Golf R Review (AWD Performance Pt.1) - Everyday Driver 

Golf R may not be as fast but it doesn't look like a boy racer 16 year old's car, and it's much more livable as a daily driver.

I've owned a WRX and a Mk5 GTI. They were both very quick but in the WRX the cops would pull me over and look over the car, looking for illegal mods or something (it was stock). The GTI is totally stealth which means you can hoon more. The WRX had a fairly small power band and was brutal when the turbo kicked in. It also understeered as AWD cars often do but slow in fast out cornering fixes that. The GTI just pulled like a train all through the power band and didn't stop untill around 230km/h. The faster you went in the GTI the better it felt but it was still comfortable to drive. The grip in corners was awesome and the seats held me in place really well. As a daily driver the Golf was very refined, the WRX was noisy and cheap feeling in comparison. Plus the Golf GTI is still a Golf so you can fit 3 adults in the back or carry heaps of stuff with the seats down. I didn't have any mechanical problems with the GTI, it had a full service record. The DSG is fully sorted now and mine never gave me any problems. I learned my lesson with the WRX. The WRX had been mistreated by an earlier owner and eventually the bottom end let go. I bought it even though it had no service record with it. Bad move. After I sold the GTI I regretted it and I am looking for a Mk6 or 7 or maybe even an R now.

These guys need to review the 2015 R when it arrives in the US, a massive improvement in the mk7. Most powerful R ever.

Top reviews! Just wish we'd get more videos but I understand it takes time for the quality you guys produce. Hats off to you guys for your consistent, uncompromising quality. Keep them coming!

As always awesome video. Just make more. I love how genuine these reviews feel and not some car magazine.

Great question - The problem with introducing tuned cars to our comparisons is that it's a slippery slope of debate. Our conclusions would be tainted by how each car was tuned, was it tuned the right way, etc. And there would always be those who'd say "If you'd had one tuned this way". Testing cars in stock form is about the only "baseline" or even playing field available. We like and encourage tuning, but it's a personal thing with endless variables. A big THANKS for watching and commenting!

Definitely the best reviewers of ALLLL the online car shows, even Top Gear USA, You guys are so good to listen to between both it is never boring and both of you guys have such different views that relate so well this show is awesome! Please make more more often!

Great review guys, as always. Excellent camera work. Can't wait to see the next two, particularly the evolution MR. I'm hoping to get one soon and can't wait to hear what you have to say about it.

Awesome Review Guys! love your videos! Keep them coming, thumbs up all the way!

Awesome review of the golf r guys can't wait for part 2

Thanks! We're glad you're watching and definitely appreciate you adding your thoughts. More than anything, we want people to watch our reviews and have opinions on what we're doing... even when means disagreeing with us! We've got lots more on the way, and we're pleased to have you looking for them.

Best review yet! I picked my Golf R because of interior and outside not being so gaudy... and not to mention expandable power gain! I have APR, ( that alone added MPG and massive power) Forge Twintake & Forge Bypass, Remap of Traction function to be turned off when I want.. and have Down pipe with Forge Twin cooler to be installed... It's power when I want it, and a easy driver when I want it, best of both worlds. I love the car the more I drive it. I have beat any car, so far, that tries to take me..lol.. even with my bike in the rack on top..lol.. love the suprise faces on V8 owners as I pass them, priceless! On winding roads it's amazing.. handles so well... though I do think my old Rx8 was more balanced and lower, it never had the power to pull out of curves like the R. Love the review... would love to see a stage 3 APR review by these guys, they did a good job!

i like these reviews, they're honest no matter what

Great review guys!

I did watch all three parts and did notice that you presented pros and cons for each car appropriately. I appreciate your responses to my comments. I like having a little car debate every once in a while. Although we may disagree, I continue to thoroughly enjoy your videos and look forward to those in the future.

We consider that to be a very humbling compliment, thank you! We're also working on ways to do more content, so stay tuned for that info. Great question about the Ralliart, - Since the Golf R claims to compete with the STI and EVO, but the stats put it closer to WRX and Ralliart we chose to bring a representative from each camp in order to see where the Golf actually belongs.

great video as always, definitely like the interior as well. it's classy

liking the changing two person review/perspective

You guys are great. Seriously one of my most favorite american reviewers team. So much better than those TLF car noobs. Good job guys! I hope your budget goes up so we can see more reviews!

I've watched and listened to this video many times. As it turns out, I've owned my 2013 since new, and early on I gave it the APR 1+ tune which seemed to benefit throttle-modulating car placement. My sample came with the ill-regarded Dunlop OEM tire. I had to replace a damaged tire and so replaced all four with the Michelin Pilot Sport A/S_3+. This tire works so much better with the stock suspension than the Dunlops that the car drives like I imagine it should have; cornering speed and grip are both noticeably up. The tires in conjunction with the engine tune make the car a better back-road hustler than before. Bigger grins too.

Awesome review! Can't wait for the second part. Sharing with friends now :P

We know that everyone won't enjoy what we do, but we hope you'll watch more of our reviews to get a broader sense of our style and knowledge base. The guys have been doing this for a while, driven a lot of cars, and have a lot of fans. However, they don't claim to be perfect, and we welcome your thoughts on how you would do things better. Thanks for watching and commenting!

excellent review

The WRX starts at 26k, but the one we have for this comparison is actually $31k. We hope you'll watch our WRX piece as well. We listed the base prices of each model at the opener, but none of these cars are priced at the base (Press vehicles never are!). Many thanks for your thoughts, we welcome them, and we hope you'll keep watching!

yay! you're back! We need to find you guys some viewers...

We hope you noticed and heard the introduction to the video. VW targets the Golf R vs. the STI and EVO. The stats of the R put it closer to the Ralliart and WRX. So, we brought a car from each (VW's claimed competition, and the ones we think it goes with) to figure out where the Golf should be. No bias intended, and we hope you'll watch more of our work.

Fair question, and as explained at the beginning - VW targets the EVO and STI, but the stats on the Golf R happen to be much closer to the standard WRX. So, bringing a standard WRX and a EVO X allows us to see where the Golf best competes.

Can't wait for part 2

We're pleased you've driven the car and we're very glad you liked it. As Todd said in the review, the Golf R is an even better version of the GTI. That aligns with the reviews you're discussing. But, this review isn't about if the Golf R is better than the GTI, (which it is) but is it better than the competition VW set for it. We aren't the only ones to think it falls short in that regard. Thanks for adding to the discussion here, and we hope you'll watch more of what we do.

We hope you noticed that the guys talked about a lot more than just the engine output in these reviews. And we hope you did watch all three parts to see that the other two get called out for shortcomings as well. Either way, we appreciate you watching and adding thoughts to the discussion!

We didn't invent this comparison. VWs press materials listed intended competitors to the Golf R... and they stated the Mitsubishi Evo and the Subaru STI as its direct competition. We found that odd, considering what the R is capable of... (and that it seems more similar to the WRX) so we put it in this line up to discuss where it really belongs. Since Volkswagen themselves made the claim, we find worth discussing from that perspective.

In terms of sheer specs, you are correct. But as we stated in the opener - VW claims the R goes against the STI and EVO. Based on stats we think it should be the WRX and Ralliart - so we brought a representative from each camp to put the Golf R in context.

Can't wait for the next one!! =D

a stage 1(ecu tune only) or 2(intake_downpipe) tune definitely opens up this car sooo much. with the dsg it can do 4-4.2 seconds with a decent stage 2 tune with dsg. manual around 4.4-4.6 seconds.

Agreed the R doesn't compare to the wrx or the evo totally different league great review guys I am subscribed you guys are both great.

Saying the Evo is full time AWD is incorrect: The ACD only engage at certain time during cornering where it can send up to 50% torque to the rear wheel. The Subaru is the only car here with a 'full time' AWD system which can send more torque to the back wheels.

The evo is full time AWD with a 50/50 split. The different settings Tarmac/Gravel/Snow determines how the ACD will react when it detects traction issues. Tarmac sends either 60 or 70 to rear, snow sends either 60/70 to front, and Gravel leaves it unchanged at 50/50. And AYC can send power to individual rear wheels based on various scenarios such as throttle, speed, steering angle, etc...

Love the show! But shouldn't you have have don a Lancer Raliart? Arent they AWD turbo like the wrx but downtuned just like the other 2?

Great review. As has been said in an earlier post, driving a GTI back to back with an R is definitive. I am an experienced driver and prefer the more mature approach VW has executed with the R over the Mitso and Scubie competitors.

You guys make a great point and I agree. For daily driving, comfort and usability the Golf R is so much better than either the WRX and Evo. If you're buying an R and want the fun factor of the other cars APR's Stage 2 ECU flash - which only requires air intake and exhaust (high-pressure fuel pump recommended) - will boost the Golf R to 379HP and 404TQ. Couple that with the Full ESP defeat also done by APR and you've got a Golf R that will easily compete with the others. I know I'll be doing it.

Great review guys, just one small correction..in the video you mentioned that the adaptive headlights were one of the differentiating looks of the R over its VW sibling. That is not true, as you could also buy a GTI with those headlights

will you be doing a review of the MK7 GTi? because from what i have heard it is a completely different league to the MK6

Starting from 1998, the Swedish Haldex Traction LSC unit replaced the viscous coupling. Haldex is used by Audi on the quattro versions of the Audi A3 and Audi S3, and the Audi TT. It is also used by Volkswagen in the 4motion versions of the Mk4 and Mk5 generations of Volkswagen Golf, Volkswagen Jetta, and the Golf R32, Volkswagen Sharan, 6th generation VW Passat and Transporter T5. On the Audis the trademark holds, and are still referred to as quattro, whereas the Volkswagens are called 4motion

I'm just curious if you guys will ever consider testing the golf r after an aftermarket tune such as from HPA or APR? The stage 1 alone from both companies is a mere ECU flash and resulting HP and torque would put it very near the STI and EVO. I know it's taboo to review aftermarket tunes but I think it would be an interesting comparison. Both APR and HPA have been in business a long time and have a solid reputation within the industry and among many VW car owners.

Excellent Review, with a turbo you only have a limited band you can boost. The standard GTI weighs less and has a smaller turbo as a result almost 0 turbo lag. But by 5k rpm it is done it just blows off boost till the redline. The R has the same power band it just starts later with a larger turbo and it weighs 250 pounds more. Wait, than it spools up and boosts from 3k to the redline. I believe you will find the same for the EVO and the WRX. 2.0 power or drivability your choice. I like the GTI.

I was pretty sure Paul would be loving the Golf R and Todd would be coming down hard on it for not having more performance. Interesting though, can't wait to see part 2.

When would you guys be reviewing the Sti and Evo?

Paul, you said you want this car to cost less or do more. Over here in Europe you can get a 4-door Golf R with DSG and 60K miles for 20K Euro. The Evo sells at the same price if not even higher. I wonder how you would judge the Golf R with those options (that you can't get in the US unfortunatelly), expecially considering the greater practicality of a hatchback and the possibility to easy ecu tune the R to the stock hp level of the Evo.

great reviews, ill take the mitsu

It's not only about the money for most buyers, you know. The Golf R 2.0 is a higher quality and more versatile understated and yet very powerful and rapid everyday car, and for me and many other that's the main factor for buying.

I was very surprised to learn the VW 4motion system in the GolfR is a 97.5%/2.5% front to rear torque split with Haldex center diff. I was expecting a bit more.

Who are you quoting here? We hope that you've driven the R for yourself. You're welcome to disagree with the guys conclusions, but they didn't say anything that refutes the quote you've listed. It's a FWD-biased system capable of sending power to the rear. They enjoyed driving it. They enjoyed the other two more. Thanks for watching and we welcome your comments.

It's a bit disheartening to see so many people not understand the car selection. They explain it so well in the intro!

My daily driver is a 2010 GTI, completely stock at the moment and yet I have never thought the engine is gutless. Daily driving there is enough power before boost to do what you need and when driving enthusiastically and keeping the engine on boost there is more than enough power to have fun, and if you want more for about 300 dollars you can get an ecu tune. Of couse this is with the GTI but i cant see it being worse in the R.

I wanted to love this car,BUT, I have an '04 R32 and my wife has an '08 4 door DSG GTi. So it's just not 'Special' enough. The '04 R32 has that unbeatable VR6 grunt and sound track to boot. Plus it was unmistakable to the standard GTi at the time. With the new R you have to look close to see the difference, I'll keep my R32 for a while longer until something truly special comes along...still waiting VW..but loving every minute of it :)

I was considering the 5 door R for once our baby is born (due in April) as a fun daily driver with more practicality than a Mustang. The other car I was considering was the Focus ST. I thought the R would have a huge leg up with the AWD but apparently it doesn't act like an AWD car. I may just stick to my Ford roots with the ST.

when is part 2 and 3 being uploaded

The reason is because Volkswagen claims the Golf R competes directly with the EVO. Both the guys discovered it does not--VW doesn't claim the GTI compares to any car so fantastic, so it receives higher scores for its combination of sprightly performance and bargain price. Paul mentioned the Golf R needs to 'do more' (to match or exceed the Evo's extremely high performance benchmark) or cost less. It does not, so he gave it a lower rating, despite the great interior and fun-to-drive qualities.

Great review. I'll stick with the STI HB even though you said it was ugly. LOL

When comes the Evo X SST review ?

VW R 2.0 is aimed at an older more mature demography, which is why it is understated and a wolf in sheeps clothing, unlike some competitors that shout racing. In 5-door format, this is easily a family car which can surprise others at the traffic lights and good for safe overtaking. So in that respect, a much better everyday car than the competitors. About the R32 - that is a naturally aspirated motor, whereas the R 2.0 is a turbocharged more, meaning the R 2.0 is more tunable.

I'd like to see a APR Stage 1+ Golf R go up against the same competition! :)

To each is own. I love my Golf R. I admit that VW held it back on the power when it was sold in the U.S. It just costed me about $200 for an APR software tune and it's 100 times better. I guess maybe it's all in what you're looking for. The Evo and the Subaru are definitely cars that scream at everyone on the road that they're fast both in looks and sound. Although, the Evo and the Subaru definitely have a cheap plasticky feel and look to them at the same time.

You guys should compare the m4 vw golf r32 vs the new R

First of all, the Golf R, WRX/STI, and Lancer Evolution are enthusiasts' cars. Enthusiasts buy cars for what they are capable of, not for what they are. The Golf R offers AWD and a very boost-friendly 1984cc inline 4 cylinder. A GTX2867R would provide enough airflow to reach into the 500hp range. Not to mention that a new haldex controller, or homebrew controller of your own design, could allow you anywhere from 100%/0% to 0%/100% power distribution front to rear.

freaking love that road. even if vdub was targeting the STI and Evo, the R is more suitable competing against the new Focus ST and Mazda MS3...annd the reg WRX.

If you've seen the review from Motor Trend Drive, they talk about how the non-defeatable stability control ruins this car in aggressive driving. It's almost like the AWD never gets the chance to do its job. To that end, this is the "performance car for grownups" as my 61 year old dad just got one! And about the turbo lag, it's a bigger turbo than the GTI. The GTI's small turbo spools quickly for driveability, the R sacrifices that for top end boost.

It's not the same without the VR but sometimes you kind of grow up out of the 'I wanna go fast' and there is always room for improvement with future upgrades for the .:R but if you want that sound and the reliability of the VR get the Mk4 version!

They don't pay just for horsepower. They pay for having a quality piece of machinery with a comfortable and well-made interior. Also, the little bits like turning xenon lights for example, and the attention to detail found in VWs

Only 25 more days until part 2 comes out

I have a 2011 golf R and it has 271hp standard. 0-100kph 5.5sec with dsg.

Yes!

The great thing with these cars, STI, EVO etc. is that with a simple stage 1 or 2, the car is transformed into a completely different animal. For someone who doesn't like the go fast stuff, they can simply leave it stock. But this car with 50 plus HP increase and throttle response and less turbo lag equals win, and worth every penny in my opinion, especially when you compare the insides of the Evo and STI. Besides, does anyone over 21 even drive an Evo?

So you want a car with electronics that go bad, seats that fall apart, and an engine that blows up. Good combo.

I agree with you Paul.....

Well I mean buy one of these like I did in 2018 for much cheaper than factory plus a tune making close to 400hp coilovers now it's a good car plus DSG just for speed

I own a WRX and a Golf R and hands down the golf is a better car inside and out . In my opinion.

stage 3 wrx vs stage 1 r lol had me by half a car. i think im doing fine.

I do agree, the exterior should look very aggressive an make it stand out from the ground. After all it is a R.

That's a quote from the R review at driverside com. Check the review at the NY times too, if you care. And please. The grumpy guy says "I kept wondering when is the AWD stability feeling going to kick in and it never did."... blah blah "Audi" blah blah. I test drove the GTI and the R the same day and even within the limits of test drive etiquette the difference was night and day. I've driven the R a lot more since then.

The problem with that is, you're still going to encounter the AWD system neutering the experience. More power won't solve that, only a completely different AWD setup would.

The best mod to make if you buy this car is to disconnect the "Soundaktor" which is a speaker behind the dash which makes "fake" engine sound for the driver and passengers to listen to in the car so you think you are listening to a beefy engine. The car is then as quiet as a regular Golf and more pleasant to drive on long trips. Who really wants fake engine sound being played to you anyway.

is it worth trading my mk5 gti for this R?

Dude, what makes this show interesting is the conflict between the two hosts.

That is funny... The GTI has mini versions of the "peeler" wheels my S4 has. Its like a baby.

@steu2011 i own one. yes it is...unless youre referring to the fact that its a vr6?

With that in mind - For similar money you can get into a entry level 3 series which is faster, bigger, more fuel efficient, more stylish and probably better made.

I'm sorry, I know this is an old video from last year's review/test, but I couldn't help to say that although being European I also don't like that much, the Golf... at the end of the day I would always go to bed thinking that I have a diesel car...and for that range, price/power I would opt surely for a more "exotic", one like the japanese options. What you (Americans) would really like to have is the Seat Leon Cupra! that would put a smile on your faces and is much cheaper (here) and nicer.

You driven a Golf R? Boost really starts coming in strong at 2500rpm, Its kinda gutless below that. Not that it matters much, you allow those minor things when it comes to 4 cylinder turbos.

thats why i got the gti instead of the R

I dont get it, why a WRX and not a STI if its up against the EVO And R32?

Reliability is why they hold back.

Next episode will be...?

I'm not saying that you made up the comparison, but many car journalists seem to review the Golf R mainly in terms of performance. When considering it only from the narrow perspective of engine output, it may more closely compete with the WRX; although, Car and Driver lap times suggest it's actual performance is closer to the STi. When you compare the Golf R from all aspects, then yes, it does compete with the Evo/STi because the Golf R creates a niche that does not include either of those cars.

yea ive driven many golf Rs, stock turbo and big turbo, my car also has the same k04 turbo thats on the golf R. no power till 2500 rpm is hardly turbo lag, when you get into larger turbo applications you may not fully spool till around 3500-4000. either way, why would you be matting the gas below 2500rpm, thats just hard on the clutch.

Litte misleading on the AWD system between VW/Audi. The Haldex LSC has been used in 4WD models of Volkswagen by the name "4motion", and Audi cars under the name of "quattro". Its the same dam system.

"To close to a regular GTI" what? yeah only if you have no idea about cars, there is a lot of difference in the styling the separates them, you just have to know what you are looking at, And if you are going for a car like this go for the DSG its so good

How about Golf R vs A3?

Wish it had full time AWD.

Actually, I own an Evo X GSR. So I can talk. Your Evo VII doesn't matter. They have nothing in common with current Evos. I'm glad you've had no problems with your Sti but I'm sure you are well aware of their issues. Just because yours hasn't gone boom doesn't mean it isn't a well documented problem with them.