JOHANNESBURG, Aug 28 – Volkswagen will debut its upgraded Golf GTI in South Africa during fourth-quarter 2025, featuring 8% power increase to 195kW as the automaker targets the country’s performance hatchback market.
The eighth-generation model accelerates 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds through a retuned 2.0-liter turbocharged engine paired with a seven-speed DSG transmission, according to technical specifications seen by Reuters.
This marks the first power upgrade since the Mk7.5 model launched in 2021.
Design revisions include matrix LED headlights with horizontal light bars, illuminated Volkswagen badging, and 19-inch Queenstown alloy wheels – the largest factory-fitted rims in GTI history.
Interior upgrades centre on a 12.9-inch MIB4 infotainment tablet controlling redesigned vehicle dynamics software.
South African pricing starts at 908,000 rand ($61,200) for a limited launch edition featuring full leather upholstery with signature red stitching and track-focused chassis settings.
The standard model retains progressive steering and electronic differential systems refined for tighter cornering response.
Market analysts note the launch coincides with a 14% year-on-year growth in South Africa’s premium compact segment, though rivals like Hyundai N Line plan counter-models by mid-2026.
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