I just got a Golf R 2024 and kept my 2015 GTI. the GTI has 228K miles and it’s running fine. The Golf R, mine is a manual but I can see where the DSG is better matched to the engine because the manual I think needs an extra gear. Driving 80 on the HWYit runs at around 3300 or 3400 RPM I think and its always ready to go. And its not. Ike an s2000 which is relaxed at below 4K. Its just not the best highway cruiser but its great to rip through the gears for short trips less than an hour. And in the real world, just passing etc… it didnt feel much faster. The handling is much better and you can feel the rear diff power your through. On the other hand, I think the DSG is always in the wrong gear it you leave it in automatic at least on the GTI i test drove.
Good to see you, Russell! I don't think I'd buy a Mk8. The haptic controls on the steering wheel and infotainment system is a complete turn-off. I see it as a common complaint among RU-vidrs with the Mk8. My IS38 Mk7 GTI is past 211,000 mile now and on its third (last?) clutch and still original suspension. I'm going to keep driving it, but could see myself in a Subaru in the next 3-5 years, despite the loss of power. I can live with that, though. I don't frequently exploit the extra power of my IS38. Cheers!
Man, this takes me back. I got my gti right around when you got yours. I agree with the quality for sure! I had the dsg ... it was great, but traction was definitely an issue even at apr stage 1. I made the switch to an awd lexus gs350 mainly for reliability. It's not as fun, but it has been a great car.
I owned a 2006 manual GTI, 2012 manual GTI, and now an APR stage 2 2017 GTI DSG Sport and the DSG with the tune is amazing. Blows the doors off a manual. I never had any major issues but they all burned oil.
I agree with you on having a set of good winter tires, especially if you have rwd. The GTI is an awesome starter car for any hatch enthusiast, and the price is very reasonable. The GR Corolla is a superb special but the dealers know it and you will be lucky to find a decent deal. With AWD comes big expenses in maintenance. But you pays your money and takes your choice. If you take the keys to your brother’s hatch or whatever he buys to many times you will be back in the market and end up selling the 4Runner. You should check out the Audi A4 quattro!
I almost sold my GTI for the GR Corolla. I had it pre-ordered and everything but the dealer tried raking me over the coals with dealer fees. I'm happy I still have my GTI. It's stage 2 right now. I'm thinking of getting a Mustang as a daily and doing every stupid thing I've ever wanted to do to my GTI before the engine blows up
Got my 2016 gti s for 22,900 non Performance pack brand new in 2016 AFTER test driving a dsg 3 seperate times. Test driving the dsg made me fall in love with the car because I agree, for the money it was the nicest vehicle on the market ammenities wise and power wise. Butttt I was opposite of you. I had NEVER had a manual and i really wanted one. 🤷♂️ so i did it and I have done almost EVERYTHING humanly possible to it except bigger brakes / diff / and turbo. Did you ever put in an upgraded intercooler Russ? I bet that might have protected your turbo a little better. Please convince Ben to get the R. If hes gonna get in debt for a dang awd he might as well get one with a dang drift button and reap the benefit of views for the channel 😆👍
