Occasionally here at the Daily Car Blog, AKA DCB, we use our car industry expertise… AHEM!… to enlighten you with much-needed consumer advice on what to consider when purchasing a new car. Consider, for instance, the new Volkswagen Golf R, boasting a 2.0-liter Turbo engine with over 320 bhp and 400 Nm torque. Having driven the previous generation Golf R, I found it moderately fast, yet the driving experience felt totally disconnected.

The new Golf R remains much the same. Personally, I wouldn’t purchase one, and I strongly advise against it. In fact, steer clear of the Golf R; it masquerades as a sports car but is better suited for those lacking self-awareness who have the additional burden of low self-esteem issues. Volkswagen is asking €58,440, approximately £44K GBP, for the new Golf R, and I simply say don’t buy one.

If you’re in the market for a fast car, my recommendation leans towards a genuine sports car, such as the Porsche 911 or even a used Panamera. The current 992 generation, introduced in 2018, represents the most aesthetically appealing evolution of the 911 yet. Base models feature a 3.0-liter V6 engine delivering around 380 bhp.

The entry-level 911 may not be the quickest sports car in terms of performance, but its exceptional handling and ride quality make it the fastest. The moment you take the wheel of any 911 model, the superior engineering is palpable. A well-maintained, low-mileage used 992 from 2018 can be acquired for approximately £64K.

Even a used 911 will hold its value remarkably well, while the Golf R will depreciate faster than a mafia victim with feet encased in quick-drying cement being thrown overboard into the Mediterranean Sea.

Therefore, our advice here at DCB is crystal clear: avoid the Golf R. It tries futilely to transform an everyday car into a finely tuned sports car. Instead, opt for the real deal—invest in a Porsche 911. And don’t listen to Mat Watson of Carwow who recommends it, you can work out why.