Thank you so much for doing this video. I'm sick of $50-$70,000 supra's and BMWs being labeled as the "affordable car" comparisons on all the other channels
I so agree, though with the median car price being near $40k, it's hard to define affordable. Below median price? Under $50k? I think the group they selected makes a lot of sense, with all under $35k. I do wish they had done a better job of defining who they were intending this for. Mark may ne able to afford a high-performance weekend car, but that's an expensive extra most people won't have. Jack can get a little nutty about German cars, but at least he was clear that they had to be cars that worked on the street as a primary vehicle. The Elantra is mildly compromised as a daily driver, but not that much. It's still reasonably quiet driven normally, and the ride isn't so stiff as to be painful. With the DCT it's an even better daily driver. For me the ridiculous controls would drop the GTI out of contention. I like the styling and have always loved the size and boxy hatchback, but that's not enough. The Subaru is improved, and if I lived in a harsh climate the AWD might sell me on it, but it still looks like the previous generation, which looked horribly dated, too. That interior is nasty, the trunk is not great, and the infotainment is weak. It would be great if that engine and AWD system was under a better car, something like the Civic Si. The Honda would be very tempting because of its smoothness, ease of use, spaciousness, low price, and high gas mileage. As an everyday car it would be super appealing, if uncompetitive as a performance car. I also wish it came as a hatchback. Guess I have to get an Integra, or wait for the R. That may be a little too hardcore for daily use, but maybe Honda will solve that dilemma.
@Michael Charity you might feel triggered by my comment, but the nature of successful media is to be sociopathic and pander to what people want to see and hear, not necessarily what the creator wants to convey. I might hate the game, but I don't hate the players. Savage Geese choose specific formats despite that they see other channels finding success at what Jack and Mark find a little distasteful.
Bringing on Mr. Casey to start setting lap times is a brilliant idea. You're only solidifying your credibility & quality work of work by adding this crucial element to your reviews. Attentive film-making, drone shots, uninvasive musical scores, connections to press cars & brand reps, your own track to test on, your own merch, confidence in your own humor, and now a pro driver who can consistently set lap times to compare cars. I'm blown away, Mark, you've come so far from back when you were making videos on your FR-S. I wonder what's next, but I know it will be good, I wish you and your whole team the best. ✌🏼
I’ve been a Honda tuner for a long time and lately a Subaru fan the last 3 years. Always liked the GTi.. but I never thought I’d consider a Hyundai as a true Sports car. Great video guys! Keep up the awesome work. 👏🏻
@@42cuba... I don't know about their new cars but I know a few people with reliable 400hp tiburons the beta and delta engines are good engines also the main reason people say a "can is untuneable" has to do with how much hp a car was designed to make and little odd tuning things on old cars. Cylinder 4 cooling mod requires a tune, because the car can't tell when to pull timing if it can't look at mild knock reliably from cylinder 4 on old ej motors. Doesn't mean they're not good motors but people blow the transmissions and engines up often because they don't understand the compromises that the engineers made when designing the cars. The same thing applies to lower gears in old wrxs people modify them to make more power not understanding that the cars are specifically down tuned in 1st 2nd and 5th because they don't have the tires to get the powerdown and if they did they would much more easily damage the transmission and because the low rpm in fifth gear will damage the turbo so 1st and 2nd and fifth have reduced timing and fifth also has reduced boost.
Despite coming off initially as an enthusiast car channel that just wants to drive cars around a track, I feel like I learn more about how cars are like to drive day-to-day better than almost anyone else. Great insight as far as interior ergonomics are concerned, long-term maintenance, and just working past the white paper you're getting from the manufacturer. Keep up the great work!
@@sharedknowledge6640maybe you’re the one who should pull their head out their ass and realize that both the brands you mentioned have been making very reliable cars in the past decade. Especially VW
You guys outdid yourselves with this multi-car review - really nice job in describing the technical characteristics and the relative merits (and disadvantages) of each vehicle. Would love to see a similar comparison in the future that includes the GR Corolla.
Yes! These comparison videos take a lot more work I imagine, but provide lots of value. I feel it's difficult to compare feedback of similarly rated cars between different videos. Having it done as comparison in a single video takes the guess work out of the picture. That's a real value add.
@@thepiratepenguin_ I can't imagine what a 1.6 liter, 3-cylinder turbo would sound like on a 10-hour road trip. But - I can imagine having fun with it at a race track.
@@gorgonismztruth1551 Maybe on a smooth track with perfect traction. But put it against a WRX on a mountain road with switchbacks, and the AWD system of the WRX will allow it to quickly pull any of these other cars. Even on a track, you take a driver who knows how to exploit the traction of that WRX and leverage the balance of the symmetrical drivetrain, and he’s going to put the others in his rearview mirror.
I love that you had 4 manual trans cars to test against each other. And I'm left just appreciating that these 4 cars can have a unique identity in such a closely packed market. Great video!
My dad has a 2013 hyundai sonata and there's been so many recalls on it. Engine, seat belts, air bags, fuel system, etc. He's had the car for a little less than 8 years, and nearly every year since he finds out about a new recall.
@@factsmatter6980 Sure, all manufacturers have recalls but which have the MOST recalls? And which have the most ENGINE-RELATED recalls? On both accounts, consistently, it's HYUNDAI. No thanks. They've been making vehicles for decades yet they still haven't figured things out? Why bother with Hyundai at all.
VB WRX (+2022) are good for modding. The gearing improved so much, that it’s equally fast as an STi without having more ppweer than the previous gen AND using 4psi less of boost (12psi). Which is insane. Ugly cladding helps keep it clean and protected… my wife hit another car while exiting a parking spot with our volvo xc90 and messed up that area around the wheel. Wish I could just remove and replace. GTI might be im the middle, but VW has never really understood “fun”… just good engineering, because it tends to leas you to “fun” as a biproduct - but that is not always the case. One German that truly understands “fun” and “good engineering” was Albert Biermann. You can see that because he ruled the M-division (bmw) with an iron fist. Now it’s all reflected in the N cars. If the Kona N pops while shifting a gear, the N guys clap while the GTI engineers rush to fix the problem.
I was car shopping . Ended up getting the WRX. I LOVE it. Hyudai dealer was stuck on 10k over msrp. I really wanted the huuyndai but living in canada I think I made the right choice. Don't pay more if you live in a place with snow. The WRX is still an amazing car for daily.
I live in the PNW and also picked up a WRX. I love it. I am not sure how the testers got such crappy gas milage though. I get 29 MPG on the freeway and 21 city .
@TheKrisBunch that's almost the exact mileage that I get with my 23 WRX. I suspect if you sweep the tach to the redline every time you change gears, you'd get closer to the rated mpgs.
Got my ‘22 WRX prem in April and I’m so in love with it. After a month, I was fully in-tune with the car. Coming from a FWD ‘15 Ford Focus hatch. Besides skiing, I’ve never been more excited for winter in Buffalo NY because of the AWD, and ACTUAL HANDBRAKE.
@AlexStopper91 awesome! I found the engine breaks in around 10,000 miles, and the car feels smoother. Also, the summer performance tires that come stock are worthless in cold temperatures and less than worthless in snow, so I highly recommend winter tires. You probably know that already, but some people don't.
I showed this video to my Nigerian prince penpal and he was so impressed he sent me enough money to become a Patron. Thanks for all the work you guys do, we know it runs you ragged and often doesn’t provide the returns it should but the automotive world would be less without the Geese.
I don't know which part I like better, the 25 minute jab that every drag race video is (plus annoying ass music) or how much I love Gran Turismo 3 A-Spec sound. Pure art opening.
Love this. This is the group of cars that's most relevant in my life and kind of what really got me into cars in the first place (the last gen at least). Love the break down. They all really have their own place and there's a solid place for each one in the market I feel. And kudos to these automakers for keeping affordable enthusiast cars alive.
I just purchased the VB WRX in the premium package. Mine is black so the cladding blends well and doesn’t look awful in my opinion. So fun to drive. No bias compared to the other offerings in this video.
Once again Team SG knocks it out of the park with in-depth technical details that most car reviewers gloss over (or never mention) and feedback from an enthusiast & pro driver perspectives. This was a great comparison segment. Thank you for all your efforts.
Very much appreciate this comparison. I bought a '22 GTI S a couple of weeks ago, and have put 2k miles on it. Have to agree with the video, for the most part. Super livable, lots of fun when you want to have some, and a sense of purposeful refinement that belies the price. Lots of reviewers dig on the haptic steering wheel and dash controls - I've found spending a number of miles with them, I've gotten accustomed to them (and I'm a bit of a Luddite). No regrets....
Having driven the N multiple times along with civics and the wrx, I really like the N, it's fast, the exhaust sounds incredible, and the interior is comfortable and clean. It's fun to drive but still practical.
@@almightykevinnn tbf I think the Si, GTI, and EN all have a similar 13 gallons. Which puts the EN on par with the WRX in terms of range per tank while being cheaper to fill
Proud owner of a 2015 MK7 GTI here. I like all of these cars, I like the entire class. Having been a teenager in the 70's, with today's fuel prices - it's deja vu all over again. This segment makes more sense than ever, particularly if it's your only car. I could have gone for a Mustang or Camaro in 2015, but I knew a situation like the one we are in now might come - though I had no idea it would be this severe. Cars like this always make sense. Oh, I said it before and it bears repeating: Savageese are the UA-cam equivalent of what Car & Driver Magazine was in its glory days. That's a huge compliment.
@Incomudro As soon as I read your C&D comment I realize you're absolutely correct. I started reading it in '87 and remained a loyal subscriber until too much of the old guard retired. Spot on comparison.
Exactly. I hate the videos for the top .1% of people who can afford them. The reality is that this is what the majority of enthusiast are buying nowadays. It has to take the kids to school and be able to hit the track. This is just the reality for the 99.9% of us.
Agreed! The super car head-to-heads actually get boring after a while. You start to realize there's a lot of overexaggerating for the camera which makes it feel like you're watching a kid's show.
Idk about you but this channel doesnt seem to focus all that much on super cars. Very wide variety of cars. Though I tend to watch more of the affordable end than anything else. Rarely am I interested in high end cars (100k+).
I bought my 2022wrx in February. Premium trim with some extras, including a sti short throw shifter. It is my daily. It is so fun to drive and i have absolutely no regrets. I love this car. The infotainment system blends in after a bit of owning it and does not bother me.
Infotainment took some getting used to on the Outback Wilderness, but I've grown to like it a lot, especially with the last update which moved the heated seats to their own buttons !
SO glad you guys actually state your opinion and rank the cars! Too many other reviewers put titles on their videos that suggest a comparison..."Is the new GTI better than the Civic SI?" or "X brand vs. Y brand", but then completely wimp out in the video, and instead say something like "Which do you think is the better vehicle...leave your opinion in the comments." WTF? (I'm looking at YOU Raiti's Rides). Savage geese are much more like the great review hallmarks like Car and Driver. You guys don't pull punches and state what you honestly think. Well Done!
Thank you guys for the awesome review. You guys covered them perfectly with the time pressures. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate these videos but I do understand that the fun of these cars gets neutered with all the constraints you guys overcome.
@@punkindrublic001 I am unaware of any publicly available video. I don’t have any local club. Not sure anyone would want to be identified. I likely do have photo of timing sheet, though. You can email me and I can see if I got something I can share.
@@punkindrublic001 trying to find somewhere to drop that for you. I have fuelly, too! you need to follow SD's "Official Auto Car Ride & Drive Events:"
This comparo ushers in a new era of SG greatness! So well done and entertaining. Just make every future video a comparo - I'm sure it's no more difficult to do than a single car review. I mean, you've already got the cameras rolling... Proud to be a SG Patreon supporter!
Another highlight in your feature career. Yesterday I saw a video of a comparison between affordable sports cars and this is on par! Great stuff on a Friday. Thanks SG
Always been a subaru driver, picked up my 2022 WRX Premium WR Blue, and let me tell you it is refined. Not as up to date as the GTI, but certainly nice and solid. Performance is great, and being AWD it is most practical for me as a daily. Loved the comparisons and glad to see these manual transmissions still in the game!
@@freework24 subaru has the history and the heritage, the elantra is faster but for daily use in this climate its certainly the better car for me. No need for this comment lol all about the rally culture!
@@freework24none of these cars are that fast, so I think the one that fits the specific persons wants and needs is the best not which one is quickest. You’ll still get gapped in the Elantra by anything decently fast so who cares? The wrx is much better in poor road conditions, it’s funner to chuck around cause of the awd, it’s more comfortable, and the tiny straight line advantage of the Elantra doesn’t even matter. You’ll still get gapped by every Tesla or ev out there lol
Excellent video guys, I enjoyed it. My top pick would be the Civic. There's absolutely no way to track a normal car where I live (or at the least it would be very costly I think) so my focus is more on daily fun driving so that fits the bill with it also having imo the nicest interior.
Savage Geese videos always resonate so hard with me that I begin to feel like everything is right with the world. But, then my wife gets mad at me for leaving the toilet seat up or farting in bed, and I remember that the world is a cruel place where you will always be punished for having hope. The end.
The comparison video we all really care about. Great insight on these
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I bought a Civic SI for a commuter car and I am glad you felt it was the best for that. Fun to drive, excellent gas mileage, it feels quick even though it was the slowest of the group. Excellent presentation as always.
Great review - really. For me, living where we receive 150+ inches of snow per year, the Subaru is the only choice. I wouldn't be able to get to work 30+ days per year with the other three cars. Incidentally, we love the unpainted black plastic here, because paint on many other cars gets blasted off by the salt and sand in the first winter. I had a BMW 340xi, and because of the way the back tires peak out, it had no paint on the sides of the back bumper after its first winter here. Most cars are like that, but the Subarus don't have that problem.
I think you nailed it with making the review of these cars even. Every car had a manual. There was no “manual vs auto” comparison. They all were manual, which made it a fair comparison. This is something so many car reviewers do wrong. They don’t make proper comparisons when reviewing multiple cars at once. Good job in this.
It no doubt took quite a lot of work with the brand reps to get all four of these similarly equipped cars at the same time. I'm very impressed by the work put into the video. Good job, guys.
@@HarryTwatter much smoother than I thought it would be. Personally I didn’t like the seats or the plastic grab handle in the middle but the N is a joy to drive.
@@HarryTwatter Totally liveable if you adjust it to the mild setting. If you put in N mode, which is the most intense mode, you will lose some fillings.
Always a excellent review. I bought the WRX. I never felt comfortable with my wife driving the ND2 Miata. For her it was the size and visibility that’s makes her feel comfortable. My wife loves the looks of it and I’m really glad because I got her to marry me also. I still think the ND2 is the perfect street toy btw.
This video was so well done gentlemen. Thank you for putting in the extra effort as always! The Elantra N has to be the best…it’s a first gen. It’s that dialed and really doesn’t sacrifice anything if you buy it as advertised. The other cars have had decades of development!
There is much way too much hate for "poverty" specs or "poverty" cars. I'm far far more impressed when people show up with a fun sport value based car rather than a 6 figure flex. At the onset of Rona Feb/Mar 2020 I picked up an ND Miata ('16 RWD MT ST Sport w 45k miles) for $10k OTD. I have no payment have had no depreciation and it only required oil changes, new tires, and new fluids. It's literally the best money I've ever spent on a product and made the pandemic a blast by "isolating" driving in the rocky mountains.
That's great...some of us need more doors and a solid roof. I have a 19 wrx base and wish I got the limited instead. I've learned not to buy a base Subaru. Is possible, the base spec miata is a better spec'd base than the wrx. Or Mazda shrunk the (feature) gap btwn the base and grand touring trims.
@@ZeroFidelity Sean, it would be awesome for you to review car stereos. No one is doing this well, and your approach whether on your own or partnering with SG would make for very interesting content.
This was a great video! Thanks for putting it together for us to enjoy! Have a deposit on a rally blue WRX in sport-tech trim on the way... the cladding's actually grown on me since seeing it in person, and it's going to be a great 4-season daily driver here in Ontario. Looking forward to getting flamed for putting a previous gen STI wing on it 😄
I'm in Toronto. Mines coming in July. World rally blue. Sport tech. Can't wait. Did these guys mention what the real world HP is? I think they said all the cars are underrated
Ok ok... This vid is amazing. I love this shootout and track timings with the pro. How about doing a dedicated "affordable" track car 2-door shootout, GR86, Miata, Camaro SS 1LE, Mustang GT:PP, Z, Supra. That would be as the kids say, 🔥.
The Supra is in no way affordable. The Z is borderline, but in base trim could compete, though its omissions will hurt it. The rest would be fun to compare if they could get them similarly equipped, which is no small thing.
Having owned a 19 SS 1LE....driven a few NDs, and owned a first gen 86....the SS 1LE will destroy everything on that list for track use. It has fantastic inputs and the limit is absurdly high. The shifter and clutch feel is perfect, way better than the Miata IMO. The steering is really good, really sharp/direct and has good feel, the chassis is amazing, the brakes are insane. It's amazing how well it hides its weight/size. It's only real let down is visibility and the running costs suck. Big heavy car, needs huge ass tires, huge brakes etc. It gets good fuel economy for what it is (a friggin huge V8)....I regularly got 19mpg and drove it like an asshole....but I'd cringe paying current gas prices. Tires are $2k and last maybe 20-30k miles if you're lucky on the street. Staggered set up, so can only rotate tires left to right. Oil changes are expensive if you don't do it yourself, 10qts of oil. And then I'd imagine brake parts would be pricey, enormous rotors and what not. It's an "affordable" entry..but you'd need deep pockets to regularly track it compared to a Miata or GR86.
Awesome review. 6 mos later we know how underated the WRX is, consecutively testing faster than a stock STI. Mild tune and the WRX now with it's upgraded stable suspension is loads of fun for mid $30k. I personally tested a few cars and considered S3 along with model R but find this to be a very good handler. Coming from e92.
You're 100% correct. I recently got myself a VB. I liked the older WRX's but hated the way they drove. They felt like you had to wring them out to get the power to be competitive. The stock VB has one of the most linear feeling power delivery curves I've ever felt. Even better than the older 5.7's from GM that had a flat torque curve similar to the WRX. The best part about the VB is it's ability to go off the pavement. Any of these other cars meet the dirt; they have no change competing against the WRX. Now people are getting 70-80hp gains with an intake, exhaust, and a tune. You're talking 350hp for under $1500. That 350hp puts the car into a completely different bracket. I won't burn my warranty up, but damn it's so tempting.
@@phorkit5717 No kidding. I appreciate the warranty myself but this car is so tempting to tune. Haven't decided yet which way I'm going... The lifted bad ass turbo crosstrek or wider wheels lowered and aero dynamics. Guess staying stock for now ain't too bad.
I bought a 2011 Elantra with the six speed manual. I now have 263,000 miles on it. It does not use oil, runs very well. I’m happy with it. Two days ago, I bought a 2023 Elantra N with the 6 speed manual in the performance blue. Only 56 miles on it now.
@@classicdufferin8739 I have almost 23,000 on the 2023 Elantra. No problems at all, so far. The 2011 Elantra I still going strong. The a/c quit working though 🥵269,000 on it now. Just put front pads and rotors on it.
Jack is on point with the ratings. I don't think most people who are in the market for these cars have a dedicated sports car in addition to their daily, so Mark's take is not resonating with me this time. Overall, great job as always.
I agree that most shoppers of these cars are shopping for their one and only car. I was such a shopper and for a long time my MK7 GTI was my only car. However, I'm still glad Mark offered a different opinion. His ratings offer a different perspective that results in a more comprehensive review. Now that I also have an NA Miata, I especially appreciate the refinement the GTI offers.
@@JaRW7 Jack had a GTI at one point along with his C7. He replaced the GTI with the new BRZ, which is maybe $5k more than these cars. TheTopher (another car UA-camr) recently bought his new Civic Si and he has at least 1 weekend car.
@@JaRW7 ah it depends. I’m looking for a weekend car to race but I can’t afford to pay 50k for one. So this is the limited market I’m in. I have my Durango for long road trip n if I need to tow anything. N then I have my Jetta for work travel.
I'm inline with Mark's mindset. I have a 981 Cayman for fun and needed a fun daily. I got the Civic Si. Second choice would have been the GTI. Great video!
Great test! Goes so show by your final rankings what people value will dictate your choice at that 30k mark. Thank you for acknowledging the tire width and compound differences….very few reviewers call attention and understand just how important that is. Owners of all four vehicles will more than likely change rims, widths, and compounds throughout ownership 👍
WOW! With all sincerity, THANK YOU for the best affordable performance car review I’ve seen thus far! These are the four cars I’m considering for my daily drive/track day car. I’m so happy you used affordable cars. I hate how all the popular 90’s and early 2000’s icons have been turned into $60K+ “supercars”. These four vehicles represent that target tuner audience and you nailed the comparison. You have provided potential buyers with great information to make a decision on the car that’s right for them. Again, thank you and keep up the great videos!
Great video! I currently am sitting at about 9k miles on my ‘22 GTI S DSG… I use it to work out of and take kids to and from school drop off/pick up line etc and my global average across all 9k miles is 29.5mpg! Hooning, highway and AC idle for hours a day included! I’m getting 35.5 at 80mph on I-65 as an average with 39-40mpg in the winter as the high bar on 87 octane which is what she’s designed to run with the new higher pressure direct injection system! To say I’m pleased for $31k in having a sub 5second 0-60 car that gets 30mpg average on ‘87 is a major understatement!
Mark, thanks for talking honestly about the armrests in the Subaru. I had the same problem in my wife's 2010 Forester, and it's a major ergonomic issue on long trips.
Thank you guys for making this video! Absolutely the most beneficial video I've seen from anybody for affordable performance cars. All points were touched on.
I bought a 2022 Oryx White SE 6-Speed about 2 months ago and it’s absolutely fantastic in every way - the infotainment and Haptic Touch buttons is something that completely grows on you and now whenever I drive another car it feels prehistoric with all of the buttons - please don’t dismiss this car before you go to the dealer and spend an hour with it! It’s awesome and I’m truly happy with my purchase.
Driving an i30N FL I can really say that Hyundai has managed to make these cars handle exceptionally well. The first time I planted the gas pedal in a turn I nearly drove into the inside curb, because I was expecting the car to start understeering like my old first gen Leon Cupra R, but it did none of that; the handling is incredibly neutral, despite being FWD and front heavy, it feels like the car wants to push over all four tires evenly and even if you manage to let the rear slip, a slight correction is all you need to keep the car from spinning out, never making you feel like its not responding to your steering input.
@@stephenkim589 nah hell no. It’s ugly doesn’t look retro at all. I still own my 95 integra gsr that’s fully built n this new si is horrible. Even the new type r still iffy to me.
Great video. I still enjoy driving my 10th gen Si. You’re right about the 11th gen. Not trying to be a sports car, just something fun to daily, and occasionally drive the curves on the coast. Nice video, SG. You make great content. 👍👍
Great review/comparison. I shopoed all these cars and included the Civic R , the Acura Integra type S and the Volkswagen R. The absolute best bang for buck option was the Golf GTI S with DSG at 33.2 k. Second only to the Golf R in speed and the Civic SI in mpg.
Awesome video. It's perfect for me right now. It's actually the first time I've seen you guys. I'm about to see much more. Thumbs up and following. I loved how you guys broke those cars down. P.s. That Elantra N though... I never thought I'd be thinking about a Hyundai.
This review came at a really important time for me as I try and decide between these cars. As some one who has only really driven a manual trans on his dads rust bucket Jetta, I'm a bit apprehensive on buying a brand new car with 3 pedals. But this was very helpful! Keep up the great work!
You’ll get the hang of it in a few days. I drove a brand new si home without any experience, sketchy as hell and stalled out a few times, but by the end of the week I was fine. Nervous still, but fine lol
You'll learn. Evwryone used to drive manuals, and they managed. However, don't feel like you have to to get more out of a car. The best autoboxes are superb and almost always give better 0-60 times and better gas mileage. They're also much more pleasant in stop-and-go traffic, of you have a tough commute. The Hyundai's DCT has been much praised, and I'd buy it every time over a fairly poor manual.
Had a Golf3 in the 1990s after owning an ‘88 Jetta. Both manual. The Golf was more “refined” but felt less “dangerous” once in montion. My buddy’s GTI felt the best of both - higher end and faster to the danger zone. Loved cruising in on I-15 from Salt Lake to Ogden in 30 minutes💨 💨 💨
Never thought I would be a wrx owner, but after learning a bit about the new platform and taking a test drive, I was sold. Also available for under msrp. Not only as a stock daily driver is it wonderful, but it seems to be the best of this bunch for basic mods. It’s like Subaru created this wrx for basic tuning while keeping reliability.
The fact that we were able to buy one at or below MSRP really sealed the deal with me. Im half way through the break in and can't wait to fully test it out.
@@Gabriel-vj1cf - it’s been great to us so far. We had a 2003 Evo 8 new back in the day and three Galant VR4s. I get the Evo vibes with this wrx. The fact this new WRX is only running 12ish psi stock boost while all the other turbo/small displacement cars in its segment are running 20+ stock, really says a lot. Enjoy!!
The GTI is hands down the most tuneable for the least amount of mods done. And holds up to the power the best. Air intake, turbo inlet, down pipe, stage 1 engine and trans tune. Go from 240 HP to 360-400 hp for about $3,000
When you guys tested the GTI I said exactly that. The car would come with all seasons and the 200tw tires would hide a lot of under steer and I was told I was idiot in not so many terms. Lap times don’t lie and the best improvement anyone can make to a car is the tires.
The cars biggest issue/ the biggest difference other than over all levels of grip versus the re71r is corner exit. The car simply struggles powering out with all seasons. The p zeros are also a exceptionally unsticky tire. I think they were 400-600 treadwear
I find it remarkable they managed to turn a very ordinary economy compact into such a serious performance car. The investment must have been enormous. I guess they're serious about establishing the cred of the N sub-brand.
@@markmiller3279 I think they planned the performance aspect of the car right in the beginning with the chassis design. It does share the platform with the i30 and the veloster, first two cars with the special N treatment. They just have to adapt and refine them for the elantra n and kona n. A good chassis can go a long way.
Great video guys just an awesome round up of realistic cars the everyday driver can afford. By far the best Auto channel on UA-cam. The cinematography and flow of the review is what sets you apart from the rest. I pretty much look here and throttle house for my car reviews. The let’s check the sun visor guys have lost their way, stuck in clique corner over and over…..Once again guys awesome review, massive thumbs up 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👏👏👏👏👏
I'd only seen Mr Geese through some snippets on the straight pipes. This was my first watch and it was awesome. Jack was an unexpected surprise and dang what a pro. Both great presenters, and I'm now subscribed!
My Si has 250 miles on it, absolutely LOVE IT! As a daily driver, it’s affordable (paid 1k over MSRP) and the mpg and smiles per gallon are terrific. Locally GTIs are going for $38k new plus at $5.00 a gallon the Civic just fit me best. Great video, as always!!
I love the N buttons with custom dampers/exhaust/steering/LSD/engine/ESC/rev match. It works really well to be driving normal and hit the button for an onramp or corner then go back to normal. The car is really very nice in normal mode. If you value a splash of sport in your cars, you will be fine in the N. Recently did 10 hour/day roadtrip and Im a fat guy age 45.
I REALLY enjoyed this review….very well done!! Previous Civic Si owner and current 3 time WRX owner here. You nailed the conclusion. My takeaway, had Subaru corporate paid attention to, or even had, focus groups for the new WRX they could have had an absolute winner.
So do you own a 2022 WRX? If so how do you like it? Debating buying one as my family sedan. I have a car for work but want a fun weekend dad car that can take the kids too.
@@blkstang4830 I have a 2021 Limited and it’s a fantastic vehicle. I’m in Florida so the AWD isn’t so useful to me. The trade off is just so so gas mileage on premium fuel. It’s my only disappointment. You’ll be lucky to get 30K on the original tires. Just an FYI
i could consider a body kit etc in the future or my own personal "Solutions" for looks...the stock brakes needing a mandatory change for heavy driving is a bit upsetting...but its pretty standard even on the new BRZ/GR86. Im not HUGE on looks when it comes to a car im purely interested in driving fast. Opposed to slow rolling/low tail dragging hot rodding theres like that special middle ground to me where performance can supersede looks if not be defined by it, the front fascia/headlights and accents to me at least look pretty astute/mean. Focus groups aside...subaru also largely SELL/move products to the "Different inside" demographic as well XD...so i cant really get caught up in would be potentials of a company like that....just genuinely glad they have a "global" platform and can deliver better/more reliable products as a whole, that to me is definitely a step in the right direction. Chassis/material refinement and better engineering top to bottom. But its a 2 sided coin....looks or a build purely catered to looks and vested man hours....can barely RUN for all i care if its purely put out there to be praised/appreciated for the sheer manhours vested. Though its more of a detachment from most cars these days. All im saying is this focus group concept is as applicable to going the miata could have sold more if they did some focus groups...my only 2 cents would be are they catering to MIAITA purists/loyalists to mazda...or are they trying to SELL to more/new customers...and thats where i think this line between hot rodding for speed/fun, and slow rolling/looks becomes the major issue with these manufacturers trying to figure out which "DEMOGRAPHIC" to maximize their product/approach/impact. Same to the constant "cries" of ppl wanting wrx wagons or hyundai i30 hatch N tunes. Yet in the USDM those cars merely DONT sell....and its why they arent produced....also wreck/total easier due to additional pillars/windows etc....just more of a loss/liability to insurance/auto companies. Unfortunate truths...so many teen racers....make insuring a wrx in CALI an afterthought....better off owning a used/salvage on liability insurance if you want to drive it more $$$ on "mods" for those would be OWNERS....than trying to place $$$ down on a wrx to wind up spending CHUNKS yearly to insure it as a would be "car" marketed to 20 somethings with fresh driving records. Its purely why they just CANT make them "cool" imo when you look at the MAJROITY that actually treat their subarus well, own multiple/keep their stock etc....just 2 completely different demographics aside of the "different inside" folks as well which i have no qualms with
I find it most interesting how for a similar price a collection of similar sized cars for the same purpose with a very similar powertrain layout diverge so vastly in execution and capability. The variety and option of these cars in todays world is a great thing!
THE most relevant video ever on the channel, this is what, as a wild ass guess, 70% of your viewers are either in the market for or contemplating. Not to mention the production value and technical insights are at a professional level, just as it has been for years, and we just expect it at this point. It’s even enough to forgive the next dozen Porsche unobtainiummobilereviewbideos that will inevitably show up next week.
*Very entertaining. I can't believe I actually watched the whole thing, lol. TBH, the long video time bar was off putting initially, but once I clicked play and watched on, I kind of forgot how long it was.*
This is basically the spot I was in back in 2019 trying to find a new sport compact under $30k. Narrowed it down to the Civic Si, Veloster N, Jetta GLI, and WRX. Went with the GLI for the aftermarket support, understated looks, and the dealer only wanted $24k for it.
@@t.k.morris After the first thousand miles I got the APR Stage 1 high-torque 93 tune plus the DSG tune. At close to 35,000 miles now and it still puts a smile on my face, despite some teething issues. Coming from Hyundai's I realized I needed to be a lot more meticulous with maintenance; had the differential pump fail at 20,000 miles, but I didn't even know until I did a code scan with VCDS because the brake assist system took over. I do the factory maintenance intervals twice as often plus supplemental advice from other owners in regards to diff and transmission service. It can be difficult to locate official documentation on maintenance and repairs, but there's plenty of resources on UA-cam and from owners forums. Oh yeah, the front radar sensor got misaligned whenever I pulled the bumper off, have not figured out how to fix it yet though lol. Either way, nothing major so far. Another thing, tires and brakes are mandatory once you start putting more power down, I was spinning in third gear with the factory units and the brakes overheated quickly when braking from high speeds. As long as you do the supporting mods for more power and stay on top of maintenance, you'll love it. In my case, it checks all the boxes I need for a daily driver while still being fun to drive. I'd recommend spending time with the interior to see if it's your liking, I don't mind the plastics and average speakers for example but that's just me. If I were buying today, I wouldn't buy a new GLI, since they only have the Autobahn trim which costs a lot more, and I don't want a digital dash, sunroof, or capacitive buttons. I'd consider a new Civic Si since I like the looks and interior a lot more on the 11th gen vs the 10th, but personally I don't like driving a stick shift in traffic; I prefer them in a weekend/secondary car. With the market how it is, if I were to stick to the same budget, I'd get what I have now on the used market unless I could find a deal on a Mk7.5 Golf R or an Audi S3, the MQB platform has grown on me a lot. If I were to stretch it a bit, I'd look heavily into the GR Corolla. In a perfect world, I'd have bought a new Evo from the start...
Went to a couple stealers (dealers) to check out the Elantra N and Civic Si. They wanted $8k over the top for the Elantra N and $4k over MSRP for the Si. The Si had almost every conceivable HPD accessory added to it, which put the total at almost $40K! No thank you.
I've checked at least 20 dealers, no Si no GTI no WRX no N products. They're all sold out. Even with these crazy markups. This dealership system needs to go down, needs to go down fast. On the other hand; I've a Ford Maverick order in place, and it's been 6 months, not a single email or news about it's build date 🤷🏻♂️🤷🏻♂️ So that's that.
Thanks guys for doing an in depth review on enthusiast cars that people can actually afford. I especially appreciate you guys choosing the base models and including not just the MSRP but also the MPG info. The gas mileage alone on that Civic puts it at the top of my list - California gas prices are no joke in 2022!
Playing K-pop during the Elantra N section had me in stitches. Four seriously good options in this space and I appreciate the hard work you guys did in making it happen.
Great content as always guys. You are my go-to for legit and non-biased car reviews. Currently own an Elantra N manual and I can agree with all your points. Had a Veloster N DCT before and I sort of wish I would have stayed with the DCT. The sacrifices in daily road driving are starting to wear on me a little though. Guess I am just getting old. I will say there are a few of us doing HPDE and autocross and none of us have had to change or upgrade anything on the car, other than changing oil before/after events and tires. No overheating, no brake fade. It’s been holding up very well. I will honestly admit that if VW had not completely shit showed the infotainment system I would probably be in a Mk8 Golf R. Any possibility of a new Audi RS3 review soon?
I have an N DCT and I have no problem daily driving it. Maryland has great roads though so the rigidity never becomes a factor. Plus you can always throw it in eco and the dampers help a ton.
@@enkymion We're you able to find a dealer that wasn't marking up over MSRP? I've only found one that's over an hour away (Danbury) from me but they are charging a dealer fee of $1299 since there is no limit in this state on dealer fees....
I chose the GTI among these, as well. Regardless of price I found it more fun to drive than the SI. And likewise it helps it didn’t have the absurd markup the Si did.
Thanks for this review guys! One thing I'd appreciate touched on is insurance cost for these cars. A lot of us younger guys and gals don't have the money to spend on new cars these days but those that do are still probably gonna value knowing what insurance will set them back.
I priced them and for me they’re all within about $10/month of each other, with WRX at the higher end of the spectrum. But I’m a middle-aged driver with a good driving record (though not unblemished) and that and other factors matter too, of course.
Love the different perspectives when it comes to age, what's already in your garage, etc. Always different for everyone which makes choosing a winner and loser hard sometimes when you can't highlight those differences.
even aspects like if you got kids beyond the garage, or a wife that would drive or that potentially wants to drive stick on occasion they get into the "tech" implementations on the trans/shifting/gearing profiles or smart/shift etc. As well as their coverage with automatic trans/dct options. They really break down the necessary perspective/aspects to how to correctly judge a car as a future owner vs just offering "insights" of strengths for would be fanatics that really have no interest in ownership.
If you want a hatch get the GTI If you want awd get the WRX if you want a fun sedan get the Elantra N If you want a fun car that won’t give any problems get the SI
What a great video. I am so tired of reviews of Rav4 primes and stupid off-road trucks that most of us will never need - this is truly focused on the people who still like fun cars! I love the rankings opinions you guys bring to the review at the end. Keep up the good work!
Thanks for not spending so much time on lap times, and actually mentioning the difference tires make. Anyone regularly tracking their car enough to consider it in a purchase would be replacing the tires soon enough to make the lap time comparisons moot.
Back during the 8th gen (fg2 and fa5) with the k20z3 engine, not only was it practical as hell, it sounded like a race car with that 8200 redline. That car was FUN
@@kevinkim9620 I think the K24Z7 from the 9th-gen Si is still in production. Would the Si be compelling if it still had that engine? It would be the only naturally aspirated car in its class (putting aside the two-door & now also 2.4L GR86), but obviously a 2.4L Si's fuel consumption would be horrible compared to the L15B7. The complaints of the 9th-gen Si, that the handling was a bit soft unless you got the HFP package, seem to have been fixed by Honda now and now the standard Si seems to handle pretty well.
@@fhowland Nah, new cars are worse. I've done the 2.0 turbo thing both old-school and modern twin-scroll, and I prefer the K20Z4 (FN2) by far. It's so much snappier and more fun for a street car! I could not care less that it's a little bit slower, the modern 2.0 twin-scroll was quicker but it simply was not more fun, not by any means [the engine sounded and felt like a blender, not nice at all :(].
Thank you so much for doing this video. I'm sick of $50-$70,000 supra's and BMWs being labeled as the "affordable car" comparisons on all the other channels
Well do you want a sports car or an economy car? Sounds like a you problem
@Sohc_Vtec when he said he was watching videos of Supra’s and BMW’s you clown. Reread his comment if you’re struggling so much.
@Sohc_Vtec oh is the Civic and WRX super high performance cars to you? 🤣 goofy man….goofy…. They’re economy cars bud
@Sohc_Vtec oh is the Civic and WRX super high performance cars to you? 🤣 goofy man….goofy…. They’re economy cars bud
I so agree, though with the median car price being near $40k, it's hard to define affordable. Below median price? Under $50k? I think the group they selected makes a lot of sense, with all under $35k. I do wish they had done a better job of defining who they were intending this for. Mark may ne able to afford a high-performance weekend car, but that's an expensive extra most people won't have. Jack can get a little nutty about German cars, but at least he was clear that they had to be cars that worked on the street as a primary vehicle.
The Elantra is mildly compromised as a daily driver, but not that much. It's still reasonably quiet driven normally, and the ride isn't so stiff as to be painful. With the DCT it's an even better daily driver. For me the ridiculous controls would drop the GTI out of contention. I like the styling and have always loved the size and boxy hatchback, but that's not enough. The Subaru is improved, and if I lived in a harsh climate the AWD might sell me on it, but it still looks like the previous generation, which looked horribly dated, too. That interior is nasty, the trunk is not great, and the infotainment is weak. It would be great if that engine and AWD system was under a better car, something like the Civic Si. The Honda would be very tempting because of its smoothness, ease of use, spaciousness, low price, and high gas mileage. As an everyday car it would be super appealing, if uncompetitive as a performance car. I also wish it came as a hatchback. Guess I have to get an Integra, or wait for the R. That may be a little too hardcore for daily use, but maybe Honda will solve that dilemma.
That call out to every other car comparison channel was glorious
It's also a call out to viewers who are basic enough to make those videos popular.
@Michael Charity you might feel triggered by my comment, but the nature of successful media is to be sociopathic and pander to what people want to see and hear, not necessarily what the creator wants to convey. I might hate the game, but I don't hate the players. Savage Geese choose specific formats despite that they see other channels finding success at what Jack and Mark find a little distasteful.
I immediately thought of carwow
@Michael Charity weird flex but okay.
@Michael Charity you confuse what people want versus what people will tolerate.
The Gran Turismo nostalgia baked in 😭
@Rapunzel ♪ What the fuck?
OMG Greg is awesome to see you here. Love your channel!
Finally it has arrived...
ua-cam.com/video/MNtCawGYGs4/v-deo.html
Exactly what I thought. I miss those days where I’d do endurance races in GT3 all night.
@@drummeralex9198 Being a car enthusiast is like being a power-tool enthusiast.
Bringing on Mr. Casey to start setting lap times is a brilliant idea.
You're only solidifying your credibility & quality work of work by adding this crucial element to your reviews.
Attentive film-making, drone shots, uninvasive musical scores, connections to press cars & brand reps, your own track to test on, your own merch, confidence in your own humor, and now a pro driver who can consistently set lap times to compare cars.
I'm blown away, Mark, you've come so far from back when you were making videos on your FR-S. I wonder what's next, but I know it will be good, I wish you and your whole team the best. ✌🏼
I’ve been a Honda tuner for a long time and lately a Subaru fan the last 3 years. Always liked the GTi.. but I never thought I’d consider a Hyundai as a true Sports car. Great video guys! Keep up the awesome work. 👏🏻
LOL good luck tuning the elantra. Those engines grenade and can't handle power
@@42cubastop the cap. 😂
@Lemonshamp00 fr like, does that mean he's dogshit at tuning or...
@@42cuba... I don't know about their new cars but I know a few people with reliable 400hp tiburons the beta and delta engines are good engines also the main reason people say a "can is untuneable" has to do with how much hp a car was designed to make and little odd tuning things on old cars. Cylinder 4 cooling mod requires a tune, because the car can't tell when to pull timing if it can't look at mild knock reliably from cylinder 4 on old ej motors. Doesn't mean they're not good motors but people blow the transmissions and engines up often because they don't understand the compromises that the engineers made when designing the cars. The same thing applies to lower gears in old wrxs people modify them to make more power not understanding that the cars are specifically down tuned in 1st 2nd and 5th because they don't have the tires to get the powerdown and if they did they would much more easily damage the transmission and because the low rpm in fifth gear will damage the turbo so 1st and 2nd and fifth have reduced timing and fifth also has reduced boost.
Despite coming off initially as an enthusiast car channel that just wants to drive cars around a track, I feel like I learn more about how cars are like to drive day-to-day better than almost anyone else. Great insight as far as interior ergonomics are concerned, long-term maintenance, and just working past the white paper you're getting from the manufacturer. Keep up the great work!
There are clear biases / badge snobbery in their videos. Just be aware, SG is hardly impartial and doesn't try to be.
@@dannnsss8034 What is the badge snobbery you're talking about? I know they have their preferences but I am seemingly unfamiliar with their snobbery.
@@sharedknowledge6640maybe you’re the one who should pull their head out their ass and realize that both the brands you mentioned have been making very reliable cars in the past decade. Especially VW
You guys outdid yourselves with this multi-car review - really nice job in describing the technical characteristics and the relative merits (and disadvantages) of each vehicle. Would love to see a similar comparison in the future that includes the GR Corolla.
A Golf R, new Civic Type R, and GR Corolla comparison would be fantastic.
Yes! These comparison videos take a lot more work I imagine, but provide lots of value. I feel it's difficult to compare feedback of similarly rated cars between different videos. Having it done as comparison in a single video takes the guess work out of the picture. That's a real value add.
the CIVIC is t best looking ... ELANTRA N is the best performer ...
@@thepiratepenguin_ I can't imagine what a 1.6 liter, 3-cylinder turbo would sound like on a 10-hour road trip.
But - I can imagine having fun with it at a race track.
@@gorgonismztruth1551 Maybe on a smooth track with perfect traction. But put it against a WRX on a mountain road with switchbacks, and the AWD system of the WRX will allow it to quickly pull any of these other cars.
Even on a track, you take a driver who knows how to exploit the traction of that WRX and leverage the balance of the symmetrical drivetrain, and he’s going to put the others in his rearview mirror.
I love that you had 4 manual trans cars to test against each other. And I'm left just appreciating that these 4 cars can have a unique identity in such a closely packed market. Great video!
And base models.
My dad has a 2013 hyundai sonata and there's been so many recalls on it. Engine, seat belts, air bags, fuel system, etc. He's had the car for a little less than 8 years, and nearly every year since he finds out about a new recall.
@@factsmatter6980 Every manufacturer has recalls. As long as they fix the issue I don't see the problem. Costs you nothing.
@@factsmatter6980 Wow its almost like that car is 9 years old
@@factsmatter6980 Sure, all manufacturers have recalls but which have the MOST recalls? And which have the most ENGINE-RELATED recalls? On both accounts, consistently, it's HYUNDAI. No thanks. They've been making vehicles for decades yet they still haven't figured things out? Why bother with Hyundai at all.
VB WRX (+2022) are good for modding. The gearing improved so much, that it’s equally fast as an STi without having more ppweer than the previous gen AND using 4psi less of boost (12psi). Which is insane. Ugly cladding helps keep it clean and protected… my wife hit another car while exiting a parking spot with our volvo xc90 and messed up that area around the wheel. Wish I could just remove and replace.
GTI might be im the middle, but VW has never really understood “fun”… just good engineering, because it tends to leas you to “fun” as a biproduct - but that is not always the case.
One German that truly understands “fun” and “good engineering” was Albert Biermann. You can see that because he ruled the M-division (bmw) with an iron fist. Now it’s all reflected in the N cars. If the Kona N pops while shifting a gear, the N guys clap while the GTI engineers rush to fix the problem.
I was car shopping . Ended up getting the WRX. I LOVE it. Hyudai dealer was stuck on 10k over msrp. I really wanted the huuyndai but living in canada I think I made the right choice. Don't pay more if you live in a place with snow. The WRX is still an amazing car for daily.
I live in the PNW and also picked up a WRX. I love it. I am not sure how the testers got such crappy gas milage though. I get 29 MPG on the freeway and 21 city .
@TheKrisBunch that's almost the exact mileage that I get with my 23 WRX. I suspect if you sweep the tach to the redline every time you change gears, you'd get closer to the rated mpgs.
@@Madman6505 I actually got 32 MPG on the freeway the other day.
Got my ‘22 WRX prem in April and I’m so in love with it. After a month, I was fully in-tune with the car. Coming from a FWD ‘15 Ford Focus hatch.
Besides skiing, I’ve never been more excited for winter in Buffalo NY because of the AWD, and ACTUAL HANDBRAKE.
@AlexStopper91 awesome! I found the engine breaks in around 10,000 miles, and the car feels smoother. Also, the summer performance tires that come stock are worthless in cold temperatures and less than worthless in snow, so I highly recommend winter tires. You probably know that already, but some people don't.
This is by far the best car review channel on UA-cam in my opinion
It's honest about all the good and bad, which is what we actually need
SG reminds me of Car and Driver magazine back in the 80s and 90s. They would call out crappy cars and poor features
The long balls comment at around 3:50 😂
I showed this video to my Nigerian prince penpal and he was so impressed he sent me enough money to become a Patron. Thanks for all the work you guys do, we know it runs you ragged and often doesn’t provide the returns it should but the automotive world would be less without the Geese.
the CIVIC is t best looking ... ELANTRA N is the best performer ...
Lol
I don't know which part I like better, the 25 minute jab that every drag race video is (plus annoying ass music) or how much I love Gran Turismo 3 A-Spec sound. Pure art opening.
Love this. This is the group of cars that's most relevant in my life and kind of what really got me into cars in the first place (the last gen at least). Love the break down. They all really have their own place and there's a solid place for each one in the market I feel. And kudos to these automakers for keeping affordable enthusiast cars alive.
I just purchased the VB WRX in the premium package. Mine is black so the cladding blends well and doesn’t look awful in my opinion. So fun to drive. No bias compared to the other offerings in this video.
The quality of videos like this is why I watch every single SG video. Even if I have no desire to buy the vehicle.
I rewatch the Pacifica video pretty often.
As we get older, we cannot ignore the importance seats that provide adequate ball clearance. So important...
Why? Does your balls hang low, can you throw them over your shoulder... 🎵 🎶
Got rid of my balls to increase my lap times.
Once again Team SG knocks it out of the park with in-depth technical details that most car reviewers gloss over (or never mention) and feedback from an enthusiast & pro driver perspectives. This was a great comparison segment. Thank you for all your efforts.
Most people buy CUV and SUV. If it works and has apple car play and looks fashionable they mostly don't care.
Very much appreciate this comparison. I bought a '22 GTI S a couple of weeks ago, and have put 2k miles on it. Have to agree with the video, for the most part. Super livable, lots of fun when you want to have some, and a sense of purposeful refinement that belies the price. Lots of reviewers dig on the haptic steering wheel and dash controls - I've found spending a number of miles with them, I've gotten accustomed to them (and I'm a bit of a Luddite). No regrets....
Having driven the N multiple times along with civics and the wrx, I really like the N, it's fast, the exhaust sounds incredible, and the interior is comfortable and clean. It's fun to drive but still practical.
This is how I sum it up as well. It’s just fun and practical and it works for me as a daily driver.
@@stabshimi976 only downside is the small gas tank I would say imo
@@almightykevinnn tbf I think the Si, GTI, and EN all have a similar 13 gallons. Which puts the EN on par with the WRX in terms of range per tank while being cheaper to fill
@@Courtesyflush52 even tho it’s 93 ?
@@almightykevinnn I think the WRX and EN both recommend 91 as per the manuals/ gas caps
Proud owner of a 2015 MK7 GTI here.
I like all of these cars, I like the entire class.
Having been a teenager in the 70's, with today's fuel prices - it's deja vu all over again.
This segment makes more sense than ever, particularly if it's your only car.
I could have gone for a Mustang or Camaro in 2015, but I knew a situation like the one we are in now might come - though I had no idea it would be this severe.
Cars like this always make sense.
Oh, I said it before and it bears repeating: Savageese are the UA-cam equivalent of what Car & Driver Magazine was in its glory days.
That's a huge compliment.
@Incomudro As soon as I read your C&D comment I realize you're absolutely correct. I started reading it in '87 and remained a loyal subscriber until too much of the old guard retired. Spot on comparison.
@@markpainter6988 Right?
And, and thank you!
Yes, those witty, sarcastic and fun day of C&D in the 80's.
Thanks for all the great contents and reviews. Been watching you guys for 5 years !
Finally, non super-car content. Excellent cinematic quality work here.
Exactly. I hate the videos for the top .1% of people who can afford them. The reality is that this is what the majority of enthusiast are buying nowadays. It has to take the kids to school and be able to hit the track. This is just the reality for the 99.9% of us.
Agreed! The super car head-to-heads actually get boring after a while. You start to realize there's a lot of overexaggerating for the camera which makes it feel like you're watching a kid's show.
Idk about you but this channel doesnt seem to focus all that much on super cars. Very wide variety of cars. Though I tend to watch more of the affordable end than anything else. Rarely am I interested in high end cars (100k+).
I bought my 2022wrx in February. Premium trim with some extras, including a sti short throw shifter. It is my daily. It is so fun to drive and i have absolutely no regrets. I love this car. The infotainment system blends in after a bit of owning it and does not bother me.
same bro absolutely love my wrx
Is that short shift kit worth the price of admission? Noticeable shorter throws?
Infotainment took some getting used to on the Outback Wilderness, but I've grown to like it a lot, especially with the last update which moved the heated seats to their own buttons !
Mpg?
@ I am averaging about 21-22 mpg.
SO glad you guys actually state your opinion and rank the cars!
Too many other reviewers put titles on their videos that suggest a comparison..."Is the new GTI better than the Civic SI?" or "X brand vs. Y brand", but then completely wimp out in the video, and instead say something like "Which do you think is the better vehicle...leave your opinion in the comments." WTF? (I'm looking at YOU Raiti's Rides).
Savage geese are much more like the great review hallmarks like Car and Driver. You guys don't pull punches and state what you honestly think.
Well Done!
Thank you guys for the awesome review. You guys covered them perfectly with the time pressures. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate these videos but I do understand that the fun of these cars gets neutered with all the constraints you guys overcome.
The Elantra N drives like a proper sports car. i cannot believe how well they nailed it with this car. The steering is just chef's kiss 👌
The Elantra N beat all similar cars on autocross track with multiple drivers switching cars constantly. Including BMW M240 I, GR 86, Subaru WRX, MX-5.
@@NewCastleIndiana is this a video on UA-cam or something that happened at your local club?
@@punkindrublic001 I am unaware of any publicly available video. I don’t have any local club. Not sure anyone would want to be identified. I likely do have photo of timing sheet, though. You can email me and I can see if I got something I can share.
@@NewCastleIndiana thanks bud, got it! Not sure how you found me on SD however
@@punkindrublic001 trying to find somewhere to drop that for you. I have fuelly, too! you need to follow SD's "Official Auto Car Ride & Drive Events:"
Thanks chaps, very interesting stuff.
I'm sure tests like this take a hell of a lot behind the scenes work and logistics. Let that be known.👍👏
The Elantra N description is very appealing
This comparo ushers in a new era of SG greatness! So well done and entertaining. Just make every future video a comparo - I'm sure it's no more difficult to do than a single car review. I mean, you've already got the cameras rolling...
Proud to be a SG Patreon supporter!
Another highlight in your feature career. Yesterday I saw a video of a comparison between affordable sports cars and this is on par! Great stuff on a Friday. Thanks SG
This is literally the comparison that's running through my head 24/7. Thanks guys
Great video. This is what normal people can afford. Keep this type of content coming! Bring on the new Type R.
Always been a subaru driver, picked up my 2022 WRX Premium WR Blue, and let me tell you it is refined. Not as up to date as the GTI, but certainly nice and solid. Performance is great, and being AWD it is most practical for me as a daily. Loved the comparisons and glad to see these manual transmissions still in the game!
how do the elantra tail lights look from back there?
@@freework24 subaru has the history and the heritage, the elantra is faster but for daily use in this climate its certainly the better car for me. No need for this comment lol all about the rally culture!
The elantra n will only last a few years anyways 😂
@@ccouch5859 Exact same thing can be said for the gti.
besides the gti doesn’t have a 10 year warranty.
@@freework24none of these cars are that fast, so I think the one that fits the specific persons wants and needs is the best not which one is quickest. You’ll still get gapped in the Elantra by anything decently fast so who cares? The wrx is much better in poor road conditions, it’s funner to chuck around cause of the awd, it’s more comfortable, and the tiny straight line advantage of the Elantra doesn’t even matter. You’ll still get gapped by every Tesla or ev out there lol
Excellent video guys, I enjoyed it.
My top pick would be the Civic. There's absolutely no way to track a normal car where I live (or at the least it would be very costly I think) so my focus is more on daily fun driving so that fits the bill with it also having imo the nicest interior.
The winner meets a rental Altima at 6pm for a SUDDEN DEATH final round of this comparison.
...nahhh, sudden death matches happen at midnight on a low traffic highway...6pm is the pre-match trash talking
Savage Geese videos always resonate so hard with me that I begin to feel like everything is right with the world. But, then my wife gets mad at me for leaving the toilet seat up or farting in bed, and I remember that the world is a cruel place where you will always be punished for having hope.
The end.
The comparison video we all really care about. Great insight on these
I bought a Civic SI for a commuter car and I am glad you felt it was the best for that. Fun to drive, excellent gas mileage, it feels quick even though it was the slowest of the group. Excellent presentation as always.
any steering issues?
Great review - really. For me, living where we receive 150+ inches of snow per year, the Subaru is the only choice. I wouldn't be able to get to work 30+ days per year with the other three cars. Incidentally, we love the unpainted black plastic here, because paint on many other cars gets blasted off by the salt and sand in the first winter. I had a BMW 340xi, and because of the way the back tires peak out, it had no paint on the sides of the back bumper after its first winter here. Most cars are like that, but the Subarus don't have that problem.
Agreed! good comment
I think you nailed it with making the review of these cars even. Every car had a manual. There was no “manual vs auto” comparison. They all were manual, which made it a fair comparison. This is something so many car reviewers do wrong. They don’t make proper comparisons when reviewing multiple cars at once. Good job in this.
It no doubt took quite a lot of work with the brand reps to get all four of these similarly equipped cars at the same time. I'm very impressed by the work put into the video. Good job, guys.
hi jace
VW really let down their GTI (and GLI) when they spec’d those GARBAGE tires…having test drove these cars it truly is a shame.
I traded my mustang for a 6 speed Elantra N earlier this year and I absolutely love it.
How bad is the ride on the street I've thought about ordering one
@@HarryTwatter not bad at all.. you can change the suspension for the street
@@HarryTwatter much smoother than I thought it would be. Personally I didn’t like the seats or the plastic grab handle in the middle but the N is a joy to drive.
@@HarryTwatter Totally liveable if you adjust it to the mild setting. If you put in N mode, which is the most intense mode, you will lose some fillings.
V8 mustang?
love the comparison, you can see how much work went into this
Always a excellent review. I bought the WRX. I never felt comfortable with my wife driving the ND2 Miata. For her it was the size and visibility that’s makes her feel comfortable. My wife loves the looks of it and I’m really glad because I got her to marry me also. I still think the ND2 is the perfect street toy btw.
This video was so well done gentlemen. Thank you for putting in the extra effort as always! The Elantra N has to be the best…it’s a first gen. It’s that dialed and really doesn’t sacrifice anything if you buy it as advertised. The other cars have had decades of development!
There is much way too much hate for "poverty" specs or "poverty" cars. I'm far far more impressed when people show up with a fun sport value based car rather than a 6 figure flex. At the onset of Rona Feb/Mar 2020 I picked up an ND Miata ('16 RWD MT ST Sport w 45k miles) for $10k OTD. I have no payment have had no depreciation and it only required oil changes, new tires, and new fluids. It's literally the best money I've ever spent on a product and made the pandemic a blast by "isolating" driving in the rocky mountains.
To be fair 99% of cars have had no depreciation since March 2020 hahahaha but very cool car
Fancy seeing you here. :). Nearly copped an ND Miata before Rona and regret not doing so. Enjoy!
That's great...some of us need more doors and a solid roof. I have a 19 wrx base and wish I got the limited instead. I've learned not to buy a base Subaru. Is possible, the base spec miata is a better spec'd base than the wrx. Or Mazda shrunk the (feature) gap btwn the base and grand touring trims.
the CIVIC is t best looking ... ELANTRA N is the best performer ...
@@ZeroFidelity Sean, it would be awesome for you to review car stereos. No one is doing this well, and your approach whether on your own or partnering with SG would make for very interesting content.
This was a great video! Thanks for putting it together for us to enjoy! Have a deposit on a rally blue WRX in sport-tech trim on the way... the cladding's actually grown on me since seeing it in person, and it's going to be a great 4-season daily driver here in Ontario. Looking forward to getting flamed for putting a previous gen STI wing on it 😄
I'm in Toronto. Mines coming in July. World rally blue. Sport tech. Can't wait. Did these guys mention what the real world HP is? I think they said all the cars are underrated
How are you liking yours I just got mine in ceramic White :)
I got a sport tech aswell but in black in halifax. It's a blast on the twisty back roads
Ok ok... This vid is amazing. I love this shootout and track timings with the pro. How about doing a dedicated "affordable" track car 2-door shootout, GR86, Miata, Camaro SS 1LE, Mustang GT:PP, Z, Supra. That would be as the kids say, 🔥.
Agreed
The Supra is in no way affordable. The Z is borderline, but in base trim could compete, though its omissions will hurt it. The rest would be fun to compare if they could get them similarly equipped, which is no small thing.
Having owned a 19 SS 1LE....driven a few NDs, and owned a first gen 86....the SS 1LE will destroy everything on that list for track use. It has fantastic inputs and the limit is absurdly high. The shifter and clutch feel is perfect, way better than the Miata IMO. The steering is really good, really sharp/direct and has good feel, the chassis is amazing, the brakes are insane. It's amazing how well it hides its weight/size. It's only real let down is visibility and the running costs suck. Big heavy car, needs huge ass tires, huge brakes etc.
It gets good fuel economy for what it is (a friggin huge V8)....I regularly got 19mpg and drove it like an asshole....but I'd cringe paying current gas prices. Tires are $2k and last maybe 20-30k miles if you're lucky on the street. Staggered set up, so can only rotate tires left to right. Oil changes are expensive if you don't do it yourself, 10qts of oil. And then I'd imagine brake parts would be pricey, enormous rotors and what not. It's an "affordable" entry..but you'd need deep pockets to regularly track it compared to a Miata or GR86.
Awesome review. 6 mos later we know how underated the WRX is, consecutively testing faster than a stock STI. Mild tune and the WRX now with it's upgraded stable suspension is loads of fun for mid $30k. I personally tested a few cars and considered S3 along with model R but find this to be a very good handler. Coming from e92.
You're 100% correct. I recently got myself a VB. I liked the older WRX's but hated the way they drove. They felt like you had to wring them out to get the power to be competitive. The stock VB has one of the most linear feeling power delivery curves I've ever felt. Even better than the older 5.7's from GM that had a flat torque curve similar to the WRX. The best part about the VB is it's ability to go off the pavement. Any of these other cars meet the dirt; they have no change competing against the WRX. Now people are getting 70-80hp gains with an intake, exhaust, and a tune. You're talking 350hp for under $1500. That 350hp puts the car into a completely different bracket. I won't burn my warranty up, but damn it's so tempting.
@@phorkit5717 No kidding. I appreciate the warranty myself but this car is so tempting to tune. Haven't decided yet which way I'm going... The lifted bad ass turbo crosstrek or wider wheels lowered and aero dynamics. Guess staying stock for now ain't too bad.
@@marcinfil3673 Trust me, I come from a Focus ST... Tuning was impossible to wait for.
Their video on the wrx track test, the motor blew up. Subaru is the worst manufacturer here...
@@AmericanBusinessman422 link or didn't happen
I bought a 2011 Elantra with the six speed manual. I now have 263,000 miles on it. It does not use oil, runs very well. I’m happy with it. Two days ago, I bought a 2023 Elantra N with the 6 speed manual in the performance blue. Only 56 miles on it now.
How is it now
@@classicdufferin8739 I have almost 23,000 on the 2023 Elantra. No problems at all, so far. The 2011 Elantra I still going strong. The a/c quit working though 🥵269,000 on it now. Just put front pads and rotors on it.
Jack is on point with the ratings. I don't think most people who are in the market for these cars have a dedicated sports car in addition to their daily, so Mark's take is not resonating with me this time. Overall, great job as always.
I agree that most shoppers of these cars are shopping for their one and only car. I was such a shopper and for a long time my MK7 GTI was my only car. However, I'm still glad Mark offered a different opinion. His ratings offer a different perspective that results in a more comprehensive review. Now that I also have an NA Miata, I especially appreciate the refinement the GTI offers.
Mark is just getting old lol
I don't think anyone with "weekend car" money is shopping for any of these.
@@JaRW7 Jack had a GTI at one point along with his C7. He replaced the GTI with the new BRZ, which is maybe $5k more than these cars. TheTopher (another car UA-camr) recently bought his new Civic Si and he has at least 1 weekend car.
@@JaRW7 ah it depends. I’m looking for a weekend car to race but I can’t afford to pay 50k for one. So this is the limited market I’m in. I have my Durango for long road trip n if I need to tow anything. N then I have my Jetta for work travel.
I'm inline with Mark's mindset. I have a 981 Cayman for fun and needed a fun daily. I got the Civic Si. Second choice would have been the GTI. Great video!
Great test! Goes so show by your final rankings what people value will dictate your choice at that 30k mark. Thank you for acknowledging the tire width and compound differences….very few reviewers call attention and understand just how important that is. Owners of all four vehicles will more than likely change rims, widths, and compounds throughout ownership 👍
This is one of the best car comparaison video i have ever seen. The quality is up there with the tv shows.
WOW! With all sincerity, THANK YOU for the best affordable performance car review I’ve seen thus far! These are the four cars I’m considering for my daily drive/track day car. I’m so happy you used affordable cars. I hate how all the popular 90’s and early 2000’s icons have been turned into $60K+ “supercars”. These four vehicles represent that target tuner audience and you nailed the comparison. You have provided potential buyers with great information to make a decision on the car that’s right for them. Again, thank you and keep up the great videos!
Excellent work gentlemen. I truly love all your content. I bought a T-shirt to support you guys and watch all your videos.
Great video!
I currently am sitting at about 9k miles on my ‘22 GTI S DSG… I use it to work out of and take kids to and from school drop off/pick up line etc and my global average across all 9k miles is 29.5mpg! Hooning, highway and AC idle for hours a day included! I’m getting 35.5 at 80mph on I-65 as an average with 39-40mpg in the winter as the high bar on 87 octane which is what she’s designed to run with the new higher pressure direct injection system! To say I’m pleased for $31k in having a sub 5second 0-60 car that gets 30mpg average on ‘87 is a major understatement!
Man golf GTI used to cost 20k brand new like couple years ago... 30k now? God, I'd rather get 3 series BMW
@@Efreet17 username checks out
Mark, thanks for talking honestly about the armrests in the Subaru. I had the same problem in my wife's 2010 Forester, and it's a major ergonomic issue on long trips.
I flipping hate the seats in my wifes '17 outback. They are horrible. That being said it is dirt cheap to opperate.
There’s an easy fix: buy the armrest extension, an accessory available for the WRX. I wouldn’t buy it without that.
@@desertdriver7056 easy fix: buy a superior product lol
Thank you guys for making this video! Absolutely the most beneficial video I've seen from anybody for affordable performance cars. All points were touched on.
I bought a 2022 Oryx White SE 6-Speed about 2 months ago and it’s absolutely fantastic in every way - the infotainment and Haptic Touch buttons is something that completely grows on you and now whenever I drive another car it feels prehistoric with all of the buttons - please don’t dismiss this car before you go to the dealer and spend an hour with it! It’s awesome and I’m truly happy with my purchase.
You bought what? You typed out everything but the brand and model.
Simply the best car review/comparison channel because the time and thought you guys put into your perspectives for each car.
Driving an i30N FL I can really say that Hyundai has managed to make these cars handle exceptionally well. The first time I planted the gas pedal in a turn I nearly drove into the inside curb, because I was expecting the car to start understeering like my old first gen Leon Cupra R, but it did none of that; the handling is incredibly neutral, despite being FWD and front heavy, it feels like the car wants to push over all four tires evenly and even if you manage to let the rear slip, a slight correction is all you need to keep the car from spinning out, never making you feel like its not responding to your steering input.
the CIVIC is t best looking ... ELANTRA N is the best performer ...
@@gorgonismztruth1551 the si looks horrible. Gti is best looking.
@@gorgonismztruth1551 the civic is boring as hell!
@@ll.7927 Civic is going for that retro styling from the early 2000's
@@stephenkim589 nah hell no. It’s ugly doesn’t look retro at all. I still own my 95 integra gsr that’s fully built n this new si is horrible. Even the new type r still iffy to me.
Great video. I still enjoy driving my 10th gen Si. You’re right about the 11th gen. Not trying to be a sports car, just something fun to daily, and occasionally drive the curves on the coast. Nice video, SG. You make great content. 👍👍
Great review/comparison. I shopoed all these cars and included the Civic R , the Acura Integra type S and the Volkswagen R. The absolute best bang for buck option was the Golf GTI S with DSG at 33.2 k. Second only to the Golf R in speed and the Civic SI in mpg.
Awesome video. It's perfect for me right now. It's actually the first time I've seen you guys. I'm about to see much more. Thumbs up and following. I loved how you guys broke those cars down.
P.s. That Elantra N though... I never thought I'd be thinking about a Hyundai.
This review came at a really important time for me as I try and decide between these cars. As some one who has only really driven a manual trans on his dads rust bucket Jetta, I'm a bit apprehensive on buying a brand new car with 3 pedals. But this was very helpful! Keep up the great work!
You’ll get the hang of it in a few days. I drove a brand new si home without any experience, sketchy as hell and stalled out a few times, but by the end of the week I was fine. Nervous still, but fine lol
Do it! You won't regret it.
You'll learn. Evwryone used to drive manuals, and they managed. However, don't feel like you have to to get more out of a car. The best autoboxes are superb and almost always give better 0-60 times and better gas mileage. They're also much more pleasant in stop-and-go traffic, of you have a tough commute. The Hyundai's DCT has been much praised, and I'd buy it every time over a fairly poor manual.
@@markmiller3279 better gas mileage in the city. Manual gets better highway mpg
Only your wallet can lose with those crazy dealer markups and skyrocketing gas prices especially for premium...absolute clown world
Ooooorrr you can live in Canada where dealer markup are illegal and the most they can sell you at is MSRP!
Yup most civic si are being sold around 40k after mark up, accessories, and ttl
@@sephiros9883 one advantage just like with your conversion rate you get wrx for 24k meanwhile it starts 30k for us lol
@@sephiros9883 what are you talking about? That’s not true
I paid sticker last month for a new GTI.
Had a Golf3 in the 1990s after owning an ‘88 Jetta. Both manual. The Golf was more “refined” but felt less “dangerous” once in montion. My buddy’s GTI felt the best of both - higher end and faster to the danger zone. Loved cruising in on I-15 from Salt Lake to Ogden in 30 minutes💨 💨 💨
Never thought I would be a wrx owner, but after learning a bit about the new platform and taking a test drive, I was sold. Also available for under msrp. Not only as a stock daily driver is it wonderful, but it seems to be the best of this bunch for basic mods. It’s like Subaru created this wrx for basic tuning while keeping reliability.
The fact that we were able to buy one at or below MSRP really sealed the deal with me. Im half way through the break in and can't wait to fully test it out.
@@Gabriel-vj1cf - it’s been great to us so far. We had a 2003 Evo 8 new back in the day and three Galant VR4s. I get the Evo vibes with this wrx. The fact this new WRX is only running 12ish psi stock boost while all the other turbo/small displacement cars in its segment are running 20+ stock, really says a lot. Enjoy!!
The GTI is hands down the most tuneable for the least amount of mods done. And holds up to the power the best. Air intake, turbo inlet, down pipe, stage 1 engine and trans tune. Go from 240 HP to 360-400 hp for about $3,000
We are the same… NEVER would have thought I would be a WRX owner. Traded my X3 M40i for my subie. I love it
If you think Subaru is reliable I can tell you only read the marketing..
You guys always do an honest, awesome job with these cars. Appreciate it and keep up the good work!
When you guys tested the GTI I said exactly that. The car would come with all seasons and the 200tw tires would hide a lot of under steer and I was told I was idiot in not so many terms. Lap times don’t lie and the best improvement anyone can make to a car is the tires.
The cars biggest issue/ the biggest difference other than over all levels of grip versus the re71r is corner exit. The car simply struggles powering out with all seasons. The p zeros are also a exceptionally unsticky tire. I think they were 400-600 treadwear
Great video guys! The Subaru is nice and the Civic is a solid choice but I think Hyundai hit a home run with the Elantra N!
I find it remarkable they managed to turn a very ordinary economy compact into such a serious performance car. The investment must have been enormous. I guess they're serious about establishing the cred of the N sub-brand.
@@markmiller3279
I think they planned the performance aspect of the car right in the beginning with the chassis design. It does share the platform with the i30 and the veloster, first two cars with the special N treatment. They just have to adapt and refine them for the elantra n and kona n. A good chassis can go a long way.
the subaru is less nice then the gti..
Great video guys just an awesome round up of realistic cars the everyday driver can afford. By far the best Auto channel on UA-cam. The cinematography and flow of the review is what sets you apart from the rest. I pretty much look here and throttle house for my car reviews. The let’s check the sun visor guys have lost their way, stuck in clique corner over and over…..Once again guys awesome review, massive thumbs up 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👏👏👏👏👏
I'd only seen Mr Geese through some snippets on the straight pipes. This was my first watch and it was awesome. Jack was an unexpected surprise and dang what a pro. Both great presenters, and I'm now subscribed!
Mark talking about his "long balls" and how they don't bang on the seat bolsters. THIS is why I come here. LOL
My Si has 250 miles on it, absolutely LOVE IT!
As a daily driver, it’s affordable (paid 1k over MSRP) and the mpg and smiles per gallon are terrific.
Locally GTIs are going for $38k new plus at $5.00 a gallon the Civic just fit me best.
Great video, as always!!
Love the new SI!
the GTI's get similar gas mileage lol, also, your area is horrible if they're 38k
I love the N buttons with custom dampers/exhaust/steering/LSD/engine/ESC/rev match. It works really well to be driving normal and hit the button for an onramp or corner then go back to normal. The car is really very nice in normal mode. If you value a splash of sport in your cars, you will be fine in the N. Recently did 10 hour/day roadtrip and Im a fat guy age 45.
You guys are so dialed in. Love this channel.
I REALLY enjoyed this review….very well done!! Previous Civic Si owner and current 3 time WRX owner here. You nailed the conclusion. My takeaway, had Subaru corporate paid attention to, or even had, focus groups for the new WRX they could have had an absolute winner.
So do you own a 2022 WRX? If so how do you like it? Debating buying one as my family sedan. I have a car for work but want a fun weekend dad car that can take the kids too.
@@blkstang4830 I have a 2021 Limited and it’s a fantastic vehicle. I’m in Florida so the AWD isn’t so useful to me. The trade off is just so so gas mileage on premium fuel. It’s my only disappointment. You’ll be lucky to get 30K on the original tires. Just an FYI
i could consider a body kit etc in the future or my own personal "Solutions" for looks...the stock brakes needing a mandatory change for heavy driving is a bit upsetting...but its pretty standard even on the new BRZ/GR86. Im not HUGE on looks when it comes to a car im purely interested in driving fast. Opposed to slow rolling/low tail dragging hot rodding theres like that special middle ground to me where performance can supersede looks if not be defined by it, the front fascia/headlights and accents to me at least look pretty astute/mean. Focus groups aside...subaru also largely SELL/move products to the "Different inside" demographic as well XD...so i cant really get caught up in would be potentials of a company like that....just genuinely glad they have a "global" platform and can deliver better/more reliable products as a whole, that to me is definitely a step in the right direction. Chassis/material refinement and better engineering top to bottom. But its a 2 sided coin....looks or a build purely catered to looks and vested man hours....can barely RUN for all i care if its purely put out there to be praised/appreciated for the sheer manhours vested. Though its more of a detachment from most cars these days. All im saying is this focus group concept is as applicable to going the miata could have sold more if they did some focus groups...my only 2 cents would be are they catering to MIAITA purists/loyalists to mazda...or are they trying to SELL to more/new customers...and thats where i think this line between hot rodding for speed/fun, and slow rolling/looks becomes the major issue with these manufacturers trying to figure out which "DEMOGRAPHIC" to maximize their product/approach/impact. Same to the constant "cries" of ppl wanting wrx wagons or hyundai i30 hatch N tunes. Yet in the USDM those cars merely DONT sell....and its why they arent produced....also wreck/total easier due to additional pillars/windows etc....just more of a loss/liability to insurance/auto companies. Unfortunate truths...so many teen racers....make insuring a wrx in CALI an afterthought....better off owning a used/salvage on liability insurance if you want to drive it more $$$ on "mods" for those would be OWNERS....than trying to place $$$ down on a wrx to wind up spending CHUNKS yearly to insure it as a would be "car" marketed to 20 somethings with fresh driving records. Its purely why they just CANT make them "cool" imo when you look at the MAJROITY that actually treat their subarus well, own multiple/keep their stock etc....just 2 completely different demographics aside of the "different inside" folks as well which i have no qualms with
Awesome video! Realistic cars for most people to own. We need more videos like this.
I find it most interesting how for a similar price a collection of similar sized cars for the same purpose with a very similar powertrain layout diverge so vastly in execution and capability. The variety and option of these cars in todays world is a great thing!
THE most relevant video ever on the channel, this is what, as a wild ass guess, 70% of your viewers are either in the market for or contemplating. Not to mention the production value and technical insights are at a professional level, just as it has been for years, and we just expect it at this point.
It’s even enough to forgive the next dozen Porsche unobtainiummobilereviewbideos that will inevitably show up next week.
Thank you for making this video, a perfect comparison for the everyday car enthusiast!
*Very entertaining. I can't believe I actually watched the whole thing, lol. TBH, the long video time bar was off putting initially, but once I clicked play and watched on, I kind of forgot how long it was.*
This is basically the spot I was in back in 2019 trying to find a new sport compact under $30k. Narrowed it down to the Civic Si, Veloster N, Jetta GLI, and WRX. Went with the GLI for the aftermarket support, understated looks, and the dealer only wanted $24k for it.
How has it been since for you? Reliability and maintenance? And what would you choose to buy today?
@@t.k.morris
After the first thousand miles I got the APR Stage 1 high-torque 93 tune plus the DSG tune. At close to 35,000 miles now and it still puts a smile on my face, despite some teething issues. Coming from Hyundai's I realized I needed to be a lot more meticulous with maintenance; had the differential pump fail at 20,000 miles, but I didn't even know until I did a code scan with VCDS because the brake assist system took over. I do the factory maintenance intervals twice as often plus supplemental advice from other owners in regards to diff and transmission service. It can be difficult to locate official documentation on maintenance and repairs, but there's plenty of resources on UA-cam and from owners forums. Oh yeah, the front radar sensor got misaligned whenever I pulled the bumper off, have not figured out how to fix it yet though lol. Either way, nothing major so far.
Another thing, tires and brakes are mandatory once you start putting more power down, I was spinning in third gear with the factory units and the brakes overheated quickly when braking from high speeds. As long as you do the supporting mods for more power and stay on top of maintenance, you'll love it. In my case, it checks all the boxes I need for a daily driver while still being fun to drive. I'd recommend spending time with the interior to see if it's your liking, I don't mind the plastics and average speakers for example but that's just me.
If I were buying today, I wouldn't buy a new GLI, since they only have the Autobahn trim which costs a lot more, and I don't want a digital dash, sunroof, or capacitive buttons. I'd consider a new Civic Si since I like the looks and interior a lot more on the 11th gen vs the 10th, but personally I don't like driving a stick shift in traffic; I prefer them in a weekend/secondary car. With the market how it is, if I were to stick to the same budget, I'd get what I have now on the used market unless I could find a deal on a Mk7.5 Golf R or an Audi S3, the MQB platform has grown on me a lot. If I were to stretch it a bit, I'd look heavily into the GR Corolla. In a perfect world, I'd have bought a new Evo from the start...
I had the opportunity to pick up a base GLI for $24k too. Only option was the DSG. I *so* regret not jumping on that.
Went to a couple stealers (dealers) to check out the Elantra N and Civic Si. They wanted $8k over the top for the Elantra N and $4k over MSRP for the Si. The Si had almost every conceivable HPD accessory added to it, which put the total at almost $40K! No thank you.
I've checked at least 20 dealers, no Si no GTI no WRX no N products. They're all sold out. Even with these crazy markups. This dealership system needs to go down, needs to go down fast. On the other hand; I've a Ford Maverick order in place, and it's been 6 months, not a single email or news about it's build date 🤷🏻♂️🤷🏻♂️ So that's that.
These are crazy days. When I drove the Elantra N last month it was the only MT in the state of Arizona, and was marked up $4K.
@@agrisizkulak a ford maverick, LMFAO
GTI has least markups mate..
@@roboticvenom1935not in Arizona, alas.
Thanks guys for doing an in depth review on enthusiast cars that people can actually afford. I especially appreciate you guys choosing the base models and including not just the MSRP but also the MPG info. The gas mileage alone on that Civic puts it at the top of my list - California gas prices are no joke in 2022!
This was beautifully put together thank you guys so much 💯
Playing K-pop during the Elantra N section had me in stitches. Four seriously good options in this space and I appreciate the hard work you guys did in making it happen.
Cool to see you experimenting with your format. It can be nice to see more of a shootout style review in addition to the deep dive.
Great content as always guys. You are my go-to for legit and non-biased car reviews.
Currently own an Elantra N manual and I can agree with all your points. Had a Veloster N DCT before and I sort of wish I would have stayed with the DCT.
The sacrifices in daily road driving are starting to wear on me a little though. Guess I am just getting old.
I will say there are a few of us doing HPDE and autocross and none of us have had to change or upgrade anything on the car, other than changing oil before/after events and tires. No overheating, no brake fade. It’s been holding up very well.
I will honestly admit that if VW had not completely shit showed the infotainment system I would probably be in a Mk8 Golf R.
Any possibility of a new Audi RS3 review soon?
I have an N DCT and I have no problem daily driving it. Maryland has great roads though so the rigidity never becomes a factor. Plus you can always throw it in eco and the dampers help a ton.
The infotainment is exactly why I'm avoiding the GTI right now.
I went with the DCT Elantra N and I have absolutely no regrets.
Thanks for that feedback! Very helpful.
@@enkymion We're you able to find a dealer that wasn't marking up over MSRP? I've only found one that's over an hour away (Danbury) from me but they are charging a dealer fee of $1299 since there is no limit in this state on dealer fees....
Excellent video! Despite the Civic Si having the lowest MSRP, all the dealers in my area wanted a $2k-$8k markup; I ended up buying a MK8 GTI.
I chose the GTI among these, as well. Regardless of price I found it more fun to drive than the SI. And likewise it helps it didn’t have the absurd markup the Si did.
5k for a non si here. Crazy shit
EXACTLY, VW is not marking up the GTI, the Si's MSRP is a farce
Thanks for this review guys! One thing I'd appreciate touched on is insurance cost for these cars. A lot of us younger guys and gals don't have the money to spend on new cars these days but those that do are still probably gonna value knowing what insurance will set them back.
I priced them and for me they’re all within about $10/month of each other, with WRX at the higher end of the spectrum. But I’m a middle-aged driver with a good driving record (though not unblemished) and that and other factors matter too, of course.
this is way too well done we don't deserve this we're not worthy! the tokyo drift song on the civic SI dash has me dying.
Love the different perspectives when it comes to age, what's already in your garage, etc. Always different for everyone which makes choosing a winner and loser hard sometimes when you can't highlight those differences.
even aspects like if you got kids beyond the garage, or a wife that would drive or that potentially wants to drive stick on occasion they get into the "tech" implementations on the trans/shifting/gearing profiles or smart/shift etc. As well as their coverage with automatic trans/dct options. They really break down the necessary perspective/aspects to how to correctly judge a car as a future owner vs just offering "insights" of strengths for would be fanatics that really have no interest in ownership.
If you want a hatch get the GTI
If you want awd get the WRX
if you want a fun sedan get the Elantra N
If you want a fun car that won’t give any problems get the SI
I haven't even started and already know it's gonna be a banger considering everything is fun 30kish
What a great video. I am so tired of reviews of Rav4 primes and stupid off-road trucks that most of us will never need - this is truly focused on the people who still like fun cars! I love the rankings opinions you guys bring to the review at the end. Keep up the good work!
Same here. Lets leave those boring SUVs for aunties and uncles. Although i am middle age man, my heart still goes for light and quick compact cars :)
@@BobbyR2 ditto. 🤠
Thanks for not spending so much time on lap times, and actually mentioning the difference tires make. Anyone regularly tracking their car enough to consider it in a purchase would be replacing the tires soon enough to make the lap time comparisons moot.
I’m with Mark on the “gentle on long balls” Civic Si. Best daily street car for the long ownership experience
Back during the 8th gen (fg2 and fa5) with the k20z3 engine, not only was it practical as hell, it sounded like a race car with that 8200 redline. That car was FUN
@@kevinkim9620 that’s what I have! It’s starting to feel pretty dated now though. Lusting after a new one.
GTI is obviously a better daily street car
@@kevinkim9620 I think the K24Z7 from the 9th-gen Si is still in production. Would the Si be compelling if it still had that engine? It would be the only naturally aspirated car in its class (putting aside the two-door & now also 2.4L GR86), but obviously a 2.4L Si's fuel consumption would be horrible compared to the L15B7.
The complaints of the 9th-gen Si, that the handling was a bit soft unless you got the HFP package, seem to have been fixed by Honda now and now the standard Si seems to handle pretty well.
@@fhowland Nah, new cars are worse. I've done the 2.0 turbo thing both old-school and modern twin-scroll, and I prefer the K20Z4 (FN2) by far. It's so much snappier and more fun for a street car! I could not care less that it's a little bit slower, the modern 2.0 twin-scroll was quicker but it simply was not more fun, not by any means [the engine sounded and felt like a blender, not nice at all :(].