Volkswagen Golf r problems

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The Volkswagen Golf (Mk7) is a C-segment car manufactured by German automobile manufacturer Volkswagen. It is the seventh generation in the Golf series and the successor to the Golf Mk6. It was introduced in Berlin on 4 September 2012, before a public launch at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. Sales in Europe began with the model in November 2012.

Marketed in three-door and five-door hatchback, van, and estate forms, the Golf Mk7 shares the MQB platform with the third generation Audi A3, SEAT León and Škoda Octavia.

In November 2016, Volkswagen presented a facelift of the Golf Mk7. It was replaced in December 2019 by the Golf Mk8, which is built on the MQB Evo platform. Production of the e-Golf and the Golf Variant ended in mid-2020.

photo of Volkswagen Golf r car production

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Volkswagen Golf r model years

volkswagen golf r 2023 photo
Golf r 2023
Volkswagen

4

3

3

4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen golf r 2022 photo
Golf r 2022
Volkswagen

9

5

3

4.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen golf r 2019 photo
Golf r 2019
Volkswagen

5

2

13

4.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen golf r 2018 photo
Golf r 2018
Volkswagen

9

4

15

5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen golf r 2017 photo
Golf r 2017
Volkswagen

191

0

21

5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen golf r 2016 photo
Golf r 2016
Volkswagen

10

4

11

4.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen golf r 2015 photo
Golf r 2015
Volkswagen

123

0

1

5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen golf r 2013 photo
Golf r 2013
Volkswagen

4

0

6

4.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen golf r 2012 photo
Golf r 2012
Volkswagen

1

0

2

4.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Volkswagen Golf r problems

Based on complaints from owners of the Volkswagen Golf R, several common problems have been identified:

  • Thermostat Housing Issues:
    • The thermostat housing in the MK7.5 Volkswagen Golf R is a common problem. This part, made of plastic, is prone to cracking or warping over time due to exposure to hot engine components. Owners are advised to check coolant levels regularly to detect early signs of coolant loss, which could prevent more costly issues. Repair costs for this issue can range from £300 to £400 in parts plus 4-5 hours of labor.
  • Bonnet Latch, Cable & Handle Problems:
    • Components related to the bonnet latch, cable, and interior handle are known to fail in the Golf R. Signs of issues include a stiff interior bonnet handle or difficulty closing the bonnet with normal force. Repairs for these components can cost around £30 for a used cable or £40 for a new aftermarket latch, plus labor. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are essential to avoid being stranded due to a flat battery.
  • Haldex System Maintenance:
    • The Haldex system in the Golf R requires regular servicing every 3 years to prevent premature wear. Neglecting this maintenance can lead to reduced traction on the drive system. The Haldex pump provides oil pressure to actuate clutches for rear-wheel drive when needed. Servicing costs for the Haldex system typically range around £99+VAT for the full job and parts.

These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to issues to ensure the longevity and performance of the Volkswagen Golf R.

Volkswagen Golf r

Is the Volkswagen Golf R reliable?

The 2024 Volkswagen Golf R has a predicted reliability score of 73 out of 100.

Do Golf R have issues?

VW Golf R Mk7 most common problems

Excessive oil consumption – Issues with the car's PCV could result in rear crank case seals to fail, but regular valve changes should stop this happening. Turbocharger failure – This was only really an issue with earlier cars.

How long do Golf R engines last?

How long do Volkswagen Golf engines last? A well cared for Golf engine can last as long as a decade, but the average engine that's encountered heavy use and potential wear and tear through its lifespan should last at least 5 years before it develops the need for a little TLC.

Is Golf R insurance high?

A car capable of such pace is never going to be cheap to insure, but compared to similarly fast models the Golf R is surprisingly affordable. It helps that it comes with VW's range of driver assistance systems that you get with the normal Golf.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Volkswagen Golf r years

We have researched Volkswagen problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volkswagen Golf r cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volkswagen Golf r model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volkswagen Golf r model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Volkswagen Golf r years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Volkswagen Golf r car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Volkswagen Golf r , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Fuel/propulsion system problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Engine problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Air bags problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Volkswagen Golf r vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Golf r model years

A total of 8 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Golf r model years

There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Golf r model years

There were a total of 25 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 356 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volkswagen Golf r . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volkswagen Golf r vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Volkswagen Golf r 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
  • VIN: 3VW217AUXFM
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: When I turn on the ignition it says on the screen Starting system fault please service the vehicle.
Volkswagen Golf r 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-20
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-23
  • VIN: 3VW4T7AU2HM
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: I had a suction jet pump recall due on the car. I took it to the dealer to fix. Mind you, I have never had an issue with this car ever. Now about a week later from the car being in the shop I get an engine malfunction light that comes on due to the evap system. Vw dealership of cool springs has not worked with me on this at all and it is frustrating to say the least.
Volkswagen Golf r 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-02
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-06
  • VIN: 3VW5T7AU5HM
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: The water pump in these vehicles are known defects, with class actions resulting. My water pump has failed at less than 70k miles. This results in engine overheating and possible failure. Luckily I was able to get the car off the road.
Volkswagen Golf r 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-08-28
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-29
  • VIN: 3VW4T7AU1HM
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Car has been leaking fuel for over a year. Had to pay out of pocket to get it fixed and VW refused to refund cost of repairs even though there is now a recall over a year later acknowledging the issue.
Volkswagen Golf r 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-12
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
  • VIN: 3VW217AU3HM
  • Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Failure of wheel speed sensor in front right wheel. This is the THIRD time I have had a wheel speed sensor fail on this car, which has 35,000 miles on it. Failure caused loss of power steering, airbags, abs, etc.
Volkswagen Golf r 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-20
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-20
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: 3VW5T7AU5HM
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I have gear shift trim that has peeled and is extermely sharp in my vehicle. This had led to cutting my hands multiple times while accessing the center storage compartment. This is a known issue with GTIs and other Volkswagen trim manufacturing, yet Volkswagen refuses to replace the part in my VIN. The relevant Service Action Code is 34J7.
Volkswagen Golf r 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-06-18
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-19
  • VIN: 3VW917AU0FM
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: I was driving to my grandparents house and once i got to the house there was gasoline dripping from the back of car, from the area of the tank. "61821 SE VERIFICO UNIDAD CON LIQUEO DE GASOLINA , SE VERIFICO Y SE ENCONTRO CHARCOL CANISTER LLENO DE GASOLINA , SE HIZO TEST PLAN Y SE ENCONTRO VALVULA INTERNA DEL TANQUE DE LA GASOLINA TRANCADA Y ESTO OCASIONANDO LIQUEO DE GASOLINA , SE REMOVIO Y SE INSTALO TANQUE DE GASOLINA NUEVO Y CANISTER DE LOS GASES NUEVO Y VALVULA N80 NUEVA Y SE LIMPIARON TODAS LAS LINES DEL SISTEMA , SE HIZO TEST Y NO PRESENTO LIQUEO DE GASOLINA" - Mecanic
Volkswagen Golf r 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-13
  • VIN: 3VW117AU1HM
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Golf. The contact stated that after refueling the vehicle, the contact became aware that the fuel had been consumed extremely quickly. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V110000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown. Parts distribution disconnect.
Volkswagen Golf r 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-01-11
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-09
  • VIN: 3VW4T7AU8HM
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Starting January 2023, I had issues putting fuel in my car (symptoms align with the recall issued this year). I took it to VW and paid their diagnostic fee for them to say there’s nothing wrong with the car (approx. $170) continued to drive the car and eventually due to the issue, my fuel pump went out and I had to replace it. (See attached image). This time, I took the car to a local mechanic who charged a $100 diagnostic fee. All of this was prior to the recall this year and I am hoping for reimbursement on everything I spent trying to resolve this issue.
Volkswagen Golf r 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-25
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-30
  • VIN: 3VW217AU4HM
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: July 30,2024 I own a Golf 2017. My suction jet pump has failed. I cannot drive my car because I can't put gas into it. I need my car for work. The recall does not have the part available and it seems there hasn't been a part to fix this for a very long time. I'm really at a loss. What are my next steps? Should I report this to the Better Business Bureau? So far I've been on Volkswagen Of America's phone wait for 40 minutes. I've already taken my car to a dealership to have this problem verified. There were no warning messages.  
Volkswagen Golf r 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-07
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-30
  • VIN: 3VW217AU3HM
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: On July 7, 2024, the fuel tank system on my car (2017 VW Golf) failed. I was unable to pump gas into the gas tank. Upon arrival back to my house, gas started leaking out of the backside of the car near the gas tank (I later found out from the VW service manager it was leaking out of the charcoal canister). I had the car towed ($173) to a local VW dealership the next morning, 7/8/24. It is now 7/30/24 and the car is still not fixed. I was without a car for two and a half weeks (7/7 to 7/24), then finally got a rental from the dealership that is costing me $40/day (totaling $240 as of today). According to the service manager at the VW dealership, VW engineers are saying the failure is not due to the fuel tank suction jet pump (which there is a current recall on but no fix available) but all the symptoms I experienced point to that part being the problem. The service manager said that VW will cover the cost of the repair under a PZEV warranty, not the fuel tank suction jet pump extended warranty/recall. The replacement parts are taking weeks for the dealership to receive and there was confusion/miscommunication about which parts were included or needed. My complaints are: 1) the length of time it's taking for the car to be fixed, 2) the amount of money it's costing me for towing, rental car and any other potential expenses related to this issue, and 3) if it's not the fuel tank suction jet pump that is the problem, then there's potentially a larger problem at play with the fuel tank system not included in the original recall.
Volkswagen Golf r 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-26
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-26
  • VIN: 3VW217AU9HM
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Golf. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, the contact heard an abnormal clicking sound. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed suction jet pump. The contact was informed that the suction jet pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V110000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Volkswagen Golf r 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-14
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-25
  • VIN: 3VW217AU3HM
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: A recall was published on 02/14/2024 and remains unresolved. Since the safety risk of "leaking fuel, in the presence of an ignition source, may result in a fire" it seems like this should be a priority. (Manufacturer Recall Number20UF, NHTSA Recall Number24V110)
Volkswagen Golf r 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-25
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-25
  • VIN: 3VW217AU9FM
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Vehicle had recall for "leaking fuel fire risk" Strong smell of fuel inside car. Manufacturer recall #20UF NHTSA recall 24V110 There has not been a fix yet available. Dealer (Team Volkswagen Merrillville IN) replaced the Jet fuel pump. Problem continued, VW engineering said bring the car back and replace the entire fuel tank. Completed. Problem returned 2 weeks later (XXX). While driving home from work noticed extremely strong fuel odor in car. Pulled off in a store parking lot, someone ran up and told me my car was leaking fuel. Gas was literally pouring out, I lost 1/4 tank of fuel on way home. The fuel was leaking under hood, under fuel tank area and under the rear passenger seat. I had the car towed to the dealer. Volkswagen does not have an actual fix for the problem. I should be given a replacement car due to Volkswagen being unable to correct this serious safety issue. What should I do, I am afraid to take the car back. I have videos and several pictures but unable to upload onto this website. Call [XXX] Crown Point Indiana INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Volkswagen Golf r 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-10
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-10
  • VIN: 3VW217AU2FM
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Volkswagen Golf. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V110000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while refueling the vehicle, there was fuel leaking from the vehicle, making it impossible to fill the fuel tank. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 73,780. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Latest 5 recalls Volkswagen Golf r

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 18 recalls for different components of the Volkswagen Golf r.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Volkswagen Golf r 2023
  • Report Received Date: 2024-06-27
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (VW) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Golf R, Golf GTI, 2024 Atlas, and 2024 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The rearview camera image may be delayed or deactivated after shifting into reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
  • Consequence: A rearview camera with a delayed or deactivated image reduces the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will update the infotainment system software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 15, 2024, and July 16, 2024. Owners may contact VW customer service at 1-800-893-5298. VW's number for this recall is 91US.
  • Model: Volkswagen Golf r 2022
  • Report Received Date: 2024-06-27
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (VW) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Golf R, Golf GTI, 2024 Atlas, and 2024 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The rearview camera image may be delayed or deactivated after shifting into reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
  • Consequence: A rearview camera with a delayed or deactivated image reduces the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will update the infotainment system software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 15, 2024, and July 16, 2024. Owners may contact VW customer service at 1-800-893-5298. VW's number for this recall is 91US.
  • Model: Volkswagen Golf r 2023
  • Report Received Date: 2023-06-21
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:MACPHERSON STRUT
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2023 Golf R A8 and Golf GTI vehicles. The strut mount may be deformed, loosening the bolted connections to the suspension strut mounting.
  • Consequence: Loose suspension connections can cause steering instability, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the right and/or left suspension strut mountings, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 18, 2023. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 40T3.
  • Model: Volkswagen Golf r 2016
  • Report Received Date: 2022-11-09
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2016 Golf R vehicles. Incorrect front windshield wiper software was installed which may prevent the wipers from activating. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 104, "Windshield Wiping and Washing Systems."
  • Consequence: Windshield wipers that cannot be activated may lead to reduced visibility for the driver and increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will update the body control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 15, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91EN.
  • Model: Volkswagen Golf r 2022
  • Report Received Date: 2022-11-02
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2022 Golf R A8, Audi S3, RS3 Sedan, Q4 E-Tron SUV, A3 Sedan, and 2022-2023 Volkswagen Golf GTI, and ID4 vehicles. The rearview camera image may be blank or unresponsive when the vehicle is placed in reverse gear or when the park function is manually activated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
  • Consequence: An inoperative rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed to Audi owners February 14, 2023. Volkswagen owners will receive an owner notification letter once remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298 and Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are (Volkswagen) 91EK and (Audi) 91EL.

Latest negative Volkswagen Golf r car reviews

  1. Dennis Hammes 2024-11-23

    Vehicle year: 2019

    The standard seats were uncomfortable, especially considering the 40k price tag.

  2. Fredy Oberbrunner 2024-11-01

    Vehicle year: 2022

    The car is good, but unfortunately, the touch/swipe/wave controls ruin the user experience. The touch screen has a full one-second latency, and the rigid suspension makes it a fifty-fifty chance of changing temperature, air flow, media source, or playlist on the first try. This can be quite distracting from driving itself. The other half of the time, your finger lands on something else, or your hand waves by another sensor, leading to a different menu. The wheel is also a disappointment, with the heating touch-button being too close to the right thumb base, and the left thumb base can trigger driving mode change. This can be frustrating, especially when you are in your drive setting. The graphic touch-based user interface with layered menus is not ideal for a fast and hard driving mechanical construct where the user is in an unstable position. I was not expecting this from decent German engineering, and it held me back from buying an electric car. Other functions are acceptable, but there are a few hiccups present, which are not expected in this price range. For example, the engine hood rubber dampener flies out of position every fifty miles or so, the wireless phone charger overheats so much that the phone dies, and the base of the stick shifter heats up. The mirror does not turn down on reverse, even though the setting is on, and the system does not flag low tire pressure repeatedly and on all wheels (as low as 29 psi from recommended 45). The manual shifter took about a thousand miles to flow and not stick, but at five thousand miles now, it is almost as good as the best ones I've used.

  3. Logan Weber 2024-10-15

    Vehicle year: 2019

    As a long-time GTI/GLI driver, I have always appreciated the value for money that these cars offer, especially the GTI. However, when I first heard about the Golf R a couple of years ago, I couldn't help but dream of owning one. Recently, that dream became a reality and I was excited to get behind the wheel. Unfortunately, after an hour or two of driving, I found myself feeling disappointed. While the Golf R has its strengths, it's important for GTI owners to understand that there are some downsides to upgrading. For one, the handling of the GTI is unmatched and the fuel efficiency is hard to beat. With the Golf R, you can feel the extra weight in the back where the AWD mechanisms are working, which can make it feel like you're hauling a trailer. Additionally, the fuel efficiency is not as impressive as the GTI's, which can be frustrating. That being said, the Golf R does have some advantages, such as improved tracking and a great navigation system. However, it's important to note that there are some differences between the two cars, such as the need to bring your own spare tire with the Golf R and the front end cruise control accident assist that may take some getting used to. Overall, while the Golf R is a great car, it's important to consider all factors before making the switch from the GTI.In concept, it's a great car. However, after about 30 minutes in, I found myself wanting to go back to my old GTI (fortunately my wish was granted). I want to clarify that this is not a knock on the car, but rather a warning to GTI drivers who are considering this as a GTI upgrade. The Golf R is a different car with different strengths and weaknesses, some of which I couldn't accept.

  4. Allen Murazik 2024-10-08

    Vehicle year: 2019

    After 2,000 miles, I have to say that I'm not a fan of this car. Unfortunately, everything rattles, from the back seat to the front passenger seat, and even the middle armrest. There's even something rattling in the ceiling and behind the back armrest. The front driver side window also rattles, which can be quite annoying. Additionally, I've noticed that every time I try to enter something on Google maps using the keyboard, a nonsensical message about the keyboard pops up, preventing me from using it for a few seconds. If the passenger uses the touchscreen while I'm driving, the screen freezes and displays a message about safety, which can be distracting. While it's not particularly fast or quick, it does have some good features on paper.

  5. Richmond Bartoletti 2024-07-17

    Vehicle year: 2023

    The car is good, but unfortunately, the touch/swipe/wave controls ruin the user experience. The touch screen has a full one-second latency, and the rigid suspension makes it a fifty-fifty chance of changing temperature, air flow, media source, or playlist on the first try. This can be quite distracting from driving itself. The other half of the time, your finger lands on something else, or your hand waves by another sensor, leading to a different menu. The wheel is also a disappointment, with the heating touch-button being too close to the right thumb base, and the left thumb base can trigger driving mode change. This can be frustrating, especially when you are in your drive setting. The graphic touch-based user interface with layered menus is not ideal for a fast and hard driving mechanical construct where the user is in an unstable position. I was not expecting this from decent German engineering, and it held me back from buying an electric car. Other functions are acceptable, but there are a few hiccups present, which are not expected in this price range. For example, the engine hood rubber dampener flies out of position every fifty miles or so, the wireless phone charger overheats so much that the phone dies, and the base of the stick shifter heats up. The mirror does not turn down on reverse, even though the setting is on, and the system does not flag low tire pressure repeatedly and on all wheels (as low as 29 psi from recommended 45). The manual shifter took about a thousand miles to flow and not stick, but at five thousand miles now, it is almost as good as the best ones I've used.

Latest positive Volkswagen Golf r car reviews

  1. Darion Roob 2024-11-22

    Vehicle year: 2017

    Hi there! I noticed that you've been a Subaru WRX/STI owner since 2003, but had to find another car when they stopped making the 5 door. I'm glad to hear that you found the Golf R to be a step up in all categories! The technology is newer and the car is finished better. Plus, the automatic transmission with paddle shifters is faster and crisper shifting than you can do yourself! It's great that you're able to pull extra performance out of an APR Stage 2 tune for the engine and transmission. Overall, it sounds like a joy to drive!

  2. Adam Buckridge 2024-11-19

    Vehicle year: 2017

    I've had my 2016 Golf R for almost a year now. Before that, I owned two base-model Corvettes, which I also bought new. In magazine road tests, the Corvettes were less than a second apart in 0-60 and quarter mile acceleration times. The Golf R is a little quicker than my 1998 C5 and a little slower than my 2006 C6, acceleration-wise, but the difference is so negligible that the seat-of-the-pants feel is the same. Handling feels about the same too. The braking is impressive. Although it doesn't have the bombastic roar or head-turning looks of the Vettes, I'm getting a lot of attention from the younger crowd (I'm 67) who know exactly what the R is. So I'm enjoying driving a sleeper again, my first sleeper since my 1973 Mazda RX2, a rotary engine screamer in mundane coupe form that was a blast to drive as most cars were deteriorating, performance-wise, at the time. I'm also very happy with the quality of the interior, although I do wish it came in a color other than black. It's tons of fun!!

  3. Raoul Klocko 2024-11-03

    Vehicle year: 2022

    Don't let negative reviews about the infotainment system sway your decision. I've been driving my '22 R since February and have never accidentally turned on the heated steering wheel. The volume and radio sliders on the wheel are also much easier to use than actual buttons. The climate control works so well that I set the temperature when I first got the car and haven't touched it since. The defroster, front and rear, are located on the lighted headlight switch area for easy access. There are also tons of shortcuts that you can customize to your liking. Some reviewers complain about the 7-step process to turn off traction control, but it's actually very simple - just swipe down from the top to open the shortcut and then tap off! While the manual transmission may be a cool bit of nostalgia, it's considerably slower than the DSG. With the DSG, the competition doesn't stand a chance. Don't just take my word for it, try it out for yourself!

  4. Ashton Konopelski 2024-10-29

    Vehicle year: 2016

    I've had my 2016 Golf R for almost a year now. Before that, I owned two base-model Corvettes, which I also bought new. In magazine road tests, the Corvettes were less than a second apart in 0-60 and quarter mile acceleration times. The Golf R is a little quicker than my 1998 C5 and a little slower than my 2006 C6, acceleration-wise, but the difference is so negligible that the seat-of-the-pants feel is the same. Handling feels about the same too. The braking is impressive. Although it doesn't have the bombastic roar or head-turning looks of the Vettes, I'm getting a lot of attention from the younger crowd (I'm 67) who know exactly what the R is. So I'm enjoying driving a sleeper again, my first sleeper since my 1973 Mazda RX2, a rotary engine screamer in mundane coupe form that was a blast to drive as most cars were deteriorating, performance-wise, at the time. I'm also very happy with the quality of the interior, although I do wish it came in a color other than black. It's tons of fun!!

  5. Arely Reinger 2024-10-15

    Vehicle year: 2016

    The Owner's Manual of my 2016 Golf R is the worst thing about it! It's a whopping 434 pages filled mostly with attorney-written warnings that are repeated over and over again, making it almost unreadable. On the bright side, the brakes are great and once you get above 2,000 rpm, the engine has lots of grunt. Although the steering is a little numb and you don't get to feel the road surface, the force feel is appropriate. The steering wheel is loaded with buttons, but unfortunately, most of them are so small that you have to look down at the wheel to use them. The 'touch screen' doesn't work very well, but don't worry, once you start driving the car, all the complaints disappear because it's an absolute joy to drive!!!

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