CES shows Updated Golf GTI in Camouflage

Within a wrap of purple, pink, and blue high-tech graphics, the updated GTI was revealed for the first time in the U.S. at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. This is not a complete redesign but a mid-cycle update that will be the 2025 model. Bud Brown Volkswagen has all the details on this exciting upgrade.

Most noticeable were new headlights that are narrower and without the lower convex curves of the current model. The grille also appears slimmer. This is accompanied by tail lights that also appear narrower and have new LED graphics.

More changes occur inside, where you find a significantly larger infotainment touchscreen that appears to be the same 15-inch unit shown in the ID.7 model. At the bottom of the screen are permanent climate control status reads just above related controls on a bent-forward section of the display housing. Also in evidence is a new steering wheel that reverts to easier-to-use physical controls. 

The infotainment promises new software, including the application of Chat-GPT Artificial Intelligence to the voice assistant system, to render it more intuitive and conversational. At the same time, VW stressed that ChatGPT does not gain any access to vehicle data, and any questions and answers are deleted immediately to ensure privacy and data protection.

Other news is that all 2025 GTI models will come with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. This isn’t startling news, as the 2024 Golf GTI 380 Special Edition was partly developed to showcase the last GTI and Golf R models equipped with a manual transmission. 

While this may disappoint some manual fans, the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission has repeatedly shown itself to be faster shifting and more efficient than the manual, not to mention having an additional gear ratio. As is the case in 2024, all 2025 Golf models sold in the U.S. will be either Golf R or GTI models. Aside from the transmission, VW did not provide additional information regarding possible drivetrain or chassis changes. It has yet to be made clear when the 2025 GTI and Golf R will debut.

If you are interested in the 2025 Golf update, keep an eye on this blog or ask one of the sales professionals at Bud Brown Volkswagen to notify you of any model updates.