@@iainnorquay5371 A shame the Golf R's reputation and image gets sullied by the overwhelming amount of chavs and or bellends who drive them, their honestly decent cars
@@iainnorquay5371 Iain. Sorry. I appreciate your choice. As a car trader. Mat is right and wrong. Right that the car is an ace choice. I know I see them ballooning everywhere down the A34 under over taking. Makes me annoyed at 45, but there are good decent R owners too. I drove like a bell to about 34-36. Just did.
As a pretty average 56 year old who just wants a car that is swift but safe in all weathers but is also refined and relaxing when just cruising with family I must say that my 2014 Mark 7 Golf R DSG serves me brilliantly. It's traction and grip and balance and predictability and effortless pace on the frequently wet uneven country roads where I live puts a smile on my face every time I drive it either with gusto or conservativeness. It's ride quality is jiggly but not harsh at all through towns but it smoothes out like magic when driving swiftly and becomes so supple without ANY body roll. Being the DSG version there is less engine braking when on the paddles and this gets you to become more intimate with your brakes when cracking on. Your hands need never leave your steering wheel also which means you are constantly getting information from your tires and the road and it all adds up to such a smoothed out different driving experience than I have had with any of my high performance manual cars of many makes that I have owned over the years. My cars reliability has been astonishing, only needing a new water pump seal and one wheel speed sensor as repairs in the six years I have owned it. It has only done 35K miles and has full service history. My only criticism is that it piles speed on too quickly and too effortlessly and if you don't keep an eye on your speedometer you could lose your license too easily especially on dual carriageways and motorways.
I had a Mk7 Golf R from new in 2015 and kept it 3 years it was so good. I'm lucky enough to have owned a good variety of interesting cars but the R is my favourite from the last 20 years. It somehow manages to pull off what very few cars manage; to be a great daily driver with all the boring stuff like practicality and comfort, yet properly quick and fun when you want it to be. And funnily enough, I replaced it with a BMW M140i which although had a masterpiece of an engine (and noise!), I just didn't gel with it and actually preferred the R...
@@armandyoutube1987 yes, the M140 is still a great car and the engine is simply AMAZING. However, I didn't have the adaptive suspension and the standard suspension spoilt the car for me. The Golf R's engine didn't have the same character (or noise) but as an everyday car it was amazing. If I had to choose between the two, I'd personally choose the R.
Fair play, I’ve got a 2017 VW GTI 7.5, and I’m a massive bellend, so I dread to think what I’d be like in an R! Couple of your quips tickled me more than usual in this one, top work as ever my man 🤝💯👍🏻😂
As a body shop worker i have seen many of these damaged, stolen and poorly treated, its a shame that a few bad apples spoil the bunch like the saying goes. I mean in the last year any performance car we have had in has had a ghost fitted to it, so you need to enter a button code to start the car, so i guess they might help against thieves.
Totally agree and the interior and controls for heater etc are awful touchscreen based or sliding controls that are not illuminated, plus loads of cost cutting everywhere
I had one of these new, on a motorway run 40 mpg is very achievable, however you're looking at the low 30s regular driving and low 20s if you're having fun.
@@njames6002 Yeah exactly my long term trends, had 7 and 7.5 since 2015 and the later is about 1mpg better overall on mway and round town everything else being equal (99ron only). Foot down, no discernible difference. The fuel saving on the 7.5 is probably the WLTP changes, they removed the port injectors and only have DI so it will be a lump of carbon at 70k no doubt.
My ten year old Golf R has just been through it's major service and MOT. Cambelt replaced at 70k. Broken springs and other under car issues to get through MOT. I have had it a year now and I am the second owner. The kids aged 7 and 4 love it and shout "turbo mode" every time I hit the dual carriageway. I can see us keeping this family friendly "sports car" for a long time. Totally agree it changes the way you drive and think, it shorts the sensible switch in your brain.
Not sure how the dealership changed the cam belt on your R when it actually uses a chain to drive the cams. The Timing chain has no service interval as such, just checked for stretch on higher mileage cars.
Once again Matt - right on the money with your thoughts and comments. As a Mk7.5 R owner, i utterly agree, buy with caution and most (i did lol at the Blue colour and 3d gel plates comments) are driven with scant care or regard of other motorists. It is a fast comfortable car that can do pretty well everything with ease and affordability. Agreed ref 3 door and spec, (Not Blue, factory sunroof, 18" wheels and not 19", no DCC, no Keyless and 3 door was essential for me) The DSG is a genuine pleasure and way more refined (and more often in the right gear) than the earlier TTS or Mk6 DSG. The 6 speed DSG was well suited to the old Mk5 R32 or TT3.2 but not so much the 2.0 petrol engine, where as the 7 speed is excellent and far less annoying to live with. Replaced with a Yaris GR - zero regrets, the Yaris is another level fun, smiles and laughs. Keep up the great work Matt.
We had a 2017 Golf - just the 1.4tsi with DSG, but it was an excellent car. Fast enough, very well built and economical. Its biggest flaw was that it was soooo boring - like the teacher's pet in school. I sold it to a mate who still has it and absolutely loves it. Quality was well ahead of the latest Golf.
Ha! We have had 2010 top spec Passat automatic Estate Diesel from new. It has done about 300k. It's a fantastic car, I can't fault it. Just so incredibly boring like you say. It's makes me forget I'm a car enthusiast. 🤣
@@alextoft9199 I was so bored with the company Passat's driving experience that I loved switching on weekends to my private Fiesta. Says it all. Great car but so snooze
I ironically have the 1.5 turbo match in estate form. And yes the R does look quite similar inside and out but it definitely looks more purposeful. I find my car likeable, easy to live with, powerful enough, fairly comfortable and quite good fun on the right road at 7 tenths. Engine smooth, punchy, handling reasonably sharp. If you want to really enjoy yourself though you've got the wrong car! At 9 tenths the engine gets raucous under full power at over 5000 revs, not sure why the DSG sends the revs that high as the peak torque is below that and the handling lacks feel and the ride gets bouncy. Best driven normally or even quite briskly but not flat out. It won't wow you but you'll regret getting one. It does seem the hot ones do add that extra excitement without too much loss of comfort especially if you get active damping. My cars economy is always somewhere in the 40s per average tank but you can beat 55mpg on a long trip and in town it's more like 35. It's a shame the R is a lot thirstier. The GTI less so. Shame they don't make the GTI in estate form. That might just be the perfect compromise. The 7.5 1.5 turbo DSG is not a car I get in just to go for a drive but knowing you have to drive somewhere is never a chore and usually a pleasant experience. Compared to the 1.4tsi which I had in a Leon it's more powerful low down and has stronger midcrange. The 1.4 was a little happier to rev to the redline. 1.5 is also a bit jerky for first 2 minutes during warm up. Overall both are nice power plants. Not quite exciting but good at balancing economy with performance.
I purchased my 2014 Golf R from new as I decided that I wanted a particular specification, opted for a few tasteful options such as electric sunroof, leather interior, reverse camera, adaptive suspension, DSG gearbox and the Satnav Pro. Fantastic car to drive, even as mature driver it always brings a smile to my face when you need that little extra acceleration. I am lucky enough to have an independent VW garage very close to me who carries out all my maintenance and service requirements at a very competitive price. I tend to use the R as a ‘Sunday’ car, hence the low mileage of only 16,000 on car. I use a VW Up! as my daily driver as you mentioned in the video, they can attract unwanted attention from the criminal fraternity. I absolutely love the DSG gearbox, I think the DSG box and the 2 litre turbocharged engine are a marriage made in heaven. It is probably the best all round car available on the market (in my opinion), you can take it to Tesco for the weekly shop, drop the kids off at school or go for a blast on a track day experience, the car just takes it in its stride. I echo you concerns regarding the base car specifications and how the car has been treated. When the R was initially launched VW offered some very competitive lease deals on the car. These cars were invariably base spec vehicles, and because of the cheap leases available, the car became affordable to younger drivers who then promptly thrashed the car from day one of ownership, knowing full well that the VW warranty would cover any mechanical issues during the lease period. I would avoid these particular cars like the plague!
I started with a '99 Audi A4 1.8T as my first car. Instantly fell in love with the manual transmission, well designed plush leather interior, and oh my the boost!! It kicked off a lifelong love for German sports cars. Fast forward 5 years however and I bought the OG Bugeye '02 WRX. That car was very fun and fast, yet the interior and overall feeling of highly-engineered German craftsmanship was missing. Fast forward another 5 years, the WRX has been stolen and totaled by thieves. In my search for my new car, I always remembered the MK4 Golf R and how aggressive/beautiful they look. I knew I needed a manual and chose VW partly bc my Audi and that they continue to produce new cars w/ standard trans. And so I sent it - got into a 2016 MK7 Golf R with 60k on it. This is hands down the best car I've ever owned. Not only does it have high specs like backup camera, Bluetooth, heated seats and Sirius XM, it is unbelievably quick with its 300 HP 2.0 TSI engine and handles like one would not believe. The Haldex 4motion system is amazing in the snow, arguably better than a WRX even. The acceleration hits intensely while the clutch & gear box feel phenomenal. I absolutely love how aggressive these cars look, the styling of the front grill and curves of the back alongside the beefy quad-tipped exhaust. You could take the wife and kids to go grab groceries or make laps on track day. I could not be happier with my purchase and do not think that I will ever stray away from owning an R as my daily sports commuter. I would recommend this car to anyone and sadly as VW plans to head in the direction of electric vehicles for the GOLF line, get your hands on one before they become extremely rare and expensive!
I bought one exactly how you said no CAT N , no modified crap and it honestly is the best. I love it. Everytime I drive the R it puts a smile on my face even looking at it. It was either M140i Or R but chose the R for AWD round the sweeping bends in the high peak. Good video.
I bought one of these used for 16k from Bradford, opened up the boot and there was a body in the back, turns out he was up to no good so I was glad when he was gone - kept finding oregano sprinkled about in it too
You are so right about how these cars make you drive. Got an f40 m135i at the moment and feel the same. Had a 330e as a courtesy car and it turned me into a perfect gent for 10 days 😂
Good to hear your thoughts, I drive a MK7 GTI Clubsport Edition 40 and it's amazing - i'd love to see you get your hands on one and review it. It shares the same engine as the R though detuned to 265 bhp or 290 bhp in 'overboost' mode and fwd with an LSD as standard. Lots of fun, a lot of people comment they'd rather the R had the styling of the GTI Clubsport and i agree...
I would add if you are buying any mk7 golf, check that the heating works, and if you can, check the coolant is the correct colour. The coolant silica bag burst in my car, blocked the heater matrix and cost me a bit of cash to put right. It’s not uncommon unfortunately.
Remove the silica bag and replace the G13 coolant with G12evo and you'll be golden. If the bag bursts and clogs up the heater matrix it's a right job to sort out.
Hi Matt, I have a a digital dash' 7.5 manual that I bought brand new in October 2017, and I love it (I am nearly 60) I live in Guernsey but I am originally from the Peak District. The biggest problem I find is that when I am in the UK, I get followed by Police, until they have checked on the computer that A, the reg' isn't illegal (black with silver numbers) and B that I am not a county lines driver, other than that I smile every time I see it or drive it, though mine is Indium grey. I was also lucky enough to be able to buy it under a tax free and diplomatic status sale and it only cost me £27,000 with £3000 worth of extras on it. It was such a bargain. Good to see you finally say some nice things about them. I love the channel and would definitely buy a car from you even though you are definitely a snob. Keep up the good work and all the best.
@@HighPeakAutos Dry bit of sarcasm on your part but very true 😃 speed limit of 35mph max' and 25 in town but when I come to thw mainland I do between 1 and 2000 in a couple of weeks and I come over two to three times a year and do more mileage per annum in uk than I do in Guernsey every year since I bought it.
I had a Mk7 Golf from new a few years ago (just a TDI Bluemotion) and it was a great car - comfy, great drive, loads of tech etc but the only problem with it was when you parked it up it "just looked like a Golf" - the design hasn't changed much over the years, so much so that when I had it delivered outside my house I walked straight past it and didn't even realise it was my brand new car :(
if its not been modified then yes buy one, otherwise don't go near it, simple as that. get a pre car purchase inspection done first. modified R'S have a tonne of problems eventually. I know I work on them all the time and have owned 3 now.
It was between one of these and an A35 AMG for my now current car, for a young person that wants to go quick I think this type of of car is brilliant (golf r clones as I call them), AWD with safety features like auto braking means you’re gonna have to try to hurt yourself or others in one, and the ride quality (especially with adaptive dampers) is brilliant. Went with the A35 in the end as I consider it the nicer car (especially without the aero pack) and the monthly payments were lower, would love to see you do a video on one!
Arguably the A35, new M135i xDrive, Golf R etc are actually all S3 clones as Audi had nailed this formula over a decade before VW came to the party with the original R!
This and the Cupra (which I have) are the ultimate daily imo. Comfortable and boring when you want it, but will outpace everything short of an M3 when you want that too. I can leave late and arrive early. Does make you misbehave, went from never a sidewards glance from police to pulled twice in a year, although one was for 34 in 30 at 11PM...
Had the Golf R 7.5 DSG for 2.5 years with all the options apart from a sun roof, and have no intention of getting rid of it. 5 door. Great daily driver. Best golf I've had and I've had about 6 over 30 years including the 2.8 4Motion. The way you want to drive any car is a further option and not necessarily mine.
I drive a blue Golf MK7 too but it's only a shitty TSI (but hey, it does outpace snails.....just)! So, that - sadly for me - has to make me a couple of notches below an idiot! 🤣 Nice review as always!
Had loads of Golfs over the years both as private and company cars including a MK5 GTI when they first came out. Nearly all were great and easy to drive but the worst BY FAR was a MK7.5 Golf R line (not R!). Harsh ride and lack of power. Big mistake!. Sold it a few months later...If we ever buy another Golf it will be a genuine GTI (honestly its all the car you will ever need) or an R - a real one!
Matt, when gave the list of options fitted to this car, what a cheek VW have.Charging for everything while already charging a lot for the car.Aye, great car, but you need a tracker, wheel clamp, and a platoon of the Army to make sure it’s there when you get back.
Hi Matt , I was just about to put a deposit down on an R and really wanted one but the thought of being classed as a “Bellend” has made me question my decision……thanks Matt for another slice of fine motoring journalism.
Genuinely prefer the GTI tartan interior and it’s probably more than enough performance for roads today,PCP deals a few years back I seem to remember the R was stupid cheap sometimes cheaper that the GTI….👍
No comment except to say around my neck of the woods, the Nerds go out to play and everyone drives one of these then when everyone is asleep, back they come revving like there is no tomorrow, popping exhausts.
I think much the same about BMW drivers, never ceases to amaze me just how many are into tailgating, cutting up, jumping red lights. And like yourself I’m pretty calm and laid back, but they do manage to bring the red glaze to my eyes.
Another previous R owner here, got it brand new on a 66 plate. Had it for 2 years. Loved it and I was one of those guys that bombed it down the Silk Road to get to work. Not because I’m an idiot but just because I was often late for work. My R is sorely missed. Great to drive. Nicer looking than the 8. Had some glitches with acc and other systems however.
Always enjoy you videos and the are always very amusing and interesting. VW golf’s are the nuts when it comes to having a mid sized hatchback. We have had 2 mk2’s, mk4,mk5,mk6 and now a mk7 GT TDI. 3 petrol and 3 2.0ltr diesel’s and we loved them all. Just bought a mk7 GT 2.0ltr TDI DSG 50.000 miles and it’s a cracking car. Thanks for another great video
3:30 The exhaust tips are a feature on the golf R but no one ever cleans them, really lets the car down & the longer you neglect them the more carbon builds up & the harder it is to clean. If you find one with clean tips, you know its been cared for.
Thanks for the video and Yes you should buy an R! They are great cars and I have shared my 5 year ownership on my channel should anyone be interested. I can only recommend one from my ownership plus the community is fantastic 👍
I cannot argue with any statement you made in this video. What's not to like? Unless you have an M140i along side it at the dealers. Trying to figure out it's entire history though is a minefield which is the chance you take with all these type of car. S3, M140i, Golf R.......... pocket county lines rocket.
My Cupra (which has the same powerplant, but Front wheel drive) is a hoot and has been a joy to drive as a daily. But you are right, all of these VAG hot hatches are driven by the yobbos who had enough money to upgrade from a Fiesta ST, but can't quite afford an M140i yet.
I've never driven the Golf R, but it obviously goes like stink. The R32 was a car I like as well, the engine was a joy.. As always excellent description and very amusing....I love your videos. THANK YOU..
They don’t have the same ASBO profile here in the States. I’ve always loved this car. But I can’t justify the price of a new one and don’t trust the condition of a used one. I guess I’ll stay with my 2013 TTS that has never put a foot wrong.
in the market for one now, I have an opportunity to buy one from an old friend, a VW enthusiast if you will. The car is modified, totally transparent history, all issues have been taken care of, even did all the "preventative maintenance" to it (water pump etc). I'm coming from a car I love, GTI MK5... but would think this low miles R might be a good fit and upgrade. I just hope the motorhead in me isn't pulling strings.
I’ve got a soft spot for golf’s, and when this R replaced the r32, which I also loved, I thought it was really on point styling. Great video again matt
Nice cars - always imagined I'd try and make it look like a cooking Golf - ditch the 4 pipes, standard bumpers, different wheels, de-badge, cloth interior. Good call on the TTS as an alternative, though.
Just bought one of these on a 14 plate in white its the manuel i absolutely love it im 56 and its the car ive ever owned the drive is superb it could do with 2 new headlights there are milky onside been to my local VW DEALER i was Quoted £1890 must admit i nearly fainted but apart from that yes there a fantastic car
Having owned a new mk V R32 back in the day, I have always appreciated the understatedness of the Golf Rs. This example looks great in white, appears to have good build quality, is practical & ticks all the right boxes for me.......wish I was in the UK to buy one of these fabulous cars!
Agreed. Generally drove by young lads who lease them as they can't afford to buy them. They live in a rented new build house as they have no deposit to buy one, or at home with mommy & pops.
Had a 7.5R estate a few years back and loved it as daily driver as felt like a cheap mans rs4 avant. Preferred the estate as really practical as ha e kids and no keyless entry to worry about either so less chance of getting nicked. Quick car but for me it was just too linear and competent as almost became boring after couple of years Only got rid of it as started losing coolant at 2 years/20000 miles and was concerned about water pump issue but VW were not interested- "just top the coolant up sir" !
I looked at a number of GTis and Rs but in the end settled on a GTI. I just preferred the styling, interior and dare I say it was more fun to drive. The R is a weapon in a straight line but the handling is very linear while the GTI is more nimble.
Absolutely agree and was going to comment the same thing, although the outright launch speed of the R is impressive, the lighter fwd performance pack GTI is an absolute joy to drive quickly, a far classier choice I’m my opinion.
Fantastic review as always Matt. I currently drive a Mk 7.5 GTE and it's great. Only 204bhp, but fast enough when needed thanks to the battery boost in GTE mode. It's a great drivers car with plenty of smiles per mile!
Whenever I see one of these I always assume it's been nicked. Give me an M140i over this thing any day.
2 года назад+6
Can confirm, I drive an R32 Mk V and am definitely a bellend 😂 sadly the tax and petrol means I’m going to sell it, hence watching this TBH it is also quite bellendinous
Biggest problem with the Golf R is that it's a Golf; THE most average-looking car on the planet, for 8 generations, and I don't care how much leather they put inside or where they've put it, that dashboard/console is so 1990s in shape that it hurts my brain to think 'the class-leading' hot hatch had it until 2019.
Great video... but the fact he was so negative about modded ones put me off it. Whats wrong with a sensible non aggressive remap? Nearly every road going car is for the "Everyman" . So something as simple as a good lowering set up will let it sit and handle better. And it's detuned - so a remap will allow it to function as it was designed for! Aside from that - good video. I'll be getting one soon myself too hopefully.
Had my R for nearly a year, pretty much the same car you have bar a couple of letters on the plate and extra doors. I find you go days where you barley notice you're in a 300bhp car, then 1 day you will pull off a slip road or have to overtake someone, then it will set you off to want to drive it harder. With mixed driving I get 32mpg, in my Fiesta ST I used to get 36mpg, so the R doesn't do bad. VW still do used car programme like I got, only do full VW history cars and you get 2 years warranty and 2 free services. Like you said, plenty of dogs out there, 1 I test drove privately was clearly only fwd.
thats what happened to mine on only 41k miles, the haldex pump goes on them if the filter doesnt get cleaned, the VW dealers mine was getting serviced at obviously never bothered, most dont apparently unless asked too end up with a fwd golf R, you have to launch them and make sure you are getting no wheelspin to check your haldex is healthy from my experience because you dont get no warnings or faults to inform you its not working :)
Entertaining review as always Matt 🤣😉 I've had my 2018 MK7.5 Golf R from new and hands down it's the best All Rounder I've ever had. Mine's a 3 door in that under the radar "Assassin" Indium Grey, it's a 7 Speed DSG ( the MK7 DSG was a 6 speed BTW ) and on my daily 30 mile commute I regularly hit high 30's MPG with occasional 40 + MPG. This drops somewhat to mid 20's when I'm in the "Bellend" Mode 🙈😂 but it's all the car's fault 🤪 honestly 😉
My 52 year old wife has a 7.5, which she uses as her everyday car, so a mum that definitely knows the difference between the R and the match, and every other variant. My sons friends all about 18, thought she was a cool mum having a 300bhp hyperhatch, then they seen her on her Kawasaki Ninja which left them scratching their heads trying to work out where are the limits for middle aged women!!
I know what your saying about car theft. I had the m140, multiple times when I went into a shop I would come out to the local scallys staring in the windows. I've now got a porche and it honestly feels much less Likely to be stolen.
Nice to see you've finally got one of these of the channel! I'm a bit like you.. I like large executive high-speeced good value of money cars, but there's something about these I like. I've had old E Classes and got a 635d now etc, but I also daily a Mk7 GTD and I think they're brilliant allrounders. Comfortable on 5+ hour long trip, reliable and has enough features for my needs. I will own one of these at some point, but I do like to have a warm/hot hatch and a big cruiser at the same time. Maybe I'm greedy haha.
Another great vid Matt. I just wish they did the S5 with that manual box. The 7 speed DSG is good but you just don't feel connected to the car. I like the subtle nod's to what the car is & not shouty like the Focus equivalent. I do understand what you are saying though, it encourages you to go a little faster than you may in a 'normal' car. My Wife & I was coming back from Cornwall & I managed to get 36.4 MPG from the Audi (ok, I was driving like a sedated Vicar) but we were quite chuffed with that. Like every car, its whatever floats your boat! All the best.....
10:15 totally depends how modified, 10 or 20 mm lowering with good coil overs is a great choice if no adaptive suspension. Also if they have done the coil overs and given it better brakes, polly bushes and sway bars you know they loved that car but personally would never buy one mapped past stage 2, stage one map is all you need honestly.
The Golf R is brilliant,better interior than the GTI with those comfortable yet sporty seats and you get more punch from it,combined with a DSG Gearbox its smooth and nippy,the 7.5 facelift is even better! Great video Matt! :D
Well, I had one and, to be honest, it was so much better in nearly every way than my Aston. But, then I do have an inexplicable desire to be be within a wingspan of one of Edison’s finest.
@@chriscarbaugh3936 And yet in the US, most cars you see are automatic. In Europe we have more manual vehicles, particularly for regular small hatchbacks and crossovers.
"Bellends are drawn to it like moths to a lightbulb" This guys monotone voice as he makes witty statements and jokes like these always make me laugh 🤣
I have just bought one of these, a DSG version and I am not a bellend....well, not always :)
@@iainnorquay5371 'just bought one' - give it time 🤣
His voice ain’t monotone
@@iainnorquay5371 A shame the Golf R's reputation and image gets sullied by the overwhelming amount of chavs and or bellends who drive them, their honestly decent cars
@@iainnorquay5371 Iain. Sorry. I appreciate your choice. As a car trader. Mat is right and wrong. Right that the car is an ace choice. I know I see them ballooning everywhere down the A34 under over taking. Makes me annoyed at 45, but there are good decent R owners too. I drove like a bell to about 34-36. Just did.
As a pretty average 56 year old who just wants a car that is swift but safe in all weathers but is also refined and relaxing when just cruising with family I must say that my 2014 Mark 7 Golf R DSG serves me brilliantly. It's traction and grip and balance and predictability and effortless pace on the frequently wet uneven country roads where I live puts a smile on my face every time I drive it either with gusto or conservativeness. It's ride quality is jiggly but not harsh at all through towns but it smoothes out like magic when driving swiftly and becomes so supple without ANY body roll. Being the DSG version there is less engine braking when on the paddles and this gets you to become more intimate with your brakes when cracking on. Your hands need never leave your steering wheel also which means you are constantly getting information from your tires and the road and it all adds up to such a smoothed out different driving experience than I have had with any of my high performance manual cars of many makes that I have owned over the years. My cars reliability has been astonishing, only needing a new water pump seal and one wheel speed sensor as repairs in the six years I have owned it. It has only done 35K miles and has full service history. My only criticism is that it piles speed on too quickly and too effortlessly and if you don't keep an eye on your speedometer you could lose your license too easily especially on dual carriageways and motorways.
I had a Mk7 Golf R from new in 2015 and kept it 3 years it was so good. I'm lucky enough to have owned a good variety of interesting cars but the R is my favourite from the last 20 years. It somehow manages to pull off what very few cars manage; to be a great daily driver with all the boring stuff like practicality and comfort, yet properly quick and fun when you want it to be. And funnily enough, I replaced it with a BMW M140i which although had a masterpiece of an engine (and noise!), I just didn't gel with it and actually preferred the R...
Can you explain more about the difference of your experience between a mk7 and a 140m
@@armandyoutube1987 yes, the M140 is still a great car and the engine is simply AMAZING. However, I didn't have the adaptive suspension and the standard suspension spoilt the car for me. The Golf R's engine didn't have the same character (or noise) but as an everyday car it was amazing. If I had to choose between the two, I'd personally choose the R.
Fair play, I’ve got a 2017 VW GTI 7.5, and I’m a massive bellend, so I dread to think what I’d be like in an R! Couple of your quips tickled me more than usual in this one, top work as ever my man 🤝💯👍🏻😂
Just get the GTi is the opinion on the R correct? You arguably bought the right car.
Fully agree - every night i’d expect someone breaking in downstairs to pinch it. Absolute magnet for a certain clientele
Albanians.
'Bellends are drawn to it like a moth to a light bulb' brilliant 👏 😂 genuinely made me chuckle
I prefer DSG nowadays because 80% of the time driving in Manchester your stuck in traffic, manual are for track days but I don’t do track days
I've had my mk7 golf R for 4 years now, still loving it.
As a body shop worker i have seen many of these damaged, stolen and poorly treated, its a shame that a few bad apples spoil the bunch like the saying goes. I mean in the last year any performance car we have had in has had a ghost fitted to it, so you need to enter a button code to start the car, so i guess they might help against thieves.
Thats the sad reality isnt it
Crashed repaired and put back on the road unrecorded appearing for sale in Bradford and Birmingham
@@garethhooper3658 yea lmao I live in Brum.
@@garethhooper3658 yes agreed! I wonder why thst is?????
Keyless entry was a no no. A physical key is the safest option 👍
Bought mine 2 years ago with 85,000klm. Full stage 2 and around 190,000klm now no issues. Amazing car.
I think the 7 and 7.5 look even better after the release of the (in my opinion) visually underwhelming MK 8.
I've got a 7.5 and I mostly agree, I think the 8's look sharper from some angles esp the front.
@@ap6584 So you saying the mk8 looks better?
MK8 is terrible and an electrical ball ache inside, much prefer the 7.5.
@@chriskonte1909 'sharper from some angles' imo
Totally agree and the interior and controls for heater etc are awful touchscreen based or sliding controls that are not illuminated, plus loads of cost cutting everywhere
I have had mine MK 7, for three months and average 40 MPG and that's with using 'Race Mode' occasionally. Great car.
*Very Occasionally no Doubt !* 🤣😂
I had one of these new, on a motorway run 40 mpg is very achievable, however you're looking at the low 30s regular driving and low 20s if you're having fun.
@@njames6002 Yeah exactly my long term trends, had 7 and 7.5 since 2015 and the later is about 1mpg better overall on mway and round town everything else being equal (99ron only). Foot down, no discernible difference. The fuel saving on the 7.5 is probably the WLTP changes, they removed the port injectors and only have DI so it will be a lump of carbon at 70k no doubt.
Had a mk7 gti manual and just recently ( last week ) bought a mk7 golf r dsg. Loving it so far
My ten year old Golf R has just been through it's major service and MOT. Cambelt replaced at 70k. Broken springs and other under car issues to get through MOT. I have had it a year now and I am the second owner. The kids aged 7 and 4 love it and shout "turbo mode" every time I hit the dual carriageway. I can see us keeping this family friendly "sports car" for a long time. Totally agree it changes the way you drive and think, it shorts the sensible switch in your brain.
Not sure how the dealership changed the cam belt on your R when it actually uses a chain to drive the cams. The Timing chain has no service interval as such, just checked for stretch on higher mileage cars.
Once again Matt - right on the money with your thoughts and comments.
As a Mk7.5 R owner, i utterly agree, buy with caution and most (i did lol at the Blue colour and 3d gel plates comments) are driven with scant care or regard of other motorists.
It is a fast comfortable car that can do pretty well everything with ease and affordability.
Agreed ref 3 door and spec, (Not Blue, factory sunroof, 18" wheels and not 19", no DCC, no Keyless and 3 door was essential for me)
The DSG is a genuine pleasure and way more refined (and more often in the right gear) than the earlier TTS or Mk6 DSG. The 6 speed DSG was well suited to the old Mk5 R32 or TT3.2 but not so much the 2.0 petrol engine, where as the 7 speed is excellent and far less annoying to live with.
Replaced with a Yaris GR - zero regrets, the Yaris is another level fun, smiles and laughs.
Keep up the great work Matt.
We had a 2017 Golf - just the 1.4tsi with DSG, but it was an excellent car. Fast enough, very well built and economical. Its biggest flaw was that it was soooo boring - like the teacher's pet in school. I sold it to a mate who still has it and absolutely loves it. Quality was well ahead of the latest Golf.
Ha! We have had 2010 top spec Passat automatic Estate Diesel from new. It has done about 300k. It's a fantastic car, I can't fault it. Just so incredibly boring like you say. It's makes me forget I'm a car enthusiast. 🤣
@@alextoft9199 I was so bored with the company Passat's driving experience that I loved switching on weekends to my private Fiesta. Says it all. Great car but so snooze
I'm currently learning to drive in a 2017 golf, It's the 110ps Diesel. It's definitely boring but it's a great car.
I ironically have the 1.5 turbo match in estate form. And yes the R does look quite similar inside and out but it definitely looks more purposeful.
I find my car likeable, easy to live with, powerful enough, fairly comfortable and quite good fun on the right road at 7 tenths. Engine smooth, punchy, handling reasonably sharp. If you want to really enjoy yourself though you've got the wrong car! At 9 tenths the engine gets raucous under full power at over 5000 revs, not sure why the DSG sends the revs that high as the peak torque is below that and the handling lacks feel and the ride gets bouncy. Best driven normally or even quite briskly but not flat out. It won't wow you but you'll regret getting one. It does seem the hot ones do add that extra excitement without too much loss of comfort especially if you get active damping. My cars economy is always somewhere in the 40s per average tank but you can beat 55mpg on a long trip and in town it's more like 35. It's a shame the R is a lot thirstier. The GTI less so. Shame they don't make the GTI in estate form. That might just be the perfect compromise. The 7.5 1.5 turbo DSG is not a car I get in just to go for a drive but knowing you have to drive somewhere is never a chore and usually a pleasant experience. Compared to the 1.4tsi which I had in a Leon it's more powerful low down and has stronger midcrange. The 1.4 was a little happier to rev to the redline. 1.5 is also a bit jerky for first 2 minutes during warm up. Overall both are nice power plants. Not quite exciting but good at balancing economy with performance.
Latest Golf sucks balls
I purchased my 2014 Golf R from new as I decided that I wanted a particular specification, opted for a few tasteful options such as electric sunroof, leather interior, reverse camera, adaptive suspension, DSG gearbox and the Satnav Pro. Fantastic car to drive, even as mature driver it always brings a smile to my face when you need that little extra acceleration. I am lucky enough to have an independent VW garage very close to me who carries out all my maintenance and service requirements at a very competitive price. I tend to use the R as a ‘Sunday’ car, hence the low mileage of only 16,000 on car. I use a VW Up! as my daily driver as you mentioned in the video, they can attract unwanted attention from the criminal fraternity. I absolutely love the DSG gearbox, I think the DSG box and the 2 litre turbocharged engine are a marriage made in heaven. It is probably the best all round car available on the market (in my opinion), you can take it to Tesco for the weekly shop, drop the kids off at school or go for a blast on a track day experience, the car just takes it in its stride. I echo you concerns regarding the base car specifications and how the car has been treated. When the R was initially launched VW offered some very competitive lease deals on the car. These cars were invariably base spec vehicles, and because of the cheap leases available, the car became affordable to younger drivers who then promptly thrashed the car from day one of ownership, knowing full well that the VW warranty would cover any mechanical issues during the lease period. I would avoid these particular cars like the plague!
cmon! using a Golf on Sundays?!
How do you know an R hasn’t been leased ?
Not true.I deal with warranty claims for Audi and if the car has been abused or been on a track day your warranty has gone.....
I started with a '99 Audi A4 1.8T as my first car. Instantly fell in love with the manual transmission, well designed plush leather interior, and oh my the boost!! It kicked off a lifelong love for German sports cars. Fast forward 5 years however and I bought the OG Bugeye '02 WRX. That car was very fun and fast, yet the interior and overall feeling of highly-engineered German craftsmanship was missing. Fast forward another 5 years, the WRX has been stolen and totaled by thieves. In my search for my new car, I always remembered the MK4 Golf R and how aggressive/beautiful they look. I knew I needed a manual and chose VW partly bc my Audi and that they continue to produce new cars w/ standard trans. And so I sent it - got into a 2016 MK7 Golf R with 60k on it. This is hands down the best car I've ever owned. Not only does it have high specs like backup camera, Bluetooth, heated seats and Sirius XM, it is unbelievably quick with its 300 HP 2.0 TSI engine and handles like one would not believe. The Haldex 4motion system is amazing in the snow, arguably better than a WRX even. The acceleration hits intensely while the clutch & gear box feel phenomenal. I absolutely love how aggressive these cars look, the styling of the front grill and curves of the back alongside the beefy quad-tipped exhaust. You could take the wife and kids to go grab groceries or make laps on track day. I could not be happier with my purchase and do not think that I will ever stray away from owning an R as my daily sports commuter. I would recommend this car to anyone and sadly as VW plans to head in the direction of electric vehicles for the GOLF line, get your hands on one before they become extremely rare and expensive!
I absolutely love the mk7 golf r especially the 7.5 with the digital cockpit. Perfect all rounder shame they are known for getting nicked
just be sensible and get a 3 door without keyless entry and start :)
who is Nick?
I bought one exactly how you said no CAT N , no modified crap and it honestly is the best. I love it. Everytime I drive the R it puts a smile on my face even looking at it. It was either M140i Or R but chose the R for AWD round the sweeping bends in the high peak. Good video.
man your reviews are just captivating
I bought one of these used for 16k from Bradford, opened up the boot and there was a body in the back, turns out he was up to no good so I was glad when he was gone - kept finding oregano sprinkled about in it too
You are so right about how these cars make you drive. Got an f40 m135i at the moment and feel the same. Had a 330e as a courtesy car and it turned me into a perfect gent for 10 days 😂
Good to hear your thoughts, I drive a MK7 GTI Clubsport Edition 40 and it's amazing - i'd love to see you get your hands on one and review it. It shares the same engine as the R though detuned to 265 bhp or 290 bhp in 'overboost' mode and fwd with an LSD as standard. Lots of fun, a lot of people comment they'd rather the R had the styling of the GTI Clubsport and i agree...
I would have one .but it would be nicked inside a week
yeah, the styling of the clubsport is such much better, aggressive but still the right side of tasteful
The clubsport is nice but I prefer the understated R with awd.
Sadly a chav magnet but actually a very good car and an amazing engine for its time
Evening Mat, I think the simple answer is yes all day long. Fantastic motor
I have the GTD which I feel is the GTI and R’s sensible brother. I do quite a lot of miles and think it’s a great car
I would add if you are buying any mk7 golf, check that the heating works, and if you can, check the coolant is the correct colour. The coolant silica bag burst in my car, blocked the heater matrix and cost me a bit of cash to put right. It’s not uncommon unfortunately.
That’s a new one on me, had to Google it. You’d think the bag would be made bullet proof, considering the nause it can cause.
Remove the silica bag and replace the G13 coolant with G12evo and you'll be golden. If the bag bursts and clogs up the heater matrix it's a right job to sort out.
Hi Matt, I have a a digital dash' 7.5 manual that I bought brand new in October 2017, and I love it (I am nearly 60) I live in Guernsey but I am originally from the Peak District. The biggest problem I find is that when I am in the UK, I get followed by Police, until they have checked on the computer that A, the reg' isn't illegal (black with silver numbers) and B that I am not a county lines driver, other than that I smile every time I see it or drive it, though mine is Indium grey. I was also lucky enough to be able to buy it under a tax free and diplomatic status sale and it only cost me £27,000 with £3000 worth of extras on it. It was such a bargain. Good to see you finally say some nice things about them. I love the channel and would definitely buy a car from you even though you are definitely a snob. Keep up the good work and all the best.
Sounds very nice. Perfect for blasting around the island
@@HighPeakAutos Dry bit of sarcasm on your part but very true 😃 speed limit of 35mph max' and 25 in town but when I come to thw mainland I do between 1 and 2000 in a couple of weeks and I come over two to three times a year and do more mileage per annum in uk than I do in Guernsey every year since I bought it.
Great bit of kit that 👌. Mk7 and 7.5 is peak golf imo. Insurance is killer on a golf R though
The Insurance is not a problem if your as old as me mate
I had a Mk7 Golf from new a few years ago (just a TDI Bluemotion) and it was a great car - comfy, great drive, loads of tech etc but the only problem with it was when you parked it up it "just looked like a Golf" - the design hasn't changed much over the years, so much so that when I had it delivered outside my house I walked straight past it and didn't even realise it was my brand new car :(
if its not been modified then yes buy one, otherwise don't go near it, simple as that. get a pre car purchase inspection done first. modified R'S have a tonne of problems eventually. I know I work on them all the time and have owned 3 now.
I’d like one of these. But I live on Merseyside so the chance of it staying on my drive are slim.
It was between one of these and an A35 AMG for my now current car, for a young person that wants to go quick I think this type of of car is brilliant (golf r clones as I call them), AWD with safety features like auto braking means you’re gonna have to try to hurt yourself or others in one, and the ride quality (especially with adaptive dampers) is brilliant. Went with the A35 in the end as I consider it the nicer car (especially without the aero pack) and the monthly payments were lower, would love to see you do a video on one!
Arguably the A35, new M135i xDrive, Golf R etc are actually all S3 clones as Audi had nailed this formula over a decade before VW came to the party with the original R!
@@Formulozza1 maybe but the S3 has fell behind with poor handling and would be last on that list.
This and the Cupra (which I have) are the ultimate daily imo. Comfortable and boring when you want it, but will outpace everything short of an M3 when you want that too. I can leave late and arrive early. Does make you misbehave, went from never a sidewards glance from police to pulled twice in a year, although one was for 34 in 30 at 11PM...
Wouldn’t outpace a M140i or M135i
@@EditCrazeEdit spend under 2k on it, and it burns both.
@@EditCrazeEdit in the corners they get bullied. In a straight line it’s marginal and only past 120.
Had the Golf R 7.5 DSG for 2.5 years with all the options apart from a sun roof, and have no intention of getting rid of it. 5 door. Great daily driver. Best golf I've had and I've had about 6 over 30 years including the 2.8 4Motion.
The way you want to drive any car is a further option and not necessarily mine.
I drive a blue Golf MK7 too but it's only a shitty TSI (but hey, it does outpace snails.....just)! So, that - sadly for me - has to make me a couple of notches below an idiot! 🤣 Nice review as always!
Had loads of Golfs over the years both as private and company cars including a MK5 GTI when they first came out. Nearly all were great and easy to drive but the worst BY FAR was a MK7.5 Golf R line (not R!). Harsh ride and lack of power. Big mistake!. Sold it a few months later...If we ever buy another Golf it will be a genuine GTI (honestly its all the car you will ever need) or an R - a real one!
Matt, when gave the list of options fitted to this car, what a cheek VW have.Charging for everything while already charging a lot for the car.Aye, great car, but you need a tracker, wheel clamp, and a platoon of the Army to make sure it’s there when you get back.
Hi Matt , I was just about to put a deposit down on an R and really wanted one but the thought of being classed as a “Bellend” has made me question my decision……thanks Matt for another slice of fine motoring journalism.
Lol
Jesus wept.
@@MT-kx2uc Whata f…..g charmer you are ….it was humorous you moron
If one persons opinion affects you or how you think then you’re probably better off not having access to the internet or leaving your house🤣🤣
@@Ztxk94 I bought one anyway and bloody love it.
Genuinely prefer the GTI tartan interior and it’s probably more than enough performance for roads today,PCP deals a few years back I seem to remember the R was stupid cheap sometimes cheaper that the GTI….👍
Lovely car, great engine. I hope a bellend turns up and buys it soon 🙂
Just follow the cloud of vape smoke
You and me both!
Guaranteed they have white trainers and shit catcher tracky bottoms
Great video Matt as entertaining as ever buddy 👌😂🤣love the intro rant. You’re a great presenter. Engaging and informative whilst entertaining 👌👏🙏
Thanks!
As a Yorkshire man who often travels on the ‘62 I appreciated that comment 😊
No comment except to say around my neck of the woods, the Nerds go out to play and everyone drives one of these then when everyone is asleep, back they come revving like there is no tomorrow, popping exhausts.
Love that opening Matt - you captured the characterisation of the breed perfectly.
But apart from that, they’re great cars.
I think much the same about BMW drivers, never ceases to amaze me just how many are into tailgating, cutting up, jumping red lights. And like yourself I’m pretty calm and laid back, but they do manage to bring the red glaze to my eyes.
2018 2019 is a mk7.5 (it's a facelift car) they have slight differences like a 7spd DSG gearbox and minor cosmetic updates as well.
Another previous R owner here, got it brand new on a 66 plate. Had it for 2 years. Loved it and I was one of those guys that bombed it down the Silk Road to get to work. Not because I’m an idiot but just because I was often late for work. My R is sorely missed. Great to drive. Nicer looking than the 8. Had some glitches with acc and other systems however.
Always enjoy you videos and the are always very amusing and interesting. VW golf’s are the nuts when it comes to having a mid sized hatchback. We have had 2 mk2’s, mk4,mk5,mk6 and now a mk7 GT TDI. 3 petrol and 3 2.0ltr diesel’s and we loved them all. Just bought a mk7 GT 2.0ltr TDI DSG 50.000 miles and it’s a cracking car. Thanks for another great video
I run a 7.5 as a daily, Amazing all-rounder. Absolutely love it!
3:30 The exhaust tips are a feature on the golf R but no one ever cleans them, really lets the car down & the longer you neglect them the more carbon builds up & the harder it is to clean. If you find one with clean tips, you know its been cared for.
Thanks for the video and Yes you should buy an R! They are great cars and I have shared my 5 year ownership on my channel should anyone be interested. I can only recommend one from my ownership plus the community is fantastic 👍
Agreed, I’d definitely go for a 140i BMW
One of the few cars I could still make out in my mirrors, just, as I pulled onto a motorway on my FJR1300. Gorgeous bike....
I cannot argue with any statement you made in this video. What's not to like? Unless you have an M140i along side it at the dealers. Trying to figure out it's entire history though is a minefield which is the chance you take with all these type of car. S3, M140i, Golf R.......... pocket county lines rocket.
My Cupra (which has the same powerplant, but Front wheel drive) is a hoot and has been a joy to drive as a daily. But you are right, all of these VAG hot hatches are driven by the yobbos who had enough money to upgrade from a Fiesta ST, but can't quite afford an M140i yet.
@@MT-kx2uc until you try to insure it. Running costs are more also
Never has another model of car needed that car vertical payment!
I've never driven the Golf R, but it obviously goes like stink. The R32 was a car I like as well, the engine was a joy.. As always excellent description and very amusing....I love your videos. THANK YOU..
They don’t have the same ASBO profile here in the States. I’ve always loved this car. But I can’t justify the price of a new one and don’t trust the condition of a used one. I guess I’ll stay with my 2013 TTS that has never put a foot wrong.
I love the TTS. Good choice
in the market for one now, I have an opportunity to buy one from an old friend, a VW enthusiast if you will. The car is modified, totally transparent history, all issues have been taken care of, even did all the "preventative maintenance" to it (water pump etc). I'm coming from a car I love, GTI MK5... but would think this low miles R might be a good fit and upgrade. I just hope the motorhead in me isn't pulling strings.
Nice one Matt 👍 To be honest your comment at 6:40 holds true for BMW’s, just sometimes it’s nice to a bit knobby and not disappoint anybody!
Crisp and sharp especially in white.
Would still like an old R32, cause of the V6, yes it wasn't the quickest nor best handling, but its a V6.
Fantastic car but I feel like the Leon cupra improves on all the shortcomings of the golf R while keeping everything great about the golf R.
I’ve got a soft spot for golf’s, and when this R replaced the r32, which I also loved, I thought it was really on point styling. Great video again matt
The mk6 R replaced the R32.
Nice cars - always imagined I'd try and make it look like a cooking Golf - ditch the 4 pipes, standard bumpers, different wheels, de-badge, cloth interior.
Good call on the TTS as an alternative, though.
Great to see you well over 200k now. Looking at your vids from the early days. Still love them. Keep up to good work Matt 👍
Just bought one of these on a 14 plate in white its the manuel i absolutely love it im 56 and its the car ive ever owned the drive is superb it could do with 2 new headlights there are milky onside been to my local VW DEALER i was Quoted £1890 must admit i nearly fainted but apart from that yes there a fantastic car
Having owned a new mk V R32 back in the day, I have always appreciated the understatedness of the Golf Rs. This example looks great in white, appears to have good build quality, is practical & ticks all the right boxes for me.......wish I was in the UK to buy one of these fabulous cars!
Agreed. Generally drove by young lads who lease them as they can't afford to buy them. They live in a rented new build house as they have no deposit to buy one, or at home with mommy & pops.
And the point of this arrogant comment is what exactly 🤔🙈
Why don't you tell us all how rich & amazing you are 2 🙄
Nobody cares about your opinion Paul. People can do what they like, as long they're not hurting anybody.
I know what you're trying to say... drove by chavvy divs. But the way you said it is all wrong. Nothing wrong with not being able to afford things.
You would have fitted in so well with top gear great humour love it
Much better looking that the current Golf. I think you are a bit harsh Matt, Bellends are drawn to Mercedes-Benz A-Classes now.
I guess it depends where you’re from. I’m from Leeds and the R absolutely attracts bellends haha
and M140i's lol
@@harveymaginnis-kelly5180
Yeah plenty of Alex Bellends out there.
@@visionsinblue7093 oh yeah for sure haha
Where I’m from bellends are in GTI’s R’s S3’s
Had a 7.5R estate a few years back and loved it as daily driver as felt like a cheap mans rs4 avant. Preferred the estate as really practical as ha e kids and no keyless entry to worry about either so less chance of getting nicked. Quick car but for me it was just too linear and competent as almost became boring after couple of years Only got rid of it as started losing coolant at 2 years/20000 miles and was concerned about water pump issue but VW were not interested- "just top the coolant up sir" !
I looked at a number of GTis and Rs but in the end settled on a GTI. I just preferred the styling, interior and dare I say it was more fun to drive. The R is a weapon in a straight line but the handling is very linear while the GTI is more nimble.
I just basically mirrored this comment , love my manual R but I dare say I'd probably love a gti more seems to be more heritage and soul in them
Absolutely agree and was going to comment the same thing, although the outright launch speed of the R is impressive, the lighter fwd performance pack GTI is an absolute joy to drive quickly, a far classier choice I’m my opinion.
After I posted this at 3:30am 2 scrotes tried breaking into my house for my R's keys lol luckily the antisnap barrels did their job
Watching from South Africa. Love your content. You give great car buying advice. Definitely getting a used Golf R in future😊
Thank you!
Fantastic review as always Matt. I currently drive a Mk 7.5 GTE and it's great. Only 204bhp, but fast enough when needed thanks to the battery boost in GTE mode. It's a great drivers car with plenty of smiles per mile!
Never driven one of those
I really missed the "get back to you" line. I love it!
Whenever I see one of these I always assume it's been nicked. Give me an M140i over this thing any day.
Can confirm, I drive an R32 Mk V and am definitely a bellend 😂
sadly the tax and petrol means I’m going to sell it, hence watching this
TBH it is also quite bellendinous
How funny, I can tell from your comment that if I went as far as I could on the bell, that is exactly where you’d be, at the very end.
@@Mas-lx5nc one could say, the tip of the tip
There's something about chunky squat aggressive cars like this that's really appealing. Great review with some superb gags as always.
Thanks for watching!
My son has one of these on a 69 plate automatic, bell end is a perfect description
Matt's Golf R review summary: I love the M140i.
Biggest problem with the Golf R is that it's a Golf; THE most average-looking car on the planet, for 8 generations, and I don't care how much leather they put inside or where they've put it, that dashboard/console is so 1990s in shape that it hurts my brain to think 'the class-leading' hot hatch had it until 2019.
Great video... but the fact he was so negative about modded ones put me off it. Whats wrong with a sensible non aggressive remap? Nearly every road going car is for the "Everyman" . So something as simple as a good lowering set up will let it sit and handle better. And it's detuned - so a remap will allow it to function as it was designed for! Aside from that - good video. I'll be getting one soon myself too hopefully.
Spot on with the Bell End bit
Matt please drive one for daily use to show others how defensive and friendly Golf R drivers are ✌😀
Great review and an awesome car. I have to agree with you though, I’d go for an M140i too.
Had my R for nearly a year, pretty much the same car you have bar a couple of letters on the plate and extra doors.
I find you go days where you barley notice you're in a 300bhp car, then 1 day you will pull off a slip road or have to overtake someone, then it will set you off to want to drive it harder.
With mixed driving I get 32mpg, in my Fiesta ST I used to get 36mpg, so the R doesn't do bad.
VW still do used car programme like I got, only do full VW history cars and you get 2 years warranty and 2 free services.
Like you said, plenty of dogs out there, 1 I test drove privately was clearly only fwd.
thats what happened to mine on only 41k miles, the haldex pump goes on them if the filter doesnt get cleaned, the VW dealers mine was getting serviced at obviously never bothered, most dont apparently unless asked too
end up with a fwd golf R, you have to launch them and make sure you are getting no wheelspin to check your haldex is healthy from my experience because you dont get no warnings or faults to inform you its not working :)
Brilliant review. Full of good advice too with a dollop of humour thrown in. Magic.
Thanks!
Entertaining review as always Matt 🤣😉 I've had my 2018 MK7.5 Golf R from new and hands down it's the best All Rounder I've ever had. Mine's a 3 door in that under the radar "Assassin" Indium Grey, it's a 7 Speed DSG ( the MK7 DSG was a 6 speed BTW ) and on my daily 30 mile commute I regularly hit high 30's MPG with occasional 40 + MPG.
This drops somewhat to mid 20's when I'm in the "Bellend" Mode 🙈😂 but it's all the car's fault 🤪 honestly 😉
My 52 year old wife has a 7.5, which she uses as her everyday car, so a mum that definitely knows the difference between the R and the match, and every other variant. My sons friends all about 18, thought she was a cool mum having a 300bhp hyperhatch, then they seen her on her Kawasaki Ninja which left them scratching their heads trying to work out where are the limits for middle aged women!!
I know what your saying about car theft. I had the m140, multiple times when I went into a shop I would come out to the local scallys staring in the windows. I've now got a porche and it honestly feels much less Likely to be stolen.
Nice to see you've finally got one of these of the channel! I'm a bit like you.. I like large executive high-speeced good value of money cars, but there's something about these I like. I've had old E Classes and got a 635d now etc, but I also daily a Mk7 GTD and I think they're brilliant allrounders. Comfortable on 5+ hour long trip, reliable and has enough features for my needs. I will own one of these at some point, but I do like to have a warm/hot hatch and a big cruiser at the same time. Maybe I'm greedy haha.
😀perfect assessment of the buyers of these cars.
Another great vid Matt. I just wish they did the S5 with that manual box. The 7 speed DSG is good but you just don't feel connected to the car. I like the subtle nod's to what the car is & not shouty like the Focus equivalent. I do understand what you are saying though, it encourages you to go a little faster than you may in a 'normal' car. My Wife & I was coming back from Cornwall & I managed to get 36.4 MPG from the Audi (ok, I was driving like a sedated Vicar) but we were quite chuffed with that. Like every car, its whatever floats your boat! All the best.....
10:15 totally depends how modified, 10 or 20 mm lowering with good coil overs is a great choice if no adaptive suspension. Also if they have done the coil overs and given it better brakes, polly bushes and sway bars you know they loved that car but personally would never buy one mapped past stage 2, stage one map is all you need honestly.
The Golf R is brilliant,better interior than the GTI with those comfortable yet sporty seats and you get more punch from it,combined with a DSG Gearbox its smooth and nippy,the 7.5 facelift is even better!
Great video Matt! :D
Well, I had one and, to be honest, it was so much better in nearly every way than my Aston. But, then I do have an inexplicable desire to be be within a wingspan of one of Edison’s finest.
Volkswagen is continuing to offer the manual Golf R in North America only.
Funny how some of us Americans just really want a man box !
@@chriscarbaugh3936 And yet in the US, most cars you see are automatic.
In Europe we have more manual vehicles, particularly for regular small hatchbacks and crossovers.
I had a manual with a revo stage 1 remap, fantastic car. I have an AMG A35 now which I don't think is as good as my MK7.
The Golf R is the single reason car vertical should exist. If only you could do one on the driver(s)..!