I switched my M4 CS for a TCR and wouldn't swap back as it's a fantastic car. Half the price, twice as practical and almost as fast with much better brakes.
Great video. I love my TCR and still watch any vids after a year of ownership. Having owned a Type R, Cayman & MK7 R I can confirm this is the most fun I’ve had driving in years and definitely worth the extra money.
LSD Gotten is a past tense form of the verb to get. ... The past tense form of get is got; the past participle of got is gotten. A past participle is a word that's used with had, have or has. Therefore, it's perfectly acceptable to use gotten if it's being used with its companion word
I bought a deep black 4-door TCR with 19“ Pretorias and unlimited top speed as a 3.5 year old car with 40.000 kms on the clock here in Germany last year. It is a really brillant car with a clear Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hide personality. Smoothly to drive in everyday‘s traffic, always feeling the refined sportiness as well as the available power of the engine. When you start to push it, it pulls relentlessly, and if you go to the sport mode, it converts to a real animal. It reaches 285 km/h on the clock and you have literally no real opponents on the German Autobahn except, e.g, Audi RS6 etc. I chased a group of Porsche 911 on a twisty road in Southern France and it was great fun to see how you could easily keep up. Engine, chassis, breaks, seats - simply excellent. On top of this a design which still keeps me away from moving to a Golf 8 GTI.
Took my tcr out last night with a friend gave it a really hard push and wow! What a thing..... I actually think point to point it’s faster than my m2 lci. Great car.
They really are great things. Looking forward to plenty of content.... I’ve got a track day booked for Ascari end of October, and I’m debating whether to take the M2 or TCR (I’ve done plenty in the M2 before).
TCR is all u need. The clubsport was my favorite but since the tcr came out it changed. The tcr is the best golf even better than the R in my opinion. Now whit the mk8 coming out i think the tcr is the last God gti.
Even just the fact you get the full 290 PS all the time with TCR makes it for me, plus you can't spec 19s without DCC while you can on a Clubsport which really does hamper an otherwise great car on a bumpy British B road.
@@volkswizard Yeah thats nice not needing too wait 10 seconds but u can easily fix that whit a tune and then u have all the power and some extra all time. The tcr is better looking also since it is 7.5 If i hade the choice than I would take a TCR whit a clubsport front bumper. I have never driven the tcr but I can imagen it is similar to cupra 290 and the first time I tested the cupra 290 wow what a great car it is
Originally had went to look at a Tiguan back in 2015 and fell in love with a TR Gti so drove it home , fast forward to 2020 and went looking for a Tiguan and guess what ? Yup bought one of the last 5 doors Tcr off the line complete with its Akra exhaust , DCC and black roof on the flat grey and 18 inch wheels. It’s absolutely a hoot and a month into ownership every time I look at it I smile , only 600 miles so far from run in but the potential is very obviously there . Great report and many thanks for your continuing insight into Vw .
Great vlog as always mate 👍 . I drive a black MK5 R32 and I love it . Best car I’ve ever owned . I got it because of that 3.2 V6 and the beautiful sound it makes . 👌
Its interesting what you were saying about feeling bumpy in eco/normal modes.I would have though it softens the ride like the R and the Gti performance and regular Gti.
when comparing DCC equipped cars, TCR is firmer than the others because it's the most hardcore/track focused. DCC still soften the ride when you switch from Sport to ECO/Normal or Comfort but it's still firmer than the other cars. Sport mode is really firm in TCR which is fine as save that for the track, use Normal for the road as it deals with most surfaces admirably.
Great video again Andrew. Personally I’d go for the performance as I’d be worried sick about parking the TCR anywhere, especially as I have no drive or garage. Brilliant car though. Interior is lovely but prefer the tartan. Love the wheels 👍🏻
I get that Greg. I’m Hoping being a rare 3 door it will stand out like a sore thumb in bits on eBay if it’s stolen. Integral SIM based tracker is a nice touch too. Any GTI gets stolen in Birmingham but if they need to repair a Pure grey TCR that an insurer has sold then they’ll be after a TCR only. It will happen to someone sadly
I really like the wing mirror covers, it adds some contrast and matches those gorgeous wheels nicely. I've been browsing your Volkswizard website for upwards of ten years now, always drooling over your stock. On my Bucket list is to buy a car from you in my lifetime.
Great video Andrew and here’s to 20k + subscribers very soon :) the TCR is just wicked in this spec from the puddle lights to its DCC lowered stance and of course some great content to come I hope 🤞
We have a MY20 TCR (Pure Grey and Akrapovic as it came standard on MY20) and we are very happy with it. Only issue is that ours has a sunroof and we are having problems with it. Specifically a cracked frame which appears to be a well reported illness on TCR's (with only 7,000km 😡) and very annoying ticking. Putting those issues aside which are currently being dealt with under warranty, the interior quality is fabulous, very spacious, car's very nimble and agile, and the exhaust sounds great. Must admit it's sounding better over time and hence why most comparison videos between Akra and Stock don't seem to really show the difference. Our car has 19" reifnitz and my biggest problem is tire noise at highway speeds. Cruising at 120km/h with occasional stompings on the gas, fuel consumption is at around 7.1l/100km. City driving can be at around 9-14, as it is very easy to throw it into manual mode to hear those pops and bangs. DCC in comfort is comfortable enough. But that's probably because Spanish roads are way better than UK roads 😜.Good video!!
Hey Marcelo, thanks for commenting I didn't know about the sunroof issues, does this apply to other Golfs too as surely TCR isn't any different in that areas?I wonder if the tyre noise is Pirell related?
I’ve just had my sunroof surround replaced as well, no problem with warranty. Shame as love the sunroof, really lightens cabin and great on nice days. I think there are other VW that have the problem, but there are definitely many TCR mentioned on www.golfgtiforum.co.uk
volkswizard Hey, sorry for the late reply. I can not certify that this sunroof issue applies to all golfs. The cracked frame occurs due to a lack of adhesive membrane in certain areas of the frame. Maybe all golfs are affected by this equally given that they share the same sunroof. However due to the TCR’s harsher suspension setup and larger wheels, they are more prone to cracking as the frame is dealing with larger stresses. My local Spanish dealer told me that they would not fix it under warranty as VW Spain has not made a TPI / recall for this particular issue as there are only 290 Spanish TCR’s so they haven’t really got any with the same issues yet. Doesn’t help that ours is a German import and the dealer doesn’t wanna spend money on a car that wasn’t bought through them. Quite disappointing considering that the warranty applies at a european level. We are now dealing with VW Spain directly but until then, the tcr will have the cracked frame. I found a solution for the ticking noise though. Happens because the rubber seals dry up in very hot climates and the roof doesn’t seal up completely and the glass makes a noise. Mitigated the noise by using a dry WD-40 specialist lubricant with PTFE.
Nice video. Lovely car. I think you should try to drive a mark 3 Renaultsport Megane Trophy R, I owned one for a year and it has all of those characteristics you describe above but amplified. Stupendous damping on the ohlins too. Firm but so compliant. I’ve had a few fruity cars and that was one of the best to drive everything was so right. Control weights, sounds, damping, the entire experience. Probably still cheaper than a tcr too. I’d be interested to see you make a video on one of those! 👍🏻
Looks nice. A lot of money isn’t it for what it is. It would be great to do a ‘pepsi challenge’ with car reviewers and cars. There would be some interesting results when you strip away conscious and unconscious bias.
Are the oz wheels lighter than lightweight 18"? Also do you know whether akrapovic adds 10hp over 290? Because they usually do add some hp and plus TCR with that option should be lighter overall
I do like these - the grey is certainly growing on me too. Shame they're not available as a manual in my eyes but I wouldn't be surprised if I'm in the minority with that one tbh. Any idea what the Akrapovic does for the sound? I've never heard an R/GTi/TCR with it on. Potentially a silly question as well, but what are these like compared to a Cupra 290/300? We have a 290 manual pre facelift and they have DCC, 19's etc. out the box with further scope to upgrade the brakes from the factory before they facelifted them that's all.
Great review! Really wish they had imported those to the USA! Sorry to hear that the Leon and R8 have to go because they are really special, beautiful cars! Many happy miles of burbling fun in the TCR!
I can't understand why VW put them horrible material seats into the Golf R? Why not put a nice seat like these into their almost 40k "top of the range" golf R?? I feel they don't put enough styling and extras into the R for the money. A high spec Gti is a nicer car in my opinion, yes you don't get 4wd but 🤷🏼♂️ do we "really" need it in the uk?? considering 4wd is a relative newish thing on everyday cars apart from Audi 😂
neil day Well horrible may have been a little strong Neil 😂 I just think for £40k they could have been a little more adventurous on the interior that’s all 👍🏼
jimmyjt16 handy yes but I’ve had a range Vw Gti’s throughout the years and never thought to myself they needed 4wd even in the winter. That’s part of they’re charm. Plus the R’s £10k premium on the Gti do you think it’s value for money?
I’ll keep my Ed35 until I can afford a ed40 maybe?? I might just keep my Ed35 I love mk6 style so much but I’m loving the new technology I must admit. 😂
Sorry, I think I mention them more in the garage update video. They are 235/40 18 and F1s but I don't think Supersports but next ones down as don't need a track biased road tyre as I've got some semi-slick Pirelli Trofeo Rs for track. Wheels are 8J so same width and stance as OEM 19 Pretoria/Reifnitz, just more tyre profile and slightly better ride. MPG seems unusually good too.
No worries mate. I have watched the entire garage update video and i think you haven't mentioned the tiresize in particular, don't quote me on that though. I'm totally getting your point in not wanting, or even needing, to go full send on the tires since you have a spare set of wheels for the track anyway but with an Car like the TCR, i personally would just always get the best road tire for it in the needed size and that would be either the Eagle F1 Supersport or the Pilot Sport 4S in 235/40/18. Of course it probably doesn't make a whole lot of sense to do that right now for you since the tires (that are on your TCR right now) are neither crap nor they're worn much i guess but maybe the Eagle F1 Supersport or the Pilot Sport 4S in 235/40/18 is just something for you to keep in mind when you have to replace your tires in the future. They aren't much more expensive compared to the tires that sit one tier below them (regular Eagle F1 and regular PS4) anyway. I was just asking because i'm considering 235/40/18s in the future as well and it's always good to have a look at some of those on a 8j rim to get an idea of how wide things get since i have to be a bit more careful on my own car (MK5 GTI) when it comes to fitting such an size, which isn't any deal on an MK7 whatsoever, since there obviously isn't as much room for wheels as with the MK7.
Not a big fan of modern touring car racing. IMO, I rather spend 5k on abt modifications for a 245 perf, witch are VW approved and don't penalize the resale value
There isn't much in it between 2019 and 2020 Akro. I want an aftermarket Akro as it will be difference to the OEM version so should be a bit louder when you want it to be.
I am sure I did say that as it's still a concern but fuel is cheaper now and having driven the TCR on these smaller wheels and Goodyear tyres I am pleasantly surprised how economical it is. Never had the chance to try a Cupra and see what that does on my commute in the real world like I did with the TCR, if it topped 35 mpg then things might have been different. Need to try them back to back as I think TCR is a little bit more sophisticated but on paper they look pretty similar.
Indeed though way too many big trucks over the white line right across this area thanks to Bentwaters Industrial Estate and the cable work down at Bawdsey. Mk7 can feel massive, definitely not wise to have 19s out here judging by how many times I've had to go off the road on the nearside. But get a clear run and yes some great roads.
Awesome video! Check my GTI Clubsport Stage 1 tune spirited driving video on my channel! Got a resonator delete to! And CTS dowpipe coming up in the future...👍
volkswizard hi mate, seems ok now do you have any knowledge of Audi A5’s ? I have a ticking noise coming from behind the dash may be an AC issue? I’m in Birmingham not too far away from you if you can recommend any specialists local? Thanks I’m advance.
I've been thinking that today as I saw a Cupra and I am the fan the Leon. I think the TCR is a little more thoroughly engineered than the Leon. This isn't a cynical run out special, there has clearly been a lot of development work to hone this car for track using a lot of the lessons from Clubsport S. It's also quite a lot rarer and I think (though it is subjective) looks better. Also even though I don't like a lot of things about VW, it's a more prestigious brand than SEAT. But for me as a tight fisted car dealer, it might have cost me more to buy but I am pretty sure it will now lose less money over the next year or so now the first year's depreciation has already gone. I would choose a Cupra over Golf R but TCR is a bit more special than you might initially think.
Leon, even if cupra is still a seat and on value wins but there is more to it than that. Btw I’ve got a 184 leon st which is a long way off a GTD estate in everything other than boot size and has bombed money wise.
Out of curiosity I tried to turn off my ESC on my PP and to my surprise it turned it off completely like the TCR!! By doing the same holding down the button.
That's interesting Rob. Well it's possible PP has got some left in the background working that only kicks in when it's sure you are going to have a crash. When I was doing my research I am pretty sure I read that but TBH I can't completely trust what I read in magazines as sometimes the press releases are very ambiguous.
volkswizard to be honest I wouldn’t turn it off, can’t see myself doing track days etc.. It’s my daily totally stock at the moment just enjoying the fun of it without getting speeding tickets🙈😁 By the way how’s the ride with those OZ’s?
The R is just incredibly boring both to look at and drive. A GTi performance and TCR are much more engaging to drive but the R is available and having all three to choose from caters for everyones taste.
@@chrismaddison4602 You're driving the R wrong then. Its a great car and its looks are something i prefer over "OTT" Golf GTI shouty looks from Halfords parts bin.
Just watching how much your shoulders rattle up and down from the rear seat camera views makes the car look very stiff. I bet any passenger would be getting out and catching the bus 🤣
It's not the softest car but in comfort mode it's softer, normal is generally OK and Sport which I might have been in during that footage is very hard for the road. The fact it's on 18s makes it that little bit softer and acceptable, my wife hasn't complained once about the ride quality and that's usually a good sign (though she did switch from normal to comfort once 🤣)
Thats something i can add to. Got a mark on my door on my GTI Clubsport. Other than that she looks fine. Tuned and with a resonator delete so far. Check my spirited driving video at my channel... 👍
I thought that but I don't miss it now I've lived with it. Mk7 GTI/R clutches are not the best and they have this awful delay valve on the clutch pedal that takes the fun out of fast changes as the clutch doesn't release as fast you can make it normally, awful.
@@volkswizard To be fair removing the small insert in the delay valve takes around 25 minutes including bleeding. Done it on my 7 pp and feels more like a 'normal' clutch now.
Hey Harry, I think I pretty much covered that in late 2019 in a video which says "10 reasons why TCR is better than R" It put a lot of backs up because there are a lot of R owners out there but it was mainly facts, only real gain for R is 0-60 due to AWD, after that (FACT!!) it's slower 😁
Slower where? On the ring? On a track whoopydo! Great if you use the car on the track but these cars are primarily used on roads and on the British roads the R is the better all rounder and the faster car in the real world. What is it with the obsession of buying cars that are good on track?
It was in the process of being done when you saw that bit, the editing app for blurring is a TH-cam function which is a bit clunky and time consuming and takes ages to process.
The outside looks better than the GTI, I like the grey too. IMO the GTI interior is more classy. My GTI 7.5 could do with being quieter when cruising, I find the drone from the exhaust annoying at motorway speeds so I wouldn't want anything more noisey. Interesting review.
Im sorry but the GTI got respect from over 40 years of heritage, while that TCR badge definetly dont. Alot of the customers who might buy a car like this will be old enough to remember the GTI badge from way before when they were young. You gotta understand why they wanna keep that marketing... 👍
Hey Andrew great vid as always, small note though the standard 18" TCR wheels are a bit of a gem, they are forged super light (7.6kg) Belvedere/Quaranta wheels that could be originally spec'd on he Ed40. Loads lighter than the 19" Prets (9.6kg) on the PP too.
Hi Mark, I knew that when I said it, forged wheels are not to be sniffed at. Just a shame the width and offset aren't as per my 18 inch OZ but then if they were, the need to pay extra for 19s would be virtually not existent.
I think you really do good work but paying an extra 5k is a lot easier when you’re well-off, as you seem to be by looking at the number of cars you own. Most indecisive folks won’t have that luxury
Good video Andrew. If it was mine I'd paint the mirrors and wheels gloss black to match the splitter, side skirts, diffuser etc. The matt paint looks cheap.
good video so far mate. Any ideas on why people prefer buying a gti over an r when they are modifying them? Ive had a mk6 gti dsg and a mk7 gti in manual. But both were standard and were pretty boring. Cheers
I didn't know that. Maybe it's AWD related as it's quite a weight to drag around and only really helps you in standing starts, once you get going it slows you down.
I think the look of the GTI out weights the extra performance, people don’t buy the GTI for performance but for an all round package, who wants the interior of a Focus or Civic 🤢
I can’t afford a golf but I just picked up a polo gti 2000 mile 8 month old £18k. I almost went fiesta. But for 80% of my driving I would of missed the auto from my Audi. The brand draws me back
the car is really nice, but am just not feeling the wheels. the wheels for some reason just look to chunky. tires look big and am not sure if its just getting lost in the wheels or if that's what they really look like.
David, I've loved your videos esp over lockdown. With the result that I picked up a new TCR the day lockdown started just before the dealer closed. I've just run it in, 100 days later! And then I took delivery of an 07 mk5 3dr manual tartan trip GTi this week to add as a collectible. Sorry I couldn't give you the business but really appreciate your films.
Love the wheels. Really suit the TCR and I much prefer them to the VW offerings. Any details on make model and size? And while we’re at it what tyres are you rolling?
Glad you like then Roy. The wheel info is in the previous garage update video I think but here you go: OZ Ominia ET49 (?) I think 8x18 running 235 /40 18 Goodyear Eagle F1 tyres This isn't a size VW supply as it's an 18" wheel but 8 inch wide and with a 235 section tyres, two things you need to spec a 19" wheel from the factory to get. Also being 1/2 inch wider it has a greater offset which fills the arches better than stock 18s and but gives a better ride with 40 profile rather than 35 of VW's 19s.
Great video once again mate. Just wondering when the best time to buy one of these? Feel abit bitter coz they’ve gone since lockdown begain, now waiting for them to drop again. 😒
Hi Manny, did you mean to say they've gone up in price since lockdown began? The numbers on Autotrader are shrinking, was 50 when I looked last week, down from 100 a few weeks earlier. TCR seems to be going what Clubsport Edition 40 did, dealers took ages to shift them then when they did prices firmed up as supply had dried up. Big difference is no more Mk7.5 Golfs are around the corner, it's all Mk8 which many seem to hate and even if the GTI versions are good you are going to need the TCR equivalent to get the same level of performance and that will be a very very expensive car.
Very glad i went for a TCR instead of a GTI PP. Lots more car for the money. I do think it gets a bit too much attention though, as it's quite loud and striking in the grey colour.
You are right about the attention, it doesn't show dirt much either which is a shame in many ways as that can tone a car down. Are you Akrapovic or standard exhaust? Both are a bit loud TBH but still within the noise laws so not as bad as they could be.
@@volkswizard I have the akra. I think they're a similar volume (based on the videos I've seen at least- would be nice to compare in real life) but maybe the akra is a bit deeper. My car hasn't even hit 2000 miles yet though so perhaps once the exhaust is a bit more bedded in it'll be quieter. Mine is on 18" Belvedere wheels but I love those Oz wheels you have. I saw some mention of there being issues with wheel bolts, any chance of addressing that in a video at all? I'm keen to change wheels at some point!
Difference price point so no comparison - Taking that out of the equation I'd not consider an I30N as a daily as its mpg and Co2 are significantly less favourable almost like it's a different era of engine development. Yes it's cheaper but then after year 1 depreciation I reckon TCR will hold its value better and lose less, let's see. Neither car is common on UK roads which TBH is a bit weird for a VW.
@@volkswizard appreciate your point of view. And enjoy your channel mate. I'm in Australia and hear they sell i30n inclusive of service costs and a fantastic warranty. If VW had this with the golf I'd reconsider getting another.
Thanks Paul! Over shoulder shots come thanks to my oldest piece of equipment, a B Hague headrest mount. Bought for a Mk2 Golf Golf GTI 16v but after that a lot of my cars had integrated headrests bucket seat style so it got ignored for years but I use it when I can even though it's supper fiddly to fit. Another reason not to miss the option of bucket seats on TCR for me!
It’s a great angle, and nice to be able to use old kit to get the shots. Close to 20K sub great work, appreciate the videos. Look forward to the next one.
Hi Andrew, quick question - are you able to turn off the fake engine noise when in sport mode or could you do it through the individual mode when the engine is at it's most responsive setting? Thanks for another really great video.
What Harry said 👍 The soundaktor in this car is rattling intermittently which is a bit rubbish as the 2014 Rs were rattling too so you'd hope by 2019 they'd have sorted it especially as car has done just 5k miles.
I switched my M4 CS for a TCR and wouldn't swap back as it's a fantastic car. Half the price, twice as practical and almost as fast with much better brakes.
and such a RARE car lmao
Great video. I love my TCR and still watch any vids after a year of ownership. Having owned a Type R, Cayman & MK7 R I can confirm this is the most fun I’ve had driving in years and definitely worth the extra money.
The TCR definitely stands out from the rest. I’ve only ever seen one in person and I couldn’t take my eyes off it.
If they released this before i brought my R I would have gotten one.
Got
LSD Gotten is a past tense form of the verb to get. ... The past tense form of get is got; the past participle of got is gotten. A past participle is a word that's used with had, have or has. Therefore, it's perfectly acceptable to use gotten if it's being used with its companion word
I bought a deep black 4-door TCR with 19“ Pretorias and unlimited top speed as a 3.5 year old car with 40.000 kms on the clock here in Germany last year. It is a really brillant car with a clear Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hide personality. Smoothly to drive in everyday‘s traffic, always feeling the refined sportiness as well as the available power of the engine. When you start to push it, it pulls relentlessly, and if you go to the sport mode, it converts to a real animal. It reaches 285 km/h on the clock and you have literally no real opponents on the German Autobahn except, e.g, Audi RS6 etc. I chased a group of Porsche 911 on a twisty road in Southern France and it was great fun to see how you could easily keep up. Engine, chassis, breaks, seats - simply excellent. On top of this a design which still keeps me away from moving to a Golf 8 GTI.
Seen one at vw in Bristol they look and sound brilliant makes the R look very stock
Took my tcr out last night with a friend gave it a really hard push and wow! What a thing..... I actually think point to point it’s faster than my m2 lci. Great car.
I’d love to test that with @joeachilles 👍
They really are great things. Looking forward to plenty of content.... I’ve got a track day booked for Ascari end of October, and I’m debating whether to take the M2 or TCR (I’ve done plenty in the M2 before).
TCR is all u need. The clubsport was my favorite but since the tcr came out it changed. The tcr is the best golf even better than the R in my opinion. Now whit the mk8 coming out i think the tcr is the last God gti.
Even just the fact you get the full 290 PS all the time with TCR makes it for me, plus you can't spec 19s without DCC while you can on a Clubsport which really does hamper an otherwise great car on a bumpy British B road.
@@volkswizard
Yeah thats nice not needing too wait 10 seconds but u can easily fix that whit a tune and then u have all the power and some extra all time. The tcr is better looking also since it is 7.5
If i hade the choice than I would take a TCR whit a clubsport front bumper.
I have never driven the tcr but I can imagen it is similar to cupra 290 and the first time I tested the cupra 290 wow what a great car it is
Just to let you know you missed out blurring the number plate at one point in the video.
Thanks, should be sorted out now
@@volkswizard still showing reg plate at around the 8:45 point of the video
Just watched and could still see number plate at 8:45
Originally had went to look at a Tiguan back in 2015 and fell in love with a TR Gti so drove it home , fast forward to 2020 and went looking for a Tiguan and guess what ? Yup bought one of the last 5 doors Tcr off the line complete with its Akra exhaust , DCC and black roof on the flat grey and 18 inch wheels.
It’s absolutely a hoot and a month into ownership every time I look at it I smile , only 600 miles so far from run in but the potential is very obviously there .
Great report and many thanks for your continuing insight into Vw .
Thanks for you report, glad you enjoyed mine. Hope the TCR love continues👍
Great vlog as always mate 👍 . I drive a black MK5 R32 and I love it . Best car I’ve ever owned . I got it because of that 3.2 V6 and the beautiful sound it makes . 👌
I love vr6
Its interesting what you were saying about feeling bumpy in eco/normal modes.I would have though it softens the ride like the R and the Gti performance and regular Gti.
when comparing DCC equipped cars, TCR is firmer than the others because it's the most hardcore/track focused. DCC still soften the ride when you switch from Sport to ECO/Normal or Comfort but it's still firmer than the other cars. Sport mode is really firm in TCR which is fine as save that for the track, use Normal for the road as it deals with most surfaces admirably.
Great video again Andrew. Personally I’d go for the performance as I’d be worried sick about parking the TCR anywhere, especially as I have no drive or garage. Brilliant car though. Interior is lovely but prefer the tartan. Love the wheels 👍🏻
I get that Greg. I’m
Hoping being a rare 3 door it will stand out like a sore thumb in bits on eBay if it’s stolen. Integral SIM based tracker is a nice touch too. Any GTI gets stolen in Birmingham but if they need to repair a Pure grey TCR that an insurer has sold then they’ll be after a TCR only. It will happen to someone sadly
volkswizard I know it’s awful but true
I really like the wing mirror covers, it adds some contrast and matches those gorgeous wheels nicely. I've been browsing your Volkswizard website for upwards of ten years now, always drooling over your stock. On my Bucket list is to buy a car from you in my lifetime.
Cool, thanks polopowered, that's very kind of you to say, hopefully one day🤞
polopowered I can vouch for the quality and service 👍🏻
Great video Andrew and here’s to 20k + subscribers very soon :) the TCR is just wicked in this spec from the puddle lights to its DCC lowered stance and of course some great content to come I hope 🤞
Thanks as ever Malcolm, glad you like car and video👍
We have a MY20 TCR (Pure Grey and Akrapovic as it came standard on MY20) and we are very happy with it. Only issue is that ours has a sunroof and we are having problems with it. Specifically a cracked frame which appears to be a well reported illness on TCR's (with only 7,000km 😡) and very annoying ticking. Putting those issues aside which are currently being dealt with under warranty, the interior quality is fabulous, very spacious, car's very nimble and agile, and the exhaust sounds great. Must admit it's sounding better over time and hence why most comparison videos between Akra and Stock don't seem to really show the difference. Our car has 19" reifnitz and my biggest problem is tire noise at highway speeds. Cruising at 120km/h with occasional stompings on the gas, fuel consumption is at around 7.1l/100km. City driving can be at around 9-14, as it is very easy to throw it into manual mode to hear those pops and bangs. DCC in comfort is comfortable enough. But that's probably because Spanish roads are way better than UK roads 😜.Good video!!
Hey Marcelo, thanks for commenting I didn't know about the sunroof issues, does this apply to other Golfs too as surely TCR isn't any different in that areas?I wonder if the tyre noise is Pirell related?
I’ve just had my sunroof surround replaced as well, no problem with warranty. Shame as love the sunroof, really lightens cabin and great on nice days. I think there are other VW that have the problem, but there are definitely many TCR mentioned on www.golfgtiforum.co.uk
volkswizard Hey, sorry for the late reply. I can not certify that this sunroof issue applies to all golfs. The cracked frame occurs due to a lack of adhesive membrane in certain areas of the frame. Maybe all golfs are affected by this equally given that they share the same sunroof. However due to the TCR’s harsher suspension setup and larger wheels, they are more prone to cracking as the frame is dealing with larger stresses. My local Spanish dealer told me that they would not fix it under warranty as VW Spain has not made a TPI / recall for this particular issue as there are only 290 Spanish TCR’s so they haven’t really got any with the same issues yet. Doesn’t help that ours is a German import and the dealer doesn’t wanna spend money on a car that wasn’t bought through them. Quite disappointing considering that the warranty applies at a european level. We are now dealing with VW Spain directly but until then, the tcr will have the cracked frame. I found a solution for the ticking noise though. Happens because the rubber seals dry up in very hot climates and the roof doesn’t seal up completely and the glass makes a noise. Mitigated the noise by using a dry WD-40 specialist lubricant with PTFE.
a Bliss Hey, is there anywhere I can message you privately? I would like to talk to you about the whole sunroof situation. Thanks!!
Marcelo Twelve take a look on www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=286255.0
Nice video. Lovely car. I think you should try to drive a mark 3 Renaultsport Megane Trophy R, I owned one for a year and it has all of those characteristics you describe above but amplified. Stupendous damping on the ohlins too. Firm but so compliant. I’ve had a few fruity cars and that was one of the best to drive everything was so right. Control weights, sounds, damping, the entire experience. Probably still cheaper than a tcr too. I’d be interested to see you make a video on one of those! 👍🏻
Looks nice. A lot of money isn’t it for what it is. It would be great to do a ‘pepsi challenge’ with car reviewers and cars. There would be some interesting results when you strip away conscious and unconscious bias.
Are these OZ-rims 18 inch? With 235/40 or 245/40 tires? Has the TCR shorter gear-ratios?
Are the oz wheels lighter than lightweight 18"? Also do you know whether akrapovic adds 10hp over 290? Because they usually do add some hp and plus TCR with that option should be lighter overall
Seen a TCR last year in a VW showroom in this colour. Absolutely stunning. Wish i could afford one
Exhaust sounds good! I think the tips are still a bit small though. Ended up putting a Scorpion catback on my mk6, will never go back to stock now.
I do like these - the grey is certainly growing on me too. Shame they're not available as a manual in my eyes but I wouldn't be surprised if I'm in the minority with that one tbh. Any idea what the Akrapovic does for the sound? I've never heard an R/GTi/TCR with it on.
Potentially a silly question as well, but what are these like compared to a Cupra 290/300? We have a 290 manual pre facelift and they have DCC, 19's etc. out the box with further scope to upgrade the brakes from the factory before they facelifted them that's all.
So it’s the maxton design edition?
i like your videos so much! thank you! greetings from germany :)
You are welcome Rouven, viele Grusse aus England!
You enjoyed that, we could tell. 😊 Nice review as always Andrew and great to hear that the 20k subs remains on target for July.
Three doors...I’m so jealous and I love the grey paint
Great review! Really wish they had imported those to the USA! Sorry to hear that the Leon and R8 have to go because they are really special, beautiful cars! Many happy miles of burbling fun in the TCR!
Thanks Michael! Well you can only drive one car at a time and TCR does so much for so little so I won't be too sad 😊
I can't understand why VW put them horrible material seats into the Golf R?
Why not put a nice seat like these into their almost 40k "top of the range" golf R??
I feel they don't put enough styling and extras into the R for the money.
A high spec Gti is a nicer car in my opinion, yes you don't get 4wd but 🤷🏼♂️
do we "really" need it in the uk?? considering 4wd is a relative newish thing on
everyday cars apart from Audi 😂
I like my R seats tho 😌
Well considering it rains nearly every day in Britain then yes I'd say AWD is pretty handy
neil day Well horrible may have been a little strong Neil 😂 I just think for £40k they could have been a little more adventurous on the interior that’s all 👍🏼
jimmyjt16 handy yes but I’ve had a range Vw Gti’s throughout the years and never thought to myself they needed 4wd even in the winter. That’s part of they’re charm.
Plus the R’s £10k premium on the Gti do you think it’s value for money?
Great video. Always stay tuned every week. Number plate is still visible around the 8:50 mark.
Thanks for that Umar, I'll check it out, can't tell you how crap the TH-cam blurring function is! Thanks also for watching the videos each week 👍
I’ll keep my Ed35 until I can afford a ed40 maybe?? I might just keep my Ed35 I love mk6 style so much but I’m loving the new technology I must admit. 😂
Nice car Andrew, I do feel we get short changed in the UK with regard to available colours, and not just VW guilty of this
Great Video again on the Tcr .... Want one of these ....
Nice car, a real thief-magnet. I hope you have full tracker.
Are these 225/40/18 or 235/40/18 on the TCR and are those Eagle F1 Supersports? Wasn't quite manage to spot the numbers and/or labels on the tires.
Sorry, I think I mention them more in the garage update video. They are 235/40 18 and F1s but I don't think Supersports but next ones down as don't need a track biased road tyre as I've got some semi-slick Pirelli Trofeo Rs for track. Wheels are 8J so same width and stance as OEM 19 Pretoria/Reifnitz, just more tyre profile and slightly better ride. MPG seems unusually good too.
No worries mate. I have watched the entire garage update video and i think you haven't mentioned the tiresize in particular, don't quote me on that though.
I'm totally getting your point in not wanting, or even needing, to go full send on the tires since you have a spare set of wheels for the track anyway but with an Car like the TCR, i personally would just always get the best road tire for it in the needed size and that would be either the Eagle F1 Supersport or the Pilot Sport 4S in 235/40/18.
Of course it probably doesn't make a whole lot of sense to do that right now for you since the tires (that are on your TCR right now) are neither crap nor they're worn much i guess but maybe the Eagle F1 Supersport or the Pilot Sport 4S in 235/40/18 is just something for you to keep in mind when you have to replace your tires in the future. They aren't much more expensive compared to the tires that sit one tier below them (regular Eagle F1 and regular PS4) anyway.
I was just asking because i'm considering 235/40/18s in the future as well and it's always good to have a look at some of those on a 8j rim to get an idea of how wide things get since i have to be a bit more careful on my own car (MK5 GTI) when it comes to fitting such an size, which isn't any deal on an MK7 whatsoever, since there obviously isn't as much room for wheels as with the MK7.
Not a big fan of modern touring car racing. IMO, I rather spend 5k on abt modifications for a 245 perf, witch are VW approved and don't penalize the resale value
What is you opinion abouf the exhaust? My personal i thing the exhaust is better then the akro. About the sound
There isn't much in it between 2019 and 2020 Akro. I want an aftermarket Akro as it will be difference to the OEM version so should be a bit louder when you want it to be.
Keep the videos coming! 👏🏻
You got it Ross!
How times change, when you got the Leon I mentioned the cupra and you came back with an excuse about fuel consumption 😂🙈
I am sure I did say that as it's still a concern but fuel is cheaper now and having driven the TCR on these smaller wheels and Goodyear tyres I am pleasantly surprised how economical it is. Never had the chance to try a Cupra and see what that does on my commute in the real world like I did with the TCR, if it topped 35 mpg then things might have been different. Need to try them back to back as I think TCR is a little bit more sophisticated but on paper they look pretty similar.
Great video as always 👍🏽💪🏾
Another great video of a great car
Thanks Andrew 😊
Thanks you sir, again👍
Great Video! Lovely motor.
Some good driving roads to get down to the river Deben
Indeed though way too many big trucks over the white line right across this area thanks to Bentwaters Industrial Estate and the cable work down at Bawdsey. Mk7 can feel massive, definitely not wise to have 19s out here judging by how many times I've had to go off the road on the nearside. But get a clear run and yes some great roads.
Still glad I’ve got my R. Leaps and bounds above this imo.
why u tripping bruh
In love with this car
Awesome video! Check my GTI Clubsport Stage 1 tune spirited driving video on my channel! Got a resonator delete to! And CTS dowpipe coming up in the future...👍
You left the reg plate in during the vid buddy
Thanks Dylan, hopefully sorted now but if not let me know 👍
volkswizard hi mate, seems ok now do you have any knowledge of Audi A5’s ? I have a ticking noise coming from behind the dash may be an AC issue? I’m in Birmingham not too far away from you if you can recommend any specialists local? Thanks I’m advance.
Confuses me why people pay so much for these when the much nicer Leon cupra is so much cheaper
I've been thinking that today as I saw a Cupra and I am the fan the Leon. I think the TCR is a little more thoroughly engineered than the Leon. This isn't a cynical run out special, there has clearly been a lot of development work to hone this car for track using a lot of the lessons from Clubsport S. It's also quite a lot rarer and I think (though it is subjective) looks better. Also even though I don't like a lot of things about VW, it's a more prestigious brand than SEAT. But for me as a tight fisted car dealer, it might have cost me more to buy but I am pretty sure it will now lose less money over the next year or so now the first year's depreciation has already gone. I would choose a Cupra over Golf R but TCR is a bit more special than you might initially think.
Leon, even if cupra is still a seat and on value wins but there is more to it than that. Btw I’ve got a 184 leon st which is a long way off a GTD estate in everything other than boot size and has bombed money wise.
Out of curiosity I tried to turn off my ESC on my PP and to my surprise it turned it off completely like the TCR!! By doing the same holding down the button.
That's interesting Rob. Well it's possible PP has got some left in the background working that only kicks in when it's sure you are going to have a crash. When I was doing my research I am pretty sure I read that but TBH I can't completely trust what I read in magazines as sometimes the press releases are very ambiguous.
volkswizard to be honest I wouldn’t turn it off, can’t see myself doing track days etc..
It’s my daily totally stock at the moment just enjoying the fun of it without getting speeding tickets🙈😁
By the way how’s the ride with those OZ’s?
It cost to be unique
I love the tcr but them wheels do nothing for that car at all. Tires look like balloons.
Might be less good on the looks but on the driving they improve the car massively and that's more important to me 👍
volkswizard I understand 👍🏼
lovely car
👍
Someone needs a hair cut soon...... and does TCR stand for Total Control Racing?
can't see the point. Golf R every time.
10 points here 👍th-cam.com/video/xrAJ-EiHHzU/w-d-xo.html
@@volkswizard yeah saw that and for every point bar 1 thats the reason i'd take the R! Horses for courses i suppose.
The R is just incredibly boring both to look at and drive. A GTi performance and TCR are much more engaging to drive but the R is available and having all three to choose from caters for everyones taste.
@@chrismaddison4602 You're driving the R wrong then. Its a great car and its looks are something i prefer over "OTT" Golf GTI shouty looks from Halfords parts bin.
The seats on this car are vile. Its the only thing that would stop me buying this car
Got to agree with this, genuinely prefer the standard tartan in my PP.
Just watching how much your shoulders rattle up and down from the rear seat camera views makes the car look very stiff. I bet any passenger would be getting out and catching the bus 🤣
It's not the softest car but in comfort mode it's softer, normal is generally OK and Sport which I might have been in during that footage is very hard for the road. The fact it's on 18s makes it that little bit softer and acceptable, my wife hasn't complained once about the ride quality and that's usually a good sign (though she did switch from normal to comfort once 🤣)
Love your voice
Mr Calm !
I'd want sentry guns around this when parked.
Thats something i can add to. Got a mark on my door on my GTI Clubsport. Other than that she looks fine. Tuned and with a resonator delete so far. Check my spirited driving video at my channel... 👍
such a shame they didn't offer a manual option on this
I thought that but I don't miss it now I've lived with it. Mk7 GTI/R clutches are not the best and they have this awful delay valve on the clutch pedal that takes the fun out of fast changes as the clutch doesn't release as fast you can make it normally, awful.
@@volkswizard To be fair removing the small insert in the delay valve takes around 25 minutes including bleeding. Done it on my 7 pp and feels more like a 'normal' clutch now.
That interior looks great, I've got a mk 7.5 R and could definitely do with a bit of that interior. Shame they made the R a bit bland!
great video, would you do a video on if the golf R is worth more than the TCR?
Hey Harry, I think I pretty much covered that in late 2019 in a video which says "10 reasons why TCR is better than R"
It put a lot of backs up because there are a lot of R owners out there but it was mainly facts, only real gain for R is 0-60 due to AWD, after that (FACT!!) it's slower 😁
Slower where? On the ring? On a track whoopydo! Great if you use the car on the track but these cars are primarily used on roads and on the British roads the R is the better all rounder and the faster car in the real world.
What is it with the obsession of buying cars that are good on track?
jimmyjt16 how’s your head this morning? Lucozade and a sausage bap should sort your hangover out.
why did you haze the reg out in the first section and then not in later sections?
It was in the process of being done when you saw that bit, the editing app for blurring is a TH-cam function which is a bit clunky and time consuming and takes ages to process.
This is the best looking golf EVER made.
This and the Edition 30 MK5 GTi
This, the Ed30 and Ed40 (and CSS).
This and the Skoda Leon
The outside looks better than the GTI, I like the grey too.
IMO the GTI interior is more classy.
My GTI 7.5 could do with being quieter when cruising, I find the drone from the exhaust annoying at motorway speeds so I wouldn't want anything more noisey.
Interesting review.
The interior of the Golf 7 is so lovely...
They really did get it right on the 7. It’s always a nice place to be
Would be better if the done away with all the GTI badges and just made them all TCR ones
Im sorry but the GTI got respect from over 40 years of heritage, while that TCR badge definetly dont. Alot of the customers who might buy a car like this will be old enough to remember the GTI badge from way before when they were young. You gotta understand why they wanna keep that marketing... 👍
Very true . Your comment makes a lot of sense .
Hey Andrew great vid as always, small note though the standard 18" TCR wheels are a bit of a gem, they are forged super light (7.6kg) Belvedere/Quaranta wheels that could be originally spec'd on he Ed40. Loads lighter than the 19" Prets (9.6kg) on the PP too.
Hi Mark, I knew that when I said it, forged wheels are not to be sniffed at. Just a shame the width and offset aren't as per my 18 inch OZ but then if they were, the need to pay extra for 19s would be virtually not existent.
Mark Chan got em exactly because of this... a no brainer
I love my tcr defo better than a performance, mine a 69 in Tornado red with DCC and akrapovic 👌🏼
I think you really do good work but paying an extra 5k is a lot easier when you’re well-off, as you seem to be by looking at the number of cars you own. Most indecisive folks won’t have that luxury
Good video Andrew. If it was mine I'd paint the mirrors and wheels gloss black to match the splitter, side skirts, diffuser etc. The matt paint looks cheap.
That's a good idea, all it needs is a nice coat of deep black or whatever the roof is.
Exhaust sound good.Even without the Akrapovic.
Is this jeremy fragrances brother from the uk thats in to cars?
I think its mint..period!..Lets hope in the next 5 yrs..shitty electric cars haven't taken over. This is..and should be the future of VW....
good video so far mate. Any ideas on why people prefer buying a gti over an r when they are modifying them? Ive had a mk6 gti dsg and a mk7 gti in manual. But both were standard and were pretty boring. Cheers
I didn't know that. Maybe it's AWD related as it's quite a weight to drag around and only really helps you in standing starts, once you get going it slows you down.
I think the look of the GTI out weights the extra performance, people don’t buy the GTI for performance but for an all round package, who wants the interior of a Focus or Civic 🤢
Not for me , hoping to purchase a 5 door manual Isaac blue GTI Performance and as much as people disagree 5 door does look better than 3
LSD I agree 5 door looks better .
I agree, 5 door looks great
Isaac blue is a lovely colour
a Bliss thanks, I did get it and you’re right, it is 👍🏻
Hi LSD I've got an Isaac Blue Performance on order! How are you finding it?
Need hair cut
I can’t afford a golf but I just picked up a polo gti 2000 mile 8 month old £18k. I almost went fiesta. But for 80% of my driving I would of missed the auto from my Audi. The brand draws me back
Unique colour or not still wouldn't have this colour very similar to Audi's Nardo Grey....19s need to go back on,The interior looks very nice indeed
The subtle glee when you downshift and get some exhaust pops...
the car is really nice, but am just not feeling the wheels. the wheels for some reason just look to chunky. tires look big and am not sure if its just getting lost in the wheels or if that's what they really look like.
David, I've loved your videos esp over lockdown. With the result that I picked up a new TCR the day lockdown started just before the dealer closed. I've just run it in, 100 days later! And then I took delivery of an 07 mk5 3dr manual tartan trip GTi this week to add as a collectible. Sorry I couldn't give you the business but really appreciate your films.
Stunning car, the 3 door is the one I bought. The chassis, engine and interior for me make this car look sublime.
You get what you pay for I would be happy with a regular gti
What modifications do you think are needed to get suspension like the Clubsport S and eradicate wheel hop?
Great looking car....can’t see it being topped based on the state of the 8.
Comfort mode isnt comfortable ! lol Modern scourge of hot hatches.
Love the wheels. Really suit the TCR and I much prefer them to the VW offerings. Any details on make model and size? And while we’re at it what tyres are you rolling?
Glad you like then Roy. The wheel info is in the previous garage update video I think but here you go:
OZ Ominia ET49 (?) I think 8x18 running 235 /40 18 Goodyear Eagle F1 tyres
This isn't a size VW supply as it's an 18" wheel but 8 inch wide and with a 235 section tyres, two things you need to spec a 19" wheel from the factory to get. Also being 1/2 inch wider it has a greater offset which fills the arches better than stock 18s and but gives a better ride with 40 profile rather than 35 of VW's 19s.
Great video once again mate. Just wondering when the best time to buy one of these? Feel abit bitter coz they’ve gone since lockdown begain, now waiting for them to drop again. 😒
Hi Manny, did you mean to say they've gone up in price since lockdown began? The numbers on Autotrader are shrinking, was 50 when I looked last week, down from 100 a few weeks earlier. TCR seems to be going what Clubsport Edition 40 did, dealers took ages to shift them then when they did prices firmed up as supply had dried up. Big difference is no more Mk7.5 Golfs are around the corner, it's all Mk8 which many seem to hate and even if the GTI versions are good you are going to need the TCR equivalent to get the same level of performance and that will be a very very expensive car.
Very glad i went for a TCR instead of a GTI PP. Lots more car for the money. I do think it gets a bit too much attention though, as it's quite loud and striking in the grey colour.
You are right about the attention, it doesn't show dirt much either which is a shame in many ways as that can tone a car down. Are you Akrapovic or standard exhaust? Both are a bit loud TBH but still within the noise laws so not as bad as they could be.
@@volkswizard I have the akra. I think they're a similar volume (based on the videos I've seen at least- would be nice to compare in real life) but maybe the akra is a bit deeper. My car hasn't even hit 2000 miles yet though so perhaps once the exhaust is a bit more bedded in it'll be quieter.
Mine is on 18" Belvedere wheels but I love those Oz wheels you have. I saw some mention of there being issues with wheel bolts, any chance of addressing that in a video at all? I'm keen to change wheels at some point!
Johnson i am keen to purchase your 18” Belvedere when you are ready to change wheels at some point.
I’ve been driving it for a year and it doesn’t seem to get that much attention. Genuinely my 90’s VWs get way more attention on the drive
I am the 300th one to like
I love the wheels. The rest I’d have to experience it myself to see whether it’s worth the extra $$
I'm just glad you like the wheels Faride!
Hello. Is it not possible to drag race them between the golf 7, clubsport or the gti 35 edition,
Ask Mat Watson at Car Wow to do it, I'll bring the TCR. I think VW UK have got an Edition 35 and a Clubsport S (but not a Clubsport Edition 40).
@@volkswizard thank you so much. I really appreciate the response. I shall ask him on his channel. I do own a 35 edition but I live in South Africa.
I think the real question is are either worth more than the i30n? Bring on the hate VW fanboys.
Difference price point so no comparison - Taking that out of the equation I'd not consider an I30N as a daily as its mpg and Co2 are significantly less favourable almost like it's a different era of engine development. Yes it's cheaper but then after year 1 depreciation I reckon TCR will hold its value better and lose less, let's see. Neither car is common on UK roads which TBH is a bit weird for a VW.
@@volkswizard appreciate your point of view. And enjoy your channel mate. I'm in Australia and hear they sell i30n inclusive of service costs and a fantastic warranty. If VW had this with the golf I'd reconsider getting another.
Great video, love the stance of the TCR. Liking the use of the over shoulder shots. Looks the perfect all rounder.
Thanks Paul! Over shoulder shots come thanks to my oldest piece of equipment, a B Hague headrest mount. Bought for a Mk2 Golf Golf GTI 16v but after that a lot of my cars had integrated headrests bucket seat style so it got ignored for years but I use it when I can even though it's supper fiddly to fit. Another reason not to miss the option of bucket seats on TCR for me!
It’s a great angle, and nice to be able to use old kit to get the shots. Close to 20K sub great work, appreciate the videos. Look forward to the next one.
Hi Andrew, quick question - are you able to turn off the fake engine noise when in sport mode or could you do it through the individual mode when the engine is at it's most responsive setting? Thanks for another really great video.
Just plug it into vagcom and set the soundaktor volume to 0
What Harry said 👍 The soundaktor in this car is rattling intermittently which is a bit rubbish as the 2014 Rs were rattling too so you'd hope by 2019 they'd have sorted it especially as car has done just 5k miles.
I had to turn mine off in my R....i hated that fake noise so much.
Obdeleven is Magic and a fraction of the cost of VAGcom
As always am enjoyable and informative video !
Glad you enjoyed it Osaf👍