The Volkswagen Golf GTI MK7 is a popular hot hatchback, known for its sleek design, impressive performance, and top-of-the-line features. However, for those who want to take their MK7 GTI to the next level, there are plenty of modifications that can be made to enhance its performance, appearance, and overall driving experience.
Here are some of the modifications I would do if I had a Mk7 golf GTI. You can use these as a baseline and change out parts as you see fit to your build.
Tuning Software
Adding a tune is one of the most popular modifications for the MK7 GTI. There are many different tuning softwares available for this platform, some being able to installed yourself such as unitronic and EQT. While other company’s require you to visit a local dealer and have them tune the car. Some tunes can require other upgrades such as exhaust system, intake system, and more.
If you plan on keeping your vechile for a long period of time and don’t want to sink money in for a big turbo, going stage 2 with any of the softwares available is a great choice. Stage 2 only requires a downpipe but we would recommend a front mount inter cooler, air intake and turbo inlet pipe. These added upgrades will help keep the stock IS20 flowing with cool air preventing heat soak.
Suspension upgrades
The next modification after adding power to the MK7 GTI is upgrading the suspension. This can include adding lowering springs, coilovers, sway bars, and more. Lowering the car can improve its handling and appearance, while adding sway bars can improve its stability and reduce body roll. Sway bars are fairly inexpensive and give a noticeable difference while coilovers are much more expensive but completely change the feel and look of the car.
My choice for suspension would have to be coilovers. Coilovers offer a wide range of adjustability including ride height, camber, dampening and spring rates. These can range in prices from $500-$2000+ but for a nice set of coilovers we would recommend the Bc racing BR series coilover priced around $1200.
Wheels and tires
Upgrading the wheels and tires is another popular modification for the MK7 GTI. This is one of the first things a lot of owners do and can completely change the look of the car. When choosing new wheels most go for wider wheels, as well as upgrading to high-performance tires. Upgrading the wheels and tires can improve the car’s grip and handling, as well as its overall appearance.
Choosing the right wheel and tire combo is personal preference and depends on your driving conditions. We would recommend a high quality sport tire for this build as we want to get all that power from stage 2 down to the ground. A set of aftermarket wheels will lower the weight of the car and you can pick from many different styles to suit your preferences.
Brake upgrades
Brake upgrades are another popular modification for the MK7 GTI. If you drive the car hard you may notice a spongy feel due to the stock brakes getting hot. You can make some upgrades to help prevent this, This can include upgrading the brake pads, rotors, and calipers. Upgrading the brakes can improve the car’s stopping power, as well as its overall performance.
If you want to upgrade your brakes without spending money on a big brake kit you could always look for a set from a Mk7 R or even some Audi models. If you go this route you won’t be able to fit 17 inch wheels with the bigger brakes.
Exterior modifications
Exterior modifications are a popular way to enhance the appearance of the MK7 GTI. With many options on the market you’ll be sure to find something you like. This can include adding body kits, spoilers, and other aftermarket parts or even oem parts from other models. Adding these modifications can give the car a more aggressive and sporty look.
The maxton design kits are the go to for this platform. They have an aggressive look with great durability. Pricing isn’t to bad although if your in North America shipping and exchange rates will inflate that price listed.
In conclusion, the Volkswagen MK7 Golf GTI is a great car in its stock form, but with some modifications the car will feel like a completely different beast. Whether you’re looking to improve its performance, appearance, or overall driving experience, there are plenty of options available. Just be sure to do your research and work with a reputable mechanic or aftermarket parts dealer to ensure that your modifications are safe and reliable.