The Volkswagen Golf has consistently been a top choice among performance-oriented hatchbacks, available in GTI and high-performance Golf R models. Unfortunately, buyers will no longer have the option of a manual transmission in either model, but the 2025 Golf GTI and Golf R introduce necessary upgrades.
Volkswagen no longer sells the standard Golf in the United States, but buyers can choose from S, SE, and Autobahn trim levels when shopping for the 2025 Golf GTI. The higher-performance Golf R adds a new Black Edition for the 2025 model year with blacked-out features inside and out. Volkswagen says it will announce pricing for the new hatchbacks closer to when they go on sale in the spring of 2025.
For many years, the Volkswagen Golf has set a standard for small, practical hatchbacks that effectively balance performance. The updated model features an illuminated VW logo, redesigned headlights and taillights, and new wheel styles, ensuring the Golf GTI and Golf R maintain a sleek, modern, and sporty appearance. Two new color choices are also available: Alpine Silver and Slate Blue.
A major complaint among some observers about the earlier model years was the car’s annoying haptic touch buttons on the steering wheel, which you could easily activate accidentally in various driving situations. This issue became particularly bothersome when driving aggressively, especially on winding back roads. Thankfully, the new model has hard buttons on the steering wheel.
Volkswagen also stretched the Golf’s infotainment touchscreen, which now measures 12.9 inches from corner to corner. It uses VW’s latest infotainment software, which it also uses on the brand’s all-electric models.
It’s a shame the Golf GTI and Golf R no longer offer a six-speed manual transmission. The Golf GTI’s turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine continues to produce 241 hp, which it sends to the front wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT).
The all-wheel-drive Golf R has more power than the previous model. Its turbo four produces 328 hp—13 more than before. However, it’s also only available with the DCT. There’s even an optional Akrapovič titanium exhaust system on the Golf R.
All 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R models come standard with VW’s IQ.Drive driver-assistance technology package, including safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and blind-spot warning.
If you're looking for a hot hatch with a manual transmission, your options are the Honda Civic Type R or the Toyota GR Corolla. If you’re okay with the car’s computer-handling shifts and still desire a balanced hatchback, either Golf is a fantastic option. However, with the market thriving, you really can’t make a wrong choice right now.
Volkswagen is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of November 14, 2024, but it may have changed since that date. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker’s website or your local dealership.
Connor Hoffman has worked in the automotive industry since 2018 in both editorial and public relations. He has tested and written about hundreds of cars and helped lead the media launches of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma and Land Cruiser. Connor started his career at Car and Driver after a summer internship and has contributed to Edmunds, U.S. News & World Report, and Capital One Autos.
If you are searching for the best deals on the most popular new trucks in October 2026, your search ends here. We researched the latest incentives and offers for America's 10 top-selling trucks.* ...See More
Read the Full Article
If you are searching for the best deals on the hottest new SUVs in October 2026, your search ends here. We researched the latest car incentives and offers for the 20 top-selling SUV models in ...See More
Read the Full Article
With Labor Day in the rearview mirror, fall is just around the corner. That also means the 2026 model year is drawing to a close, and automakers and dealers are clearing out 2026 inventory to make ...See More
Read the Full Article
Are you looking for the best deals on the hottest new cars in September 2026? Look no further. We researched the latest car incentives and offers for America’s 10 top-selling cars. Here, listed ...See More
Read the Full Article