The 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs. the 2025 Volkswagen Golf R: Hot Hatch Showdown

It’s tough to decide between the two thrilling hot hatch options at your local Volkswagen dealership. Find your ideal performance car with our guide comparing the 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI to the 2025 Golf R, each updated for the new model year with a new light bar, an illuminated logo, redesigned headlights, and a reshaped front bumper.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Both the Golf R and Golf GTI sport a brand-new 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen. The latest version of the software includes an enhanced voice command feature. You’ll have wireless charging, an expansive driver information display, and smartphone connectivity with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Golf R adds a premium Harman Kardon stereo system, which is optional in the GTI.

Power and Performance

The Golf GTI features a 241-horsepower turbo-four with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Golf R’s engine gets a boost to 328 hp for 2025. It’s also been upgraded with lighter forged alloy wheels that improve driving dynamics. Both models have six selectable drive modes, which includes a new Eco mode for 2025. The R adds larger paddle shifters.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The GTI and R both have comprehensive driver assistance tech across the lineup. Take advantage of standard safety features like lane assist, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, rear traffic alert, a blind-spot monitor, automatic headlights and high beams, rain-sensing windshield wipers, pedestrian monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and forward collision warning.

You’ll also have the Travel Assist semi-autonomous driving system. The Golf R adds standard Park Assist Plus and a head-up display that shows important data ​on your windshield.

Model Lineup

The Golf GTI comes in three well-equipped trims. The base model includes ambient lighting with selectable colors, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. You’ll also have convenient push-button starts and four USB ports throughout the cabin. The Golf R picks up its features from the top tier of the GTI, adding accents like logo floor mats and door trim, a black headliner, and stainless steel pedal caps and footrest.

You can also opt for the all-new Golf R Black Edition this year. It features carbon fiber accents and blacked-out brake calipers, wheels, and trim. The Golf R Euro Style Package deletes the sunroof and adds fabric upholstery to reduce the vehicle’s weight. This model also includes an exclusive titanium exhaust with boosted acoustics.

Test drive these two incredible VW models in person today to conduct your own head-to-head comparison and find your perfect Golf. We expect these models to land on our lot in early 2025. Contact Dean Team Volkswagen of Ballwin, MO to schedule your appointment now.

Tags: Ballwin MO, Cars, cars for sale, Sedans, Sedans for sale, Volkswagen cars, Volkswagen Dealer, Volkswagen Dealership, Volkswagen Golf GTI, Volkswagen Golf R, VW Cars For Sale, VW Dealer
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