Here's What Happens When A VW Golf GTI, GTD And R Do Battle On Track

We have no qualms spoiling the result here, as it’s a very predictable one: it’s the GTD in last, the GTI in the middle and the R at the top. However, Car.co.za’s Ciro De Siena notes that the R’s three second buffer over the GTI isn’t huge considering the 100,000 rand (around £6000) premium you have to stump up in South Africa, and he might have a point.

What we can’t help but wonder though, is just how close a GTI Performance might be, with its power increase, bigger brakes and VAQ front differential. It’d surely give the R a proper run for its money, and still be far cheaper.

The price difference between the GTI and R isn’t quite so big in the UK, but we’d still go for a GTI or GTI Performance, as it’s a more exciting, more engaging thing. The R just makes it all seem a bit too easy.

Which would you choose out of the GTI, GTD and R?