Sports Pack

[glennbot]

Everyone knows that new verion of the old Golf GT is basically a 118TSI with the 'Sports Pack'.
I was just comparing the UK MK6 GT and SE models and noticed the GT's sports suspension is lowered by ~15mm.

Is the Australian Golf Sports Pack suspension lowered as well?

[JasonP]

I believe that's the case.

[Rufus]

I asked the dealer specifically about this a couple of weeks ago and he said that the ride height is not adjusted at all. Just a different set of suspension.

However he didn't know that you could order the new golf with the sports body kit, so who knows!?

[teresi]

I had two dealers tell me completely the opposite things. One said (and showed me) that the ride height is lower. He showed me a sports pack car next to one without... to be honest I couldn't see a huge difference, other than the sports pack overall looked less top-heavy. Another dealer said there's no difference at all, the ride is just harder, so who knows?

[anarchycamp]

another case of dont believe anything your dealer says and believe everything you read on the here :)

Seriously though, with the Sports Pack, they look the dogs nuts!

[mr gee]

Brochure says Sports Pack has amongst other things, sports suspension.

I read somewhere else (and I hope its on our cars) that this means springs and shocks are uprated. Also a 1.5cm drop.

[CC75]

Hi guys,

I am looking at buying the mk6 TSI 118, and likely get the sports pack, ACC and spoiler kit. Firstly
- does anyone have a better idea of the suspension difference? ride height, firmness, lowered springs etc? Is this done by the factory or dealer?
- with the ACC has anyone felt a 'real world' difference to justify it cost
- I also would like to change the standard 17'' rims with the sports pack for a set of 18''s- I think I read somewhere that there are different ACC setups (from the factory/dealer) for 17" and 18". Is this true, and if so do I need to order it with the correct rim size in mind?
- does anyone now if/when vw will stock the 18'' rims shown on their european spec vehicles (its the one with the double 5 spoke design)?

Thanks in advance

BTW this site is a great read. No doubt will use/contribute over the years with the dub.

[phatkau]

Hi guys,

I am looking at buying the mk6 TSI 118, and likely get the sports pack, ACC and spoiler kit. Firstly
- does anyone have a better idea of the suspension difference? ride height, firmness, lowered springs etc? Is this done by the factory or dealer?
- with the ACC has anyone felt a 'real world' difference to justify it cost
- I also would like to change the standard 17'' rims with the sports pack for a set of 18''s- I think I read somewhere that there are different ACC setups (from the factory/dealer) for 17" and 18". Is this true, and if so do I need to order it with the correct rim size in mind?
- does anyone now if/when vw will stock the 18'' rims shown on their european spec vehicles (its the one with the double 5 spoke design)?

Thanks in advance

BTW this site is a great read. No doubt will use/contribute over the years with the dub.

Hi, recently got the 118 tsi dsg w/ sports pack and ACC - so hopefully should be able to provide some answers to help your purchase.

Sports pack: ride height is lowered 15mm than standard - done by factory I believe (dealer said they are ordered by spec).
ACC: IMO worth it, and yes the difference b/w Normal, Sports, and Comfort settings can be felt and all have their use (driving up Mountain Hwy, in Dandenong Melb with sports setting AND sports mode is especially fun and steering wheel has a lot more feedback).
Not sure about different ACC settings for 17-18" wheels sorry. In VW Aust website's New Golf Brochure pdf - those euro 18" rims are stated as not available in Oz (page 20).

Hope this helps.

On a side note, it's nice to know that when comparing the VW UK golf range with our Oz spec comfortline golf w/ Sports Pack, we get all the good stuff from their GT model PLUS the luxury/comfort stuff from their SE model.

[CC75]

thanks phatkau,

Sounds like your overall experience has been positive.

I was told buy the dealer those rims are not here yet, 'perhaps' later. I personally love them. I prefer the stance of the 18".

Does anyone suggest any other vw spec 18". Does anyone have any thoughts on the Karthoum rims, there weight, strength, ease of gutter scratching, cost from dealer, aftermarket genuines?

cheers again
CC

[JasonP]

Hi CC75.

I have a 118TSI on order with Sport Pack & ACC.

I've driven 2 cars with that same spec, & yes they are factory fitted, lower te ride height by approx 15 mm, & there is a noticeable difference between the 3 settings on the ACC.
Going from Comfort to Sport really sharpens up the steering & handling response. Well worth it IMO, & so I ordered it for my car.

[CC75]

thanks for that.

do you mind me asking what you paid (and you to phatkau)?. I am about to start negotiating, so a ball park figure would be great. You can pm if you prefer.

Is there a difference in the sports pack seats?

cheers

[JasonP]

You've been PM'd.

[twotribez]

Yeah the material of the sports pack seats seem more durable and it hugs the buddy much better, very comfy :)

[tdi guy]

I wonder if it is enough to choose the ACC and larger wheels, but without the Sports Pack (though I think the Sports Pack is good value for what you get, especially compared with the price of the larger wheels...).

Any thoughts?

TG

[CC75]

I thought the same. However I hope to pay an additional $$ for the 18" upgrade (does any know what the premium on a set of 18" would be over the sports pack 17's )

The other features of the sports pack look good. Also the ACC is 'cheaper' with the sports pack compared to if bought by itself.

cheers

CC

[kevin118]

I gather on the Golf VI that the Sports Pack suspension is 15mm lower than for a normal car.

Is there a plausible reason for this?

Does anyone know if a car with ACC lowers its suspension by 15mm in Sport mode?

Thanks

[mr gee]

the TSI sports has a suspension and brakes similar to the GTI though I'm not sure if this includes the dampers.
ACC sharpens the response of the dampers but will not lower the suspension

[J-Tim]

Just wondering what other suspension modifications are included in Sports Pack, besides lowering coils ? Thicker swaybars maybe ?

[thamwk]

Can't say I know for sure, but it is definitely lowered. Other things included are the fog lights, and the very comfy but supportive front sport seats.

I really doubt the swaybars are any different...

[mickofoz]

This may be my ignorance speaking... but I think your local dealer could tell you more about this.

[sillygogo]

Just wondering what other suspension modifications are included in Sports Pack, besides lowering coils ? Thicker swaybars maybe ?

I think,

17" rims and rubber
Fog lights
Lower suspensions
Low tyres pressure warning
Better seats

I think it all worth it.

[Floorshow]

And window tint to the rear

[thamwk]

I second the fact that the sports pack is good value :)

[logger]

Could one of you Sports Pack types PLS check your ABS unit to see if it the same part as my standard car? It is against the firewall behind, below and inboard of the battery. Its the Black cylindrical thing with various brake silver lines hanging off it. Mine has 1KO 614 517 BE written on it. Is yours the same. A dealer told me I would need a different controller to allow TPMS, but I am doubtful of this. With MK5 it was just a matter of installing the OEM switch an aftermarket substitute harness and activating it in the ABS contoller via Vag-Com.

[gregozedobe]

Could one of you Sports Pack types PLS check your ABS unit to see if it the same part as my standard car? It is against the firewall behind, below and inboard of the battery. Its the Black cylindrical thing with various brake silver lines hanging off it.

I could be wrong, but what you have described is the physical ABS unit, while your dealer is probably talking about an electrical control unit that sends electrical commands to the physical ABS unit. The ECU is something quite different, and VWs have many of these scattered all over the place to control various functions.

[thamwk]

@logger: I'll check it out tomorrow.

One more thing I finally noticed from the sports pack. The fog lights that are included have static cornering capabilities. Didn't know what this was until tonight. Basically everytime you indicate or just turn your steering to a turning position, the fog light that is on the side of the turn will light up, thereby giving you more visibility round bends. Not the same as those adaptive headlights that come on Beemers or Lexus, but definitely does the trick.

[logger]

Could one of you Sports Pack types PLS check your ABS unit to see if it the same part as my standard car? Its the Black cylindrical thing with various brake silver lines hanging off it. Mine has 1KO 614 517 BE written on it.


I could be wrong, but what you have described is the physical ABS unit, while your dealer is probably talking about an electrical control unit that sends electrical commands to the physical ABS unit. The ECU is something quite different, and VWs have many of these scattered all over the place to control various functions.

You're right it is the actual ABS unit on the firewall, but I am not sure if the controller is integral or elswhere as it is hard to see the whole unit clearly. Vag-Com tells me my ABS controller itself is 1K0 907 379 AE by the way. Spose the way to find out is to hook my Vag-Com up to a car with the sports pack. In the means time it would be good to confirm ABS units are common, so I would still appreciate if someone could check.

I also considered getting the sports pack, but have found while the fog lights look good, I never actually use them on my other car. So they would be wasted on me. If I lived in Europe where fog is far more prevalent they might be useful. I find the standard front seats perfectly comfortable and it even has reasonable side bolstering or whatever you call it. The bigger rims undoubtedly LOOK better though.

[thamwk]

Just checked my ABS controller and the part number is the same as yours 1K0 614 517 BE.

[logger]

Just checked my ABS controller and the part number is the same as yours 1K0 614 517 BE.
Cheers, thanks for that. It is what I suspected.

Something else that may be included in the Sports Pack is a modified Steering Profile. Does anyone know? When I test drove a TSI118 with ACC the dealer told me the ride selection button also changed the steering profile making it more direct in the sports mode. So perhaps this feature is in the Sports pack too. I can see a steering Profile listed for my non sports pack car in VAG-COM. Chances are I can change it too if I learn how.

[J-Tim]

Cheers, thanks for that. It is what I suspected.

Something else that may be included in the Sports Pack is a modified Steering Profile. Does anyone know? When I test drove a TSI118 with ACC the dealer told me the ride selection button also changed the steering profile making it more direct in the sports mode. So perhaps this feature is in the Sports pack too. I can see a steering Profile listed for my non sports pack car in VAG-COM. Chances are I can change it too if I learn how.

I think what you're referring to is a Magnetic Ride option.

You cannot select ride quality on a standard Sports.

[thamwk]

As far as I am aware, ACC utilises an electro-mechanical dampering system (as opposed to magnetic ride) and on the sports mode prevents the car from rolling too much, giving the perception of more direct steering. I really don't think they have steering profiles per-say.

[logger]

I just reviewed my research and I should have said steering maps not profiles.

"Aside from the muscular and efficient new TSI engines, arguably the most important mechanical change inside the new Golf VI is the use of adaptive dampers. VW calls the system Adaptive Chassis Control but label it, confusingly, DCC. The system incorporates alternate steering maps for the Golf's new electromechanical steering but most of the trickery is in the electronically-controlled dampers.

DCC-equipped Golf models ride 10mm lower than the conventional cars and feature a Monroe-sourced damper system that uses an Ohlins-supplied magnetic valve block to automatically control pitch and roll when cornering, accelerating and braking. To do so the system interrogates a range of sensors across the car including steering, engine, DSG transmission, braking and other systems, including stability control et al.

Three settings are offered -- Normal, the default setting; Comfort and Sport -- and changed via a simple console mounted switch. The last setting used is 'saved' and automatically reactivated at start.

In Sport mode, the Golf's steering is also firmed up."

and from another source..

"The memory has capacity for up to 16 differnt maps. In the Golf 2004, for example 8 of the total available maps are used. ...... Maps are activate in the factory depending on requirements....... However, Maps can be activated in a service center using VAS 5051" or VAG-COM no doubt.

Oh and J-Tim, I realise you cannot select ride with the Sports Pack. Just wondering if Sports Pack has a different steering map assigned in the same way as the ACC option does.

[thamwk]

nice! now where did you get this nugget of information?

[logger]

nice! now where did you get this nugget of information?
First part I just googled and found at Carpoint (http://www.carpoint.com.au/reviews/2008/small-passenger/volkswagen/golf/volkswagen-golf-vi-trendline-comfortline-and-highline-7126). By a motoring journo I guess, so not definitive. Second part is from the VW electro-mechanical power steering self study guide, which has other gems in it like how
- the system alleviates side force driving in a crosswind.
- operates without the engine running when speed > 15kph. Try it rolling down a slope - it works.

[mr gee]

This are the codes I draged out from my car, a 118 TSI with sports pack. Compare if you like the codes and see if it will make a difference.

01-Engine -- Status: OK 0000
02-Auto Trans -- Status: OK 0000
03-ABS Brakes -- Status: OK 0000
04-Steering Angle -- Status: OK 0000
08-Auto HVAC -- Status: OK 0000
09-Cent. Elect. -- Status: OK 0000
15-Airbags -- Status: OK 0000
16-Steering wheel -- Status: OK 0000
17-Instruments -- Status: OK 0000
19-CAN Gateway -- Status: OK 0000
25-Immobilizer -- Status: OK 0000
37-Navigation -- Status: OK 0000
42-Door Elect, Driver -- Status: OK 0000
44-Steering Assist -- Status: OK 0000
46-Central Conv. -- Status: OK 0000
52-Door Elect, Pass. -- Status: OK 0000
56-Radio -- Status: OK 0000
62-Door, Rear Left -- Status: OK 0000
72-Door, Rear Right -- Status: OK 0000

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 01: Engine (CAV) Labels: Redir Fail!
Part No SW: 03C 906 027 G HW: 03C 906 027 F
Component: MED17.5.5 G 3428
Revision: L1H08--- Serial number:
Coding: 0000077
Shop #: WSC 01357 011 00200

No fault code found.
Readiness: 0000 0000

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 02: Auto Trans Labels: Redir Fail!
Part No SW: 0AM 300 046 C HW: 0AM 927 769 D
Component: GSG DSG AG7 402 1014
Revision: 40024 Serial number: 00000812180965
Coding: 0000020
Shop #: WSC 01357 011 00200

No fault code found.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 03: ABS Brakes (-----) Labels: 1K0-907-379-60EC1F.clb
Part No SW: 1K0 907 379 AE HW: 1K0 907 379 AE
Component: ESP MK60EC1 H35 0106
Revision: 00H35001
Coding: 163B600D21280003680C06E7841D0080B500
Shop #: WSC 01357 011 00200

No fault code found.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 08: Auto HVAC (J255) Labels: 5K0-907-044.clb
Part No SW: 5K0 907 044 AJ HW: 5K0 907 044 AJ
Component: Climatronic 130 0305
Revision: 00002001
Coding: 0000000000
Shop #: WSC 00000 000 00000
ASAM Dataset: EV_Climatronic A01001
ROD: EV_Climatronic_VW36.rod

No fault code found.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 09: Cent. Elect. (J519) Labels: 1K0-937-08x-09.clb
Part No SW: 1K0 937 086 HW: 1K0 937 086
Component: BCM PQ35 M 020 0358
Revision: 00020000
Coding: 40180A3A902518C044080080140081E441510088436D896064 8000000000
Shop #: WSC 01357 011 00200

Part No: 1K2 955 119 E
Component: Wischer 27110 21 0501
Coding: 009795

Part No: 1K0 955 559 AH
Component: RLS 111208 05 54 0402
Coding: 0330AD

No fault code found.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 15: Airbags (J234) Labels: 5K0-959-655.clb
Part No SW: 5K0 959 655 HW: 5K0 959 655
Component: AirbagVW10 022 0507
Serial number: 003C2D06W5L8
Coding: 00003134
Shop #: WSC 01357 011 00200
ASAM Dataset: EV_AirbaVW10SMEVW360 A01003
ROD: EV_AirbaVW10SMEVW360_VW36.rod

No fault code found.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 16: Steering wheel Labels: 1K0-953-549-MY9.lbl
Part No SW: 1K0 953 549 CD HW: 1K0 953 549 CD
Component: J0527 055 0111
Coding: 0001532
Shop #: WSC 01357 011 00200

Part No: 3C8 959 537 B
Component: E221__MFL-TAP H4ÿ 0021
Coding: 00000226
Shop #: WSC 00000

No fault code found.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 17: Instruments (J285) Labels: 5K0-920-xxx-17.clb
Part No SW: 5K0 920 870 B HW: 5K0 920 870 B
Component: KOMBI H21 0029
Serial number: 00000000000000
Coding: 170B00
Shop #: WSC 01357 011 00200
ASAM Dataset: EV_Kombi_UDS_VDD_RM09 A04020
ROD: EV_Kombi_UDS_VDD_RM09_VW36.rod

No fault code found.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 19: CAN Gateway Labels: 1K0-907-530.lbl
Part No SW: 1K0 907 530 S HW: 1K0 907 951
Component: J533__Gateway H16 0210
Revision: H16 Serial number: 3400K08C0302F0
Coding: ED807F06400202000003
Shop #: WSC 01357 011 00200

No fault code found.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 25: Immobilizer (J334) Labels: 5K0-920-xxx-25.clb
Part No SW: 5K0 920 870 B HW: 5K0 920 870 B
Component: IMMO H21 0029
Serial number:
ASAM Dataset: EV_Immo_UDS_VDD_RM09 A03002
ROD: EV_Immo_UDS_VDD_RM09_VW36.rod

No fault code found.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 37: Navigation (J0506) Labels: 1T0-035-680.lbl
Part No SW: 1T0 035 680 C HW: 1T0 035 680 B
Component: RNS-MID H02 2660
Revision: AB001001 Serial number: VWZ6Z7H8151085
Coding: 04000400040000A200
Shop #: WSC 01316 785 00200
ASAM Dataset: ------------------------- ------

No fault code found.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 42: Door Elect, Driver Labels: 1K0-959-701-MIN3.lbl
Part No SW: 1K0 959 701 AM HW: 1K0 959 701 AM
Component: Tuer-SG 008 2016
Coding: 0000692
Shop #: WSC 01357 011 00200

No fault code found.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 44: Steering Assist Labels: 1Kx-909-14x.lbl
Part No: 1K0 909 144 E
Component: EPS_ZFLS Kl. 69 2501
Revision: 00H15000
Shop #: WSC 01324 785 00200

No fault code found.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 52: Door Elect, Pass. Labels: 1K0-959-702-MIN3.lbl
Part No SW: 1K0 959 702 AM HW: 1K0 959 702 AM
Component: Tuer-SG 008 2016
Coding: 0000692
Shop #: WSC 01357 011 00200

No fault code found.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 56: Radio (J0506) Labels: 1T0-035-680.lbl
Part No SW: 1T0 035 680 C HW: 1T0 035 680 B
Component: RNS-MID H02 2660
Revision: AB001001 Serial number: VWZ6Z7H8151085
Coding: 04000400040000A200
Shop #: WSC 01316 785 00200
ASAM Dataset: ------------------------- ------

No fault code found.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 62: Door, Rear Left Labels: 1K0-959-703-GEN3.lbl
Part No SW: 1K0 959 703 AL HW: 1K0 959 703 AL
Component: Tuer-SG 007 2009
Coding: 0000144
Shop #: WSC 01357 011 1012552

No fault code found.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Address 72: Door, Rear Right Labels: 1K0-959-704-GEN3.lbl
Part No SW: 1K0 959 704 AL HW: 1K0 959 704 AL
Component: Tuer-SG 007 2009
Coding: 0000144
Shop #: WSC 01357 011 1012552

[logger]

Thanks for that mr gee. Thats Gold. Doubly confirms my suspicion. Same part no for both the ABS units and ABS controllers on both car configurations. That only leaves the TPMS switch being fitted and the ABS unit coding as being different. While it is tempting to simply place your coding into my ABS controller, I suspect the 6 differences between the two codings tag more than just the TPMS being active.
Coding: 163B600D21280003680C06E7841D0080B500
Coding: 163B600D212A00FC681106E884220080B100

Different tyre sizes for starters. But sure leaves me with something to ponder and work with. Will report back I make any progress. Thanks.

[HFTDI]

Just wondering what other suspension modifications are included in Sports Pack, besides lowering coils ? Thicker swaybars maybe ?

Sports pack is really worth the 2K. The seats are in my opinion the best in the business. One other thing is the option of the adaptive chassis control is only 1k extra instead of a 1.5k stand alone option when ordered with the sports pack. Go on, spend the extra, it will only hurt once and you'll never regret it.

[nicandlance]

Has anyone found out for sure whether the Mark 6 tsi with sports pack is lowered or not, and if so by how much?

When I looked at one at the dealership (next to a model that didn't have it), it looked to me as if it was......
Eyes playing tricks?

[JasonP]

A Sports Pack Mark 6 is definitely lower, than one with the standard suspension.

Both of mine are lower than the standard car.

[nicandlance]

Good! I thought so! Any pics of yrs?

[cameronp]

Hi all. Sorry if this has been asked before - I did a search and couldn't see anything relevant.

I ordered my 118TSI with the sport pack without having the chance to drive a car with it, because it seemed like pretty good value - the bigger wheels and fog lights definitely look better, plus there's vague promise of better handling and better seats too. I'm curious as to whether anyone who's driven both the normal and sports pack Golf could comment on the difference between them, e.g. whether you really get any better grip and less roll when cornering?

Are the sports seats significantly better than the standard Comfortline seats? The heavily-bolstered Recaro seats in the Focus XR5 were absolutely brilliant, so I'm hoping that the sports pack will be a step in that general direction.

[Stoney!]

Certainly better handling, however ride quality is severely compromised over lush riding non sports pack versions, I'm still kicking myself for not getting adaptive chassis control...

If you love well bolstered seats, then you will love these seats, everyone who gets in my cars comment how good the seats are the second their pad touches them, i recent review said the seats (and later stated interior also) put more expensive cars to shame.

Stoney!

[Corey_R]

Stoney, is the ride quality worse than a standard GTI? Or is it just changing the car to be similar to the GTI in ride quality?

[JIMMYP]

I picked up my MY2010 Golf 118 TSI on Friday, complete with the Sports Pack.

During test drives at the dealer, I took both the sports pack (with ACC) and the non-sports pack for a spin. Definitely better handling, less "spongey" feel and more responsive on the sports pack equipped model. ACC (which I got on my Golf 118 TSI) is awesome. You can really feel the difference in ride and handling when you change.

My tip to anyone would be to get the Sports Pack with ACC. Seats are also really comfy, and if you get them in leather in particular (personal opinion/preference), the quality/luxury ambience of the Sportsline TSI 118 is great! Also loving the Optical Parking System and the RVC. Dynaudio also rocks. Love my new machine!

:banana::banana::banana:

[Corey_R]

Sounds like an awesome ride that you have there JIMMYP :D

[ozgti]

I found the ACC made little difference in the sport pack. The ride is still abit jarring, but that's what you'd expect from a lowered vehicle. Small stutter bumps makes you talk like a darlek!

When I test drove the non sport pack, I found it was a bit too soft, the sport pack too firm. Somehwere in between would be nice.

[soogs]

It also corners much flatter. Agree with ozgti the stock suspension is too soft and bouncy. The sports' ride is not as harsh as some other cars. Good choice.

[BBP]

Adaptive Chassis Control works a treat. If you can't live without the Sports Pack, I would definitely get ACC to soften up the ride when you are going over poor surfaces.

[GTI6]

when I test drove the golf 118 tsi I found the acc whilst it did make a difference between the normal setting and sports, I could not feel a difference in ride quality between the normal and comfort.

Maybe the roads where too smooth in that area

[trueman]

I have ordered ACC but I wonder if most the time it will stay "off" .......

[WhiteJames]

A low speeds the DCC in NORMAL mode may revert to COMFORT and at higher speeds NORMAL mode moves into SPORT mode. Choosing suspension depends on where you drive & how you drive. If it's in the country on rougher B-grade roadways, maybe the softer stock suspension is the go. For better roadways, Sport suspension is the pick. Sport suspension may give a stiff legged ride at low speed, but softens up at higher speeds. Standard comfort suspension would be better around town at lower speeds, but you'd lose some control & agility at higher speeds or when pressing on around corners. I went for DCC to receive the best of both worlds - soft for town / hard for freeway or tight twisties. I didn't notice too much of a difference in spring rate between a STD 118TSI and STD Golf GTI suspension - maybe 10-15% in spring rate. DCC makes the difference in damper rate with spring rate staying the same.

Cheers.
WJ

[JIMMYP]

Yeah, am loving my new wheels Coreying. VW seem to have kicked some big goals with the 118 TSI!

[cameronp]

Thanks for all these replies, that pretty much confirms what I was hoping to hear. Surprised to see so many comments about the ride quality being affected and most people finding the ACC useful (which I didn't get on mine - I had assumed it was just a gimmick). My previous car was a Focus XR5 which had pretty stiff suspension and I found the ride quite acceptable. Guess that would be pretty similar to the GTI and, from what people have said here, also the TSI with the sports pack. Being in my mid-twenties I expect I have more tolerance for hard-riding cars than some people here!

[ozgti]

But with ACC, you can't change the suspension... Is that correct?

[G-rig]

But with ACC, you can't change the suspension... Is that correct?

I got it so I wouldn't be tempted to change it haha. However, OEM is the best and enjoying the good ride with ACC and no noise issues or niggles like with most aftermarket suspension.

I'm not sure but think there will be more aftermarket suspension coming out that can utilize this technology, nice if you can get slightly lowered springs to suit but not going to stuff around with the car too much this time when it's perfectly fine.

[vwsp]

I love the 118TSI with Sportpack. When I purchased mine i drove most other versions (standard, sportpack with acc, and sportpack without acc) and honestly while I could tell differences between acc or no acc it felt more of a novelty and not much difference and certainly not worth the difference.

I live in Richmond (Mel) and we've got speed humps, pot holes, cobblestone, you name it (don't get me started!!!). Never do I think the Sport suspension is too hard. Taut/firm yes - but never rough or uncomfortable. Unfortunately I can't comment in relation to a GTI.

Anyhow, you'll love it!! Enjoy.

[G-rig]

I think ACC is worth it if you're going for 18"+ wheels as it can get a bit firm with the ride (apparently) on the stock suspension if you go for bigger wheels. Other than that it was something i may not have normally ticked, but the car was ready for immediate delivery instead of 6 months so wasn't arguing :D. So far i've mostly left it in standard mode anyway, pretty comfortable and calculates the dampening at 1000 times/sec.

[prise]

I have to do occasional driving on unsurfaced roads so I gave the sports suspension a miss. I've had two previous cars with sports suspension (99wrx and 2006 Mazda 6 MPS) and I would end up doing large detours to avoid any length of corrugated dirt road.

Suspension tuning is a compromise and ride preference is a personal thing - one persons Limo is another persons go-cart.

Enjoy your wheels.

[MkVIGTI]

Thanks for all these replies, that pretty much confirms what I was hoping to hear. Surprised to see so many comments about the ride quality being affected and most people finding the ACC useful (which I didn't get on mine - I had assumed it was just a gimmick). My previous car was a Focus XR5 which had pretty stiff suspension and I found the ride quite acceptable. Guess that would be pretty similar to the GTI and, from what people have said here, also the TSI with the sports pack. Being in my mid-twenties I expect I have more tolerance for hard-riding cars than some people here!

Having had my GTI for 2 and a half weeks, I have to say that the ride on the GTI with the standard 17 inch rims is surprisingly supple. You can feel the bumps but they are never harsh. I did notice that the rear suspension is definitely stiffer than the front set up but overall I'm pretty happy with the ride/handling combination on the GTI :D

[MIRSAD]

Nov 2009 - Jan 2010 .... 17 inch
Jan 2010 - today.... 18 inch

Same car ... not much difference for me.

[nicandlance]

Loving my tsi with sportspack also. Don't find it too hard - just a great ride, and great handling. Zips around like a dream!

[guliver_twist]

much better handling with the sports pack.. + better seats and just love the static cornering lights... its a no brainier..you really are missing out not getting it for 2k

[118TSI]

Agreed with above!, 2k is a good price for 17in wheels, tyre pressure monitors, better more hugging seats, front fog lamps. It really sets the golf off nicely. Its a bit of a no brainier really.

[Syd118TSI]

Agreed with above!, 2k is a good price for 17in wheels, tyre pressure monitors, better more hugging seats, front fog lamps. It really sets the golf off nicely. Its a bit of a no brainier really.

Ruh roh.

The only thing I wanted was the fog lights, and only then I only wanted them because it looks better with them. I'm glad it's an option, and agree for many it might be worthwhile, and think it's the best value option that they have - but personally not caring at all about the wheels couldn't justify it.

Slay me now! :O

[118TSI]

Ruh roh.

The only thing I wanted was the fog lights, and only then I only wanted them because it looks better with them. I'm glad it's an option, and agree for many it might be worthwhile, and think it's the best value option that they have - but personally not caring at all about the wheels couldn't justify it.

Slay me now! :O

haha, that's so true, VWA cheapest option to say the least! :)

No Slaying, everyone has there own prerogative on why they ordered what, like sunroof vs no sunroofs!

[cameronp]

Agreed with above!, 2k is a good price for 17in wheels, tyre pressure monitors, better more hugging seats, front fog lamps. It really sets the golf off nicely. Its a bit of a no brainier really.

Sure, that was my feelings about it too. But anyone with a brochure from VW could read it and come to that conclusion (or alternatively, decide that it's not for them); the reason for starting this thread was to whether it made much of a difference to how the car drives, too. Apparently it does - which is in contrast to a lot of "sports" bling options available from other manufacturers.

[118TSI]

Sure, that was my feelings about it too. But anyone with a brochure from VW could read it and come to that conclusion (or alternatively, decide that it's not for them); the reason for starting this thread was to whether it made much of a difference to how the car drives, too. Apparently it does - which is in contrast to a lot of "sports" bling options available from other manufacturers.

Well I test drove a 118 without a sports pack, and I cant tell you, it does may a difference, even though they might be minimal. The 118 (had mine for just on a day no) seems a little more sturdier and planted on road, and a little stiffer suspension most likely due to it having smaller sidewalls on the tyre. still for my TSI anyway in the early day, and still far to early to tell

[cameronp]

Now I've got my Golf at long last, I can form my own opinion: the sports pack is bloody good. The ride is firm, very similar to my old Focus XR5, and there's a lot less roll around corners than the standard Golf - if not quite the same glued-to-the-ground feeling the XR5 had. The seats are brilliant, good supportive bolstering but not so much that, er, larger passengers complain. I tried to find out when the stability control light would come on or the tyres would begin to lose grip around corners, but my self-preservation instinct kicked before that ever happened. One thing I miss from the XR5 is the very direct steering feel it had. It feels like you have to rotate the steering wheel a lot further in the Golf to turn the same amount.

Went for a spin down Zig Zag Drive in Kalamunda tonight. The DSG in manual mode is super fun for pretending you're a rally driver.

[ozgti]

Is there a difference with the sport packs with ACC and not?

My friends Golf has ACC and it sits about 1" higher than my non ACC Golf.

[Corey_R]

There isn't supposed to be any height difference between ACC and non-ACC cars.
Having said that - since the 118TSI/103TDI isn't a sports variety (GTD/GTI/R) and is the only Golf model which has a different suspension height option. So maybe there is only a single ACC setup for it, which is configured for the non-sports pack height.

[ozgti]

The sports pack kit is there: wheels, seats, fogs, but it's 1" higher. It's an MY09.

[Corey_R]

Oh I'm sure it is. I was just wondering whether for the small numbers of Sports pack optioned cars, whether they've made a Sports pack specific version of the ACC. Which I guess is really what you're wondering too...

Hey ozgti - you've had a close look in the wheel arches to make sure that the dealer/prep guys haven't forgotten to remove the "Spring Rubbers" from the car right? We've seen that before on these forums. The cars have spring rubbers installed from the factory so that they have additional ground clearance for the voyage over. They're supposed to be removed during pre-delivery, but sometimes get forgotten...

[ozgti]

It drives ok.. not harsher than mine. I'll get her to check tomorrow

[dood]

Just hoping to get some feedback on the sportspack on a 118tsi. The dealer doesn't have one in stock for me to demo. On the one hand I feel that it would be nice to firm up the ride but I'm weary that it may be too jittery on our bumpy roads. What's the general consensus - the car will be used mainly in the city ferrying kids to school etc.

[kaanage]

That's why I got ACC instead of the sportspack (plus I didn't want to have to pay more to replace the lower profile tyres when they wore out and I HATE scraping on speedhumps/parking stops etc). But you can't do this anymore.

I would have liked the seats from the sportspack, though, but to get them alone would have cost almost as much as the whole sportspack :confused:

[Brendan_A]

The sportspack is definitely worth the extra $2k.

You get,
Sports seats
sports suspension
17" wheels
dark tinted rear side and rear windows
front fog lights
low tyre pressure indicator

The ride is definitely not to firm or jittery on bumpy roads. I've lowered mine a further 25mm and put 18" wheels and now it's a firm ride.

If you want to add that extra spotrs feel to your car it's well worth the money.

[jameshero]

Sports Pack is definitely worth it in my opinion.

Sports seats are fantastic, the static cornering headlights are rather useful and the wheels look considerably better than their 16" counter parts (if you aren't planning to replace them with something else). I test drove 118TSI's both with and without the sports pack, and while the handling feels a little better, there is a considerable amount of road noise, but still quieter than many other cars.

Perhaps ring some other dealers to see if they have any in stock?

[mr gee]

Sports suspension is a fallacy (though lower by 15mm). I have a Mk6 GTI as well and when comparing the two, the 118TSI is quite soft (put that down softer shocks and sway bars).

The fabric on the sports seats are also not as durable as I would like as I noticed some fraying of the fabric )

Having said my piece, the 118 is a fabulous car and we have put in 60,000km in the 2 plus years since we got it

[Corey_R]

Just hoping to get some feedback on the sportspack on a 118tsi. The dealer doesn't have one in stock for me to demo. On the one hand I feel that it would be nice to firm up the ride but I'm weary that it may be too jittery on our bumpy roads. What's the general consensus - the car will be used mainly in the city ferrying kids to school etc.

Hey mate. I did a search on "sports" and found about 8 threads on this topic. Since ~5 were on the same topic and didn't overlap dates, I merged them together, and then merged your thread into that. I have also added this to the "Options" section of the MK6 forum index thread (http://www.vwwatercooled.org.au/forums/f112/official-mk6-forum-important-threads-posts-index-**look-here-first**-59253.html). In addition to the 4 replies to your question, you might find it helpful to read the rest of the thread on other peoples opinions and experiences with the Sports Pack. Cheers.

[nat225]

Just hoping to get some feedback on the sportspack on a 118tsi. The dealer doesn't have one in stock for me to demo. On the one hand I feel that it would be nice to firm up the ride but I'm weary that it may be too jittery on our bumpy roads. What's the general consensus - the car will be used mainly in the city ferrying kids to school etc.

it depends on what you want to use it for, for daily commuting and comfort, stay with non sportpack & 16" tyres (205 55 16 tyres are cheaper than 225 45 17 tyres).

i had a mk6 118tsi non sports pack and replaced the suspension with stock gti suspension and put on stock 17" EOS wheels. the ride was definitely firmer and performed better on the road; BUT less comfort.

sports pack
pros: if better performance is your priority, go with sports pack. huggy seats. fog lights. lowered car looks better to some (see photo below). more appeal when time comes to sell, etc...
cons are: firmer ride, thinner tyres = easier to buckle the wheel when you hit potholes real hard, easier to kerb the wheels if you don't park carefully, more expensive tyres, lowered = easier to scrape the front bumper at shopping centres car park.

http://www.vwwatercooled.com.au/forums/images/imported/2011/09/5109794251_aea0f0b2e3_b-1.jpg


non sports pack
pros: save $2000, comfy ride, fatter tyres and cheaper. less dramas with scraping as the car sits pretty high on stock suspension (see below).
cons: ride is too soft to perform well on the twisties.

http://www.vwwatercooled.com.au/forums/images/imported/2011/08/4937911864_b058f0d224_b-1.jpg

[kaanage]

non sports pack
cons: ride is too soft to perform well on the twisties.

Not really. The stiffer and lower suspension of the Sports Pack makes the car more responsive to steering inputs (and throttle adjustments) but if you accept that the car will roll and turn in a bit softly, the standard suspension hangs on just fine and quite possibly does a better job of maintaining grip in bumpy corners.

[mr118]

My missus has a 118 with sports pack (leather), sunroof, and a few extras. Problem is it still looks a bit bland (I know some will disagree)
Nice car but by the time you spend all that money you fall into the old trap of wondering if you should spend a bit extra and buy a GTi.