MK7/MK8 Volkswagen Golf R & GTI Wheel Fitment Guide
One of the best ways to level up your Volkswagen Golf R or GTI’s performance and look is upgrading to aftermarket wheels and tires. With so much information online about wheel fitments, sorting through all the options can be daunting. This comprehensive fitment guide brings together our research, testing data, and extensive experience to help you find the perfect wheel setup for your MK7 or MK8 Golf R or GTI.
This guide covers a wide range of fitments, from OEM+ to more aggressive setups, for both the MK7 and MK8 platforms. All recommended wheel configurations are engineered to clear factory brakes, and most will also accommodate popular aftermarket brake kits.
While staggered setups are technically possible, both the Golf R and GTI platforms perform best with square wheel and tire configurations to maintain balanced handling and avoid drivetrain issues—especially important for AWD Golf R models. If you’re unsure about the right tire sizing for your build, please contact us for personalized recommendations.
All the below fitments are square (same size front and rear) for optimal handling and drivetrain longevity. If you have unique suspension or brake upgrades, consult a fitment expert for tailored advice.
With the right wheel and tire setup, your Golf R or GTI will not only look sharper but deliver improved grip and a more engaging drive—whether on the street or at the track. We’ve included 20″ setups for those interested, however we strongly suggest at most a 19″ fitment for the best performance.
MK7 Golf R & GTI
The MK7 Golf R and GTI typically came with 18 inch wheels from the factory, usually 7.5Jx18 ET49 and 225/40R18 tires. These cars respond well to moderate increases in wheel width and slightly lower offsets, but attention should be paid to front strut and rear fender clearance.
The most popular direct-fit upgrade is an 18×8.5 with an offset in the high 30’s or mid 40’s. This offers an ideal blend of comfort and grip without the need for suspension or body modifications.
The Golf R’s relocated fuel-filler hose allows for more rear-inner clearance compared to the GTI, making it easier to run wider wheels and tires in the rear. On non-R models, this hose can limit inner clearance, so wider setups may require a relocation mod.
MK8 Golf R & GTI
The MK8 chassis features a slightly wider track and can accommodate more aggressive wheel fitments. Factory wheels are typically 8Jx18 ET50 with 235/40R18 tires. OEM+ upgrades include 18×8.5″ wheels with 235/40R18 tires, which bolt on with no modifications and clear both standard and Performance Package brakes.
The larger 360mm brakes on the Golf R may require spacers with certain 18″ wheels due to spoke design to ensure safe barrel clearance, so always verify brake compatibility before purchasing.
OEM Golf R & GTI Wheel & Tire Fitment
| Generation | Specification | Wheel Size & Offset | Bolt Pattern | Bore | Tire Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GTI MK7 | Square | 17×7 +49 | 5×112 | 57.1mm | 225/45ZR17 |
| GTI MK7 | Square | 17×7.5 +49 | 5×112 | 57.1mm | 225/45ZR17 |
| GTI MK7 | Square | 18×7.5 +49 | 5×112 | 57.1mm | 225/40ZR18 |
| GTI MK7 | Square | 19×7.5 +51 | 5×112 | 57.1mm | 225/35ZR19 |
| GTI MK7 | Square | 19×8 +50 | 5×112 | 57.1mm | 235/35ZR19 |
| GTI MK7 | Square | 20×8 +47 | 5×112 | 57.1mm | 225/30ZR20 |
| Golf R MK7 | Square | 18×7.5 +51 | 5×112 | 57.1mm | 225/40ZR18 |
| Golf R MK7 | Square | 19×8 +50 | 5×112 | 57.1mm | 235/35ZR19 |
| Golf R MK7 | Square | 20×8 +50 | 5×112 | 57.1mm | 235/30ZR20 |
| GTI MK8 | Square | 17×6.5 +46 | 5×112 | 57.1mm | 205/50R17 |
| GTI MK8 | Square | 17×7.5 +51 | 5×112 | 57.1mm | 225/45ZR17 |
| GTI MK8 | Square | 18×7.5 +51 | 5×112 | 57.1mm | 225/40ZR18 |
| GTI MK8 | Square | 19×7.5 +50 | 5×112 | 57.1mm | 225/35ZR19 |
| GTI MK8 | Square | 19×8 +50 | 5×112 | 57.1mm | 235/35ZR19 |
| Golf R MK8 | Square | 18×7.5 +51 | 5×112 | 57.1mm | 225/40ZR18 |
| Golf R MK8 | Square | 18×8 +50 | 5×112 | 57.1mm | 225/40ZR18 |
| Golf R MK8 | Square | 19×8 +50 | 5×112 | 57.1mm | 235/35ZR19 |
| Golf R MK8 | Square | 20×8 +48 | 5×112 | 57.1mm | 235/30ZR20 |
Popular VW Golf R & GTI Wheels
18" Fitments
Square
| Wheel Name | Suggested Wheel Size | Suggested Tire Sizes |
|---|---|---|
| CFF25 | 18×8.5 +35 |
225/40 235/40 245/40 245/35 255/35 |
| CFF46 | 18×8.5 +35 |
225/40 235/40 245/40 245/35 255/35 |
| CFF70 | 18×8.5 +35 |
225/40 235/40 245/40 245/35 255/35 |
| CFF70 | 18×9.5 +35 |
245/35 255/35 |
| CFF300 | 18×8.5 +35 |
225/40 235/40 245/40 245/35 255/35 |
| CFF300 | 18×9.5 +35 |
245/35 255/35 |
Note: Please be aware that widths 9.5″ and up with offsets 35 or more may require fending rolling and/or negative camber to fit lowered vehicles.
19" Fitments
Square
| Wheel Name | Suggested Wheel Size | Suggested Tire Sizes |
|---|---|---|
| CFF46 | 19×8.5 +35 |
225/35 235/35 245/35 245/35 255/30 |
| CFF46 | 19×8.5 +42 |
225/35 235/35 245/35 245/35 255/30 |
| CFF46 | 19×9.5 +40 |
245/30 255/30 |
| CFF46 | 19×9.5 +45 |
245/30 255/30 |
| CFF70 | 19×8.5 +35 |
225/35 235/35 245/35 245/35 255/30 |
| CFF70 | 19×8.5 +42 |
225/35 235/35 245/35 245/35 255/30 |
| CFF70 | 19×9.5 +40 |
245/30 255/30 |
| CFF70 | 19×9.5 +45 |
245/30 255/30 |
| CFF72 | 19×8.5 +35 |
225/35 235/35 245/35 245/35 255/30 |
| CFF72 | 19×9.5 +35 |
245/30 255/30 |
| CFF75 | 19×8.5 +42 |
225/35 235/35 245/35 245/35 255/30 |
| CFF75 | 19×9.5 +38 |
245/30 255/30 |
| CFF75 | 19×9.5 +42 |
245/30 255/30 |
| CFF300 | 19×8.5 +32 |
225/35 235/35 245/35 245/35 255/30 |
| CFF300 | 19×9.5 +38 |
245/30 255/30 |
Note: Please be aware that widths 9.5″ and up with offsets 35 or more may require fending rolling and/or negative camber to fit lowered vehicles.
Additional Information
When considering wheel upgrades for your Golf R or GTI, there are several important factors to keep in mind beyond just aesthetics. These considerations ensure optimal performance, safety, and longevity of your new wheels.
Brake Clearance
Brake clearance is a critical aspect of wheel fitment for both the GTI and Golf R. All Curva Concepts wheels are engineered to ensure OEM brake clearance, allowing for seamless installation without compromising braking performance. However, it’s important to note that aftermarket big brake kits (BBK) may affect fitment and clearance. If you’ve upgraded your braking system, consult with our fitment experts to ensure compatibility.
Suspension Considerations
Suspension modifications can significantly impact wheel proper fitment. Certain suspension setups, such as coilovers and lowering springs, can reduce clearance and potentially cause fitment issues. It’s crucial to consider your current or planned suspension setup when selecting wheels to ensure proper clearance and avoid any rubbing or interference.
Quality and Durability
Curva Concepts wheels undergo rigorous independent testing processes to ensure the highest standards of quality and safety. Our wheels are JWL and VIA certified, demonstrating their ability to withstand the demands of performance driving. The advanced engineering of our wheels results in a perfect balance of strength and lightweight design, contributing to improved overall vehicle performance and efficiency for your VW Golf R and GTI.
Warranty and Support
We stand behind the quality of our products with comprehensive warranty options and an accidental damage replacement policy. Our dedicated customer support team is always ready to assist you with any questions or concerns regarding your wheel purchase. For detailed information on our warranty and support services, please visit our warranty page.
WHICH GOLF R OR GTI FITMENT IS RIGHT FOR ME?
Get in touch with our fitment experts to see which diameter, width and offset is right for you and your Volkswagen GTI or Golf R
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Frequently Asked Questions
What bolt pattern do I need for my Volkswagen GTI or Golf R?
All Volkswagen GTI and Golf R models from MK5 through MK8 use a 5x112mm bolt pattern. This has been consistent since the 5th generation, so you can be confident in this specification. The center bore is 57.1mm, which means most of our wheels are designed to fit perfectly hub-centric with your vehicle for optimal performance and safety.
What wheel size should I run on my MK7 or MK8 GTI/Golf R?
For most MK7 and MK8 GTI and Golf R owners, 18x8.5" is the most popular and versatile size. This provides an excellent balance of performance, aesthetics, and comfort. If you prefer a more aggressive look or track-focused setup, we also offer 19" options. Our wheels are specifically engineered for your Volkswagen, ensuring proper fitment without sacrificing performance or requiring extensive modifications.
What's the ideal offset for my Volkswagen GTI or Golf R wheels?
For optimal fitment on your GTI or Golf R, we recommend an offset around ET35-ET45. This offset provides the perfect balance - keeping your wheels nicely flush with the fenders while providing adequate clearance for your brakes and suspension components. For completely stock vehicles, this offset works perfectly, while providing room for future modifications if desired.
Will your wheels clear my performance brakes on my Golf R?
Yes, our wheels are specifically designed with brake clearance in mind. The MK7 and MK8 Golf R models (particularly those with the 360mm performance brake package) require special consideration for proper clearance. Our 18" and 19" wheel options provide appropriate clearance for these larger brake setups. If you've upgraded to aftermarket big brake kits, just let us know which system you're running, and we can confirm compatibility before you order.
I've lowered my GTI - can I still fit wider wheels without rubbing issues?
Yes, you can definitely run wider wheels on your lowered GTI with proper planning. If you've lowered your vehicle about 1"-1.5", we recommend sticking with our 18x8.5" wheel size with our recommended offset. For more aggressive setups, minor modifications like a "fender screw mod" might be necessary with certain tire combinations. Every Curva Concepts wheel is designed with real-world fitment in mind, so we consider suspension travel and fender clearance in our engineering process.
What tire sizes do you recommend with your wheels for my GTI/Golf R?
For our popular 18x8.5" wheel fitment, we recommend 235/40 as an excellent all-around tire size. This provides proper sidewall height for daily driving comfort while maintaining responsive handling. If you prefer a slightly wider tire for more grip, 245/40 is also an excellent choice that fits well with our wheels. For those running our 19" wheel options, 235/35 provides similar overall diameter to maintain proper speedometer readings and aesthetics.
