VW Golf GTI Mk7 or VW Golf R Mk7? They share a platform, with different power. Here's how far each one goes, using the makers' and tuners' own figures from our two guides.
At a glance
| VW Golf GTI Mk7 | VW Golf R Mk7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Years | 2015–2021 | 2014–2020 |
| Engine | 2.0 TSI EA888 Gen 3 | 2.0 TSI EA888 Gen 3 |
| Stock power | 210 hp / 258 lb-ft (US) | 292 hp / 280 lb-ft (US) |
Power by stage
| VW Golf GTI Mk7 | VW Golf R Mk7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Stock | 210 hp | 292 hp |
| Stage 1 | 290–337 hp | 355–413 hp |
| Stage 2 | 334–351 hp | 397–461 hp |
| Stage 3 | ~380–400 hp | 470–536 hp |
| Stage 4 | 500+ hp | 550+ hp |
Figures are the tuners' own claims from each guide, on the fuel each tuner states.
Typical parts cost
| VW Golf GTI Mk7 | VW Golf R Mk7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | software $500–$560 (IE, APR); APR's cable for flashing at home $130 more. Unitronic sells through dealers only. | software $500–$560 (IE, APR). |
| Stage 2 | the same APR file ($560); downpipe $850–$880; intake $521 (034) or £316 (APR); intercooler $540–$1,200 (CTS, Mishimoto) or £899 (Wagner). | IE Stage 2 software $625; intake $521 (034), £316 (APR) or €883 (Eventuri); intercooler $540–$1,200 or £899 (Wagner). |
| Stage 3 | — | IE software for bigger turbos $750; the turbo is extra. |
List prices from the guides, before shipping, import tax and fitting. "—" means that guide has no cost line for the stage.
Where each one ends up
At Stage 4 the VW Golf GTI Mk7 reaches 500+ hp and the VW Golf R Mk7 550+ hp.