GIAC or APR or AVA(BPS)

[tigger73]

I had a few different tunes on my old 125TSI Tig and ended up with APR Stage 2 tune and DSG software.

Each tuner has different ways they go about their tunes. APR tends to go hard early and tail off towards redline. Others will have less power early and pull hard to 6,000rpm. I originally tried going with another tuner, however after 12 months and a number of files later I still wasn't 100% happy so went to APR and didn't look back.

Just because they can tune a Mk6 GTI doesn't mean they can dump the same file into a Tig. There is quite a bit of development work that goes into it and some tuners only look at basic maps/tables whereas others will go into a lot more depth. APR doesn't just turn up the boost.

[fatkat]

Decide on a realistic upgrade plan, APR becomes super expensive if you ever want to k04. I went revo and have been very happy.

[tigger73]

Yes always keep the end game in mind and discuss with each tuner what you're looking to do/achieve from the car and the costs associated with doing this in steps. Some tuners don't charge for retunes and others it costs every time you get reflashed. It can add up so sometimes better to get everything done all at once (go straight to stage 2).

Also consider who can provide you the best back-up/service if/when you need it.