​​2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI Updated, Still Has ”Soul”​

The Volkswagen Golf GTI is an icon. It has set the standard for all “hot hatches” to follow for the past 49 years. Since its arrival in the early 1980s, America’s love affair with the Golf GTI has brought enthusiasts together to celebrate this performance hatchback. 

For 2025, the Golf GTI has been given a mid-cycle refresh commonly known to fans as Mk 8.5. The original formula continues with its mix of practicality and performance with plenty of updates to enjoy. Whether you are a longtime hot hatch loyalist or new to the design, you will surely love it. MotorTrend had a chance to drive one to see how the updates to the hot hatch icon have improved upon a top-performing vehicle.  

Up front, the updates are seen with a set of new LED headlamp units and an LED illuminated grille bar complete with a fully lit logo. Both the front and rear bumpers were reshaped. The Autobahn model receives a new set of 19-inch alloy wheels with larger openings. 

The steering wheel controls are now actual tactile buttons, along with improved technology inside. A 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen display is now in its own freestanding housing, which is angled towards the driver. To create a mood inside, you have 30 ambient lighting colors to choose from. Plus, all Golf GTI models receive the IQ.DRIVE driver assistance suite of features to protect you and your vehicle from harm.  

Power comes from the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, which offers 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This is channeled through a seven-speed DSG gearbox, sending power to the front wheels. No matter which Golf GTI you choose, a torque-sensing limited-slip differential keeps the power down where it is needed.  

MotorTrend fell in love with how it handles – a trademark of the Golf GTI. They stated, “Introduce turns into your high-clip GTI drive, and the car eats them up ravenously. The standard electronic differential lock and electronically controlled torque-sensing limited-slip VAQ differential do yeoman’s work keeping wheelslip at bay. With the hatch’s summer tires, sling-shotting out of corners continues to be the most fun way through them.” 

It is worth noting that their evaluation of the steering system on the Golf GTI was “direct” and “weighted when you need it to be.” In all, it is everything you expect the Golf GTI to be when pointed towards Southwestern Missouri or a blast across Kansas on the Turnpike.  

In summary, MotorTrend felt that in the 2025 Golf GTI, “the more important soul of the car is still here. You only need to drive the small hatch to see that.” 

For those of you who have always wanted a Golf GTI or would like to check out the new 2025 model, contact us at Bud Brown Volkswagen to see one soon. With every Golf GTI, you get the Bud Brown Advantage Lifetime Limited Warranty.