2025 VW Golf R vs GR Corolla | Not Even Close
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gazooing
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Yea, it takes a while to figure it out.
For me my other "cars" were 25 + years old.
Working with the wife's Crown for like three months before I got the GRC helped me a lot with the learning curve.
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Wow, front drive only? Hmmm.........in the video the screen read "AWD test mode"
AWD dynos not as available as two wheels, so maybe. IDK.
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It could mean the AWD system is in test mode which disables it for a dyno test, at least that’s how I read it. AWD dynos IIRC have a hard time getting consistent readings from the overdriven rear axle causing confusion.
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I was bemused by this review as well, but it was very interesting. If you watch their non-verbal communication, it paints a very different picture from their words.
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That was the fist thing I noticed. They were giggling and laughing way more in the corolla lol.
When this video first popped up on my feed and saw who made it, I already knew what the conclusion was and was pretty much proven correct by the end of the video. I love most of the videos SG produces (especially their more in-depth documentary series involving the manufacturer and designers of certain cars). But I think it's obvious they really didn't like their GRC long term review car and maybe some of that is showing up in the takeaways of this video. With all that said, I did not expect the dyno results for both cars.
The comments I've seen for this video on YT and other platforms aren't really surprising either. It's funny people talk about wanting new/modern cars with driver engagement of yesteryear, manual transmission, yet proceed to trash the GRC which delivers exactly that.
I crossed shopped the Golf R (Mk8) and the GRC to replace my current daily driver. If I went with the R, I'd go with the DSG but if I went with the GRC, it'd be the MT. For a daily, I can't deny the Golf R has more creature comforts, slightly more interior and cargo space, and obviously the DSG would be nice if I hit traffic. It just makes practical sense as a daily. Ultimately, I obviously chose the GRC for two main reasons. The 6MT is obviously more engaging which was the primary reason for ditching my old daily (wanted to spice up my commute). I didn't want to bother with the Golf R 6MT which is reportedly lackluster in feel and engagement. The other reason is reliability since I tend to keep my cars for a while. Yes, the jury is still out on the GRC long term reliability and the EA888 has been out for awhile. Having never owned a VW or Euro car for that matter, I wasn't able to convince myself that on the longevity of the Golf R.
The comments I've seen for this video on YT and other platforms aren't really surprising either. It's funny people talk about wanting new/modern cars with driver engagement of yesteryear, manual transmission, yet proceed to trash the GRC which delivers exactly that.
I crossed shopped the Golf R (Mk8) and the GRC to replace my current daily driver. If I went with the R, I'd go with the DSG but if I went with the GRC, it'd be the MT. For a daily, I can't deny the Golf R has more creature comforts, slightly more interior and cargo space, and obviously the DSG would be nice if I hit traffic. It just makes practical sense as a daily. Ultimately, I obviously chose the GRC for two main reasons. The 6MT is obviously more engaging which was the primary reason for ditching my old daily (wanted to spice up my commute). I didn't want to bother with the Golf R 6MT which is reportedly lackluster in feel and engagement. The other reason is reliability since I tend to keep my cars for a while. Yes, the jury is still out on the GRC long term reliability and the EA888 has been out for awhile. Having never owned a VW or Euro car for that matter, I wasn't able to convince myself that on the longevity of the Golf R.
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I almost couldn't hit the like button because you said if you went with the R it would have been DSG. lol
I took the GTI to the grocery and did a little play route this morning (note to self: groceries move and mix about when you play after shopping...play first). I've read the GTI has more space. In using them both GRC/GTI I can't tell you where that space is. The cockpit is roomier in the GRC for me. Getting in/out of either car the GRC wins. Lift the hatch and GTI has more room from bottom to top -I think??- but I can't tell you it's more useful. I took the cal team to lunch in the GRC and I asked if there was enough room from the person behind the passenger...the answer was yes and the seat was good. I dunno know.
Shifting...I've heard reviewers bitch (and praise) the feel of the GTI/Golf R. The other day I read of a reviewer who called the GRC's shift feel OK. (I think that was a first but there have been others say it's just 'good' -maybe the dislikers like the GTI's better? I like the shift in the GTI and I like the shift in the GRC but I wouldn't want the GTI to shift like the GRC (or the other way around) -it would be out of character. My only bitch on the GTI feel is the stupid rectangularish shift knob. It feels large (I have big hands and think that) and not shaped well. It just feels wrong. Why change from the golf ball? Someone at VW needed to tell their boss not having a golf ball (or similar) is a bad idea. -I guess none of that matters, the manual for VW is dead.
Not one time have I walked by the GTI and thought about taking it, in fact, I don't think about it at all when I'm taking the GRC. I told you I took the GTI shopping this am...I needed to move the GTI to get access to the truck after I returned -and as I was leaving I still wanted to take the GRC. and I really like the GTI
I think you made a good choice. My wife would think you didn't! lol
Are you used to the haptic controls on your GTI yet? That was actually another concern with the R. Some GTI/R owners said they get used to it and "it's not that bad". Frankly, I didn't spend a ton of time in one so I can't comment.
With the GRC, I love knowing exactly where each control for the HVAC is and doing it with a single touch of the button or turn of the knob.
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The haptic controls on the steering wheel, yes. I'm a left hand on the top of the steering wheel guy most of the time. 10 and 2 much less and never 9/3 (so I'm not touching them accidentally).
The lack of buttons or controls on the center console, no. Granted, I don't spend a great deal of time in the GTI but the fact that I do drive it and still can't find my way around effortlessly screams either I'm stupid or the system is not as useful or intuitive as it should be. -considering others gripes about it I will rule out the me being stupid part. Some of the things one needs to do (adjust the suspension/drive modes/Hvac) are one touch to get to the menu, but I don't like added steps to anything, and I don't like looking for shit ever.
If you ask the wife (I have) she will agree on the steering wheel. Her assessment on the center console, is she is used to it (knows where to find things and can adjust easy enough) but doesn't like that it requires multiple steps to do things a button/knob could do in one step. That is her only dislike about the GTI.
Getting 'used to it' is not the same as being easy and functional.
My only gripe with the GRC controls beside the resets at start stuff is the tiny volume knob. I feel like I'm pinching a nipple that thing is so small -easy to correct the knob. I think I don't use the steering wheel volume controls because my left hand is on top of the wheel. The right hand is free to do tasks...not the left. ?
People have used RAV4 knob with good reviews, if you’ve not done that yet.
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"I feel like I'm pinching a nipple that thing is so small...." Suspect this is a relative, not-one-size-fits-all kind of thing. In any event, in my experience, unlike the volume knob, pinching a nipple' in any direction only causes the volume to increase.
'94 VFR 750, '04 SV 650, '22 Bronco BD, '22 CT5-V Blackwing, '24 GR Corolla
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I couldn't stand the haptic inputs on the VW. People bash the GRC interior and I'm just sitting here thinking it's great because everything works simply and easily. The dash displays are good (except for the fact that Toyota refuses to remember dash settings if you want tire pressure). Android auto works fine.
Furthermore... on past VW manuals I've driven their shifters felt terrible, just sloppy as hell. The GRC shifter is good, better than average. Not as good as my Cadillac or any Honda I've driven, but still very good.
Bottom line: Zero interest in a VW, none.
As for the RAV4 knob...
I've changed out to the RAV4 knob and it is WAY BETTER. Seems silly that such a small change would have so much impact, but it does. It just feels perfect. In fact, I ordered 10 more, and I change out people's knobs in other new Toyotas just to "fix" them as I come across them, that's how much better it is. Seriously. FYI: You just have to remove a little plastic ring in the RAV4 knob for a perfect fit.
Every car has its pros and cons. Just have to recognize what the car is good for. There were a few members who left for type R. We just had another one who left for a Supra. To each their own.
Met a gentleman at HPDE just this weekend with a GRC. He came from a M2, then Civic type R. Blew his motor, (I think), decided he wanted to try a different car. He wasn’t so keen on the fact that GRC rides a little high, and didn’t feel like a race car, since it’s more rally inspired. He even left early, I think due to disappointment of GRC on track. I would not be surprised if he trade the car in after this weekend.
I don’t remember the “exact” reasons why I got a GRC. All I wanted was a manual car, that can be fun to drive. Then I watched all these reviews for GRC. The one common thread for all of them was that everyone had a big smile on their face when they tried the car. Maybe it’s not the fastest, prettiest, or the most tech oriented car. But everyone mentioned how much fun they had. I was sold.
Met a gentleman at HPDE just this weekend with a GRC. He came from a M2, then Civic type R. Blew his motor, (I think), decided he wanted to try a different car. He wasn’t so keen on the fact that GRC rides a little high, and didn’t feel like a race car, since it’s more rally inspired. He even left early, I think due to disappointment of GRC on track. I would not be surprised if he trade the car in after this weekend.
I don’t remember the “exact” reasons why I got a GRC. All I wanted was a manual car, that can be fun to drive. Then I watched all these reviews for GRC. The one common thread for all of them was that everyone had a big smile on their face when they tried the car. Maybe it’s not the fastest, prettiest, or the most tech oriented car. But everyone mentioned how much fun they had. I was sold.
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35 Posts
Knobs: I went with this: Amazon.com: Auovo AC Knob Cover fit for Toyota Corolla Hatchback Accessories 2025 2024 2023 2022 Corolla/Sedan/Hybrid/Corolla Cross Air Conditioner Rearview Mirror Knob Cover Engine Start Stop Trims 4PCS (Red) : Automotive
You have to order the volume separately (I screwed that up) but I liked the other ones so much I put them on too.
You have to order the volume separately (I screwed that up) but I liked the other ones so much I put them on too.
'94 VFR 750, '04 SV 650, '22 Bronco BD, '22 CT5-V Blackwing, '24 GR Corolla
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Those look nicer than the RAV4 knob, but I was looking for something else. The RAV4 knob adds length, adds girth, has a flared base, and has a nice ribbed rubber coating.
I've been very happy with this: GR Corolla Volume Knob – LIMIT+1
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That's what she said...Those look nicer than the RAV4 knob, but I was looking for something else. The RAV4 knob adds length, adds girth, has a flared base, and has a nice ribbed rubber coating.
View attachment 36297
I do like the distance that Rav knob sticks out. I'll give mine a try for a while and if that doesn't work out I will either 3D print one or get the Rav one.
Someone made one with translucent whiteish GR logo volume knob. Sold them here/etsy (?).
Didn’t work as well as I’d have hoped.
I bought a new VW Golf R in 2024. The reliability was bad and the throttle response terrible, you could put your foot to the floor before the engine would engage. The car would fog up (I think the sunroof was leaking) and what finally drove me crazy were the digital controls. I thought they were dangerous as you always had to look down to operate things, even the heater. I sold it and bought a 2025 GR, what a difference and love it.
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