Author Topic: Stage 1  (Read 5257 times)

Offline P6GTD

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Stage 1
« on: 01 October 2025, 17:48 »
I know this subject has been well aired over many years, but….

I like to do something to the GTI every year to avoid “scratching the new car itch”.

Last year it was a full detail and ceramic coating.

This year it was replacement alloys.

Next spring it might be a proper Stage 1 remap (not a box).

I have a local Celtic Tuning agent who also specialises in rally car prep and servicing.

What’s the current experience of Stage 1 and also has anyone used Celtic Tuning?

They are offering 315hp as the expected upgrade with a big torque boost.

PS : I have looked up lots of forum posts from 4 to 10 years ago but I guess I’m looking for a refresher.
2019 5Dr Mk7.5 Performance, DSG. Indium Grey with DCC, TCR lip spoiler.

(Previously two Mk7 GTIs, Mk6 GTI and Mk6 GTD)

Offline rowlers

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Re: Stage 1
« Reply #1 on: 01 October 2025, 19:53 »
I'd avoid Celtic, I've read a few average/poor reviews, misfires, surging etc.
I'd recommend Unicorn.
I done mine remotely, but you can go to their workshop and have it done too. It absolutely flies now, still blows my mind as to how quick it is!

Offline SPIKE_CS

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Re: Stage 1
« Reply #2 on: 01 October 2025, 21:18 »
Anyone ever use Racingline? It seems great hardware and software  :cool:
GTI TCR - Pure White & Nice Spec!

Offline pixelcellar

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Re: Stage 1
« Reply #3 on: 08 October 2025, 11:29 »
I'd get in touch with RTech, highly reputable and really love what they do as well as being good at it. Based nr Northampton though so not sure if that works distance wise.

BHP output sounds about right without overdoing it though.
2024 - Current: 2019 Mk7.5 Golf GTi TCR 286bhp, 5dr, Pure Grey, 7spd DSG, 19" Oz Ultraleggera HLT Alloys, Park Assist, Dynamic Lane Assist/DLA, Side Assist, Rear View Camera
2020 - 2024: 2019 Mk7.5 Golf GTi Performance 245bhp, 3dr, Deep Black Pearl, 6spd Manual, 19" Brescia Alloys, Park Assist, Dynamic Lane Assist/DLA, Rear View Camera
2017 - 2020: 2017 Mk5 Polo GTi 190bhp, 3dr, Metallic Black, 6spd Manual, 17" Santiago Alloys

Offline davo245

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Re: Stage 1
« Reply #4 on: 08 October 2025, 19:15 »
I know this subject has been well aired over many years, but….

I like to do something to the GTI every year to avoid “scratching the new car itch”.

Last year it was a full detail and ceramic coating.

This year it was replacement alloys.

Next spring it might be a proper Stage 1 remap (not a box).

I have a local Celtic Tuning agent who also specialises in rally car prep and servicing.

What’s the current experience of Stage 1 and also has anyone used Celtic Tuning?

They are offering 315hp as the expected upgrade with a big torque boost.

PS : I have looked up lots of forum posts from 4 to 10 years ago but I guess I’m looking for a refresher.

Racingline would be where my money would be going, celtic tuning would not be on my radar more a flash a go mobile generic type of tune imo.
Mk6 GTI DSG
MK7.5 GTI performance DSG
Mk8 GTI

Offline Agreeable Slick

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Re: Stage 1
« Reply #5 on: 09 October 2025, 05:32 »
IIRC - APR and Revo both do decent black Friday deals. I'm going to be holding out for one those to put on the R.

Offline dilligolf

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Re: Stage 1
« Reply #6 on: 11 October 2025, 07:47 »
When researching what was important for me was the safety of the tune and the local support.

The well known racing brands scan for codes and not proceed if they find an issue, while the install yourself at home would not IIRC.

And some brands are safer / kinder, noted this is USA and stage 2 specific, but helps to show the brands with less aggressive boost and timing.

https://mygolfmk7.com/mk7-gti-tune-comparison/