When will the new Golf GTI launch in South Africa?

Rumour has it that VW Africa is still unsure about where the South African market stands regarding the Golf 8.5 GTI and Golf R. The VW Golf has always been a long-time favourite among locals, and the latest launch has been highly anticipated, especially after the GTI and R editions were released in January 2024. However, we have yet to hear back on potential dates for the dynamic duo. 

Will the new VW Golf 8.5 GTI come to South Africa?

Since May, there’s been speculation around whether or not the Golf 8.5 GTI and Golf R would even make an appearance in South Africa. Even if we did know the launch date, how much do we really know about these two models exactly?

The GTI Golf 8.5

Exterior and interior

The new GTI comes with an update on the inside and out. VWs redesigned both front and backlights, a new look on the front lip, and side sill, prominent rear spoiler, styled rear bumper, and fitment of 17-inch Richmond alloys. 

The interior is weaponised with new features. Siting sporty is the new electric sports seats with their meticulous needlework, paired alongside a comfortable multifunction steering wheel and an aluminium-styled gear knob. 

For the driver’s eye is an updated 10.2-inch cabin display with brand-new graphics and an improved user interface, along with a decent-sized 12.9-inch infotainment system. You can control the features within the infotainment system using the AI-driven voice assistant. 

Drive and performance

Powered by a 2.0-litre, turbocharged petrol motor, this model now boasts a nippy 195kW and 370Nm of torque – an increase of 15kW from its predecessor – delivered to the front axle via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. It accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in just 5.9 seconds, shaving off 0.5 seconds compared to the previous model, reaching a top speed of 250km/h.

The VW Golf R

Like its GTI counterpart, the Golf R received a few cosmetic updates and enhanced cabin technology, boasting the title of the most potent Golf ever produced. Its upgraded 2.0-liter engine delivers 245kW and 420Nm, a modest increase of 10kW and 20Nm compared to the previous model.

Power is transferred to all four wheels through the same seven-speed gearbox used in the GTI. With an improved traction and increased power output, this little number can take it from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.6 seconds. Although the top speed remains electronically limited to 250km/h, it can be raised to 270km/h with the optional R-Performance package.

Is the hot hatch on track? 

The dynamic hot hatch duo has already seen new buyers across the European markets while Australians look to receive their first arrivals at the beginning of 2025. It’s up to VW Africa to determine what the local launch timing would look like when other major markets have responded, possibly look at the 2^nd half of 2024.  

There’s no telling where we are right now with these models as of yet. It would really be surprising if we didn’t make the cut.