e2k I know, right? So many car vids are doing manuals vs auto... Absolute waste of time for a serious comparison. Probably a deliberate tactic to prevent any real criticisms...
@@TheRealTanSeeker Because that's how they come as standard. It's not like the conclusion would be any different. The Golf would be slightly faster in a drag race, but slightly less fun and involving to drive, so he'd still choose the Audi.
@@TheRealTanSeeker No. It's actually pretty obvious, if you've watched the video. The main advantage of the Golf is its more engaging drive, which is provided by its manual gearbox. The main advantage of the S3 is its smoother, more comfortable everyday experience. Therefore, it makes sense to compare the two cars at their best, since this is how he recommends that they should be bought. The automatic Golf R is not good value, since it compromises the main strength of the vehicle without providing the luxury of the Audi.
Test drove both cars in DSG form back to back then ended up picking the s3, I totally agree with Matt @6:27 about feeling more cocooned in, more luxurious, more snug and a lot nicer place to sit during traffic. It also had sunroof, leather seats, virtual cockpit, better looking wheels, optional red leather-things that weren't available in the Golf R in Canada. Add to the the much better dealership experience I had locally, and it came down to the Audi.
Amateur that you are and the amount of bullshit you spout is incredible. I am a VAG importer in France, so I invite you to try both before speaking behind a screen without even having come close or remotely close to one of the two. The golf course is 100 times more comfortable, more livable and much prettier internally, they don't purify everything.
In my opinion the Golf is specced better standard, but the S3 has much better tech on the options spec sheet. The Golf did feel slightly better to drive to me also. The Audi sounded nicer, though. Horses for courses! I went for the Golf but can totally see why the S3 would appeal over it. Both are lovely cars.
Vw< expensive vw (Audi) < more expensive vw (Porsche) < more expensive vw (Bentley) < even more expensive vw (Lamborghini) < more expensive vw (Bugatti)
It's strange, when the golf / a3 launched the a3s interior was far more fancier. After a couple years I feel as though the golf's interior aged better. Like it's not crazy modern but just looks good still. I don't know if it's just me.
Have to say! Carwow with matt Watson is the best car channel on the Internet!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Love the channel lads, keep up the fantastic work!!!!!!!!!!!! Just love it! 👍
Great Vid! I just bought a 2018 Golf R and it is pretty freakin amazing. However, I would have considered the S3 if it came in that wagon style here in the states, sedan is just useless to me. I do disagree about the interior, I find the Golf very orderly and intuitive and flows very nicely, very cockpit style centered around the driver, and while the Audi is very nice, I don't like the pop up screen, looks like an ipad stuck to the dash. Either would be great but I can get a stick in the R. The clutch is light and linear and not tiring in traffic like my old WRX. Can't go wrong with either.
I’ve been having this very conversation with myself as I’m considering ordering both cars... but for me, whilst the Audi is more premium, the colour of the lapiz paint is brilliant and the paint options on the Audi doesn’t come close.
Audi S3 costs a few grand more, but it regains it with the leather seats and automatic gearbox. Though, the digital display kit must cost around £1,200. Pisses over the Golf in terms of quality though, it's like comparing a Corsa to an A Class.
I would go with the golf r, only because it has a manual option while the Audi doesn't, I love using the gear shifter/ clutch, and that automatic gearbox might make the car faster but for me it would be less fun
What's the big deal about leather seats. I'd much prefer cloth seats. I think leather being seen as the must have luxury for car upholstery is a bit Emperor's New Clothes. I do think the interior of a Golf GTI looks better than the Golf R.
Leather is simply the superior material. Wears better, lasts longer, smells better and is way easier to clean. It also looks more expensive and [subjectively] nicer. But if a manufacturer gives you leather as standard, they should give you the option for cloth seats for no extra cost.
Personally I'm not a fan of the black bits they added to the MK7.5. And black wheels are very "meh", regular 19" Pretorias look far more elegant. Also the R looks really nice inside at night, with the blue LED accents everywhere.
It also makes your nutsack cold in winter and glues the said nutsack during the summer. And don't start with the "ventilators and heat warmers" because that's an extra $$$, and a hefty extra $$$. Leather's mostly for pretensious ppl who haven't heard of anything else. Nice try, Georgi
Mark Stefanac I haven't said anything bad. Leather is objectively a better and more durable material than cloth. It also costs more. Heated seats come as standard on $20 000 vehicles these days. Leather interior may cost $5000, heated seats don't.
Matt’s whole review and recommendation really just boils down to his preference for auto over manual. Great review otherwise & always appreciate Matt’s great sense of humour.
The thing I can't stand about the Audi A3 (5 door) is that it is a mini estate, it doesn't look at all like a normal hatchback, and that's why I would always choose the 1 series and the A class.
Glad I'm not the only one who thinks that. 3 door is nice but the 5 door looks like it can't decide if it wants to be an estate or a hatchback.It's not a good look.
an improvement over the 135i but still a terrible-looking car. There is no saving that basic shape that they started with and incremental changes to s fundamentally ugly shape are doomed.
Agreed. Though I think he'll say amazing engine but bad practicality, and it's sporty looks are even more subtle than the R. Personally I think the 1 series needs a refresh anyways, design and interior feels dated. However I have an R but would've definitely got a 140i shadow edition with Xdrive, but for some reason BMW don't sell the Xdrive version in the UK :(
I don't see why anyone would want full leather in the car. I actually see the standard seats better than leather and would pay 1800 to get the current standard seats if I had leather as standard. They get hot in the summer, cold in the winter. Just a piece of shit.
I've brought the s3 facelift about 2 weeks ago now and Its just amazing as a all rounder. Great for fuel, traffic driving,for launches and even if you want to accelerate from like 60+. It picks up the speed really fast
@@thepolishbrat depends really. If those 60 miles are on the motorway everyday. You'll probably get higher mpg, the s3 can hit 35mpg but that's only on a motorway
I own the older (14 plate) MK7 so this might not apply to the 7.5; but one thing i would mention is the exhaust is quiter on the R compared to an S3; that DSG fart noise is also louder on the S3.
I would go for the audi .. cuz from the outside they are both bootiful but the inside is where im gonna be sooo s3 for the win price is the same and u have that badge
I looked at the R and ended up buying the S3. My previous car had a very rough ride and the luxury of the Audi is much appreciated.I liked the s3 more too, more fun and more tossable. and in traffic, the dsg over the stick anytime. I hated how dark the interior of the R was. The upgraded stereo sounded like it was made of tin. The nav system in the R is a joke. I don't like the steering wheel shape in either car. Its not round or comfortable. Audi is great as a ski car- great in snow, but the boot is on the small side. I have an APR stage II ECU/ TCU tune on my car. It did wonders ;)
What are your thoughts on getting a 2019 S3 TFSI Quattro 8v with 150,000 kms on it for $29,000 aud or 2018 Golf R MK7.5 MY18 with 74,000 kms Automatic for $36,000? I am sort of between these 2 model cars and M140i
HUGE issue, is that you cant buy the S3 In a manual. so, no proper gearbox, which means don't fucking buy it. don't buy a performance car without a manual.
In my area, VW dealer’s are offering no discounts for the late to the market 2018 Golf R, while Audi dealers are offering the S3 at up to $6K below MSRP, which ends up being just a few grand more than the Golf R. Add to that the far better interior, better reliability, and more prestigious brand, the S3 is the way to go.
All about opinions I guess. I've driven both and chose the mk7.5 Golf over the S3. I personally think the interior of the VW is far more better than the Audi. I think what's missing is the R's identity. Where as the GTi has it's own identity, the R doesn't. Hopefully VW can deliver when they bring out the mk8. I've had my mk7.5 since March and absolutely love it, no regrets.
Yes, because as we know, drag times are the ULTIMATE indicator of daily experiences; three quarters of the world literally LIVES on the drag strip amirite?
I got out of an an M2 into an S3 2018. Despite the lower power its useable especially in anything mildly most condition. A sinple re map would give me one to 370hp but I really don't see the point. Superb car & don't regret the 'downgrade' for a nanosecond. It still has a drinking habit but it's smiles per mile, not MPG 😁
I think these cars are the same pair on each review recorded at the same time. I guess the point is that neither would lose. They’re identical mechanically.
Still, in every review of the Golf R, it has the manual gearbox, loses the dragrace and it is "if you want better performance and more comfort while cruising, get this other car with the automatic gearbox". What I'd really like to see is Golf R auto vs Audi S3 auto and if the cars have different performance due to one of them weighing more, having different suspension or a different tune (according to VW themselves, the DSG version is 0.5s faster 0-100 km/h than the manual version). And who knows, maybe the verdict then could have been "both are nice for cruising with their auto gearboxes, the S3 has a bit nicer interior, but with similar options the Audi costs much more and it's not really worth it". But it seems we will never know because apparently the only Golf R which is ever available for reviews is this one with the manual gearbox...
Dual clutch gear boxes (the automatic used in the golf R and the audi S3 - vw uses dash while audi uses their own) eliminate turbo lag. This video is proof of why you take automatic if you care about performance
i never understood why everyone wants leather, i love the standard R seats. Leather is really cold in the winter, and really hot in the summer where cloth is not. Leather looks good but thats just about it.
Pause at 2:17 i think the audi is much more better looking Sadly here in indonesia we don't have a s3 all we have is an a3 I am so moving to the uk or somewhere were i can freaking get/buy a s3 hot hach God that audi looks pretty
Uh, wtf... They are literally the same car. And as Mat points out, the Golf is sharper to drive. Option it with the DSG and it's no slower either. So on what possible grounds is the S3 "on another level", apart from being more expensive?
The golf R has a much more race car feel and is a lot more planted than the s3 in corners. It would wreck an s3 for the handling and grip. And tbh I like the golf R interior better than the s3 interior. I’ve drove both vehicles and trust me.
ACS607 yes, it weighs a lot less as it's only half haldex and that VAQ differential works amazingly well, so quick round the corners. Only issue with the manuals is that they come equipped with the same clutch you find on a 150hp TDI engine. Applies to the Golf R, S3 manual and Octavia VRS. Seriously unmanageable kit.
Tbh after sitting and driving a few different leather interior cars and cloth, I have to say I prefer the cloth. Especially in my new 1 series, they are comfy, look a lot better than leather seats and they arent super cold in the winter or super hot in the summer. The only thing leather you need are the steering wheel, arm rest and dashboard etc
Interesting that leather is standard in the US, but I'd rather have the seats in the video. Also, it is unreal how much of a difference in acceleration that 7 spd DSG is over the manual, even in the rolling start!
Think I would go with the golf r. Here in Canada it seems like the right choice. My buddy has one and it gets around better in the snow than my Jeep!!! :D
I picked a Golf over an A3 because of the interiour. The Audi has a high quality interiour but it looks damn boring. I did not like that. Gave me a grand pa feeling. Apart from that only the price was a thing for me and that was also a win for the Golf. So Golf it became. To be honest, the GTI has a very nice interiour with leather seats and the red accents. The R does not have red accents which makes a lil more boring.
Funny.. In Norway, the Golf is DSG only and with the S3 you can have either. Funnily enough, the S3 manual is about £1.000 more expensive because of taxes brought on by the extra CO2 it emits over the S-tronic...
I live in the countryside with lots of twisty roads, I almost never encounter stop start traffic, or any traffic jams, and so much prefer the fun and sense of control that you get with a manual gearbox. And I actually like it when you floor it and it doesn't shift down, sometimes I just want as much power as the gear I currently am In can give me. Im driving an automatic right now and it absolutely annoys me that it always shifts down as soon as I push the gas pedal even a little bit.
Felix O. I agree mate. Just went from a mk7 dsg gti to a 7.5 R manual. I enjoy it sooo much more. The dsg was always in too high a gear - like most auto’s these days it is still tuned too much towards fuel economy. May I say I can’t believe the difference between my old gti and the 7.5 R. It is a considerably better car in every way.
The review calls the auto an "upgrade". I'd consider it a downgrade. Autos are useful if you spend your time driving around town and they do work well with the dynamic cruise control but VAG insist on putting the paddle shifters on the wheel and get up and down the wrong way round on the shifter, removing any semblance of involvement.
Auto for drag races. Manual for driving bliss (although I'm a huge fan of the DSG, you just can't replace the feeling if nailing your own shifts perfectly with proper timed clutch pedal/shifting action)
Golf looks better and nicer but you see it to much on a road. Audi is bit more quality made. But Golf feels more spacious. And Audi S3 looks better in sedan version. But with ridiculous low speed limits in EU you don’t need this car when you can’t enjoy that power.
@@smokeytom24 but Audi does not have parking sensors on the front as standard or the front pedestrian auto stop feature or the digital dash or the big screen
MR 63 AMG all gd until the weather crap which is 90% of the time in the uk so hard to control all the power just moved from M135i to new golf r can put power down in all weather defo better daily but miss the engine in bmw
M140i kills these cars unless its wet. Mine is absolutely awful in temps below 5 degrees and if its wet and cold i do not enjoy driving it Today it was epic to drive.
TeacherToolkitDemo same when i have my m135i hope u have the ZF auto box theres one of the best auto boxes about loved it miles better than the dsg on my new golf r lol
Scott C Yep auto, sun protection, comfort pack, folding seats, heated seats pro nav, pro media, pdc. Only thing i dont have is camera and harmon kardon. The pro media is decent. Harmon kardon is better though to be honest.
Between this two, Golf for me, it looks much better than S3, and its more fun to drive. That would be easy choice... Hard thing would be chosing gearbox for Golf, like performance gains of DSG, but for everything else I still prefer manual...
Why don’t you for once just get both in auto? Not really a comparison..
e2k I know, right? So many car vids are doing manuals vs auto... Absolute waste of time for a serious comparison. Probably a deliberate tactic to prevent any real criticisms...
@@TheRealTanSeeker Because that's how they come as standard. It's not like the conclusion would be any different. The Golf would be slightly faster in a drag race, but slightly less fun and involving to drive, so he'd still choose the Audi.
the s3 doesn’t come in manuel, he said it in the video
@@TheRealTanSeeker No. It's actually pretty obvious, if you've watched the video.
The main advantage of the Golf is its more engaging drive, which is provided by its manual gearbox.
The main advantage of the S3 is its smoother, more comfortable everyday experience. Therefore, it makes sense to compare the two cars at their best, since this is how he recommends that they should be bought. The automatic Golf R is not good value, since it compromises the main strength of the vehicle without providing the luxury of the Audi.
@@Racingmonkeyg25x But the Golf R does come in automatic which is why e2k stated "...get both in AUTO"
Golf R, DSG, Adaptive Dampers, Performance Pack
The manual is way more fun.
@@Ripinda1911 Agreed, i hate autos on small cars
@@temppa-seta3821 : the DSG is basically a manual without a clutch pedal
@@troyf374 it isnt... manual is way more engaging, speak from experience
@@kausarde4974 The dsg is faster tho
I’ve had my 2018 s3 black edition for 5 days and it’s incredible!
M140i is better engine
@@Thuds593
But without the lSd, m140i sucks actually
Mat : let's say you want a hot hatchback but don't want to look like a boy racer.
Bradford : hold my cash
Test drove both cars in DSG form back to back then ended up picking the s3, I totally agree with Matt @6:27 about feeling more cocooned in, more luxurious, more snug and a lot nicer place to sit during traffic. It also had sunroof, leather seats, virtual cockpit, better looking wheels, optional red leather-things that weren't available in the Golf R in Canada. Add to the the much better dealership experience I had locally, and it came down to the Audi.
what do you do for a living?
Amateur that you are and the amount of bullshit you spout is incredible. I am a VAG importer in France, so I invite you to try both before speaking behind a screen without even having come close or remotely close to one of the two. The golf course is 100 times more comfortable, more livable and much prettier internally, they don't purify everything.
In my opinion the Golf is specced better standard, but the S3 has much better tech on the options spec sheet. The Golf did feel slightly better to drive to me also. The Audi sounded nicer, though.
Horses for courses! I went for the Golf but can totally see why the S3 would appeal over it. Both are lovely cars.
Peanus Benis - this comment is far too sensible for UA-cam, please stop it.
Peanus Benis actually it’s not better specced standard. You have to pay for driving modes and progressive steering.... (standard on S3)
Max Pay for driving modes?
Vw vs expensive vw
😂😂
Vw< expensive vw (Audi) < more expensive vw (Porsche) < more expensive vw (Bentley) < even more expensive vw (Lamborghini) < more expensive vw (Bugatti)
ZotteZino bro you went stupid far for what?
Marko G no I don't
VWCeption
Great review as usual just a shame that you didn’t have the automatic transmission in the golf. Would have been a more fairer comparison
More fair, but more boring.
It's strange, when the golf / a3 launched the a3s interior was far more fancier. After a couple years I feel as though the golf's interior aged better. Like it's not crazy modern but just looks good still. I don't know if it's just me.
Have to say! Carwow with matt Watson is the best car channel on the Internet!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Love the channel lads, keep up the fantastic work!!!!!!!!!!!! Just love it! 👍
I like the blue one
They both blue 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
😂😂
Great Vid! I just bought a 2018 Golf R and it is pretty freakin amazing. However, I would have considered the S3 if it came in that wagon style here in the states, sedan is just useless to me.
I do disagree about the interior, I find the Golf very orderly and intuitive and flows very nicely, very cockpit style centered around the driver, and while the Audi is very nice, I don't like the pop up screen, looks like an ipad stuck to the dash.
Either would be great but I can get a stick in the R. The clutch is light and linear and not tiring in traffic like my old WRX. Can't go wrong with either.
I’ve been having this very conversation with myself as I’m considering ordering both cars... but for me, whilst the Audi is more premium, the colour of the lapiz paint is brilliant and the paint options on the Audi doesn’t come close.
Audi S3 costs a few grand more, but it regains it with the leather seats and automatic gearbox. Though, the digital display kit must cost around £1,200.
Pisses over the Golf in terms of quality though, it's like comparing a Corsa to an A Class.
why not just get the golf with the DSG box.
ashlie higgins your right
1800 for the auto in the golf. 1800 for leather. I agree test both with auto.
The manual is more fun to drive, and it’s superior to any auto (making the Audi feel like the less-fun-to-drive car).
Manual for drivers who can drive. Will last longer than DSG which might eat itself.
Why would u ever buy a manual in a car like a golf r
I would go with the golf r, only because it has a manual option while the Audi doesn't, I love using the gear shifter/ clutch, and that automatic gearbox might make the car faster but for me it would be less fun
What's the big deal about leather seats. I'd much prefer cloth seats. I think leather being seen as the must have luxury for car upholstery is a bit Emperor's New Clothes. I do think the interior of a Golf GTI looks better than the Golf R.
Gary Taylor, the GTI looks better overall, unmistakable for a normal Golf unlike the R.
Leather is simply the superior material. Wears better, lasts longer, smells better and is way easier to clean. It also looks more expensive and [subjectively] nicer.
But if a manufacturer gives you leather as standard, they should give you the option for cloth seats for no extra cost.
Personally I'm not a fan of the black bits they added to the MK7.5. And black wheels are very "meh", regular 19" Pretorias look far more elegant. Also the R looks really nice inside at night, with the blue LED accents everywhere.
It also makes your nutsack cold in winter and glues the said nutsack during the summer. And don't start with the "ventilators and heat warmers" because that's an extra $$$, and a hefty extra $$$. Leather's mostly for pretensious ppl who haven't heard of anything else. Nice try, Georgi
Mark Stefanac I haven't said anything bad. Leather is objectively a better and more durable material than cloth. It also costs more. Heated seats come as standard on $20 000 vehicles these days. Leather interior may cost $5000, heated seats don't.
Matt’s whole review and recommendation really just boils down to his preference for auto over manual. Great review otherwise & always appreciate Matt’s great sense of humour.
I'm having a case of deja vu.... Is this a reupload?
Rob Kliskey same here!!!!!!
The drag race part is taken from another video, but the rest of the video is new.
*eurobeat intensifies*
I was like: deja vu I've been in this place before
I literally just posted the same statement, pretty much with those same exact words.
The thing I can't stand about the Audi A3 (5 door) is that it is a mini estate, it doesn't look at all like a normal hatchback, and that's why I would always choose the 1 series and the A class.
Glad I'm not the only one who thinks that. 3 door is nice but the 5 door looks like it can't decide if it wants to be an estate or a hatchback.It's not a good look.
Golf R all day long.
No thx every one got it its' like my mom have it to
I will choose the audi !
hama king So you are choosing the Volkswagen .. if you know what I mean ^^
bodega147 what u mean
VW owns Audi...
bodega147 hahahaha
Haha Bodega King!
Got an S3 Black Edition with supersport seats, virtual cockpit and sunroof...glad I didn’t go back to VW for an R!!!
Can you review the M140i?
MahirTheCarGuy agreed!
Review:- nice engine, great to drive but there is no uglier car
an improvement over the 135i but still a terrible-looking car. There is no saving that basic shape that they started with and incremental changes to s fundamentally ugly shape are doomed.
Agreed. Though I think he'll say amazing engine but bad practicality, and it's sporty looks are even more subtle than the R. Personally I think the 1 series needs a refresh anyways, design and interior feels dated. However I have an R but would've definitely got a 140i shadow edition with Xdrive, but for some reason BMW don't sell the Xdrive version in the UK :(
afaik after the 140i all 1-series will be front-wheel drive only.
I don't see why anyone would want full leather in the car. I actually see the standard seats better than leather and would pay 1800 to get the current standard seats if I had leather as standard. They get hot in the summer, cold in the winter. Just a piece of shit.
LoveGod16 which is why u have seat warmers
LoveGod16 and ventilators
LoveGod16 However, theyre far easier to clean, last longer and look better. Plus, here in the UK, it doesn't really get hot...
I love the alcantara.
Easier to clean with kids in the back I suppose
Jumps the start. I got a really good start.
The Golf looks absolutely beautiful in this spec! The Audi though, its a bit ugly.
BlackWind I like Audis a lot, but you're right.
I don't know why, but those roof black bars, makes it look like an estate...
WTF?
Golf👍👌
100%
My wife brought an A3 with Sline for the look and interior, and I brought a Golf R for performance!
i got the a3 s line but with a vr6 for both the look and performance lol
AKA Zeus same the a3 sline it’s really good I got it for my 16th birthday
I've brought the s3 facelift about 2 weeks ago now and Its just amazing as a all rounder. Great for fuel, traffic driving,for launches and even if you want to accelerate from like 60+. It picks up the speed really fast
Anonymous Bullet what’s the fuel economy like?
27mpg when driving on efficiency mode and not using boost. Around 10mpg on dynamic/sports mode when using boost most of the time
Anonymous Bullet guess that would be a financial mistake for me when I do 60miles daily 😩
@@thepolishbrat depends really. If those 60 miles are on the motorway everyday. You'll probably get higher mpg, the s3 can hit 35mpg but that's only on a motorway
Anonymous Bullet mostly ‘A’ roads but with my way of driving I don’t think I would hit that 35mpg 😅
Your reviews are awesome. Keep coming back for mare. Cheers from Down Under!!!
I would rather new dacia sandero it is awesome with 1.5 dci 90 hp
Aaa Zzz Why not 🤷♂️🤗
Which is basically a Renault so is French rubbish
Aaa Zzz can you afford a Dacia?
Good news!
Aaa Zzz Definitely better a Dacia than an overpriced Bmw.
I own the older (14 plate) MK7 so this might not apply to the 7.5; but one thing i would mention is the exhaust is quiter on the R compared to an S3; that DSG fart noise is also louder on the S3.
I would go for the audi .. cuz from the outside they are both bootiful but the inside is where im gonna be sooo s3 for the win price is the same and u have that badge
Put your glasses back Mat, that's mandatory!
i read your name as "A true Parrot-head"
Stop liking your own comment 🤦🏻♂
A true petrol-head your nasty
A true petrol-head lmao just because you're bi doesn't mean everyone else is
A true petrol-head my father kissed me on the lips, i'm bi
I looked at the R and ended up buying the S3. My previous car had a very rough ride and the luxury of the Audi is much appreciated.I liked the s3 more too, more fun and more tossable. and in traffic, the dsg over the stick anytime. I hated how dark the interior of the R was. The upgraded stereo sounded like it was made of tin. The nav system in the R is a joke. I don't like the steering wheel shape in either car. Its not round or comfortable. Audi is great as a ski car- great in snow, but the boot is on the small side. I have an APR stage II ECU/ TCU tune on my car. It did wonders ;)
What are your thoughts on getting a 2019 S3 TFSI Quattro 8v with 150,000 kms on it for $29,000 aud or 2018 Golf R MK7.5 MY18 with 74,000 kms Automatic for $36,000? I am sort of between these 2 model cars and M140i
HUGE issue, is that you cant buy the S3 In a manual.
so, no proper gearbox, which means don't fucking buy it.
don't buy a performance car without a manual.
Golf R with DSG any day
That numb driving/steering feeling is what I like about my Audi. Good for highway cruising
In my area, VW dealer’s are offering no discounts for the late to the market 2018 Golf R, while Audi dealers are offering the S3 at up to $6K below MSRP, which ends up being just a few grand more than the Golf R.
Add to that the far better interior, better reliability, and more prestigious brand, the S3 is the way to go.
Love the way you talk about the space in the booth saying that its the same
These type of sporty cars need the beautifull sound of the 5 cilinder.
All about opinions I guess.
I've driven both and chose the mk7.5 Golf over the S3.
I personally think the interior of the VW is far more better than the Audi.
I think what's missing is the R's identity.
Where as the GTi has it's own identity, the R doesn't.
Hopefully VW can deliver when they bring out the mk8.
I've had my mk7.5 since March and absolutely love it, no regrets.
Get a manual for fun is like saying get a single-action revolver instead of a glock. I'm not trying to have fun, I'm trying to kill my enemies.
Yes, because as we know, drag times are the ULTIMATE indicator of daily experiences; three quarters of the world literally LIVES on the drag strip amirite?
@@kausarde4974 lol, I don't think he got the sarcasm. ANd yes, I would take manual over auto any day
I got out of an an M2 into an S3 2018. Despite the lower power its useable especially in anything mildly most condition. A sinple re map would give me one to 370hp but I really don't see the point. Superb car & don't regret the 'downgrade' for a nanosecond. It still has a drinking habit but it's smiles per mile, not MPG 😁
Are we ever going to to get an auto v auto review ? Every time the golf is reviewed it’s in manual 🙄
They always review golf r in manual and drag race with auto Audi rs3 or s3.
I think these cars are the same pair on each review recorded at the same time. I guess the point is that neither would lose. They’re identical mechanically.
Still, in every review of the Golf R, it has the manual gearbox, loses the dragrace and it is "if you want better performance and more comfort while cruising, get this other car with the automatic gearbox". What I'd really like to see is Golf R auto vs Audi S3 auto and if the cars have different performance due to one of them weighing more, having different suspension or a different tune (according to VW themselves, the DSG version is 0.5s faster 0-100 km/h than the manual version). And who knows, maybe the verdict then could have been "both are nice for cruising with their auto gearboxes, the S3 has a bit nicer interior, but with similar options the Audi costs much more and it's not really worth it". But it seems we will never know because apparently the only Golf R which is ever available for reviews is this one with the manual gearbox...
freibier i have an s3 and i have raced 3 different golf rs’ on the road and we were stuck next to each other from 0 till 170kmph every single time.
Porsche Z must’ve been dsg Golfs then
Dual clutch gear boxes (the automatic used in the golf R and the audi S3 - vw uses dash while audi uses their own) eliminate turbo lag.
This video is proof of why you take automatic if you care about performance
Golf all the way
DroneBoy yep
WV fangirlss
I drive a BMW M135i. I have driven both of these cars and the golf is better. The Audi understeer on a B road is awful. And the golf is cheaper!
TeacherToolkitDemo its still a lot of money for most people like me :)
i never understood why everyone wants leather, i love the standard R seats. Leather is really cold in the winter, and really hot in the summer where cloth is not. Leather looks good but thats just about it.
Exorcismer easier to clean and maintain
I think i'm the only who would ignore these two and choose a gti, too much grip isn't fun for me i love a playful car
B.M - Except the GTI drives the wrong pair of wheels in your pursuit of a playful car.
B.M if you want a playful car why are you after a GTI... the BMW m135/140 is surely the way to go
squala not in a hot hatch.
Pause at 2:17 i think the audi is much more better looking
Sadly here in indonesia we don't have a s3 all we have is an a3
I am so moving to the uk or somewhere were i can freaking get/buy a s3 hot hach
God that audi looks pretty
matt: it’s a no brainer right ?
nobody:
matt: well not exactly
Great review Mat - these are getting better and better.
S3 no longer comes with a manual option?
The automatic can carry boost through gear changes as it’s so fast. The manual can not. Still would prefer the golf over the s3 even if both were auto
Audi S3 is on a different level.
HG504 golf R sweeter chassis, better seats, better looks
It's literally the same car lol
both are on the MQB platform and use the 2.0 tfsi
Uh, wtf... They are literally the same car. And as Mat points out, the Golf is sharper to drive. Option it with the DSG and it's no slower either. So on what possible grounds is the S3 "on another level", apart from being more expensive?
Audi is better, deal with it vw boys hehe
The golf R has a much more race car feel and is a lot more planted than the s3 in corners. It would wreck an s3 for the handling and grip. And tbh I like the golf R interior better than the s3 interior. I’ve drove both vehicles and trust me.
Boss 245 I have also drove both and I couldn't disagree with you more.
“Better balance than I’ve got I nearly fell over haha” that the most cringest thing I’ve ever seen in my life. 1:20
Just picked up a 2018 black edition quattro and it’s unreal 🔥🔥
If you want the same car but cheaper and more fun, go for the Leon Cupra
George Eisikovits I agree, plus if you take it to a track day (like some people do) it's quicker than the Golf R as proven by two car magazines.
.
ACS607 yes, it weighs a lot less as it's only half haldex and that VAQ differential works amazingly well, so quick round the corners. Only issue with the manuals is that they come equipped with the same clutch you find on a 150hp TDI engine. Applies to the Golf R, S3 manual and Octavia VRS. Seriously unmanageable kit.
Or the Skoda equivalent.
If you want traction in gears 1+2 get the R or S3
It’s is basically a golf so you got a point 😂😂😂
Tbh after sitting and driving a few different leather interior cars and cloth, I have to say I prefer the cloth. Especially in my new 1 series, they are comfy, look a lot better than leather seats and they arent super cold in the winter or super hot in the summer. The only thing leather you need are the steering wheel, arm rest and dashboard etc
VW would be better if it was dsg
Oliver Simpson It would be identical if it was DSG would it not?
gynads I think he means VW dsg would be better than VW manual
Interesting that leather is standard in the US, but I'd rather have the seats in the video. Also, it is unreal how much of a difference in acceleration that 7 spd DSG is over the manual, even in the rolling start!
Think I would go with the golf r. Here in Canada it seems like the right choice. My buddy has one and it gets around better in the snow than my Jeep!!! :D
Loved that simultaneous boot review bit. Hilarious
Videos 4 mins old and VW fanbois are already commenting and liking lol
So whats the problem? They are not near as annoying as Tesla fanboys which is the most annoying fanboy group in car history imo
same goes for audi 'fanbois'
The problem is fanbois fullstop.
Which is why its so stupid. There are many VW fanbois but they tend to like jerking off to pictures of a Golf ;-)
I don't like either of them actually so you can take your jumping to conclusions and shove it up your ass along with all the cancerous fanbois.
it looks more comfy inside the r, the interior looks comfy & more easy to use
and the cool hatch button lmao
I picked a Golf over an A3 because of the interiour. The Audi has a high quality interiour but it looks damn boring. I did not like that. Gave me a grand pa feeling. Apart from that only the price was a thing for me and that was also a win for the Golf. So Golf it became.
To be honest, the GTI has a very nice interiour with leather seats and the red accents. The R does not have red accents which makes a lil more boring.
Interior
Dan A 😂
Omg the practicality review is nuts hahah , great vid Matt mate
Any particular reason we don't see Subarus on your channel?
Hopefully coming soon
Because nobody buys them. They are barely in the top 40 manufacturers by UK sales.
Too bad the UK is not the entire world. Mat's reviews are informative and interesting for everyone, not just UK buyers.
that edit about the practicality was nice!
Mmmm golf R the criminals new favourite weapon of choice!
Funny.. In Norway, the Golf is DSG only and with the S3 you can have either. Funnily enough, the S3 manual is about £1.000 more expensive because of taxes brought on by the extra CO2 it emits over the S-tronic...
The audi wins the drag because of the automatic gear
ناصر الدين الجزائري ًَ the audi would win anyway
a777 3mbali ni w7di khkh
@@طارق-ق9ع surtou v vid ta3 golf w s3 hhhhhhhhhhhh
Really enjoy your reviews mate best on UA-cam. Matt for top gear 👌🏾
S3❤️
RS3❤
I don’t understand you can get the golf in DSG as well
Golf R with the DSG. Liveable everyday and you don't pay the badgewhore premium by going for the Audi.
I don't know, I drive a golf every day, I love my interior. Though the audi is more aggressive looking, i'd love to take one for a test drive.
For me the automatic is nothing positive I'd take the manual over it any day.
Felix O. Except the auto is quicker and more efficient any day of the week.
I live in the countryside with lots of twisty roads, I almost never encounter stop start traffic, or any traffic jams, and so much prefer the fun and sense of control that you get with a manual gearbox. And I actually like it when you floor it and it doesn't shift down, sometimes I just want as much power as the gear I currently am In can give me. Im driving an automatic right now and it absolutely annoys me that it always shifts down as soon as I push the gas pedal even a little bit.
Felix O. I agree mate. Just went from a mk7 dsg gti to a 7.5 R manual. I enjoy it sooo much more. The dsg was always in too high a gear - like most auto’s these days it is still tuned too much towards fuel economy.
May I say I can’t believe the difference between my old gti and the 7.5 R. It is a considerably better car in every way.
Gas Pedal Subscribe learn to use a gearbox then you can select the right gear yourself
The review calls the auto an "upgrade". I'd consider it a downgrade. Autos are useful if you spend your time driving around town and they do work well with the dynamic cruise control but VAG insist on putting the paddle shifters on the wheel and get up and down the wrong way round on the shifter, removing any semblance of involvement.
Auto for drag races. Manual for driving bliss (although I'm a huge fan of the DSG, you just can't replace the feeling if nailing your own shifts perfectly with proper timed clutch pedal/shifting action)
Golf still boy racer image, that will never change. Audi has the class. Like comparing Jason Statham with Daniel Craig, 007 wins every time.
Golf looks better and nicer but you see it to much on a road. Audi is bit more quality made. But Golf feels more spacious. And Audi S3 looks better in sedan version. But with ridiculous low speed limits in EU you don’t need this car when you can’t enjoy that power.
If u want an s3 buy a golf R and drink some beer
The Golf will cost more than the A3 when spec'd the same. EG A3 has leather & dual clutch - both very expensive options on the Golf!
@@smokeytom24 but Audi does not have parking sensors on the front as standard or the front pedestrian auto stop feature or the digital dash or the big screen
If only the newer s3 had the manual options so my only options are the 2010 2012 and 2014 ones I've seen for sale so far
Correct me if I’m wrong but all i see are two Volkswagen’s??
I have been WAITING for this.
I would get a M140i
MR 63 AMG all gd until the weather crap which is 90% of the time in the uk so hard to control all the power just moved from M135i to new golf r can put power down in all weather defo better daily but miss the engine in bmw
Fade not in the uk
M140i kills these cars unless its wet. Mine is absolutely awful in temps below 5 degrees and if its wet and cold i do not enjoy driving it Today it was epic to drive.
TeacherToolkitDemo same when i have my m135i hope u have the ZF auto box theres one of the best auto boxes about loved it miles better than the dsg on my new golf r lol
Scott C Yep auto, sun protection, comfort pack, folding seats, heated seats pro nav, pro media, pdc. Only thing i dont have is camera and harmon kardon. The pro media is decent. Harmon kardon is better though to be honest.
Audi S3, Nice interior and exterior design, great performance and hope it is also reliable?
Vw not cheap anymore 😯😯😯😯
I would choose the golf every time. 10 years from now the golf will still be pretty. VW's designs are timeless (I've owned a golf v and golf vii).
VW Fans here
Between this two, Golf for me, it looks much better than S3, and its more fun to drive. That would be easy choice... Hard thing would be chosing gearbox for Golf, like performance gains of DSG, but for everything else I still prefer manual...
It is surprising for a golf to be a fun car??? Golf was always fun, since mk1 GTI 💁🏼♂️
That Audi dash is nasty
Are they different?
The same company!
sandeep kumar, same parent company, Audi being the Lexus of VW.
He said, "...the Type R - the ultimate hatchback." Yeah, bitches!!!
*Audi* fans here
Tanu N Prabhu what's the difference? Audi = poshed up VW with extra chrome
lol that practicality review was gold. I still think S3 as a sedan is the best version.
3:05. lol
Thanks for the great videos Matt.