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Volkswagen of America* says that the 2025 Golf GTI will be offered in three trim levels – S, SE and Autobahn. In addition to the 2025 Golf R, a new Golf R Black Edition joins the line. However, at a time when car shoppers are sunning expensive models, pricing and availability for the 2025 Golf GTI and Golf R will be announced closer to an undisclosed launch date. Kelley Blue Book data shows that the average transaction price (ATP) for a new vehicle in the U.S. was $48,623 in October, up from September and higher than year-ago levels. Incentives increased again as many automakers work to clear their inventory.
“Golf R offers a 13 horsepower increase, making this the most powerful Golf model ever produced by Volkswagen. Refreshed exterior and interior designs offer a more modern and stylish look, with new color options, wheel designs, interior accents, and upgraded infotainment,” VW said.
The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder TSI® engine produces 241 horsepower and is now mated only with a 7-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Standard and available items are improved across all trim levels, including standard navigation, Dynamic Road Sign Display, and wireless App-Connect on the base S trim. IQ.DRIVE driver assistance technology remains standard across the board, consisting of Travel Assist (semi-automated driving assistance); Front Assist (Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring); Active Side Assist (Blind Spot Monitor); Rear Traffic Alert; Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop and Go; Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System); and Emergency Assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency).*
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The 2025 Golf R also receives a refresh. With a 13 horsepower increase, the Golf R is now the most powerful ever Golf model, with 328 hp claimed. The 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic is the sole transmission option. [bye – bye manual – AutoCrat] Exterior updates include new headlights and front bumper, an illuminated front logo, and a standard light-bar.
As with the GTI, the R’s interior has a new, freestanding 12.9-inch touchscreen with the latest operating system. Additionally, a new Golf R Black Edition joins the lineup, with blacked-out detailing, accents, wheels, brake calipers, and carbon fiber decor.
The Euro Style Package has fabric seats, sunroof delete, and an Akrapovič titanium exhaust for enhanced engine sound. New 19-inch forged alloy wheels are 20% lighter than the previous Golf R wheels, further enhancing handling and performance.
IQ.DRIVE driver assistance technology is standard on all Golf R models, now with Park Assist Plus in addition to the previously available systems.
*Inevitable VW Footnotes
- “DSG”, “IQ.DRIVE”, “TSI”, “VW”, “Volkswagen”, model names and the Volkswagen logo are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG. “
- This information and any vehicle specifications are preliminary and subject to change. Features and technical data apply to models offered in the USA. They may differ in other countries.
- Driver assistance features are not substitutes for attentive driving. See owner’s literature for important information.
- European Golf R Black Edition shown.
About Ken Zino
Ken Zino, editor and publisher of AutoInformed, is a versatile auto industry participant with global experience spanning decades in print and broadcast journalism, as well as social media. He has automobile testing, marketing, public relations and communications experience. He is past president of The International Motor Press Assn, the Detroit Press Club, founding member and first President of the Automotive Press Assn. He is a member of APA, IMPA and the Midwest Automotive Press Assn.
He also brings an historical perspective while citing their contemporary relevance of the work of legendary auto writers such as Ken Purdy, Jim Dunne or Jerry Flint, or writers such as Red Smith, Mark Twain, Thomas Jefferson – all to bring perspective to a chaotic automotive universe.
Above all, decades after he first drove a car, Zino still revels in the sound of the exhaust as the throttle is blipped during a downshift and the driver’s rush that occurs when the entry, apex and exit points of a turn are smoothly and swiftly crossed. It’s the beginning of a perfect lap.
AutoInformed has an editorial philosophy that loves transportation machines of all kinds while promoting critical thinking about the future use of cars and trucks.
Zino builds AutoInformed from his background in automotive journalism starting at Hearst Publishing in New York City on Motor and MotorTech Magazines and car testing where he reviewed hundreds of vehicles in his decade-long stint as the Detroit Bureau Chief of Road & Track magazine. Zino has also worked in Europe, and Asia – now the largest automotive market in the world with China at its center.
First Look – Freshened VW 2025 Golf GTI and Golf R
Click for more.
Volkswagen of America* says that the 2025 Golf GTI will be offered in three trim levels – S, SE and Autobahn. In addition to the 2025 Golf R, a new Golf R Black Edition joins the line. However, at a time when car shoppers are sunning expensive models, pricing and availability for the 2025 Golf GTI and Golf R will be announced closer to an undisclosed launch date. Kelley Blue Book data shows that the average transaction price (ATP) for a new vehicle in the U.S. was $48,623 in October, up from September and higher than year-ago levels. Incentives increased again as many automakers work to clear their inventory.
“Golf R offers a 13 horsepower increase, making this the most powerful Golf model ever produced by Volkswagen. Refreshed exterior and interior designs offer a more modern and stylish look, with new color options, wheel designs, interior accents, and upgraded infotainment,” VW said.
The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder TSI® engine produces 241 horsepower and is now mated only with a 7-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Standard and available items are improved across all trim levels, including standard navigation, Dynamic Road Sign Display, and wireless App-Connect on the base S trim. IQ.DRIVE driver assistance technology remains standard across the board, consisting of Travel Assist (semi-automated driving assistance); Front Assist (Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring); Active Side Assist (Blind Spot Monitor); Rear Traffic Alert; Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop and Go; Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System); and Emergency Assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency).*
Click for more.
The 2025 Golf R also receives a refresh. With a 13 horsepower increase, the Golf R is now the most powerful ever Golf model, with 328 hp claimed. The 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic is the sole transmission option. [bye – bye manual – AutoCrat] Exterior updates include new headlights and front bumper, an illuminated front logo, and a standard light-bar.
As with the GTI, the R’s interior has a new, freestanding 12.9-inch touchscreen with the latest operating system. Additionally, a new Golf R Black Edition joins the lineup, with blacked-out detailing, accents, wheels, brake calipers, and carbon fiber decor.
The Euro Style Package has fabric seats, sunroof delete, and an Akrapovič titanium exhaust for enhanced engine sound. New 19-inch forged alloy wheels are 20% lighter than the previous Golf R wheels, further enhancing handling and performance.
IQ.DRIVE driver assistance technology is standard on all Golf R models, now with Park Assist Plus in addition to the previously available systems.
*Inevitable VW Footnotes
About Ken Zino
Ken Zino, editor and publisher of AutoInformed, is a versatile auto industry participant with global experience spanning decades in print and broadcast journalism, as well as social media. He has automobile testing, marketing, public relations and communications experience. He is past president of The International Motor Press Assn, the Detroit Press Club, founding member and first President of the Automotive Press Assn. He is a member of APA, IMPA and the Midwest Automotive Press Assn. He also brings an historical perspective while citing their contemporary relevance of the work of legendary auto writers such as Ken Purdy, Jim Dunne or Jerry Flint, or writers such as Red Smith, Mark Twain, Thomas Jefferson – all to bring perspective to a chaotic automotive universe. Above all, decades after he first drove a car, Zino still revels in the sound of the exhaust as the throttle is blipped during a downshift and the driver’s rush that occurs when the entry, apex and exit points of a turn are smoothly and swiftly crossed. It’s the beginning of a perfect lap. AutoInformed has an editorial philosophy that loves transportation machines of all kinds while promoting critical thinking about the future use of cars and trucks. Zino builds AutoInformed from his background in automotive journalism starting at Hearst Publishing in New York City on Motor and MotorTech Magazines and car testing where he reviewed hundreds of vehicles in his decade-long stint as the Detroit Bureau Chief of Road & Track magazine. Zino has also worked in Europe, and Asia – now the largest automotive market in the world with China at its center.