There was a time within the not-so-distant previous when you might get your self right into a sizzling hatch for below $30K. However these days appear to be lengthy gone. Working example, Volkswagen simply launched pricing for the refreshed 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI and 2025 Volkswagen Golf R, and I needed to do a double-take to ensure I learn that proper!
Pricing for the 2025 Golf GTI begins at $32,445 for the S trim, the SE trim is priced at $37,420 (with an non-obligatory Leather-based Seats Package deal out there for an extra $1,300), and the Autobahn trim sits on the high of the lineup with a worth of $40,880.
For the 2025 Golf R, the usual mannequin is priced at $47,100, whereas the Black Version is available in at $48,415. An non-obligatory Euro Fashion Package deal, out there for each trims of the Golf R, is obtainable at $3,795. That means a Golf R Black Version with the Euro Fashion Package deal crosses the $50,000 mark!
Whereas there’s little doubt that these automobiles have gotten some upgrades through the years (and a smidge extra energy), that’s nonetheless a hefty soar in worth. I bear in mind looking for a GTI for my spouse again in 2018, and the automobile was about $7K cheaper than a comparable GTI right this moment. Heck, even the 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI Rabbit Version we reviewed got here in at a really affordable $29,790.
So what’s new for 2025? The VW Golf GTI exterior options all new design parts, together with a brand new entrance bumper and headlights with a crimson character line, illuminated entrance emblem and a typical lightbar. Two new colours, Alpine Silver Metallic and Slate Blue Metallic, are provided. The outside additionally options 18-inch machined aluminum-alloy wheels with all-season tires.
The inside will get a big improve from the outgoing mannequin, that includes new Carbon Grey décor and a freestanding 12.9-inch touchscreen. This method boasts the most recent working system, shared with the ID. Buzz and 2024 ID.4, providing quicker software program and a extra intuitive format. Volkswagen’s generative AI-enabled voice assistant can also be out there on the MY25 GTI by means of a Plus Speech subscription within the myVW cell app.
Arduous buttons change the haptic switchgear on the steering wheel and new ventilated 15-watt wi-fi charging is added for improved performance. The S trim additionally contains mechanical Adaptive Entrance Lighting System.
Normal and out there options are improved throughout all trim ranges, together with customary NAV, Dynamic Highway Signal Show, wired- and wi-fi App-Join on the bottom S trim. IQ.DRIVE driver help know-how stays customary throughout the board.
For the 2025 VW Golf R, there’s a 13-horsepower improve, making this essentially the most highly effective manufacturing Golf mannequin ever, with 328HP on faucet. The 7-speed DSG dual-clutch computerized is the only transmission choice (boo!). Visually placing exterior updates embrace new headlights and entrance bumper and an illuminated entrance emblem. New customary 19-inch cast alloy wheels are 20% lighter than the earlier Golf R wheels, additional enhancing dealing with and efficiency.
Just like the GTI, the R’s inside boasts a brand new, freestanding 12.9-inch touchscreen with the most recent MIB3 working system, together with navigation, Wi-Fi, satellite tv for pc radio, dynamic highway signal show, wired- and wi-fi App-Join, harman/kardon premium audio, and keyless entry.
The R additionally includes a sunroof, new inside décor, driver-seat reminiscence and 12-way energy adjustment, Nappa Leather-based seats, ventilated entrance seats, heated entrance and rear outboard seats, and a ventilated 15-watt wi-fi charging pad.
For purists, the Euro Fashion Package deal gives material seats, a sunroof delete, and provides an Akrapovič titanium exhaust for enhanced engine acoustics that weighs 15 kilos lower than the usual system, out there for an extra $3,795.
IQ.DRIVE driver help know-how is customary on all Golf R fashions, now that includes Park Help Plus along with the beforehand out there programs. New security options embrace a primary assist equipment, warning triangle and security vest, along with mechanical Adaptive Entrance Lighting System with lateral swivel.
—Individuals will argue that different automobiles are additionally costly, and so they’re not incorrect about that. A 2025 Subaru WRX is now $35,750 (madness, I paid $24,250 for my 2011 WRX model new). Sure, you’re getting a number of tech with these newer fashions, however not everybody desires all of these items. Me, I simply desire a handbook transmission, a fundamental radio with Apple CarPlay, and a throaty exhaust!
Supply a “worth” mannequin with out all the bells and whistles at an affordable worth, and I guess you’ll see gross sales begin to improve once more. Till then, many people will simply maintain onto our present automobiles slightly bit longer.. or store for cheaper options.
