For over 50 years, the Volkswagen Golf GTI has epitomised the blend of European practicality and spirited performance, appealing to enthusiasts and daily drivers alike.
And with the recent global debut of the Mk8.5 Golf, the GTI also benefits from substantial updates.
The 2025 model year marks a significant shift for this iconic hot hatch: the departure of the manual gearbox in favour of increased power.
Farewell manual, hello power boost
The 2025 VW Golf GTI, unveiled as the Mk8.5, bids adieu to its traditional manual transmission.
A move that might dismay purists, but Volkswagen softens the impact with a substantial power boost. The hot hatch sees an increase from 180 kW to 195 kW.
Details for the global versions, arriving sometime after the European rollout, are still under wraps.
Interior innovations
While the power increase is a headline grabber, the GTI's interior receives equally noteworthy upgrades.
A new 10.2-inch infotainment system offers better accessibility to climate and seat heating controls. Notably, VW integrates its ChatGPT-powered IDA AI system, enabling intuitive voice commands for air conditioning and navigation.
Abandoning the much-maligned touch-sensitive controls, VW reverts to traditional physical buttons on the steering wheel for a more tactile and user-friendly experience.
The cabin also features premium sports seats with a classic check pattern, optional leather upholstery, red contrast stitching, and a leather-wrapped sports steering wheel.
Refined exterior
The exterior of the Mk8.5 Golf GTI sees subtle yet effective tweaks.
Refreshed head and taillights, a modified lower grille, and the addition of a GTI badge beneath the side mirrors enhance its sporty aesthetic. European models also have the option of an illuminated front badge.
Inside, passengers will enjoy a three-zone climate-control system, 30-colour ambient lighting, and options for genuine carbon fibre trim.
The future looks bright
Volkswagen's head of design, Andreas Mindt, speaks of the new Golf GTI as a benchmark for future designs. "The latest Golf exudes absolute clarity and a level of self-confidence that breaks down automotive class barriers," Mindt states.
“It will be our starting point for 2024 and the source of inspiration for us when developing the design of the Golf of tomorrow.”
With its manual transmission now in the rearview mirror, the Volkswagen GTI is poised to blaze trails in its class with more power, a more sophisticated owner experience, and an all-electric future.
