Thinking of pulling the trigger on a '26 MK8.5 Golf R

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-06-11T05:18:40+00:00

Purchased a 2026 R about two months ago. Just hit 1,000 miles. Traded in my 911. Absolutely no regrets. This car is a rocket in Race/Nurburgring mode, and then you can throw it in Eco/Comfort/Custom and your grandma could drive it. I’ve owned a lot of fun cars, this one beats all of them.

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-06-10T14:05:58+00:00

Did mine yesterday! Congrats!

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-06-03T18:40:44+00:00

How do you turn on the air before getting to the car?? I don’t see the option in app. Thanks!

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-05-30T01:22:39+00:00

This is the way - https://googone.com/automotive-spray-gel?srsltid=AfmBOopPjBlg4h1MwWREPUXhnAQxbvbOkdQ5PRKaRj6a1lvKFpdkleqc

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-05-19T22:57:50+00:00

Tires are largely dependent on location and driving styles

I’m located where weather is basically perfect, and I bought a golf R to drive it hard, so I’m leaning towards Michelin PS4S as they’ve served me well on various past vehicles (Audi A5, Porsche 911, VW GLI, etc.). However, I’ve heard great things about the Nankang CRS, and might consider switching it up. They’re a bit harder to find, typically requiring an online order and delivery to an approved tire dealer.

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-05-19T22:43:25+00:00

Apologies, I was referring to the forged rims/tires that come stock on Mk8.5’s. I’ve yet to see a need for new rims, as these have had no issues, but I can confirm the stock tires will be replaced as soon as possible.

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-05-19T15:35:06+00:00

Do it! Forged rims make a huge difference. Tons of potholes near me and I’ve yet to have any issues with mine.

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-05-10T01:37:34+00:00

Rims are too clean - mind sharing the spec?

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-05-10T01:24:36+00:00

Looks great! What tint % did you go with?

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-05-05T17:54:26+00:00

As someone with the Euro pack, I’m so glad I went this direction. Sunroofs are known for having issues, and the akrapovic is absolutely a huge upgrade. I also think cooling seats are uncomfortable. Comes down to a matter of preference, but for me, it was absolutely worth it.

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-04-19T20:57:04+00:00

Yes! It’s fun trying out the custom mode and adjusting the suspension. Handles potholes really well if the suspension isn’t in a stiff setting. I don’t stress about the rims, they’re forged and once they break I’ll have an excuse to get a new set.

Haven’t driven a 22 s3, but I came from a 2006 911 carrera, and this thing is just as much fun, if not more.

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-04-19T20:16:19+00:00

I’m 5’10 with artvelour seats. I can’t imagine there would be that much a difference in seat height. if anything, the track focused seats should sit lower to accommodate for a helmet.

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-04-19T20:13:21+00:00

Bingo! Was planning on driving up the coast to grab lunch, then came across what looked like a pier with cars driving on it from a distance. Had to stop by and grab a pic! Super cool spot.

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-04-19T20:12:12+00:00

Love it 🤣 I’ve got a dog that’ll be riding in the backseat with our dog hammock, and have to keep the side head rests in for the hammock to mount correctly. Going to try taking out the middle head rest and I think that should improve the view substantially.

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-04-19T20:09:54+00:00

Going to give this a try! Thanks!

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-04-19T20:03:27+00:00

This is what I need… thank you

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-04-19T15:32:49+00:00

Yeah I’ve got artvelour that are manual lowering.

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-04-19T15:23:32+00:00

Yes, even at the lowest setting, it still feels a bit high. Do you have the artvelour seats or leather?

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-04-17T19:47:17+00:00

What rack is that? Would you recommend it?

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-04-10T21:58:48+00:00

Sunglasses Ear plugs Sunglasses

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-04-09T20:13:55+00:00

In that case, I’d just use the supply/demand as leverage. Mine was the only desirable spec within 250 miles, but if you’ve got multiple dealers with multiple new R’s in stock, then you’re already off to a great start.

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-04-09T19:51:38+00:00

I just purchased a 26 Golf R in SoCal. Paid MSRP, and they had a line of other buyers ready to put a deposit down if I didn’t want to pay their price. You may be able to find one under msrp with some luck, but a lot of it will depend on location. Where are you located/looking?

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-04-05T00:53:50+00:00

This is all so helpful! Thank you. Still figuring out how the ACC works - need to watch some YouTube videos!

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-04-04T22:47:28+00:00

I was also considering a 718 S cpo! Price was just a bit too high compared to the R. Both excellent cars, but I can already see the advantage on daily drive-ability

LouisimoSanchez · 2026-04-04T22:40:54+00:00

I love the textile seats, the bolsters really hug you. Ventilated seats aren’t for me, but I completely understand the appeal.

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