VW GTI Review--THIS OR GOLF R??

The Volkswagen Golf GTI is an icon ever since it was introduced in 1977. The original hot-hatch is now on the seventh generation and VW has added some nice upgrades for 2018. The base car is now only sold as a three-door, no longer available with the three-door hatch. The Engine receives a bump to 220hp and the previous performance package that included the Golf R brakes and sport differential is now standard. The GTI comes with an available sunroof, where the Golf R does not and the retro plaid seats. The base GTI starts at just over $30,000 and the top Autobahn is just under $36,000, roughly $2000 cheaper than last year. The VW GTI Autobahn adds 18-inch wheels, sunroof, LED adaptive headlamps and the Fender stereo. Both the base and Autobahn VW Golf GTI come with an 8-inch head unit with android auto and apple car play.

[seinsmeld]

I recently sold my 07 GTI which had near 285, 000 km on the odometer. I sold it to a friend that was in need of a ride. Even with near 300, 000 km it drove beautifully. I miss her.

[wiebegraham]

This guy is awesome. I appreciate your professionalism and how you keep your videos on topic and to the point. I've watched quite a few other GTI reviews and I got less from them, in 3-4 times the time.

[markthibault]

Thanks for a great review, Zach. This helped me decide on a the base DSG-equipped GTI in pure white. No regrets now that I have over 5k on it.

[mariog]

Hey Zach, I’ve been watching your show for over 2 decades now... this particular car review made me decide to get into a GTI Autobahn with exact colour. Thank you for all your great work... you are indeed the best “auto-influencer.” Saludos Senior!! 👍

[drm]

I enjoyed this great review, I love my White Silver GTI SE. I prefer the leather seats (although the cloth are exceptionally nice for cloth), but also prefer the analog gauges. So glad I do not have to look at digital which is harder on the eyes, and offers only the advantage of choosing which to display. I really only want to see what the analog has already chosen. I do love the speed display in digital in the center of the GTI analog which is so clear. The extra 72 HP is actually 30 to 45 less (I have read from 10 to 15 HP for every 100 pounds) and I am in AZ US, so no benefit from AWD. Again, great review.

[geovannivarela]

Yea brother I agree. I love my GTI. Mind you yes I have the Autobahn model so I sound biased, but I’ve driven my buddies Golf R many times and I just love my GTI more. Great review man.

[williamk]

I used to have a MK6 GTI and loved it.  I'll always admire and respect the GTI but my MK7 Golf R is just incredible for all the rain we get here in Vancouver.  It's able to rocket away when the light turns green, or out of corners - leaving most cars far behind in the rearview mirror, regardless of weather.

[breakandrun]

Hi Zach, Great video. I was lucky enough to have both cars. There is no comparison between the Golf R and the GTI. My R was a 2012, I drove it stock for a little while, then stage 2 was completed on it.To be honest, it was the absolute fastest car that I've ever owned. It was a rocket ship on rails. I drove it for a year that way and ended up selling it, before I donated it to the province. It was the most fun to drive period, I liked it better than a super car, and I couldn't even begin to compare it to a GTI. Have a great day & keep up with the videos.
Barry Merlin Nova Scotia Canada

[gregorytrane]

The GTI is my pick as well. I already have a 4x4 so winter is never an issue. I drove this car with the autobahn trim and I have to say it's driving dynamics matched or exceeded my BMW e-46 when I bought that one new. One of the best driving machines out there. Good review.

[kennybrooks]

This is the best GTI review I've seen, and I've seen many. Great video!

[dhdoctors]

No sun roof is a deal breaker. GTI Autobahn + stick delivered in two weeks, can't wait.

[tantheman]

Super underrated channel. Another excellent review.

[RadekPogoda]

Thanks for your review as you are taking care of much more important factors (fun, using your brains, good winter rubber) than just numbers (bhp, torque, acceleration) - which is a truly unique approach among auto journalists.
I was in doubt between the Golf R and the GTI for a while, and now my choice got even harder, as we just received in Europe the new VW Polo GTI with the new 2.0TSI engine. It's making "only" 200 bhp, but has the same clever diff and other go-faster-toys as the Golf GTI. As I need to wait 4 more months for my current lease to end anyway - I think I will make my choice between both GTI's - the Golf and the new Polo.
Thanks God the even smaller VW Up! GTI is out of question, as it is too small for longer trips. It would be even harder with the Up! in the contest as it shares the same philosophy as the Golf and Polo GTI's do.

[randyzachary]

Always enjoy your sensible, grounded reviews!

[SimpleLivingWithDave]

I have to say that it was THIS review that lead me to buy the MK7.5 GTI.. and I absolutely love it. I could've gotten the Golf R.. but after sitting inside the GTI and driving it.. I just felt it was much more special. Thanks Zach!

[markg]

I agree. I test drove one on both narrow winding bumpy roads and on a freeway a few days ago and it was quick, comfortable, and a lot of fun. I'm seriously thinking about ordering one. The only thing is that VW has announced that the 2020 Golf model will be completely revolutionary - so I'm. not sure if I won't regret buying a 2019 GTI.

[bill]

Given the choice I would definitely get the autobahn with plaid seats. Quintessential GTI.

[Peppermint]

Canadian or Wisconsin winters, the AWD is needed only when driving uphill when the snow has not been cleared by the city trucks. Anything else, just FWD with quality winter tires will be just fine. Speaking of winter vs all season tires, a FWD car with good winter tires will leave behind any AWD car with all seasons.

[benfowler]

Totally agree, in the last quarter I test drove an r and a gti. I felt the r much heavier and really pushed the rpm from what felt like the rear, but the gti felt much more nimble pulling you with the rpm. After considering 5k difference from autobahn to r, and an additional 5k in borrowing costs, it was a no brainer to take home the gti with sunroof and nicer styling. Both great cars, but gti with more value for the $.

[MrLatinBeard]

Well, i live in the carribean where summer hits all year... Here the GTI is waaay better for tracks and everyday car ! I love it