You talked about a professional setting lap times throughout the entire video... but we never got his take on things and y'all never gave the lap times!!
Lol I have an 18 STI and the clutch pedal / shifter / stock suspension are the most easy going / comfortable aspects of the car. The clutch is soft and easy to depress, with a good catch point. The shifter is renowned for being mechnical feeling but smooth and accurate, especially the STI transmission. Lastly, for a "track" car with 19s, it's incredibly smooth and comfortable to drive. It's not bone jarring and I actually enjoy my 30 minute daily commute.
I'm not surprised. Results. 4th. Golf R :1:25.97 3rd. Sti. 1:25.39 2nd. 1:22.81 1st. Type R 1:22.45 The only reason not to get the type r is because it lacks awd. That's the one and only advantage the others have over it. This shows you how the American vs japanese approach... American just jam more power in there.. meanwhile the japanese..light weighting/aero and clever engineering
mikepartyboy it all depends on how you look at it. For climates with bad weather most of the time I would get an awd car but if you only get snow a few times a year you'll be fine with that lsd.
"Americans just jam more power in there"... Not really giving the Focus a fair shake there. I would't buy one personally but chalking it up as little more than a modern muscle car, where Ford just tossed power at it is far from true.
Info like "the wrx will shake in 2nd at low rpm, vs the RS that can go down to idle no problem," is what separates Autoguide from the other guys. Keep it going!
9:40 Incorrect buddy. It's made for going down a snowy, muddy, slippery rally stage!! Bring these 4 cars out to the STI's territory, and do another comparison... You'll be shocked to know HOW GOOD a STI actually is!
The sti is possibly one of the best handling cars and one of the quickest accelerating cars there is. Trust me I own one. Having driven many others I keep on coming back to the WRX STI
Difficult to live with, lol. I'm now 40 and I drove my 07 sti everywhere. Took it 1k miles away to Florida, everywhere. Car feels like a tank, raw as hell. Now I have a 17 wrx. You people complain so much, I can tell subie' s have changed. This sex is softer though corners better then the old sti
Yea man I loved the feel of my 05 STi in everyway. You could feel every part of the car through the shifter, pedals, steering wheel etc. You know what I mean, you could actually feel the torque and power. The newer ones going as far back as 2008 even completely changed the feel and numbed down the driving experience to make the car as a whole feel soft. I wish they still looked and felt like the 2005 STi its a shame. Instead of getting a newer STi I’m buying an 17 Nitrous Blue Focus RS because it seems like more of a drivers car than anything else out there in that price range. The Type R seems like a sweet ass car, and I still haven’t actually driven one yet, but the fact that it’s a civic means that I don’t even consider it as an option unfortunately. I like unique cars that a great at the same time and are as uncommon on the road as possible. Even though the type r’s are still pretty rare at this point because of being new and expensive... it’s only a matter of time before they are just as common as the newer Civic Si’s are out on the road. They must be pumping out really high production numbers that I can tell already. Google civic type r’s for sale and look how many damn listings there are already compared to the RS or Golf R. (Yes I know the RS wasn’t produced last year)
Great comparison video, may I make a suggestion? I think the video can be improved by dividing the screen into 4 and adding the track pov from each car, posting the lap times at the end and then having your driver make some comments.
i dont understand, why are they comparing the civic to 3 sports cars. the civic is FWD, its not a sports car. its a "sporty" car, but not a "sports" car, very big difference ffs.
They didn't tell us the lap times? I feel like these guys are biased towards the type r because it's the newest and way overhyped. Dealerships are adding 5k plus to the Msrp. No thanks
Type R is a great car, probably the most well-rounded (minus the outside styling being over the top) with one caveat. It's a summer car. Any one of the other three will literally drive circles around the Type R come winter. If you want a three-season or a summer car, the Type R is your winner. Otherwise, the RS or Golf R takes the crown for a year-round daily driver IMHO.
biggest problem of the type r to me is its only a 4 seater. why make it a 4dr if a family cant even sit in it? also hondas have some quality issues that i have seen. those seats are the most comfortable i have ever sat in. the performance numbers are hard to argue with. if i had my way, put the front seats and pricetag of the type R into the Focus RS and its the perfect car
They are all good cars I'm sure. But I would pick the sti purely for it's unique sound and flawless awd. All the others just sound like any other 4cyl out there. The sti is also the most usable space wise as it is the largest.
you’ve never been in or around an RS then. The sti does have a unique and iconic sound but only any good with aftermarket modification. The focus sounds incredible in sport or track mode straight from the factory, pops and crackles and really makes you feel like your part of the drive.
The type R looks like a 15 year old went to pep boys and bought all the discount fake vents and then designed a car around them. I don't care how the type R rides or drives it looks like garbage.
“You buy these cars for practicality 16:16” said nobody ever. I didn’t buy my STI because I wanna have 4 doors and be able to store a couch in the rear. I bought it cause it’s fun to drive. You want practicality get the focus SE lmao
Looks: The Type R wins, hands down, it's a beauty from every angle! The VW, jeez, how lazy,..just a boring Golf. The Ford: I don't like the front grill,..looks like a carp. The WRX,..also looks great,..just not exceptionally fantastic like the Honda.
The Type R hard to beat, except during the 5+ months of winter in Canada when the FWD makes it pathetic to drive spiritedly as a daily. I've done the performance FWD game before and it is not fun at all in snow and ice even with proper winter tires. All of the other cars with embarrass Honda's offering in anything but beautiful sunny weather. Also, I watched this video expecting a proper detailed track test like you've done in the past and got a bunch of generic observations that have been beaten to death a thousand times. Thumbs down.
The transmission in the STi isn't "clunky" it's rod actuated vs cables. It's an incredibly strong transmission does doesn't need any modifications until you've basically doubled the horsepower of the car. The only part of the drive train that is a let down is the engine. That's not because it was a bad engine when it came out, it's because it came out two decades ago. Subaru had basically given up on the STi after 2015 (maybe sooner), and it remained on life support for another 6 years. That said, it's still one of the best driving experiences you can have nowadays, considering how numb everything has become.
Just purchased the RS this week. What a hooligan to drive! I tried to test drive the VW and Civic. Unfortunately, the dealers wanted thousands above sticker price and wanted me to buy the car untested; NO THANK YOU! Honestly, this car is sooooo much fun to drive. Say what you will about the drift (haven't used it at all), the car wants you to push it. I disagree with the commentator. The seats are super comfortable for me (I am 180lbs and 5'10"). The ride is stiff, but I prefer analog feeling of a tight suspension. It's not terrible to drive daily...the harder you push, the more it rewards you.
RS owner here. I gotta admit, at stock power, the Type R will destroy the RS at a rolling start. Look at the dynograph of these cars in stock form and you'll see where each car's fun zone is. Torque for getting off the line and out of turns, HP for top end speed and freeway pulls. The RS has torque to sell, but its main weakness is the total lack of HP at the top end. From a dead stop, the RS will take out most similar cars except for the Mercedes g0d-hatch that costs obscene amounts of money. Past 2nd gear, the RS falls behind as other cars seem to have a power curve that falls off less at high RPM. Over all I completely agree with the Autoguide review, but I wouldn't call any car "best" or "worst". Each of these beautiful cars has something to offer that the others don't. I will dare to suggest the RS and Type R are tied on the track and it comes down to the driver AND the tires. I personally don't think my little heavy pig of an RS is "better" than the guy in his Type R looking to "take me down". But give me the choice and I'll get in a RS every time. What we have here is a duel along the lines of the Japanese Zero vs. American Wildcat (and I am in no way promoting war or the loss of life in WW2, just making a mechanical comparison of two pacific fighter planes. Respect to Vets). All things being equal and no mods, I love the fact you can get the same result from a FWD car compared to the RS. I love variety and friendly competition. "For the love of cars" I always say. WARNING- Personal opinion: The RS has a stiff ride but I prefer to feel the road. The clutch is easy to feather and actuate. I drive daily in Drift mode as it makes the tail happy aspect of the RS easier to predict and avoids over confidence. It snows where I live and the AWD is the most fun in Drift mode I have ever had. True rally style nose to apex drifts around turns from a stock car with snow tires. =D The car absolutely LOVES to rotate on the road right at the apex of a turn and the car really shows its purpose in the tight technical tracks. Powering out of a turn in second or third gear, mid-RPM is what the RS was made for and I think it does it better than any other similar car. The power band for the RS is right in the middle where you spend most of your time on and off the track. The turbo spools QUICK and power stays constant with no spikes or surprise blasts of HP to throw you in the bushes mid turn. 1/4 mile times, "peak" hp/torque numbers, and top speeds skew the arm chair gamer crowd to crown certain cars "hottest hatch of all time". In the end, it comes down to what you want in a car. I picked the RS after test driving other cars for its not-too-boring-I-call-it-subtle looks, hatch back functionality, and mid power torque, laser sharp turn in response, and slick AWD offering that has some techno-nannies to keep me out of trouble, but not over the top assists that I learn bad habits like in the Type R.
Subaru interior is much better than the shitty focus, don't know why everyone jumps on the shit interior bandwagon with Subaru, really upped their game with the latest STI.
I wouldn't call the Golf R's styling boring at all. It's premium. And has a very high build quality. It's also the only car built for adults. The RS, Type-R, and STI look like they are made for kids.
With the insane dealer markups on the Type R i would have to knock it down a notch because now your spending an extra 10-15k more than the other cars cost...if the Subaru would undercut the others by 5k or so i think people would go for the old school look of the WRX and still be a good racer if needed lol
I have gone from that scooby to the fk8 and now the fk8 type r... And they are much better then the subaru... Think if you need the 4x4 drive then go for the ford
What about a comparison of the next level down: Focus ST, civic SI, GTI and WRX? I'm sure a lot of us would find that interested...and anyone else who can not afford the top line cars.
@@Veexd13 unrelated but do you think it is safe; same meaning under almost all circumstances a AP v.3 stage 1 is safe, as long as I drive the wrx long enough to where it would've likely rqn into issues if it was going to.say I put 5-8 or may be 7-10 k miles 9n it, then do, a stage 1? Would you do this to your car under warranty confidently?
Thats not what I was referring to. I asked why you didn't show the actual hot laps for each car, not the lap times. Could have been a 6 minute video showing all 4 cars doing a lap. Instead its just a bunch of pieced together information.
Pity that the test did include the old Golf R only, not the facelifted version with the stronger engine, new Haldex AWD configuration and 7 speed dual clutch automatic. It is quite a difference from the previous version shown here.
You implied at the beginning that you would compare track times but you did not. You didn't even give them a track rating, let alone the hard numbers. Your impressions and opinions can be useful but they don't tell the complete story for many people who might be shopping in this market.
How this guy can say the STI has "the most unattractive interior of the bunch" while the Focus RS is in the "bunch" is absolutely beyond me. The Focus RS' interior is the entire reason I won't buy one. I can't imagine hopping in that thing every day without feeling like I'd made a huge mistake.
One HUGE thing that was left out was the fact that these are tuner cars. People like to turn up the boost. I wonder how the type R's driving dynamics would change with more HP/TQ since it's FWD
Trevon Adams You're right. While that is true, the thing to consider is that the other platforms will put more power/traction to the ground. I do think honda perfected the fwd sportscar, from what I've seen.
Were the lap time an average lap time or a one off run? I've see other reviews that go back in forth between the Type R and the RS with respect to lap times.
Great video. Golf R is my fave, the interiors are great. The 2018 has the 7 speed DSG. The 2018 Euro spec GTI though would tempting but we in the US are none gonna them, just the current GTI but with extra 10hp, on all models. Thing is why buy these when u could lease RWD, ATS, Giulia, XE, or the upcoming Stinger.
Type R is most balance of performance and comfort. Exterior and interior is subjective, but not performance. Check out the Car and Driver 2017 Ford Focus review , where it stacks against the same competitors, the numbers don't lie.
AutoGuide has a good set of reviewers for this one. Keep it up guys. Although Craig must not like the Focus RS because he looks like he is fighting falling asleep while driving. Honda manuals are always the best.
They charged me $60k for the type R here in California. The lowest offer I got after calling 24 Honda Dealerships was $54k our the door. I guess it depends on where you live. The associates I’ve met so far were all ass holes and mentioned they did not care about hitting their quota. So I decided after the long search it was really not worth paying $60k for a Civic. In all honesty most Honda Dealerships praise the Type R as if it was a GTR or something. If you’re going to pay that kind of money for a civic, you’re better off going for a Corvette or even a Shelby Gt500. Maybe even an AUDI S3? ... Anyways, just my personal opinion.
For me, the Focus RS is the winner, although I haven't driving the latest Civic. People moan about the Focus interior - yes, it's cheap and plastic. People moan about the lack of legroom in the back and the lack of boot space. Yeah? So what. I buy hot hatches for the driving experience and for it putting a smile on my face, the feel of the ride. The others are undoubtedly nicer inside and perhaps more comfortable, but for me the Focus is the winner because it wins in the most important category of all - the fun of driving it.
When dealerships of Honda mark it up $11k above MSRP it’s totally destroyed by its competitors. I’m sure the Type R is the best of the four, but it’s in a totally different price point with these ridiculous mark ups. It’s 2020 and the mark up is still there.
Autgoguide please enlighten me as to how a 4 seater is more practical than a 5 seater.... I have 2 kids, my wife and I have room to spare for an extra passenger in the Focus, please tell how that isn't far more practical than having just 4 seats... that and you guys tested the Focus with the base wheels and not with the forged/cup2 package which would significantly change things on the track... anyway a good review none the less but I just think a few points were sadly missed..
The Honda Civic Type R is the best of all than it’s competitors, It destroys the competition, so I will prefer the civic type r over the sti, focus rs, or golf r. It’s cheaper than the focus rs and golf r, but the sti is the same price as the type r. So for my money I’ll take the civic type r because it’s more convenient for me of it’s practically and interior and seats and fuel economy unlike the sti.
Great line up of cars! I LOVE this segment of cars because they give people who are not uber rich access to some driving fun. I am LOVING my Honda Civic Type R and applaud Honda for keeping the hot hatch alive . Now in 2020 the landscape has changed. Ford has killed off the Ford Focus RS and the future of the Golf R is questionable. Subaru is going strong and for the first time has given NA an AMAZING manual only WRX STI S209. Honda is going strong not only with the manual only Type R but is set to release a Limited version of the Type R as well for 2021. Also Hyundai has entered the market with the very capable, fun and great sounding Veloster N. If we want these amazing cars to continue to be built we have to buy them or they will go the way of the RS. I did with my Type R and it really is one of the best cars I have ever owned. I'm a husband and a father but I was determined not to get a boring commuter car and now even my wife and daughter are car enthusiasts. This is how we keep the car enthusiast passion alive.
If you don't choose the RS as the favorite you're either doing it wrong, no one knows who you are, you're wrong, or all of the above. Seriously, every major car review company has chosen the Rs. Because at the end of the day you buy these cars because of the performance not because its too stiff of a ride.
Even if this thing sells at msrp you still got tax, license and fees which comes up to be around 42k. And the focus rs is selling for 43k in cali which doesnt include tax and fees. Ill take the type r over that.
Michael Dodson I’m getting my first car this summer and I can’t choose between a wrx or type r. I really love the wrx but I feel like I get more for my money if I get a type r. How do you like it so far?
Kellz, I love it. The type R is pure fun to drive, and it draws a lot of attention. It is everything a car should be, it handles unbelievable, and its faster than F..K. The R is short on creature comforts where the WRX will win in that category, one of my good friends has one and I drove it as well. The upkeep on the R is also going to cost probably twice as much with the Brembo breaks, the 20 inch tires, but as far as I'm concerned there is no choice. Kellz BUY THE R if you can get your hands on one. PS for a first car you might live longer in the WRX. Hope this helps. Mike
jesus its pure type r advert.... also i might not like it but golf is way better that they show it here, only cars that matter here is RS and STI type r is good because it has softer settings? and GOD DAMN STI GEARBOX is a beast... stall sti because clutch? lol learn to drive stick... who is sponsoring this crap... im a year late but oh well.
Does no one else see just how hideous the Honda is? Regardless of how impressive it is on a track I don't think the looks would ever grow on me sorry Honda fans just being honest.
Yea no one can really say that the Type R is a beauty (I hate that rear end) but for this one, I'd take the Honda as a daily driver and for the Sunday track.
The introduction makes it sound like an episode of Iron Chef... Who's cuisine will reign supreme? I just thought it was funny but I enjoy most of your reviews.
Disappointed with the STi, had one in 2004 when they first came out. Not a good looking car....and they didn't seem to address the oil pickup tube...even after 14 years. Most impressive is the Honda Civic Type R to me. Build quality and value.
I just “don’t get it ..... where the heck do you use all this “speed and handling” ????? Every place I go there are cars (and speed limits) all over the place .... I have a 2018 Camry LE with a 203 hp 4 cylinder that does 0 to 60 in 7.9 seconds and cost me $20,175 plus a $799 dealer fee (ripoff) but when you’re getting a $25,000 for under $21,000 you just “pay it” .... by the way, it’s smooth, quiet, roomy and comfortable .... oh yeah did I mention 39 mpg on the highway (I’ve gotten as high as 44)
Used to have a chipped Focus ST - great fun to drive ! Had to switch to an automatic for my wife, picked the Golf GTI, found it totally boring in comparison. Soooo...Golf R is now on order. Civic type R may be more fun, but for someone who's now the wrong side of 50 it looks utterly ridiculous !! Plus neither it nor the RS have an automatic option.
You live in the U.S. Who give a shit what people think? This nation was found upon principles of objecting the norms. If I cared what people always though about my actions I'd probably already have hanged myself. You will always offend someone no matter what you do. Obey the norms and people see you as a stereotype. Break the norms and you will stand out as inconsistent. So choose whatever you want regardless of what others say or think.
All this hate to be honest I don't think you can go wrong buying any of these great new super eco cars.
"big ass spoiler" - autoguide mom
You talked about a professional setting lap times throughout the entire video... but we never got his take on things and y'all never gave the lap times!!
Lol I have an 18 STI and the clutch pedal / shifter / stock suspension are the most easy going / comfortable aspects of the car. The clutch is soft and easy to depress, with a good catch point. The shifter is renowned for being mechnical feeling but smooth and accurate, especially the STI transmission. Lastly, for a "track" car with 19s, it's incredibly smooth and comfortable to drive. It's not bone jarring and I actually enjoy my 30 minute daily commute.
I'm not surprised.
Results.
4th. Golf R :1:25.97
3rd. Sti. 1:25.39
2nd. 1:22.81
1st. Type R 1:22.45
The only reason not to get the type r is because it lacks awd. That's the one and only advantage the others have over it.
This shows you how the American vs japanese approach... American just jam more power in there.. meanwhile the japanese..light weighting/aero and clever engineering
Fadi Najor awd is the diadvantage the other cars have.
mikepartyboy it all depends on how you look at it. For climates with bad weather most of the time I would get an awd car but if you only get snow a few times a year you'll be fine with that lsd.
"Americans just jam more power in there"... Not really giving the Focus a fair shake there. I would't buy one personally but chalking it up as little more than a modern muscle car, where Ford just tossed power at it is far from true.
Fadi Najor the civic type R is way too ugly to be an option
Fadi Najor also the focus RS is German
i drive a subaru, but the TYPE R pretty much checks every box of wins.
It was great seeing the whole team working together on this comparison. You've got some awesome people at AG
Info like "the wrx will shake in 2nd at low rpm, vs the RS that can go down to idle no problem," is what separates Autoguide from the other guys. Keep it going!
9:40 Incorrect buddy. It's made for going down a snowy, muddy, slippery rally stage!! Bring these 4 cars out to the STI's territory, and do another comparison... You'll be shocked to know HOW GOOD a STI actually is!
I'll stay with Subaru or tesla. You people always say easy to live with, lmao. If I want comfort I'll buy a lexus
You got that right !
The sti is possibly one of the best handling cars and one of the quickest accelerating cars there is. Trust me I own one. Having driven many others I keep on coming back to the WRX STI
Mehroz Ahmed Do try the Type r I have own a 2016 sit and the type r is just superior and more smooth when you want it to be
And the type r and rs just handles better... lol
Mazda need to get Mazda 3 speed back
True
Difficult to live with, lol. I'm now 40 and I drove my 07 sti everywhere. Took it 1k miles away to Florida, everywhere. Car feels like a tank, raw as hell. Now I have a 17 wrx. You people complain so much, I can tell subie' s have changed. This sex is softer though corners better then the old sti
Shawn Moses That soft corner sex
T’s Life gets me every time
Yea man I loved the feel of my 05 STi in everyway. You could feel every part of the car through the shifter, pedals, steering wheel etc. You know what I mean, you could actually feel the torque and power. The newer ones going as far back as 2008 even completely changed the feel and numbed down the driving experience to make the car as a whole feel soft. I wish they still looked and felt like the 2005 STi its a shame. Instead of getting a newer STi I’m buying an 17 Nitrous Blue Focus RS because it seems like more of a drivers car than anything else out there in that price range. The Type R seems like a sweet ass car, and I still haven’t actually driven one yet, but the fact that it’s a civic means that I don’t even consider it as an option unfortunately. I like unique cars that a great at the same time and are as uncommon on the road as possible. Even though the type r’s are still pretty rare at this point because of being new and expensive... it’s only a matter of time before they are just as common as the newer Civic Si’s are out on the road. They must be pumping out really high production numbers that I can tell already. Google civic type r’s for sale and look how many damn listings there are already compared to the RS or Golf R. (Yes I know the RS wasn’t produced last year)
Great comparison video, may I make a suggestion? I think the video can be improved by dividing the screen into 4 and adding the track pov from each car, posting the lap times at the end and then having your driver make some comments.
Lap times are at the very start of each segment.
Subie for life 🔥🔥🔥
Honda Civic Type-R is the most hype car of the year!No doubt!🔰🔰🔰👏👏👏
Eh. Not at all. Ford Focus RS with an AWD system, 350 horsepower, its just... better.
chart at the end with track times all lined up would've been really nice
i dont understand, why are they comparing the civic to 3 sports cars. the civic is FWD, its not a sports car.
its a "sporty" car, but not a "sports" car, very big difference ffs.
Sad thing is most millenials who grew up playing Gran Turismo in the late 90s and early 2000's aren't making enough money to spend $35k+ on a car.
People who complaint about the missing lap times most likely FF thru it; they're all there.
With the Golf R your neighbours will think that you bought a boring 85 hp Golf your wife for half the price. That can be considered good or bad....
Not a fan of the Golf R look compared to the other three cars.
sorry but the civic doesnt look like it wants to be a civic any more. rather a fake wrx sti to me.
They didn't tell us the lap times? I feel like these guys are biased towards the type r because it's the newest and way overhyped. Dealerships are adding 5k plus to the Msrp. No thanks
Gabriel Fuoco all the lap times are here: www.autoguide.com/car-comparisons/sport-compact-comparison-civic-type-r-vs-wrx-sti-vs-golf-r-vs-focus-rs#
Exactly, I thought I was missing something. What were the lap times?
TheNokiaLumia if you love driving any of these would be a great car
They were where the stats of the cars where.. Look of the bottom when they introduce every car.
Gabriel Fuoco times are on car intro. Far as bias, overrated it is the fastest... Period
Type R is a great car, probably the most well-rounded (minus the outside styling being over the top) with one caveat. It's a summer car. Any one of the other three will literally drive circles around the Type R come winter. If you want a three-season or a summer car, the Type R is your winner. Otherwise, the RS or Golf R takes the crown for a year-round daily driver IMHO.
Favorite one is the Focus, i wish i could afford it 😁 I respect Subaru for staying old school.
It feels like Honda's paying them to say this. Because this is the only time I seem some one say the Type R was the better car.
wrong
Gotta love the sour people who either say they’ve been paid or it’s been staged when a Honda is classified the better car
The STi only really comes alive when you install those inevitable mods. I can say from experience. I like the Type-R tho, and want to drive one.
You guys have stepped up your game recently. You're operating at the same level as MotorTrend now. Well done.
biggest problem of the type r to me is its only a 4 seater. why make it a 4dr if a family cant even sit in it? also hondas have some quality issues that i have seen. those seats are the most comfortable i have ever sat in. the performance numbers are hard to argue with. if i had my way, put the front seats and pricetag of the type R into the Focus RS and its the perfect car
You never said which car was faster on the track. You mentioned the professional driver but you never said which car was best.
They are all good cars I'm sure. But I would pick the sti purely for it's unique sound and flawless awd. All the others just sound like any other 4cyl out there. The sti is also the most usable space wise as it is the largest.
you’ve never been in or around an RS then. The sti does have a unique and iconic sound but only any good with aftermarket modification. The focus sounds incredible in sport or track mode straight from the factory, pops and crackles and really makes you feel like your part of the drive.
The type R looks like a 15 year old went to pep boys and bought all the discount fake vents and then designed a car around them. I don't care how the type R rides or drives it looks like garbage.
Type R all day every DAY...
“You buy these cars for practicality 16:16” said nobody ever. I didn’t buy my STI because I wanna have 4 doors and be able to store a couch in the rear. I bought it cause it’s fun to drive. You want practicality get the focus SE lmao
Looks: The Type R wins, hands down, it's a beauty from every angle! The VW, jeez, how lazy,..just a boring Golf. The Ford: I don't like the front grill,..looks like a carp. The WRX,..also looks great,..just not exceptionally fantastic like the Honda.
Happy with my Subie. All these cars are great
I put 18's on my type r for the winter and it's been extremely comfortable as a daily. The 20s were harsh but the handling was phenomenal
The Type R hard to beat, except during the 5+ months of winter in Canada when the FWD makes it pathetic to drive spiritedly as a daily. I've done the performance FWD game before and it is not fun at all in snow and ice even with proper winter tires. All of the other cars with embarrass Honda's offering in anything but beautiful sunny weather.
Also, I watched this video expecting a proper detailed track test like you've done in the past and got a bunch of generic observations that have been beaten to death a thousand times. Thumbs down.
The transmission in the STi isn't "clunky" it's rod actuated vs cables. It's an incredibly strong transmission does doesn't need any modifications until you've basically doubled the horsepower of the car. The only part of the drive train that is a let down is the engine. That's not because it was a bad engine when it came out, it's because it came out two decades ago. Subaru had basically given up on the STi after 2015 (maybe sooner), and it remained on life support for another 6 years. That said, it's still one of the best driving experiences you can have nowadays, considering how numb everything has become.
Just purchased the RS this week. What a hooligan to drive! I tried to test drive the VW and Civic. Unfortunately, the dealers wanted thousands above sticker price and wanted me to buy the car untested; NO THANK YOU! Honestly, this car is sooooo much fun to drive. Say what you will about the drift (haven't used it at all), the car wants you to push it.
I disagree with the commentator. The seats are super comfortable for me (I am 180lbs and 5'10"). The ride is stiff, but I prefer analog feeling of a tight suspension. It's not terrible to drive daily...the harder you push, the more it rewards you.
To me just me, They need new drivers!
14:00 How the hell can you get lost in the gears of an Sti?? Bad drivers not the car!
Gus Lopez I have never gotten lost in gears in any manual transmission vehicle; I must be a god! YAS!!!!!
RS owner here. I gotta admit, at stock power, the Type R will destroy the RS at a rolling start. Look at the dynograph of these cars in stock form and you'll see where each car's fun zone is. Torque for getting off the line and out of turns, HP for top end speed and freeway pulls. The RS has torque to sell, but its main weakness is the total lack of HP at the top end. From a dead stop, the RS will take out most similar cars except for the Mercedes g0d-hatch that costs obscene amounts of money. Past 2nd gear, the RS falls behind as other cars seem to have a power curve that falls off less at high RPM. Over all I completely agree with the Autoguide review, but I wouldn't call any car "best" or "worst". Each of these beautiful cars has something to offer that the others don't. I will dare to suggest the RS and Type R are tied on the track and it comes down to the driver AND the tires. I personally don't think my little heavy pig of an RS is "better" than the guy in his Type R looking to "take me down". But give me the choice and I'll get in a RS every time.
What we have here is a duel along the lines of the Japanese Zero vs. American Wildcat (and I am in no way promoting war or the loss of life in WW2, just making a mechanical comparison of two pacific fighter planes. Respect to Vets). All things being equal and no mods, I love the fact you can get the same result from a FWD car compared to the RS. I love variety and friendly competition. "For the love of cars" I always say.
WARNING- Personal opinion:
The RS has a stiff ride but I prefer to feel the road. The clutch is easy to feather and actuate. I drive daily in Drift mode as it makes the tail happy aspect of the RS easier to predict and avoids over confidence. It snows where I live and the AWD is the most fun in Drift mode I have ever had. True rally style nose to apex drifts around turns from a stock car with snow tires. =D The car absolutely LOVES to rotate on the road right at the apex of a turn and the car really shows its purpose in the tight technical tracks. Powering out of a turn in second or third gear, mid-RPM is what the RS was made for and I think it does it better than any other similar car. The power band for the RS is right in the middle where you spend most of your time on and off the track. The turbo spools QUICK and power stays constant with no spikes or surprise blasts of HP to throw you in the bushes mid turn. 1/4 mile times, "peak" hp/torque numbers, and top speeds skew the arm chair gamer crowd to crown certain cars "hottest hatch of all time". In the end, it comes down to what you want in a car. I picked the RS after test driving other cars for its not-too-boring-I-call-it-subtle looks, hatch back functionality, and mid power torque, laser sharp turn in response, and slick AWD offering that has some techno-nannies to keep me out of trouble, but not over the top assists that I learn bad habits like in the Type R.
Subaru interior is much better than the shitty focus, don't know why everyone jumps on the shit interior bandwagon with Subaru, really upped their game with the latest STI.
I wouldn't call the Golf R's styling boring at all. It's premium. And has a very high build quality. It's also the only car built for adults. The RS, Type-R, and STI look like they are made for kids.
Tripp55 в
Tripp55 Its still boring
Except not all kids cant afford those cars lmao
With the Golf R your neighbours will think that you bought a boring 85 hp Golf your wife for half the price. That can be considered good or bad....
Tripp55 nope golf r slow af.can kids make track cars? except the sti which is a rally car but yea your just dumb.
People keep saying Type R FWD low HP. But if you engineer it right with power to weight and handling its all good.
great review guys
With the insane dealer markups on the Type R i would have to knock it down a notch because now your spending an extra 10-15k more than the other cars cost...if the Subaru would undercut the others by 5k or so i think people would go for the old school look of the WRX and still be a good racer if needed lol
The subi reviewer is a hater
I want to punch him in the face.
I drive a Subie and I agree. We need aftermarkets to make it better.
I have gone from that scooby to the fk8 and now the fk8 type r... And they are much better then the subaru... Think if you need the 4x4 drive then go for the ford
@Sergio Aguirre He doesn't own one. therefore he can say anything. Subi for life
@Sergio Aguirre That's what I heard. It happens to those who don't know how to drive manual cars. Great Granny Shifters.
Really hate when they quote starting price and not as tested... Hey it starts at $22,000 but this one's $38,000
MORE PEOPLE NEED TO DO THIS COMPARISON
1-RS 2-typeR 3- sti 4- golf r
The type r is the most impressive car of the bunch.
Rebel Rouser wait till the 2019 sti is available
What about a comparison of the next level down: Focus ST, civic SI, GTI and WRX? I'm sure a lot of us would find that interested...and anyone else who can not afford the top line cars.
the golf r looks hideous and boring. idc how good it is. it is straight grandma vibes
lizardgreen2121 drive it. I thought the SAME. Thing. Test drive one. Quite fun. I had to drop one off to a client. Was very addicting.
i find my sti a really easy car to live with
Have a wrx but i find that to be pretty decent for everyday. Hoping the 21 sti holds up to the 400 hp rumor, although I doubt it.
newest bear it’s gonna be around 350hp
@@Veexd13 still pretty healthy hp.
newest bear as an fk8 owner I’m excited for the 2021 Sti
@@Veexd13 unrelated but do you think it is safe; same meaning under almost all circumstances a AP v.3 stage 1 is safe, as long as I drive the wrx long enough to where it would've likely rqn into issues if it was going to.say I put 5-8 or may be 7-10 k miles 9n it, then do, a stage 1? Would you do this to your car under warranty confidently?
Why do you not show the hot laps for each? I can read a brochure without assistance and don't need an editor to regurgitate it to me.
The lap times are in the spec box for each car, FYI
Thats not what I was referring to. I asked why you didn't show the actual hot laps for each car, not the lap times. Could have been a 6 minute video showing all 4 cars doing a lap. Instead its just a bunch of pieced together information.
Pity that the test did include the old Golf R only, not the facelifted version with the stronger engine, new Haldex AWD configuration and 7 speed dual clutch automatic. It is quite a difference from the previous version shown here.
That one isn't out in North America yet!
Too sad, this Golf 7.5 is really a progress, compared with its predecessor.
You implied at the beginning that you would compare track times but you did not.
You didn't even give them a track rating, let alone the hard numbers.
Your impressions and opinions can be useful but they don't tell the complete story for many people who might be shopping in this market.
How this guy can say the STI has "the most unattractive interior of the bunch" while the Focus RS is in the "bunch" is absolutely beyond me. The Focus RS' interior is the entire reason I won't buy one. I can't imagine hopping in that thing every day without feeling like I'd made a huge mistake.
When did the Type R break down, and why? I read in one of your articles that it broke down twice but no mention of it here.
One HUGE thing that was left out was the fact that these are tuner cars. People like to turn up the boost. I wonder how the type R's driving dynamics would change with more HP/TQ since it's FWD
Trevon Adams You're right. While that is true, the thing to consider is that the other platforms will put more power/traction to the ground. I do think honda perfected the fwd sportscar, from what I've seen.
Sergio Aguirre yeah, I'd leave the type R stock. If I wanted 400 wheel HP, without question I'd choose awd.
Were the lap time an average lap time or a one off run? I've see other reviews that go back in forth between the Type R and the RS with respect to lap times.
1:38 - guess it's not just VW that can pull off a 3 wheel salute!
For those aren’t into drive a stick, Golf with DSG is the best option, a driver maybe lousy in changing gear put him in a golf and see the difference
Type R is the best. Gotta get one ASAP!
I saw one on the road...good lord it is badass in black!
none of these cars cost 50k, audi rs3 starts at 54,500$ so no
B.A. Chan True.The new 2017 Audi RS3 Quattro is a beast. Nothing in the segment can beat it.
Type R sucks! FWD only. Boohoo
ur face sucks....
Great video. Golf R is my fave, the interiors are great. The 2018 has the 7 speed DSG. The 2018 Euro spec GTI though would tempting but we in the US are none gonna them, just the current GTI but with extra 10hp, on all models. Thing is why buy these when u could lease RWD, ATS, Giulia, XE, or the upcoming Stinger.
Type R is most balance of performance and comfort. Exterior and interior is subjective, but not performance. Check out the Car and Driver 2017 Ford Focus review , where it stacks against the same competitors, the numbers don't lie.
AutoGuide has a good set of reviewers for this one. Keep it up guys. Although Craig must not like the Focus RS because he looks like he is fighting falling asleep while driving. Honda manuals are always the best.
Advertise hot laps and a professional driver...deliver opinions from mediocre journos. Stellar job guys.
Type R comparison? Which R? Why does Honda copy VW calling it “R?”
VW started calling their fastest models "R" in 2003 with the Golf R32, Honda named the first cars "Type R" in 1996. Think again who copies who ;)
I would still pick sti though
They charged me $60k for the type R here in California. The lowest offer I got after calling 24 Honda Dealerships was $54k our the door. I guess it depends on where you live. The associates I’ve met so far were all ass holes and mentioned they did not care about hitting their quota. So I decided after the long search it was really not worth paying $60k for a Civic. In all honesty most Honda Dealerships praise the Type R as if it was a GTR or something. If you’re going to pay that kind of money for a civic, you’re better off going for a Corvette or even a Shelby Gt500. Maybe even an AUDI S3? ... Anyways, just my personal opinion.
For me, the Focus RS is the winner, although I haven't driving the latest Civic. People moan about the Focus interior - yes, it's cheap and plastic. People moan about the lack of legroom in the back and the lack of boot space. Yeah? So what. I buy hot hatches for the driving experience and for it putting a smile on my face, the feel of the ride. The others are undoubtedly nicer inside and perhaps more comfortable, but for me the Focus is the winner because it wins in the most important category of all - the fun of driving it.
When dealerships of Honda mark it up $11k above MSRP it’s totally destroyed by its competitors. I’m sure the Type R is the best of the four, but it’s in a totally different price point with these ridiculous mark ups. It’s 2020 and the mark up is still there.
I wish you all would have let Dave tell us a bit of his opinion. I hope he was able to use some of the footage on the SpeedAcademy channel.
We will be putting out videos of each car's lap time soon! Stay tuned!
Autgoguide please enlighten me as to how a 4 seater is more practical than a 5 seater.... I have 2 kids, my wife and I have room to spare for an extra passenger in the Focus, please tell how that isn't far more practical than having just 4 seats... that and you guys tested the Focus with the base wheels and not with the forged/cup2 package which would significantly change things on the track... anyway a good review none the less but I just think a few points were sadly missed..
Best review by far !!!
The Honda Civic Type R is the best of all than it’s competitors, It destroys the competition, so I will prefer the civic type r over the sti, focus rs, or golf r. It’s cheaper than the focus rs and golf r, but the sti is the same price as the type r. So for my money I’ll take the civic type r because it’s more convenient for me of it’s practically and interior and seats and fuel economy unlike the sti.
Great line up of cars! I LOVE this segment of cars because they give people who are not uber rich access to some driving fun. I am LOVING my Honda Civic Type R and applaud Honda for keeping the hot hatch alive . Now in 2020 the landscape has changed. Ford has killed off the Ford Focus RS and the future of the Golf R is questionable. Subaru is going strong and for the first time has given NA an AMAZING manual only WRX STI S209. Honda is going strong not only with the manual only Type R but is set to release a Limited version of the Type R as well for 2021. Also Hyundai has entered the market with the very capable, fun and great sounding Veloster N. If we want these amazing cars to continue to be built we have to buy them or they will go the way of the RS. I did with my Type R and it really is one of the best cars I have ever owned. I'm a husband and a father but I was determined not to get a boring commuter car and now even my wife and daughter are car enthusiasts. This is how we keep the car enthusiast passion alive.
Bought the Subaru I love it. Rear sway bar upgrade fixes under steer.
4:17 LMAO @ that face.
If you don't choose the RS as the favorite you're either doing it wrong, no one knows who you are, you're wrong, or all of the above. Seriously, every major car review company has chosen the Rs. Because at the end of the day you buy these cars because of the performance not because its too stiff of a ride.
Civic Type R needs to be compared in the $50k+ range as this is closer to the actual street price.... Not the fantasy msrp.
We sold 2 of the 3 type r's at or below msrp.
Even if this thing sells at msrp you still got tax, license and fees which comes up to be around 42k. And the focus rs is selling for 43k in cali which doesnt include tax and fees. Ill take the type r over that.
Just picked up 2018 on 2/25/18 for $34.990.00
Michael Dodson I’m getting my first car this summer and I can’t choose between a wrx or type r. I really love the wrx but I feel like I get more for my money if I get a type r. How do you like it so far?
Kellz, I love it. The type R is pure fun to drive, and it draws a lot of attention. It is everything a car should be, it handles unbelievable, and its faster than F..K. The R is short on creature comforts where the WRX will win in that category, one of my good friends has one and I drove it as well. The upkeep on the R is also going to cost probably twice as much with the Brembo breaks, the 20 inch tires, but as far as I'm concerned there is no choice. Kellz BUY THE R if you can get your hands on one.
PS for a first car you might live longer in the WRX. Hope this helps.
Mike
jesus its pure type r advert.... also i might not like it but golf is way better that they show it here, only cars that matter here is RS and STI type r is good because it has softer settings? and GOD DAMN STI GEARBOX is a beast... stall sti because clutch? lol learn to drive stick... who is sponsoring this crap... im a year late but oh well.
Does no one else see just how hideous the Honda is? Regardless of how impressive it is on a track I don't think the looks would ever grow on me sorry Honda fans just being honest.
Harris J ...I like Honda but this type R is fugly.
Yeah, the one reviewer described the styling as borderline offensive.
Just a dumb looking car I could not bring myself to daliy drive that thing
Yea no one can really say that the Type R is a beauty (I hate that rear end) but for this one, I'd take the Honda as a daily driver and for the Sunday track.
Its a gaming mouse and the others are regular mouse. What you want? Lol
You can tell they really like the sti !
Type R is the car of the Year 😎 cheers 🍻💪✌👍
The introduction makes it sound like an episode of Iron Chef... Who's cuisine will reign supreme? I just thought it was funny but I enjoy most of your reviews.
Owch. He called my fav the STI an “alternative” that’s gotta hurt! :(
I still like subis better... try doing that on rally roads an see how they do...
“The VW is the only one with a Manuel and Automatic transmission” does a WRx STi not have a manual?!?!
Disappointed with the STi, had one in 2004 when they first came out. Not a good looking car....and they didn't seem to address the oil pickup tube...even after 14 years.
Most impressive is the Honda Civic Type R to me. Build quality and value.
Ford Focus RS all the way
Ford focus RS won't last as long as an STI. it will die or perhaps it's dead already.
Can we see the video of Dave Pratte driving the cars back to back. Would rather much hear his thoughts of the cars while driving them.
Cars are unbelievably cheap in the states, in NZ its common for cars to be over 20% more expensive, after exchange rates.
I just “don’t get it ..... where the heck do you use all this “speed and handling” ????? Every place I go there are cars (and speed limits) all over the place .... I have a 2018 Camry LE with a 203 hp 4 cylinder that does 0 to 60 in 7.9 seconds and cost me $20,175 plus a $799 dealer fee (ripoff) but when you’re getting a $25,000 for under $21,000 you just “pay it” .... by the way, it’s smooth, quiet, roomy and comfortable .... oh yeah did I mention 39 mpg on the highway (I’ve gotten as high as 44)
my god, autoguide where did ya find your "pro driver"? the local buffet?
These are very powerful cars , they need the best...lol
Used to have a chipped Focus ST - great fun to drive ! Had to switch to an automatic for my wife, picked the Golf GTI, found it totally boring in comparison. Soooo...Golf R is now on order. Civic type R may be more fun, but for someone who's now the wrong side of 50 it looks utterly ridiculous !! Plus neither it nor the RS have an automatic option.
You live in the U.S. Who give a shit what people think? This nation was found upon principles of objecting the norms. If I cared what people always though about my actions I'd probably already have hanged myself. You will always offend someone no matter what you do. Obey the norms and people see you as a stereotype. Break the norms and you will stand out as inconsistent. So choose whatever you want regardless of what others say or think.
I trust everything this guy says fr best channel