2017 VW Golf GTI ROUND DA BLOCK REVIEW
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 29 ธ.ค. 2024
- MotoMan takes a quick look at the Volkswagen Golf GTI and makes an admission you may not know. Along the way, he demonstrates the driving dynamics of the most iconic hot hatch by focusing on three things: The uncharacteristic attributes of this front wheel drive VW, the way this VW GTI is built and last but not least, daily use of the Volkswagen DSG transmission . . .
2016 VW Golf R FIRST DRIVE REVIEW @
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2016 VW GTI FIRST DRIVE REVIEW @ • 2015 VW Golf GTI First...
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In some ways I feel that your review was more honest than a lot of the ones I've seen. You hit on some of the points that were on my mind when I was shopping for my last car. I wanted a new daily driver that had hatchback utility, was a nice place to spend time, could be used in all weather and importantly was still fun to drive at 10,000'. The kicker was trying to find this for my budget of $30k.
That meant a new hatchback, decent interior with modern amenities, front or all wheel drive, and boosted for $30k. Not too many cars fit that role and I was coming out of a Mini Cooper S which had been great fun while it ran and was an absolute nightmare when it came to reliability. Catastrophic engine failure due to a bad timing chain tensioner design and was not covered under warranty. Which resulted in a class action lawsuit that BMW lost.
So I ended up replacing the Mini with a 2016 GTI SE 2-door that has every option except for the driver's aides. Performance Pack to get the bigger brakes and limited slip differential. SE pack to get the modern amenities of leather (I seem to be one of the few that doesn't like the plaid), sunroof, premium audio, keyless entry. Lighting pack to get the Xenon lights that moved with the steering angle. This is great on the winding mountain roads in my area. DCC for the adjustable suspension. I'm not completely sold on this one. I find that I leave it in normal mode most of the time. Sport is too firm for some of the mountain roads and comfort rolls too much in the corners and bounces through the rough sections.
I also opted for the DSG. Previously I've always chosen to drive a manual but in the last couple of years I've had a few injuries (broken leg, hand, and collar bone) that have made driving a manual very challenging while I was recuperating. So I wanted my daily driver to be easier to drive if it happened again. The DSG does almost everything I would do manually. Except for more aggressive starts. The clutch is slow to engage and makes the car feel sluggish off the line. Once its rolling its fantastic.
I thought long and hard on choosing the GTI or the R. The base R was $3k more but I could also get the GTI discounted $3k. So it was really a $6k difference for a car with AWD and more power but fewer features. I actually like the way the GTI looks more than the R. The front bumper is more aggressive and I like the faux carbon detailing more than the piano black that shows every scratch and finger print. Also for another $700 I could do a stage 1 reflash of the ECU to get the same power as the R.
I was also concerned about carbon buildup in the engine. This is very common with direct injection engines. I've got some very interesting photos from my Mini with 40k miles that show the extreme carbon deposits on the valves. This results in power loss due to the valves not sealing completely. The MK7 GTI has addressed this issue and I'm surprised it hasn't gotten more press. The motor actually has 8 fuel injectors. 4 are direct injected to maximize power and efficiency. The other 4 are port injected which operate under light load and will help with keeping the carbon deposits on the valves to a minimum. I'm glad someone found a way to address this fault of direct injection and am surprised that more manufacturers have not done the same.
I now have 13k miles on my GTI and have no regrets with choosing it over the R. It has suited my needs perfectly and is a blast to drive with the additional power from the reflash.
It’s been 2 years, I’m planing on buying a 2017 model that is at 30,000 miles. Is it still a good car after all this time?
Just purchased a 2017 white S with DSG yesterday. The local dealer here in Concord NC has a Labor Day sale going on. Got it for $21355. $6500 off sticker! Of course they added $1000 for tint, exterior protection, nitrogen fill etc. So $22,355. The dealer is an APR tuner as well. I've already scheduled the stage 1 upgrade. ($700 cost to gain over 80 HP and 50 lb. feet of torque!) So for $23,000 I'll have a 300 plus HP rocket with a dual clutch tranny, that handles great and still get over 30 mpg on the highway! Not sure bang for the buck if anything can touch it! I'm a former mustang guy. I've owned many fox bodies up to a 13 and 14 GT with mods. This car stock is already more fun to drive! I can only imagine after the tune!
From Philadelphia, PA and currently driving 2015 accord. Thinking of upgrading to Golf R, bc of its 292hp and awd for wonter times.
I currently own a fully spec'd '15 MK7 GTI Autobahn DSG Pure White, 30% window tint with a black vinyl roof wrap. Absolutely love the car. Born and raised in MN. Not one regret. Das Auto!
Wrote the check for a 2021 SE DSG, worth every penny!
I made the choice and I chose the Golf R. For one I hate sunroof/moon roofs I have had 3 cars with them in it every single one developed an air leak in it then it just whistled all the time and I had to replace the entire sun/moon roof to fix the problem. No think I will spend my money on a car without a moon/sunroof. My 2013 Beetle 2.0T was the last car that will ever have a moon roof that I own. I may be the only one but I am very happy that the Golf R does not have a sun/moonroof.
I own a 2016 gti autobahn , leather, manual. It's an amazing car. Each time I'm driving it, I'm more happy! They say that it's the 911 of the poor, well I'm glad to be poor enough to own one!!!
I am absolutely compelled to be captain obvious in the comment section, so I'm gonna say this car is fantastic. Also your collar is messed up.
crazycamkalani good observation lol
I have the Autobahn. A new Golf R is $40k. My Autobahn was $35k before any discounts. For those of us making monthly payments that is a significant difference. In addition to that I live in the Tampa Bay area so opportunities for speed are limited so I don't think I am missing out by not having the extra performance of the R. Finally, every car I've had over the last 17 years has had a sunroof... it's a must have for me.
William Guisto right some of us can't drop 40k on a car
I just made this decision last Feb. it was between a 2016 SE w/ 6MT, Performance Pack, Lighting Pack and DCC.with a sticker around $33.3k USD vs a Golf R 6MT w/ DCC (loaded) etc for ~$38k. I chose the GTI. MSRP to MSRP all day every day I would have spent the extra $5k for the Golf R. However I got a $5.2k discount on the GTI vs an MSRP offer on the Golf R. So real world the gap was effectively $10.5k. I couldn't justify that for the Golf R when the GTI is so much fun at sane speeds. Since I got the GTI I threw on some Michelin Pilot Super Sports and now I have grip and less wheel spin!
I just bought a brand new GTI 2017 Sport Auto for 27K with Plaid seats (not very comfortable - the only regret). I have owned lots of luxury sports cars over the years, but this beats them all in terms of handling, fun and value. This car is truly the best handling vehicle at any price!
took delivery of my 2017 SE 6- speed manual a couple weeks ago. one of the best cars I've driven, let alone own. coming from a bagged and big turbod 1.8t. the handling is ridiculous for a front wheel drive car, the adjustable steering input, independent rear and VAQ LSD transform the car. even in stock form the power and torque delivery are awesome. this is the best gti since the mk2, as modern as it is, this car brings back what everyone fell in love with the mk2. out the door for $26500 stickered at $33000
I recently made this exact decision between all of the models mentioned. You can find an Autobahn for much lower than the msrp (which was $34k on the website when I was shopping in Delaware a month ago). The reason you don't spend the extra on the R is because the GTi feels lighter and livelier than it does even though it obviously isn't quite as fast and can't put down the power as efficiently. I decided the R (and yes, I could very much have afforded it lol) wasn't the one right now is because....if it's snow you're worried about, snow tires are hilariously cheaper and better than awd, if it's fun, the GTi is more chuckable, if it's fuel economy, the GTi is definitely better, when you're driving your car 99% of the time on the street it's in a normal fashion. The R then has the rear wheels just free floating, so it's just like a GTi but with a fuel economy and weight penalty. I couldn't justify the almost $10-12k difference for that 1% of the time when I want to drive super hard out of corners, since a set of proper summer tires and a new set of wheels with winter tires isn't much money at all compared to that gap. The rarity/resale proposition that people used to buy the R for is no longer a thing since the R is now a regular production model (unlike the previous models which were very limited production runs) but that's a good thing to me, not so much for those who think it'll still be $40k in 10 years (you can still buy a mk4 R for a big number because of rarity).
I love the R, and if the low mile used examples were say....$30k or so, then yea I'l likely be driving that instead, but the Autobahn even without the PP/DCC (I'll add a diff later with the huge chunk of cash I saved) is indeed 95% of the package, and that's enough for me. A phenomenal car, truly phenomenal.
I have 2016 GTI autobahn loaded with every option, manual transmission , same color like on this review, yes was $35000 and I was in a market for R in that time, so want it sunroof and GTI feels more nimble and lighter, was end of last year and in the middle of diesel scandal so I get great discount about $6000 so my car fully loaded was 29000$ so in that time discount on R was about 2000$ - 2500$ and no sunroof, and in that time R had no option for drivers assistance , etc.I am not racing anybody, don't have to much snow, so at list for me GTI makes more sense .
Great review like always .
Thanks for the real world insight and yes - GREAT deal on your car!!!!!! Congrats!
The great value of an Autobahn will depend of how good of a deal you can get on one. You mention MSRP is $36k, but if you can knock $2.5k to 3.5k and get a sale price of $32-33k then you are at least $7000 up to $9000 from a Golf R, cause in difference to a Gti, dealers won't take play almost at all with R prices and most of them are actually marked up and with more options added.
So you will actually paid full MSRP or little more.
I got myself a 2017 Gti Autobahn 6spd, MSRP was $35300, I got it end of the month September for $31000, for me that was a great deal and around $9k less of a similar equipment R.
Love the car, the performance pack and DDC are awesome.
Awesome video. Looking forward to see more of your work. Take care.
Hey Motoman, I've just bought a GTI in Poland and we can pick and choose whatever we want as options here and it was only 3 months wait, so I got the cloth seats, performance pack, DCC, DSG and better audio. And like you say, there's nothing anywhere near the value for money available. It's my first performance car and I couldn't be happier. I test drove a few alternatives but I just love the GTI.
Similarly equipped R would be 30% more so I haven't had the dilemma you guys have in the US.
I would buy the Golf R for several reasons. I currently own a 2015 GTI SE (Performance package, DCC, Driver Assistance, Lighting package) and it is my favorite GTI have ever owned ( Havestage 2 manual Mk6 and had a stage 2 DSG Mk5) . Having said that the price quoted for an Autobahn GTI makes it uncompetitive with the Golf R.
- Head space for tuning , flash gets it to 380hp and it has AWD to make use of the power
- Better cylinder head
- Bigger IS38 turbo
- Better rods/pistons
- Depreciation resistance compared to the GTI
- I bought my SE (loaded) for 20k with only 16k miles, it originally stickered over 34k. Try finding a Golf R that depreciates over 14k in 2 years as that would be a unicorn.
- AWD makes it even more useful in varied climates
- Limited numbers
- Street credit
- More subtle styling
Counter argument
- With the Performance Package you gain the brakes from the Golf R and mechanical limited slip differential. It would be interesting to see on a track how much of the difference between the two has been eroded with the updated performance parts. It would also be interesting if you threw a piggy back tuner (ex. Neuspeed, Burger JB1or 4 etc...) and see if you could come close to equaling the on track performance as they can be removed decreasing the risk of the car being flagged for warranty denial. If you did not have to buy the Autobahn and could put your money into a base car with the awesome cloth seats and it would be a riot and whole lot cheaper!!!
Hey motoman: I'm in the market for a MK7 GTI and I've watched pretty much every single video about the car on TH-cam. This is the most honest and entertaining piece I've seen. Great work motoman! Subscribed to your channel!
I'm still bitter that my Golf R doesn't have a sunroof (Canadian spec). I used the sunroof in my previous car (MK6 GTI) all the time, but the rest of the Golf R is so good that I don't regret my decision one bit. The R is a screaming good deal in Canada, fully loaded with Tech Pack and DSG, it's equivalent to about $33000 USD currently.
I have a 2015 GTI Autobahn with all the accoutrements. The reason I didn't get the R instead: $7-8k. While the GTI started at ~$34k and the R started at $36-37k, I was actually able to negotiate the GTI down to $29k. You'd NEVER be able to negotiate the R down from sticker. Certainly not in the DC area where I live. That much of a difference in price, the GTI becomes significantly more attractive.
I drive a 2016 GTI S manual and work for a VW dealer. I do love the Golf R. Comes in specific colors such as Lapiz Blue you can only get on the Golf R. The 200 mph speedometer and blue needles are visually compelling. Understated even more so than the GTI which is cool. I will say any GTI feels lighter in sub 30 mph maneuvering especially tight U turns. Carrying that extra all wheel drive heft around a tight slow turn at least to me is noticeable. I live in a major urban East Coast US city so that might factor in. Actually my favorite would be a 2017 GTI Sport manual.
I currently have a 2016 GTI Autobahn PP/LP/DCC with 6spd in CSG. Bought it last May for just under $30k with an MSRP of $35k so a little over $5k off. I was originally going to buy a base Golf R that stickers for a little over $1k-$2k more but there was no discount. So it was a difference of $1k-$2k MSRP but because of the discount on the GTI it was closer to a $7k actual difference. So I decided I would get 85-90% of the Golf R for $7k off. The other factor was I use my car for as my work car and do 20-30k a year. So the added MPG helps a little. Honestly of the 8 cars I've owned over the last 15 years it is by far my favorite. I couldn't be happier with my decision so far. I plan on keeping it for 3 years them either getting a MK8 Golf R or find a CPO Audi RS3. Loving my first VW so far.
Npdogg GTI how can u get such a big discount
The 2-door was discontinued for the 2017 model year. Also for the U.S., the Golf R is manufactured in Germany whereas the GTI is made in Mexico, which is apparently why we don't get a Golf R with a sunroof, because it makes the ordering process easier.
Hey Moto Man I own a black on black 2016. My wife as a previous VW owner got it at 30,600. I remember at the time there was a Golf R in the showroom for 36,000. This is exactly a year ago. Bottom line is I love my huge sunroof and use it all the time. Just a great car here in the mountains of Asheville.
This car is always a blast to drive. leased 2006 2008 2010 2011 and 2015.
Loving my 2017 GTI Sport which is now my fourth GTI I've owned. it's the perfect ride for me and the price was right too at $23k out the door.
Your question: $36k GTI or $39k R I would choose the Golf R, mainly for the AWD, but also for the other component upgrades and increased hp and torque. I think the GTI is only a value in the base trim and the base "S" trim really does offer everything needed. I currently own a 2015 WRX and I feel the base WRX is a better value than the GTI, while I believe the Golf R is a better value than an STI. So, in summary, If I was in a $25k-$29k budget I would, and did, choose the WRX. However, if I was in a $39k budget range I would choose the Golf R over the STI, and would even choose the Golf R over the Focus RS and new Civic Type R to be released in 2017.
NA Golf r is made on the egolf assembly line in Germany due to the all wheel drive. This assembly line has no sunroof option.
The answer to the upper-tier GTI vs Golf R conundrum was, at least in my case, the 2017 GTI sport with a manual transmission (at an end of October model-year clearance price). When I'm installed in the seat behind that flat bottomed wheel it is as though everything in the car has been designed to make me a better driver. Some folks have complained about the long throw of the clutch, but the payoff there is the reduction of effort: I'm working with a left leg that was rebuilt more than forty years ago - this lightweight long-throw clutch should allow me to continue driving a stick for at least another decade and a half.
I've got my 2017 Golf R on order. Currently in a Audi A3 TDI hatchback... love it. Since Audi no longer offers the A3 in a hatchback, I was going to buy the GTI but, as you said, the price was too close to the R. Still not happy about the R's lack of a sunroof and the center armrest storage can't open (without a mod).
Dig it daddy-0! I agree with most of what you brought up. I'm too old for this kind of car, but I don't care, it's what I like. Just bought a Mk7 GTI with 16 measly miles on it.
Just bought the bought the new 17 gti with the performance package and manual transmission .....it is amazing!!! Got it for 25k :))
Currently in the garage: Stage 1+ 2010 GTI & Stage 1 2015 GTI. Both DSG. Live in Nashville. 2010 is 2-Door & sunroof. 2010 is 4-door & solid roof. Sunroof matters a lot to me.
I would go with a 1) Golf R or 2) Audi S3 over an Autobahn GTI.
Reasoning? Aftermarket sunroofs can be installed for around $1,500 and that's what I'd put on "my" Golf R. 2016 S3s can be had for the price of a 2017 R. Potential performance. A Stage 1 Golf R or S3 will hit 60 mph in ~3.8 and 100 mph in
Going to be at Nashville/Franklin Cars & Coffee this weekend . .. Did we meet last time I was there?
MotoManTV indeed. My GF and I came by. My DSG was a victim of your periscope:) dang I have a wedding in St. Louis or would be there.
Sorry to miss you . . . Had fun last time with you guys - going to be rolling in with a new Armada and maybe something else . . . See you on my next trip!
@MotoManTV, are you crazy? It's not a manual transmission. Repeat: IT'S NOT A MANUAL TRANSMISSION!!! =(
I have a 2016 GTI Autobahn with PP, but without the DCC, which I wanted but couldn't find in a blue model nearby. I paid $31K and it was listed at $35.5K, so you can get one on sale for much lower. What he is describing at the end as far as what he wants (tartan seats with sunroof) is available in the new 2017 GTI Sport, although it doesn't come with DCC as an option. I love the car and it is fantastic on long drives, especially because it will get 34 mpg. I live where it rarely snows, so AWD is not really needed in my daily driver.
I drive a 2014 GTD, jet black, manual, cloth seats. My first car and love it. If I was living in the sunny side of US, I will go with this one over the R. Reason: 1. I don't need the extra traction of 4x4 on dry conditions; and 2. I prefer the honeycomb grill of the GTI/GTD. I do prefer the GTD's chrome front lining over the GTI's red.
My ultimate Golf would be a GTI with a chrome headlamp lining, sun roof, cloth seat, manual transmission, in jet black or the metallic colour of this car you drove in the review.
I traded in my Focus ST a few months ago for a DSG GTI..love it.
Great review!!! Every single one of your gripes/issues is what I'm having with GTI/Golf R. I hope VW is listening. The car you are driving is pretty much perfect and exactly what I want, but I want the cloth seats (can't have that like you said). Or maybe spend the extra for Golf R, but then you can't get a sunroof?! So dumb. Why don't they give the buyer one base model two or four door and let us choose interior seats, sunroof, transmission, DCC, etc. instead of prepackaging them? It's an amazing car and the GTI is about 90% of the Golf R; so unless you're in the snow or tracking it, the GTI with all the new enhancements they've made sounds like the sweet spot -- it just needs to be about $25 - $28K (US). (I really want the amazing ClubSport most of all though, but ... Oh, can't get that in the US). I guess I'll have to wait a year and pick-up a used GTI from a kid that can't afford the insurance, speeding tickets and gas.
I read that they are trying to streamline their manufacturing process in order to cut costs. Less options = better cost reduction. I work for automotive supplier Denso and I see this first hand in our own products. It's just more cost effective to produce as few variations as possible without pissing off your customers.
re: no sunroof in the Golf R. As far as I know, Golf R is built in Germany and GTI is in Mexico.
I own the same GTI performance edition with a 6MT CHHA 230hp engine. Few people have mentioned the VAQ front differential which to me is the single most important feature for this car. It made such a difference in a high speed turn that you'd wonder why pay more for a heavier and more expensive R. It can't keep up with a R on 0-60 but canyon road driving is why you buy this car. 14 months of ownership so far brings no trouble. Squeaks and rattles were identified and fixed within the first month. So far it is running like a tank but with exceptional fuel economy.
Another reason to choose the DSG over the Manual Transmission is that it can handle more power if you end up tuning it.
For what it's worth, I was driving a 2015 Subaru WRX STI. I just sold it today so I can hunt for an MK7 GTI. In regards to models, I'm sort of simple. I need a sunroof, fender audio, leather and lighting package. As long as those 4are present, (I guess SE and above), I'd be happy. Currently scoping on a Performance Package with the above. Can't wait!
I specifically wanted the cloth plaid seats and a manual transmission, so I bought a base level 2016 GTI two months ago. I paid $21,500 and it's without a doubt the best value out of any car I've ever owned. Sure, I would have liked push button start, a sunroof, and the performance package, but man, those plaid fabric seats are so nice. And for what I paid I won't feel bad racking up the 35K miles a year I'll put on it.
WOW!!!! US$21,500 . . . AMAZING deal!!!!! Congrats!
Jim Ellis Volkswagen in Atlanta has them constantly for mid 21k's, I'm probably going to drive the 2 hours to Atlanta from my house when I take the plunge...........
Should've went for the sport model. Cloth seats, no sunroof, golf r brakes, performance package, push start, and bi xenon headlights.
Ed Mathews are you still happy with your base gti? Does it grip good when you wide open throttle through a turn or does it one week peel?
Just picked up a 17 GTI S for 18k before tax from MD. What a great car.
Just got a 2017 GTI SE in manual. Best car I've ever owned.
Personally, I think the SE is the sweet spot in the range. Only feature I wish I had was automatic climate control.
Matthew Hinkle honestly I have auto climate control and standard in my GTI. I prefer manual climate control. It's just so darn easy! Set the temp and turn the fan knob as high as you need.
I'm really hoping to find an SE manual for a good price, I'm thinking best I'll find one for is 28k......
I bought 2016 SE with DSG and driver assistance package. The SE is great not because of the leather but the upgraded stereo. This is an amazing system for the cheap. The assistance package is awesome too. Besides the Radar cruise control with creep mode (below 20miles), it has a park assist feature that will park the car in parallel and perpendicular spots. I find that especially great for my wife who could use this feature plus myself especially when parking parallel to a spot of the right hand side of the street. The parts of the DAP is useful like pedestrian protection, lane assist and cross traffic alert. If you were to spec these features on an A4, you are looking at $50K large. I got all this at $28.5K.
Currently own 2015 Golf R, great car and amazing value. Just ordered the new GTI with DSG. Ridiculous offer which was too good to turn down.
i choosed this one , i drive the same, not the R, for insurancy, and gas fuel efficiency. and in few monthes i ll go stage one , 300hp for 400 $ . For evertday drive, gti is more than enough, the R is just heavier and has haldex system that i ll never use expect maybe one day every 4 years if there is some snow on the road. And i ve sunroof, leather, manual transmission and lots of option. love it everyday
Mountains of Western NC. I drive a 2016 Golf GTI autobahn with Performance Pack (Sorry but it has the DSG). I got a big end of model year discount and great financing. Had it a month, love it so far. The leather seats are super comfortable even for a slightly larger guy.
Volkswagen has got a serious pricing problem with the autobahn golf GTI and the Golf R. Dealers in Atlantic Canada won't let you drive a Golf R unless you're willing to drive off the lot with it. Having said that, unless the R is an absolute disaster, I think you'd be crazy to buy the GTI over the R.
The R has the all-wheel-drive system, better wheels, better paint, and a handful of other things.
That being said, I've had to remove both from my candidate list during my shopping, since I perceived very poor throttle response in both the DSG and manual Golf GTI's (2016 and 2017, respectively).
I drive a 2015 Comfortline Golf TSI, and it has immediate throttle response. For whatever reason, Volkswagen neutered the throttle response in the GTI. The power is incredible on the highway, but around the city the throttle response is what puts a smile on my face. I was really let down by the GTI, especially the manual, where the throttle response seemed to be at its worst.
In fact, throttle response is such a tangible part of the driving experience, I find myself wondering why car reviewers don't spend much time on it. I can count on one hand the number of car reviews I've watched that actually discuss throttle response.
Anyways, that's my two cents with respect to your question, plus a little extra based on my recent test drive experiences of the vehicle you reviewed. At this point, I'm leaning towards the Subaru WRX sport tech edition, but if anyone has any recommendations of a fun car with a sticker price of under $40,000 brand-new that has immediate throttle response, please let me know.
For what it's worth, I also own a 2008 Mini Cooper S. It has the sharpest throttle response of anything I've ever driven, especially when put into sport mode. I test drove the 2016 Mini Cooper JCW, and although it's throttle response is fantastic, I'm looking for a car with more room.
One last titbit of information that I'll add is that the steering wheel in my 2008 Mini Cooper S is the tightest/stiffest steering I felt in any car, by far. I'm not sure why this isn't desirable in sporty cars, as several car reviewers seem to rave about light steering. From my point of you, if I'm driving a sporty car, I want to have to work to drive it. If anyone has any suggestions of cars with extremely stiff steering, please provide some suggestions, especially if you know how stiff the 2008 Mini Cooper S is and are able to use that as a reference point.
I currently own a 2016 Gti s (base trim with the plaid seats). The reason why I chose this model was because of the seats. It brought me back to the original heritage of the Gti. I originally wanted a Gti with a sunroof and plaid seats. That was only offered on the mk6 model. Besides that it wasn't worth to get the performance package because I did some upgrades from APR-racing. Which include a software upgrade, intake and downpipe. Now this puts the hp at 340 and torque at 380 which well worth the money spent.
I bought a 2017 Golf R for 39,650, manual. Totally worth it.
Got my 2017 Sport manual couple weeks ago and loving it. I didn't want fancy stuff--sun roof, safety features, etc--but love having keyless entry/start stop and rear view camera. Also the checkered seats are a beauty.
On the driving dynamics... I might have had too high expectations, as I was not necessarily "blown away". My favorite former car was a 2009 BMW 120d, which was an absolutely fabulous rear wheel drive car. Gti feels like a front wheel drive car (because it is!). Suspension is tight enough but not as sporty as I hoped it to be (probably because this car doesn't have DCC?). All that said, getting this package for under 26k (with promos, dealer discounts) is unbeatable. Just don't expect the driving dynamics of a rear wheel drive compact BMW.
To your question, I would buy the R if forced to choose between R and Autobahn. Haven't drove a R (and will probably never because my Gti might feel like crap) but imagine 4motion will be meaningfully better, not to mention the tuning difference. But, that all said, if you're not crazy about sun roofs, fancy safety features, nice audio, and DCC, you can get a fantastic car and pay 10k less by buying a Sport trim. That's what I will do and I feel great to have done that.
I live in the East Coast of the US.
I love the GTI and had a manual one back in 2002. Now im getting the 2017 R with DSG
I too specifically wanted the cloth plaid seats but wanted the DSG transmission as I do a lot of driving in traffic and my last car, 2004 audi a4 6 speed, was a pain to drive all the time in traffic. I paid $19,995 with 17k miles for my 2015 GTI. I've owned it for almost 5 months now and it is so much fun to drive. I can manage 33mpg average over a tank of gas driving normal with some spirited driving mixed in. It is simply a blast to drive and can get that Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde feeling of an unassuming daily driver and track car in one car. Love the car!
I recently purchased a 2016 VW GTI Autobahn with DSG (no DCC) off a local lot. I'm loving it so far.
Now, to answer your question, if it was truly $36k vs. $39k, then yes, I would probably go for the Golf R. The extra performance would be fun, and the AWD would be useful also for the winter. You'll give up some gas mileage, but you get all the other GTI options except a sunroof, which is not a big deal to most folks.
However, there is a huge issue here. You can't get an R for $39k. There are very few of them out there and they sell quick, usually for full MSRP or more. On the other hand, it's easy to find a base GTI for sale for $23k or less, and I got my $35k GTI Autobahn for $28k because it had been sitting on the lot, unsold, for nearly a year. This, of course, is related to the "diesel-gate" nonsense, and VW has been struggling to sell much of anything, except the R, for over a year, now.
When I first started looking, I found numerous stripped down GTIs for $23k, which was about $3k off. But this Autobahn model was slashed down even more off MSRP and was going for the same as many lesser trim levels with smaller discounts. My main complaint was that it was the DSG, but for the price, I couldn't complain. So would you buy a $23k base level model or spend $5k more to get a nearly fully loaded model?
You can play this game all day. "But for only X dollars more, I could get a Y with better performance." Pretty soon you're up in the $60k range trying to justify even more. Law of diminishing returns and all. I think the GTI is straddling the sweet spot right now for inexpensive performance. The Autobahn model is less than the average new car price ($36k) in the US. It gives you lots of interior room and functionality, good gas mileage, great fun to drive, a nice interior, and a more grown up attitude than a WRX or Focus ST. The R is overpriced for what you get (as are the upper ranges of the GTI without a discount), and the math doesn't add up. Unless you are simply in love with the Golf platform, more interesting options are just a few thousand dollars away once you hit Golf R prices.
Plus, in theory you can do a simple tune on the GTI and get comparable output to the R for thousands less.
Greetings;
Love all of your videos and reviews. I currently drive a 2014 MINI Cooper Clubman S. I love my car. Always dreamed of owning one. But my smart part of the brain says now that a Golf would have been THE smart choice. I would probably go for the Golf R. Its A.W.D. Has more horsepower. The interiors are killer. 4 doors wich makes it more practical. Has Room... All in all, at this momment, Golf R over MINI and GTI. Keep up the good reviews.
There is a new trim for 2017 "Sport" no sunroof, led headlights, and the performance package,PLAID SEATS, thats that one to get!!! Around 29k!
Gc_03 DCC?
93455Driver no dcc, just bigger breaks, +10 hoursepower, and limited slip differencial
fixedincomer Many thanks
Yes sir that's the one I bought last week, and I'm loving it.
i own the same trim but from 2015 lol, i got lucky and had it shipped from outta town it already had the lighting and performance packages and i got it for 28k with 7 miles on it.
I had a fully optioned out 2016 6MT GTI Autobahn with the Performance Package on order in early 2015 which I was going to have to pay MSRP due to it being "ordered" and the PP being so rare at the time. Then a 2016 6MT Golf R with DCC/NAV showed up at a different dealership in my area, with NO MARKUP. It was a no brainer, I went with the R.
With the 2016 models, there was a bit higher price difference then the current 2017 models but I still had no concerns buying the R instead of the GTI. All wheel drive, slightly worse MPG and more power? Then to top it off the fact that there are far fewer R's on the roads compared to the GTI made it the car for me. I've been driving the R as a daily driver for over a year now and LOVE it, no regrets or buyers remorse over the extra cash compared to the GTI.
Thanks for a great and thoroughly enjoyable review! Used it in researching the GTI and recently bought a 2017 manual GTI Sport in Carbon Steel Gray! No it doesn't have the Autobahn's DCC or a sunroof but make no mistake...this is a nice car! I totally agree with you that the Normal GTI driving mode should be relabeled composed. And on those days when I wish I had a sunroof...I'll simply pull out my '08 Miata (my daily driver the last 8 years) that I was able to keep thanks to the unbelievable "screamin' deal" I got.
I bought the 2016 S DSG. Perfect all around car. You're also right, most dealers around me (Southern California) were asking $5,000 over MSRP for the R.
I have a 2015 GTI Autobahn with lighting package. Got mine brand new from the dealer for a great price just under $30k before fees and taxes. At that price I took it over the R. I commute daily in heavy east coast city traffic and the GTI works really well in that environment. The R may be more fun but the GTI is all around more reasonable for my lifestyle.
i have a 2012 Gti autobahn. But i think i would get the golf r instead. Because with 600 More $ i could get a 400 HP. that should make my track days more fun
Just bought my se 2 door with light and driver pack manual. I love it!!!!!!
Can not agree more! I owned an 84' MK1 Rabbit GTI moved to the 16v GLI then away for several years. Looked at the 30th Anniversary GLI liked it the wheels lil more sedate appearance. But could not pull the trigger... for several years now wanting a GTI with Tartan and a sunroof! I just can't believe it's not available as even an optional package of sorts... I don't want nor need glitz or glamor been there done that... I want a fun to drive utilitarian car, GTI. I like simple and basic these days, currently 2011 Base Regular Cab Tacoma 4x4... gets me around the The Sawtooth Mountains... but man would I love a the right GTI to carve up the mountain roads on a beautiful fall day!
Easy, I got the 2016 Golf R with DCC and Navigation, 6M and 19" wheels. It is utter joy to drive! I cannot say enough about how happy I am with it. It has great horse and torque. The only modification I made was to open up the center console. Not worried about engine mods or shocks and such, just enjoy driving it the way it is.
BTW, my previous car was a 2013 MkVI GTI. In those days, only the very top model came with leather seats, so I had to give up keyless entry, dual climate controls in order to keep the plaid, Interlagos seats. I also evaluated the R and found that the difference between the GTI and R was not worth the $10k.
I am currently looking at a 2016 with the plaid cloth and a manual transmission. 6K miles and $22,500. So thrilled with value, about to pull the trigger.
Only time u notice it is fwd is during or after a rainstorm, and with the dsg vs MT, manual sucks here cause youre in traffic a huge chunk of time
I bought a fully loaded 2016 GTI Autobahn manual for 5k off msrp. It's the end of the year. Dealers are trying to get rid of them!
Great video!!! Unfortunately I bought a 2015golf TDI and am waiting for buyback. Love the DSG and will get a GTI sport. I have to have the cloth seats! What would you do?
I had a 1986 GTI and now have A 2016 GTIs. Metallic blue. Twice the power of my the MK 2 and I am so happy. Got the plaid seats and got it for 19K with 17k miles.
Weird, in New Zealand our Gold R's have the sunroof as an option. I'd take the Golf R over the high spec GTI because I think the R can be tuned better plus it has all wheel drive for my skiing needs. I drive a 2012 Subaru WRX :)
I have been deliberating on this for a couple of years now and I am leaning toward the GTI because, sunroof. Which is a little sad but that is my biggest Hang up with the Golf R. I have driven both and you said it MM the GTI is 80-85% of the performance of the R. Plus I can still get it with a manual and in the color I want (reflex silver). So why haven't I done it already? Two reasons, my current car is a 2001 VW VR6 GTI (2 door silver w/sunroof, of course) that still is a really good car. Mostly I can't get over that motor. The way it sounds and winds up to 7000 is still a kick! The second reason? It's paid for and I only have a single car garage. I guess that's three reasons. Hailing from Western Washington.
Right now, in the Bay Area, the R will set you back $41k if the dealer sells it at sticker. Most are selling them $5k+ over sticker. The Autobahn goes for $34k-$36k sticker but they are heavily discounted. I just received a quote for $5900 off sticker for the Autobahn. That makes it a much easier choice. Not to mention saving some insurance $$ as well.
Currently drive a 2017 Passat but would choose the GTI Autobahn . This week at my dealer the Golf Rs were $42k and the GTI Autobahn discounted to about $31 in Northern VA.
Great video. Golf R's are available with sunroof but not in North America. I don't know why. I'm currently in the market for a GTI but once I saw that the one I want "Autobahn" is not far from the Golf R in price, I paused a bit. And the same thing with me, I loved the Golf R, but hate that it doesn't come with a sunroof. So haven't decided yet.
Was in this same situation 6 months ago. TDI buyback, Central IL. I had 3 cars on my radar, GTI SE w/drivers assistance, Golf R, and an A3 etron. The dealer had 3 Rs and the etron on the lot and they even let me take them home over night. The R was aweseome, but a fuel economy highway run of 26, the lack of the sunroof and price were major negatives. The etron was fun in a techy way, the economy isn't impressive compared to even standard hybrids , but even after discount of a few grand and a tax rebate, it was still over 40. Being a geek, I turned to making a spreadsheet figuring up cost of ownership over 3 years, adding in a GTI SE. Etrons have horrible predicted resale over 3 years, which pretty much sealed it's fate. The R has good resale, but higher fuel and insurance cost. The SE was definitely cheapest, resale was several percent off of the R, but the much cheaper fuel and insurance more than made up for it; 3 grand less than the R and 6 less than the etron. I did some website searching of some area dealers and found some good markoffs of GTIs. So i 'splurged' and upgraded to the Autobahn and got the DCC and most of the drivers assistance that I wanted for under $31. My local dealer matched the price and had one brought in undriven. Very happy with the car and felt like I made a great deal.. The only thing I wish it had was the plaid, and am getting better mileage than hoped, almost 34 in mixed driving. Lazy backroad cruising is well over 40. But get the tach over 2500, and Mr. Hyde wakes up. BTW, I'm seeing autobahn manuals for under 30K now.
to anwser your final question i chose this one over a R because i pay around 800 euros for insurance for the gti, the Golf R insurance is more around 1400. ...it means 6000 euros more if i keep it 10 years. And i had mine for 28000 euros, no way to find a golf R under 33000 and only with basic options. And the mpg is more important on the R, and gas is very expensive in my country. Then for the price, the insurance, the mpg, for a daily driving, the Gti is more than enough.
WOW Motoman's cars he would write a check for..S-class coupe, Volkswagen Gti, Dodge Challenger, Lotus Elise. Those are all cars I would buy too.
Excellent review! I completely agree that the autobahn is destroys the value proposition because in my opinion I might as well go up to the Golf R at that point. In fact, I recently just purchased the 2017 vw gti base. I love the plaid seats, have the manual, and think it comes with plenty of amazing standard features (not to mention the banging deal I got it for--23k out the door). I would have to say nothing beats it at that price point; yes nothing not even the fully loaded Focus ST. It really is just that good. If I had any gripe it would be that I didn't get the performance package. The only thing I would add to the car mod wise at this point is a LSD and maybe the upgraded breaks. Otherwise it's an amazing car. Must admit though, when I'm older with a bit more money I do think I'll step up to the Golf R because I think once you really start modding (tunes, exhaust, etc.) it'll handle all the extra power better than the GTI.
What road was this shot on? Looks amazing.
The Club Sport not available in the USA? We have in Europe.
Also only with black interior, but looks a whole lot better
i'm keeping my Yugo great car just had it tuned thinking of putting a dual exhaust what do you guys think
Awesome, honest review.
I would get the Golf R because the launch control feature actually works a lot better than the GTI. You take off like a sling shot without the unnecessary wheels spin like on the GTI. I have a GTI and I find launch control to be slower than just modulating the throttle on take off.
Thanks.
I'm very close to purchasing a '17 GTI Sport which has the LED's, tartan seats and performance pack. Best deal going. I feel the Sport will be a wanted car in a few years.
this is a difficult one. But i think if the autobahn gti vs R i would definately get the R. Atleast i can justify the $3000 with "AWD" although it is a Haldex AWD but still an AWD. I currently Drive a 16' GTI and i love it. I thankfully got GTI SE with everything i wanted except the Plaid seats (still wish i could have em with the DCC and Sunroof) but the spec that i have i got very lucky with as it was the only one in the state of Texas (i did confirm with 4 dealerships) when i got it. I noticed in my 6 month search that dealerships have a all or nothing policy when it comes down to spec'ing their cars.
This would be the perfect car for me. Fun, spacious and practical. In canada the leather seats were always optional so you could even get the plaid seats until 2017MY. The leather seats offer better lumbar support though. It's 35K for a 4 door Autobahn trim here. Would be my idea upgrade over a Mazda 3 GT 2.5 Hatch.
In response to your question of why anyone would not get a manual - I live in Downtown Vancouver where there are traffic lights and traffic jams every 100 ft.
Sunroof is not on the Golf R due to it being built on the same exact chassis as the E-Golf. It was certified as a 5 door only without a sunroof. I've heard that the R might move assembly to Puebla, and if that is true, we're likely to get the sunroof that we really want.
Currently in a 14 TDI Passat (dieselgate). Loved this video one of the best reviews out there. I'm caught in a hard decision. GTI or R. Everyone talks about how close these two cars are in price. They are not. Dealers don't move at all on the R's price but you can get a fully loaded GTI for under thirty if you haggle right. But the R seems to be calling but alast no sunroof but AWD. Which is it? The GTI or the R???!
UK R32 i would go with the R because at least you would get some if the extras money back at the end and the 4x4 is handy here in the winter. BTW how was the Apple CarPlay ? you have said tou gave had problems with other VWs in the past. thanks PS i think we get all the combination options here in the UK
Did they not offer the SE trim when you did this???
I bought the 2016 MK7 GTI, 1 month later paid $800 for the APR stage 1 ECU tune only... 304 HP and this car is a beast! the byproduct is that the fuel consumption has increased.
I should have also indicated.... its an Autobahn with lighting package which I managed to buy for less than 35k new!, the APR tune increased the HP from 220 to 304 for only 800 bucks, so yes this is a better deal than the GOLF R
16 gti se with lighting package black on black love it
I opted out of the Autobahn due to the lack of Limited Slip Diff. I'm currently in a 2015 white GTI SE with Performance Package which comes with sunroof and fender sound system. DCC was not an option I was seeking since I normally upgrade the suspensions to my GTI's to produce a sportier look and feel. I've APR Stage 2 mine with full bold ons. Which basically transforms it to a Club Sport without the Ricardo seats. In my opinion the VW R has a very front wheel drive bias dynamic and does not carry the same heritage as the GTI in terms the gradual evolution of a front wheel drive hot hatch.
Are you saying verbury seats? What?
You are a Legend Motoman!
In regards to the collar, love it! i think your creating a new trend!
And the answer to your question.... I'd get the GTI, swap seats with the ones I like or even get them re-trimmed and source R's gearbox get it fitted under and run an even better tune to get that turbo screaming! ;)
I'd call that GTi-R
Hello MotoMan, my 2 cents: I live in Mexico City, where we don't have access to the Golf R, BUT we do have the Peugeot 308GT, the VW GTI, the Focus ST and the one I'd get: SEAT Leon Cupra. Keep up the great job!
great video, I cant wait to get mine, and will have a blast with it, next month to be exact.........
Good thing you can get the Autobahn with cloth seats here in Canada :) You can also get the Autobahn with the 3 door version
I have a 2015 GTI Autobahn; it's my third one since 2009. Actually all black like this one, but I couldn't be choosy as there were hardly any at the time. I'm probably not the typical use case, as I use the vehicle a lot for business traveling throughout the NE and airport runs. I almost pulled the trigger on a 3 series M Sport but to be honest this car is better and has more comfortable seats, plus it's a lot cheaper. Since I travel in and around and through NYC often, the DSG is the way to go. FOR 2017, I'm thinking about trading it because the performance pack is part of the Autobahn package, I would also like car play, and radar adaptive cruise control and some other driver assists are part of the package (and I believe the VW radar cruise control will creep in traffic). That being said, I'm torn as well as to get the Golf R BUT with the limited slip differential traction wise it's probably 90% there compared to an open differential AWD system plus the better fuel economy and fact that you can actually put regular for say long highway trips in the GTI may make it the more practical choice for me (also because of where I live I need all season tires). So the better packaged Autobahn GTI is probably better for me. Keep in mind the sunroof option is probably worth $1500-2K on its own. It's a very large unit, so that really would make a comparable Golf R $4.5-5K more.
MotoMan, would you prefer this or the Golf R? I drove a GTI today and loved it! I am kind of bummed it isn't all-wheel drive, but front wheel drive should be fine for winter driving I would think. I don't know if the R is worth the extra $10K...
Looking at a 2016 GTI S, low miles, and DSG automatic. There are several of these available in my area all for around $18,000 - $19,000. I arch my eyebrow a bit when people are talking about paying $28k for these. What's the disconnect I'm not aware of?