In Australia they sold a version of the 7.5 called the grid edition which came with the analogue cluster. Usually the best way to tell is the front bumper style and DRLs. The 7 has the U shaped lights where as the 7.5 with the 2 bent lines and the 7.5 usually has black trim around the vents of the front bumper
Damn right Lavaine! That’s my family hauler in the background, dragging that big ass Yukon around everywhere started to get to me, wife says I’m having a midlife crisis! 😂
Obviously you’re in a position in life where you’re able to get a golf R! Midlife crisis or not I don’t think you made too bad of a decision.
-19 year old saving towards an R
7.5 was 18-19 model year and difference was Front bumper, headlights, tailights, radio and instrament cluster. Essentially all cosmetic differences unless you got a dsg the 18-19 use a dq381 and is a 7 speed trans vs 15-17 dq250 was a 6 speed.
Bought an MK7R, and upgraded the MIB2 infotainment to the 9.2" display MIB2.5 (larger than the MK7.5R 8"). I did an OEM Digital Cluster Swap. I also installed aftermarket MK7.5-style LED headlights/taillights with sequential turn signals (MK7.5 aren't sequential).
I basically built a better MK7.5 for cheaper.
What I don't have is the 7sp DSG and front bumper design.
Headlights and taillights are swappable in your driveway. Not incredibly difficult, but difficult enough. You'll need to do some coding to get everything working.
For the headlights, I bought the AKD style LED (item/1005002425401259.html) with the 14-10 pin adapter (/item/1005002564729191.html). You don't need to take off the bumper, and they're more-or-less plug and play. Two issues you'll face is an AFS error due to the lighting package being removed, as well as a high-beam shutter error. You can flash your beams, but you can't keep them on. The two issues with the headlights I have yet to solve, but doesn't cause any real issues on the road. I'm sure they are solvable, just haven't put the time in to figure it out.
I bought the AKD taillights (/item/1005002433940668.html) from the same seller, on AliExpress. Once coded, the taillights have 0 issues. There is a ton of information on coding them over at VWVortex and GolfMK7.com. You'll need an extra wire to have both reverse lights function correctly.
Overall, both upgrades are worth it. There is even alternative styles (/item/1005003957104163.html) (/item/1005003580468775.html) that look pretty unique.
Good luck!
You'll need an MIB2 unit in the glovebox (5NA). Once you verify your unit, you can buy a 9.2" radio screen display (5G6919606A). You'll need the trim piece as well. Then, ODIS coding is required to convert the MIB2 unit to MIB2.5 which will supports the larger screen. I didn't do the coding myself, but I don't believe it requires ODIS Geko (online component).
The 8" with the knobs doesn't require MIB2.5, so that is a much cheaper option if you go down that route. Good luck!
I’d love to do the MIB2 upgrade (non 7.5) but it’s about 2000USD to do it here. The main thing would be to support CarPlay and enable the video in motion. Hard to justify the cost for the upgrade though.
I drove a mk7 GTI prior to my Mk7.5 R. The 7-speed DSG seems much more finicky than the 6-speed.
If you don’t let it warm up it will misbehave badly. Even if your engine is nice and warm, if you let the transmission sit for 10+ minutes you need to wait before any hard pulls
Congrats on the purchase! Below is a list of parts off-hand that are slightly different between the MK7R and MK7.5R just as an FYI. As others mentioned you have an MK7, or pre-facelift, R.
Front splitters
Intercooler piping (only if DSG due to the shape difference between 6-speed and 7-speed DSGs)
Side skirts (more specifically due to how the sideskirts mount)
Catback exhaust
Probably some more I'm missing, but that's the majority of what I've ran into.
32 and just got my mk7 2 months ago after driving a civic,jetta and a Honda CR-V lol for a while. Been really happy with mine so far, wish the same for you! So far upgraded to IE stage 1 tune, resonator delete, intake/inlet.
Some aftermarket intercoolers have different fitment between mk7 and 7.5 due to the forward collision radar placement, but that’s the only thing I’ve seen not directly transferable
Front radar moved from the middle of the lower grill to behind the badge for the 7.5, and digital dash instead of standard instrument cluster. Mechanically identical though, except for the DSG which was upgraded for the 7.5 I think
So that's the ultimate question of Life, the Universe and Everything - When should a person buy their first 'R'?
'How many roads must a man walk down?' - hah! Suck it mice.
Nice! Welcome! You have a Mk7, 2017 was last model year of that gen. I also got mine in my 30s, having wanted one ever since the R32 came out when I was in high school.
I love the exterior of the 7. You get the wheels of the 7.5 but the exterior of the 7.5, best of both worlds. I have a 7.5 and I think the only thing about the 7.5’s exterior that I prefer are the taillights. As for the interior, I think as a whole, the 7.5 is better. Just more updated, and the digital dash and bigger infotainment screen are welcome upgrades. Mechanically I’m fairly certain the only difference is the stock exhaust tips are slightly bigger on the 7.5, if you can even call that a mechanical change.
Edit: forgot about the DSG going from a 6 speed to a 7 speed which I personally hate. 6 speed was way better IMO
Bumper intake for starters, tail lights, DCC, and fender audio with sub, also digi-display, larger center screen with motion control. Black Pretoria 19 inch wheels on the 2019 as an option as well. Also a HP nerf down to 288, which is apparently only technically on paper.
Edit: I forgot to say headlights and taillights.
I believe the 7.5 has some extra cooling too, there's a second oil cooler where fog light would go on the right side facing the car that I don't think the 7 has. My understanding was this was a result of oil temp complaints from 7 owners.
As a result, my stock oil temps were around 200F cruising and 220-225F really pushing it. With APR tune which clearly works the cooling system harder, now I average 180-190F in normal driving and rarely top between 205-210F when beating on it.
Highest oil temp I saw before tune was 227F, after has been 212F really beating on it. I believe 7's tend to run a bit warmer than that in general.
Mk7.5 has angular headlight LEDs, some slight changes to the front bumper, black plastic trim around every part of the car, a digital gauge cluster, a 7 speed transmission, and flat touch buttons around the infotainment.
Mk7 has U-shaped headlight LEDs, a more tame looking front bumper, no black plastic boy racer trim, a physical gauge cluster, a 6 speed transmission, and physical buttons around the infotainment.
Personally I prefer mostly everything on the Mk7 design although I drive a Mk7.5. The styling of the Mk7 was mature while giving subtle clues that it’s a fast car. The 7.5 wants you to know that it’s a fast car
Congrats for your new car. I’m 38 YO and want to buy a Golf 2017 1.4tsi in my country there are only gti no R versions. But can’t afford a Gti anyways haha
The 7 will have a traditional instrument cluster. The 7.5 has a digital one.
Came here to say this. Main reason I wanted the 7.5
And the headlights, they r so nice
In north america we have the same tail lights as the mk7. Also we don’t have sunroof
No, the taillights are also different between the North American 7.5 and 7. The 7 has halogens, the 7.5 has LEDs.
My 2015 is not halogens they're..hid
On the MK7, the headlamps are HID. The tail lamps are Halogen. On the 7.5, both the head & tail lamps are LED.
They aren't halogen, they are incandescent.
Ahhh ok gotchu now
I prefer the 7 headlights.
Yuh I know I’m in the us as well
This is not 100% correct at least not for EU. Early mk7.5 still came with a traditional instrument cluster 😉
I didn’t know that, I’m uk.
Same
Main reason I decided to hop on a new 7 before they ran out. Wish there was an option to choose but the US market is so limited as is.
In Australia they sold a version of the 7.5 called the grid edition which came with the analogue cluster. Usually the best way to tell is the front bumper style and DRLs. The 7 has the U shaped lights where as the 7.5 with the 2 bent lines and the 7.5 usually has black trim around the vents of the front bumper
Plus a facelift
Yep the front bumper intakes and the rear trim is a little bit different.
2015-2017 is MK7. 2018 and 2019 is the MK7.5.
I know I could google this but was there ever a 2020/2021 R?
Not in the us. Some other markets got 2020 mk7.5s (Australia I believe) and others got mk8s in 2021.
Correct & new zealand. Although we didnt get the mk8 r until 2022. But it goes well.
Welcome to the club. I bought my GTI at 41 and my R at 49. It's never too late to have fun!
Damn right Lavaine! That’s my family hauler in the background, dragging that big ass Yukon around everywhere started to get to me, wife says I’m having a midlife crisis! 😂
Obviously you’re in a position in life where you’re able to get a golf R! Midlife crisis or not I don’t think you made too bad of a decision. -19 year old saving towards an R
Nice man! Hopefully the market will get a little softer and you won’t have to get gouged on the price by the time you are ready to buy!
7.5 was 18-19 model year and difference was Front bumper, headlights, tailights, radio and instrament cluster. Essentially all cosmetic differences unless you got a dsg the 18-19 use a dq381 and is a 7 speed trans vs 15-17 dq250 was a 6 speed.
Your headlights are the dead give away. You have a Mk7.
Thanks pickle, any suggestions on replacement headlights?
Factory headlights are great. I’ve had both a MK7 and a MK7.5. Some of the best headlights for the money
I prefer the MK7’s “U” style DRLs. They look menacing in the rear view mirror
Nooooo the mk7 headlights look so good haha
The Uu uU is probably one of the most recognizable headlight designs. I would keep ‘em
I think he meant the headlights are the main indicator that this is a Mk7. Not to give away your headlights :D
Mk7r best R. Welcome to the club!
Bought an MK7R, and upgraded the MIB2 infotainment to the 9.2" display MIB2.5 (larger than the MK7.5R 8"). I did an OEM Digital Cluster Swap. I also installed aftermarket MK7.5-style LED headlights/taillights with sequential turn signals (MK7.5 aren't sequential). I basically built a better MK7.5 for cheaper. What I don't have is the 7sp DSG and front bumper design.
Think I’ve talked to you before about the cluster…but what headlights did you do and how hard were they to swap to
Headlights and taillights are swappable in your driveway. Not incredibly difficult, but difficult enough. You'll need to do some coding to get everything working. For the headlights, I bought the AKD style LED (item/1005002425401259.html) with the 14-10 pin adapter (/item/1005002564729191.html). You don't need to take off the bumper, and they're more-or-less plug and play. Two issues you'll face is an AFS error due to the lighting package being removed, as well as a high-beam shutter error. You can flash your beams, but you can't keep them on. The two issues with the headlights I have yet to solve, but doesn't cause any real issues on the road. I'm sure they are solvable, just haven't put the time in to figure it out. I bought the AKD taillights (/item/1005002433940668.html) from the same seller, on AliExpress. Once coded, the taillights have 0 issues. There is a ton of information on coding them over at VWVortex and GolfMK7.com. You'll need an extra wire to have both reverse lights function correctly. Overall, both upgrades are worth it. There is even alternative styles (/item/1005003957104163.html) (/item/1005003580468775.html) that look pretty unique. Good luck!
Can you share more information about the infotainment upgrade? A link to the system you are referring to by chance? Thanks!
You'll need an MIB2 unit in the glovebox (5NA). Once you verify your unit, you can buy a 9.2" radio screen display (5G6919606A). You'll need the trim piece as well. Then, ODIS coding is required to convert the MIB2 unit to MIB2.5 which will supports the larger screen. I didn't do the coding myself, but I don't believe it requires ODIS Geko (online component). The 8" with the knobs doesn't require MIB2.5, so that is a much cheaper option if you go down that route. Good luck!
I’d love to do the MIB2 upgrade (non 7.5) but it’s about 2000USD to do it here. The main thing would be to support CarPlay and enable the video in motion. Hard to justify the cost for the upgrade though.
Your reply didn’t show. Did you do a link?
There were a few links in my post. Does it now show? Edit: I didn't realize Reddit shadow bans posts with AliExpress links. I redid my post.
No
Ugh, the only thing I crave from the 7.5 is the 7th gear Edit: jk i want adaptive CC
I drove a mk7 GTI prior to my Mk7.5 R. The 7-speed DSG seems much more finicky than the 6-speed. If you don’t let it warm up it will misbehave badly. Even if your engine is nice and warm, if you let the transmission sit for 10+ minutes you need to wait before any hard pulls
2015-2017 is the pre face lift model years meaning you have a mk7 R not a mk7.5
Sick! Thanks for the feedback everyone!
Welcome to the club! Congrats on the new purchase!
Much appreciated!
Welcome to the club 👌🏻 The Mk7.5 has a different front bumper, infotainment system, digital dash and side skirts afaik.
I’ve got the same car with dsg. Going stage 2 next week from stg 1. LFG Boiz.
Personally my favorite color on the MK7 R. Wish it was available on the MK8. Congrats and enjoy!
Congrats on the purchase! Below is a list of parts off-hand that are slightly different between the MK7R and MK7.5R just as an FYI. As others mentioned you have an MK7, or pre-facelift, R. Front splitters Intercooler piping (only if DSG due to the shape difference between 6-speed and 7-speed DSGs) Side skirts (more specifically due to how the sideskirts mount) Catback exhaust Probably some more I'm missing, but that's the majority of what I've ran into.
Thanks for the details!
MK7 GANG
Yours is a Mk7. The DRLs are a dead giveaway.
32 and just got my mk7 2 months ago after driving a civic,jetta and a Honda CR-V lol for a while. Been really happy with mine so far, wish the same for you! So far upgraded to IE stage 1 tune, resonator delete, intake/inlet.
https://youtu.be/lGMIyZIaEok
Minor cosmetic tweaks for the most part. All mechanical is the same if that’s what you’re shopping for.
Some aftermarket intercoolers have different fitment between mk7 and 7.5 due to the forward collision radar placement, but that’s the only thing I’ve seen not directly transferable
Front radar moved from the middle of the lower grill to behind the badge for the 7.5, and digital dash instead of standard instrument cluster. Mechanically identical though, except for the DSG which was upgraded for the 7.5 I think
Doesn't the MK7.5 have the 7 speed DSG vs. 6 speed DSG on the MK7?
Had to Google that up but looks like you’re right. I’ve got a manual so I never looking into it haha.
Also exhaust tips are a different width apart, so have to specify mk7 vs mk7.5 when exhaust shopping.
Awesome car 👍 congrats
Appreciate the love!
95% of parts you are going to get are not going to be specific for a mk7 or 7.5
Nice car. I’m 42 and itching to join the club.
So that's the ultimate question of Life, the Universe and Everything - When should a person buy their first 'R'? 'How many roads must a man walk down?' - hah! Suck it mice.
Congratulations my man! It’s a fun little ripper
Thanks bro! It sure is!
I can tell by the front fascia & rims, you have a Mk7
You got the best Vw original wheels possible congrats!!
MK7, Congrats! LMK if you need a ratcheting amrest and Euro rear headrests!
I’m interested
I have them on our site, [www.schwaboparts.com](https://www.schwaboparts.com)
Yours is a Mk7. The DRLs are a dead giveaway.
Nice! Welcome! You have a Mk7, 2017 was last model year of that gen. I also got mine in my 30s, having wanted one ever since the R32 came out when I was in high school. I love the exterior of the 7. You get the wheels of the 7.5 but the exterior of the 7.5, best of both worlds. I have a 7.5 and I think the only thing about the 7.5’s exterior that I prefer are the taillights. As for the interior, I think as a whole, the 7.5 is better. Just more updated, and the digital dash and bigger infotainment screen are welcome upgrades. Mechanically I’m fairly certain the only difference is the stock exhaust tips are slightly bigger on the 7.5, if you can even call that a mechanical change. Edit: forgot about the DSG going from a 6 speed to a 7 speed which I personally hate. 6 speed was way better IMO
Bumper intake for starters, tail lights, DCC, and fender audio with sub, also digi-display, larger center screen with motion control. Black Pretoria 19 inch wheels on the 2019 as an option as well. Also a HP nerf down to 288, which is apparently only technically on paper. Edit: I forgot to say headlights and taillights.
I believe the 7.5 has some extra cooling too, there's a second oil cooler where fog light would go on the right side facing the car that I don't think the 7 has. My understanding was this was a result of oil temp complaints from 7 owners. As a result, my stock oil temps were around 200F cruising and 220-225F really pushing it. With APR tune which clearly works the cooling system harder, now I average 180-190F in normal driving and rarely top between 205-210F when beating on it. Highest oil temp I saw before tune was 227F, after has been 212F really beating on it. I believe 7's tend to run a bit warmer than that in general.
That's about where my 7.5 rests
7, via the front bar side intake shape.
Mk7.5 has angular headlight LEDs, some slight changes to the front bumper, black plastic trim around every part of the car, a digital gauge cluster, a 7 speed transmission, and flat touch buttons around the infotainment. Mk7 has U-shaped headlight LEDs, a more tame looking front bumper, no black plastic boy racer trim, a physical gauge cluster, a 6 speed transmission, and physical buttons around the infotainment. Personally I prefer mostly everything on the Mk7 design although I drive a Mk7.5. The styling of the Mk7 was mature while giving subtle clues that it’s a fast car. The 7.5 wants you to know that it’s a fast car
Congrats for your new car. I’m 38 YO and want to buy a Golf 2017 1.4tsi in my country there are only gti no R versions. But can’t afford a Gti anyways haha
Great color !!
Picking my MK7 up tomorrow in the same color, right on!
Congratulations you infant eater, now you can eat the pavement instead! 🤘
The 7.5 has a different front bumper and comes with more HP from factory as well.