ehrlouisd Před 4 lety +7

      I couldn't agree more. I have a Mk7 and a Mk7.5.

    • @griltig
      @griltig Před 4 lety +4

      @@ehrlouisd me too!

    • @HaveOneWithHans
      @HaveOneWithHans Před 4 lety

      @@ehrlouisd which do you prefer out of the 2?

    • @fast2ghl
      @fast2ghl Před 4 lety +3

      @@HaveOneWithHans I'd guess he's gonna say 7.5 - I have a 19 R and to me the only thing the earlier ones might have up on it are the slightly stronger tune (Europe only - not a thing over here in NA) - Technology wise, the 7.5 is better all around - both dash, infotainment, and DSG, they tweaked a lot of stuff. Looks are subjective so some may prefer the earlier model cars to the later, but I can't see a real reason to want the earlier ones unless you like the overall look.

  • @JellyLancelot
    @JellyLancelot Před 4 lety

    Love my 7.5 2018, had it for a little over 2 years now since new, such a good car! Spec'd as lapiz blue, prets and dsg. Wish I had spec'd DAP, DCC and sun roof - that would have been my perfect spec. But love it none the less! Also, I have no idea how you'd get it for £200/mo...

    • @Hazboun
      @Hazboun Před 3 lety

      we don''t get a sunroof option in north america :'(

  • @augustortiz
    @augustortiz Před 4 lety +2

    I raced one of these with a tune and downpipe in my E90 m3 from 20-160mph and we were literally door to door the entire way. I know the M3 isn’t the fastest car but it’s seriously impressive performance by the VW.

    • @MattCSLnut
      @MattCSLnut Před 4 lety

      Love both cars (E92 M3 DCT & MK7.5 R DSG) Currently have a 2018 MK7.5 DSG 7 speed, 3 door which I've had from New but I do fancy the N/A V8 and all the drama that comes with it.

  • @kael13
    @kael13 Před 4 lety +1

    I miss mine 😢 I should actually buy one next time. I know they’re literally everywhere now but I don’t care. Just too much fun.

  • @muslimtommyshelby2624
    @muslimtommyshelby2624 Před 4 lety +1

    Yo dude you speak with such eloquence , you gonna do well in this crowded motor journalist world *(IMO your wayy better than Hammond ,Clarkson and may combined)*

  • @xer0334
    @xer0334 Před 4 lety +1

    You should really take a look at a BMW M140i - Rear wheel drive, 335 BHP, 3L Inline 6 Cylinder engine. Drives like a dream

    • @genocidus
      @genocidus Před 3 lety +1

      If you're a good driver and the weather is good. I have almost killed myself in a 135i, Inexperienced or heavy footed drivers (like me) should avoid powerful rwd sports cars

  • @gerardhealy2110
    @gerardhealy2110 Před 3 lety +1

    great review...

  • @christopherlogsdon1628

    Nice video very engaging

  • @GamingCornerYT
    @GamingCornerYT Před 3 lety +1

    Anyone else have an Audi s3? Like the golf R I just opted for an Audi s3 in Java Green, the Audi just seemed a little better finished on the interior (like the napa leather and pop up display etc ...personal preference) but both seem great 👌🏻

    • @genocidus
      @genocidus Před 3 lety

      I have owned an s3 and an rs3 and they are amazing cars just damn expensive, to get the same spec as a golf r in an s3 will cost you 10k more if youre lucky enough to find the same spec. Extras that come for free in a golf r (adaptive cruise, folding mirrors and digital dash) are all expensive options in an s3. Mechanically they are the same car so it all boils down to how much more you want to pay for the brand/prestige. I would love to have for an s3 again but couldnt justify paying 10k more when a Golf R literally has the same engine, chassis, gearbox and performance

  • @scotttheboy
    @scotttheboy Před 4 lety +7

    I’d like to know where you can get a Golf R at the rates he’s talking about! 🤪🤪

  • @man-of-the-world
    @man-of-the-world Před 4 lety +1

    All very well having a simple remap, but your risking the gearbox failing if too much power is laid on it, particularly the DSG model.

    • @bodiroga96
      @bodiroga96 Před 4 lety

      Just a simple stage 1 won’t do nothing to the gearbox. Especially 7.5 with even better dsg gearboxes

  • @Vincepace
    @Vincepace Před 4 lety +1

    Could you please list some of the places where it is (was) possible to acquire a Golf R in HP, PCP?

    • @robmiller3029
      @robmiller3029 Před 4 lety +1

      VW Financial Services was who I got mine from.

  • @andrewharris9818
    @andrewharris9818 Před 3 lety +1

    Great presentation. Cross between Chris Harris and Tiff.

  • @Doggepp
    @Doggepp Před 3 lety +1

    I regret selling my MK7 R - Ordered it new when the prices were reduced here in Sweden. Almost every option except for leather seats and sunroof, about €10,000 off what it used to cost. So I payed basically the same as I did for my previous MK7 GTI. Not sure why I got rid of it after a year, wanted something more mature. But I have regret it ever since. Might be time for an MK8 GTI

  • @vsboy2577
    @vsboy2577 Před 4 lety +23

    In a world with endless speed cameras and governments hellbent on revenue from them I do need see the point of fast cars anymore. I think super plush cars are more important these days.

    • @pummyy
      @pummyy Před 4 lety +4

      Very well put. Buy a corolla for everyday drive and with the extra money a go kart. Take it to track and Can have real fun to the limits. !!!

    • @UnknownUser-bt4gk
      @UnknownUser-bt4gk Před 3 lety

      Completely agree. Also the roads are getting too busy for this sort of car, just constantly catching up the next thing in front.

    • @owenkett6708
      @owenkett6708 Před 3 lety +1

      Tom Rampton you are spot on. I have a golf R.......and you can only go as fast as the car in front of you. So every day commuting to work can be a bit of an annoyance being stuck in suburban traffic. But the payoff is the zip of it is very nice when you can use it.

    • @agentkay2002
      @agentkay2002 Před 3 lety +2

      You've obviously never done 145 mph in a chipped GTI on the Fort Bend Parkway outside of Houston, Texas at 3 am...

    • @UnknownUser-bt4gk
      @UnknownUser-bt4gk Před 3 lety

      @@agentkay2002 No, I would love to, but live in the UK. The roads are very different here.

  • @jackdunne9492
    @jackdunne9492 Před 4 lety

    Can anyone advise as to where to look for a Golf R at a reasonable price?

  • @djfurione
    @djfurione Před 4 lety +1

    I drive GTI mark 7 DSG 303 hp, 450 Nm. Hopefully will switch to mark 8 R. Wish it could look as good as GTI. I know, it's still Golf, but I like the look of GTI much, much more than R.

  • @BoomBamSmash
    @BoomBamSmash Před 3 lety +1

    Awesome review

  • @johngraydon506
    @johngraydon506 Před 4 lety

    Well lets hope the water pump and platic cover/ surround are more reliable than the ones on the Gti PM the plastic fins have a habit of braking in the last few models from series 5 on and still vw persist ?. If your upgrading an R or GTI my advice is you better go to a tuner VW specialists or racers, get a metal fin mod !

  • @kwakka636
    @kwakka636 Před 4 lety

    If you close your eyes it could be Alan Partridge doing the review when he speaks to camera

  • @suli87suli
    @suli87suli Před 3 lety

    The US is just catching up!!! In the 90's They started the G60 on a golf 2 and Corrado

  • @Pete7.5R
    @Pete7.5R Před 3 lety +1

    After seeing your recent review of the Golf 8R et al, thought I would look back at the 7.5R review. . .still not convinced with Mk8 package overall, which you would go for if it was a choice between the the new gen or the Golf 7.5R?

    • @CARmagazineTV
      @CARmagazineTV  Před 3 lety

      Thanks for watching our reviews 👍 7.5R has a far nicer cabin, feels more special and more expensive. And the infotainment is easier to use. Otherwise, the 8 is a touch more enjoyable to drive, largely thanks to the torque vectoring capabilities.

    • @Pete7.5R
      @Pete7.5R Před 3 lety +1

      @@CARmagazineTV Thanks for doing great reviews 👍 . . . that pretty much sums up my thoughts exactly, will be keeping my Golf 7.5R (manual 3 door) for a while longer - maybe vw will get their act together with the cabin and infotainment in the 8.5R, but I somehow doubt it! 😎

  • @Ssh52
    @Ssh52 Před 4 lety +18

    Only bad thing about these is that everyone and their dog has one

    • @rootsmanuva82
      @rootsmanuva82 Před 4 lety +4

      Here in the States Golf R's aren't something you see every day. I live in the Boston/NYC corridor so it's not like I'm in Oklahoma. Are they that popular in Europe?

    • @ChandlerBecker
      @ChandlerBecker Před 4 lety +3

      Yeah I rarely see any in the states ever.

    • @oliverranderson9292
      @oliverranderson9292 Před 4 lety +3

      It's wierd how the GTI has now become the rarer car that you don't see many of

    • @robmiller3029
      @robmiller3029 Před 4 lety

      @@rootsmanuva82 I saw two Lapiz Blue like mine but 5 doors today on a 15 minute drive today in central Scotland.

    • @rossgiltinan1451
      @rossgiltinan1451 Před 3 lety

      I live in Portland, Oregon and have seen only two other R7.5's in the 3 months that I have had mine. Definitely don't see them much at all around here!

  • @ethanpowell8418
    @ethanpowell8418 Před 4 lety

    VW Golf R Is a Very Nice Car and I Hope to Get One When I Past My Test

  • @dorkultra
    @dorkultra Před 4 lety

    DSG stock tune and pedal response is a big issue with this car. needs a tune + pedal controller module

  • @aydencaldwell2472
    @aydencaldwell2472 Před 3 lety

    Hoping to trade in my Stage 2 Fiesta ST in February for a R, these comments have defiantly made up my mind.
    Any real bad points on the car other than expensive to run etc...?

  • @BLWard-ht3qw
    @BLWard-ht3qw Před 4 lety

    Seems it has been my dream car for awhile, as it's the one I always tend to come back to over the years. I just wish it had a sunroof option.

    • @robmiller3029
      @robmiller3029 Před 4 lety

      I think the late 7.5's had a sunroof option. Wasn't available when I ordered mine in Nov 2014.

  • @StumpyVandal
    @StumpyVandal Před 3 lety +4

    I miss my R 32. 😭 same color too.

    • @vwgolf499
      @vwgolf499 Před 3 lety

      Yeah, good old Mk 4 as a 3-door manual....a future classic...🤘

  • @acciid
    @acciid Před 4 lety

    I bought mine in early 2014 and I still love it. It's a manual which I'm still glad I went for and I also went for the DCC which is essential in my opinion. I see no reason to buy anything else other than is maybe a little small for my growing family.

    • @cmunozthor22
      @cmunozthor22 Před 3 lety

      what’s DCC?

    • @acciid
      @acciid Před 3 lety

      @@cmunozthor22 Dynamic Chassis Control. You can choose comfort mode, which makes it drive like a normal golf with soft suspension, normal which is like it would be without the DCC, or race, which is really firm and uncomfortable.

    • @cmunozthor22
      @cmunozthor22 Před 3 lety

      @@acciid oh ok, thanks for the reply

    • @acciid
      @acciid Před 3 lety

      @@cmunozthor22 You're welcome :-)

  • @bencohen6407
    @bencohen6407 Před 4 lety +2

    Do a stage 3 on a golf r. Expect 1/4 mile in high tens.

  • @Biotorn
    @Biotorn Před 3 lety +1

    Thank god i managed to find a 306hp 400nm golf r 2018 mk7.5! It's a beast and I really can't find anything similar or worth changing for.

    • @timmynaidoo2
      @timmynaidoo2 Před 3 lety

      A45 AMG MY FRIEND

    • @Biotorn
      @Biotorn Před 3 lety

      @@timmynaidoo2 yes those cost around 100 000€. A45 is a small car. I have the variant golf r. Old a45 same year costs around 70 000€ when this costs around 47 000€.

  • @nomoreliberties
    @nomoreliberties Před 2 lety

    how are u getting 40 miles to the gallon the freeway, i believe it states 29 or 30?

  • @rickydub6950
    @rickydub6950 Před 4 lety +2

    I wouldn't sleep well leaving one on the driveway overnight..... millennium burglars dream, same as the rs3 etc... amazing cars though

    • @rickydub6950
      @rickydub6950 Před 4 lety

      @@PhilbyFavourites 😁 mk2 8v & 16v, mk3 vr6 and a 1.8t & pd 130 mk4 on my drive! Pretty low risk 🤣

  • @mbargaserge7160
    @mbargaserge7160 Před 4 lety +4

    My dream car...

  • @brandonzimmerman1667
    @brandonzimmerman1667 Před 4 lety

    I've had the Mk3, Mk4, Mk6, & 2 Mk7 GTIs. My first Golf R will be the Mk8. Sadly I have to wait until the GTI is paid off first.

  • @druckerman247
    @druckerman247 Před 4 lety

    I'm still rolling my mk5 turbo wagon. Stage 1. Mercy me...240hp 380Nm. Sleeper 😁

  • @MereMortalsBookReviews
    @MereMortalsBookReviews Před 4 lety +1

    Even better with the new final edition!

  • @alasdairmacdonald4685
    @alasdairmacdonald4685 Před 4 lety

    This is a great Top Gear-esque tribute to a great car - mine is two weeks old - but JESUS that guy is sitting close to the wheel! How short are his legs? If the airbag goes off his face will turn inside out.

  • @philgooddr.7850
    @philgooddr.7850 Před 4 lety

    We bought a fully loaded used R. The R handles better than the plain S3 we had but more artificially, the logic is more Porsches Macan than Audi A4 or S5 Quattro style, efficient but intrusive. Within the speed limits envelope, it drives nicely and is very quite, an IQ3 must be more noisy! My wife likes the R a lot for day to day use. The Guilia Veloce Q4 280 HP my son bought cheap is more "naturally " stable, (front and rear wheels of different sizes and better Giorgio geometry) more fun, more comfort (smooth, almost Ghibli like but much lighter) and is also significantly more fuel efficient. Modern cars like those two no longer have to be stiff anvils (M3, Z4 etc) to handles proprely, thanks to latest modern dynamic softwares combining tires, suspension and chassis stiffnesses and amortization optimized in all linear and torsional directions . The right tire for the job is a must. Our Golf R was way too loaded with heavy options to be tuned up efficiently. I recommend to tune up light naked two doors stick shift with light manual seats, no garbage etc. combining more hp with less kg...so the cheaper car price pays for the extras...Here, the car warranty is preserved with the expensive ABT tuning but it's the importer's initiative. To me, the R could still be improved with the Eight's generation with a factory 400hp model offered! Area to improve include: Better fuel economy, true GPS accurate ground speed display to prevent overspeeding, ACC, automatic cruise control too sensitive to interferences and rain, but that must be normal with more and more cars with radars. Yet, all the VW electronic assist garbage is good and intelligently made save, even the " you are tired, have a coffee" warning is clever and spot on....also to improve, less diving and nose up vs longitudinal g.force, better lights with faster reacting.