CS 8 vs 8.5?

[m4t_lee]

Hi All, what are the key differences between the two, other than screen, steering wheel buttons and front bumper?

Are the lights, brakes, engine, suspension all exactly the same does anyone know?

I was wondering about a new order 8.5 but the 8 CS is a fair bit cheaper.

I'd love an Akra but not sure if they were an option on the 8 CS?

[Carlosfandango]

Not the CS, but this video should help you understand some of the general differences between the two generations, but something I can say as an owner of a mk8.5 GTI, which I traded a mk8 GTI in for, would be (if you have the choice) not to buy a Mk8 over a Mk8.5, the 8.5 is a much improved machine.
https://youtu.be/VjuvhGGsPRg?si=7ZpmTYTr9VTwOsXZ

[m4t_lee]

Thank you, will take a look

[WelshGolf]

Had the CS 8 and now have the CS 8.5

Performance wise I believe it’s just a difference in the turbo, it’s more responsive.

Visually, it’s lights, bumpers, dash trim, screen, steering wheel buttons, slight changes to main dash screen layout. Um I thinks that’s it. Feels a little bits more solid than the 8.

[m4t_lee]

Thanks Welshgolf. I need to weigh up the price difference. I think the turbo is preloaded or something?

[JoeGTI]

All of the exterior black plastic trim (bumpers, side skirts, lower valences) are all gloss black now rather than the matt unpainted plastic of the MK8. Definitely a big visual up-lift with this alone imo.

The new headlights are quite subtlety different at a glance, but definitely are an improvement visually - The front end of the car which wasn't the MK8's strongest point is much improved imo.

Rear taillights have the latest LED's, similar to those in the latest ID cars, new Tiguan, Passat, etc - animation on unlock, etc.

Different and more attractive wheel options. The GTI now has a 19" wheel option (Queenstown) which is unique to the GTI (The Estorils are still an option but they're technically "R" wheels).

Interior wise, you've got the vastly improved infotainment system and physical buttons on the steering wheel. Some trim/finishes are different too, although some late MK8's may have this - GTI emblem on seats, gloss black center console, nicer material on door cards, different "carbon effect" trims.

[fredgroves]

Thanks Welshgolf. I need to weigh up the price difference. I think the turbo is preloaded or something?

Some sort of software change to keep the turbo spinning under certain off throttle conditions would be my guess rather than any of your traditional anti lag techniques which are poor for fuel consumption

[WelshGolf]

All of the exterior black plastic trim (bumpers, side skirts, lower valences) are all gloss black now rather than the matt unpainted plastic of the MK8. Definitely a big visual up-lift with this alone imo.

Forgot about the black trim, visually it does make a difference I feel, makes outside look more premium.

[Aidey]

Imo no offence the shiny gloss black surface is easily marked and shows scratches in no time .... I prefered the Matt black look