2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI shown at CES

An updated version of the iconic Volkswagen Golf GTI has been shown at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, giving us our first look at a host of improvements to the cabin, infotainment and exterior design.

Set to be revealed in full “in the coming weeks” the camouflaged prototype Mk 8.5 Golf GTI was used at CES to showcase the latest version of VW’s IDA voice assistant which includes AI integration via ChatGPT.

The AI tech allows passengers to communicate with their car in a “more natural and conversational way”, says VW, and will eventually be rolled out to all future models from Volkswagen, Cupra and Skoda.

6

The overall design of the new VW GTI isn’t radically different — evolution rather than revolution has long been the Golf’s mantra — yet exterior tweaks appear to include new designs for the headlights and taillights.

It’s the changes to the cabin that are of more significance, however.

Volkswagen’s move away from its highly criticised touch controls is now in full swing and the new Golf doesn’t only usher in more physical buttons (hooray!) but an entirely new dash design.

6

A larger and higher resolution centre screen also features as does the latest generation of VW’s MIB infotainment software which offers faster processing speeds and improved menu structures.

VW has also added backlighting to its touch-sensitive sliders for the climate control functions which will improve their usability at night.

6

VW’s hard-won reputation for cabin quality has also taken a slight hit lately but the new Golf seeks to re-establish its superiority through a richer mix of higher-quality materials, including a new Alcantara-like fabric known as Atrilur.

A host of engine improvements will be offered throughout the broader Mk 8.5 Golf range, including a new plug-in hybrid powertrain that’s more powerful and offers longer range, though VW is yet to confirm what will power the new GTI and R models.

Evolutions of the current 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engines is a strong possibility, although some form of hybrid assistance could also feature.

6

One thing we know for certain is there won’t be a manual gearbox.

VW has confirmed it hasn’t developed a manual for the facelifted Golf, although that means little for Aussie buyers — the GTI and R have both been automatic-only Down Under since 2018.

The updated Mk8.5 Golf range is due in Australia next year, while an all-electric Mk 9 replacement should arrive towards the end of the decade.

6