New Volkswagen Golf GTI, special edition Polo Vivo to debut at Festival of Motoring

Following a lengthy delay, the Volkswagen Golf 8.5 GTI is finally on its way to South Africa, and fans will get to see it at this weekend’s Festival of Motoring (FOM) at Kyalami Raceway, alongside a new special edition Polo Vivo.

The facelifted Volkswagen Golf GTI was first revealed internationally in January 2024, but it has been delayed due to fuel quality concerns. However, it appears that the latest tests have produced positive results, and the vehicle is expected to reach our shores before the end of 2025. More details are expected to be released at FOM.

The carmaker will also present the new Polo Vivo 15 Edition at the festival, celebrating the entry-level hatchback’s 15th anniversary, and also on show will be the Polo GTI Black Style, all-new Transporter, and the 222kW petrol-engined version of the Amarok bakkie. In addition, VWSA will entertain showgoers with simulator competitions, fun art sessions for kids, a 4x4 obstacle course, and exclusive track rides in a SupaCup racing Polo.

What to expect from the new GTI

The facelifted Golf ‘8.5’ GTI receives a significant power boost, with the EA 888 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine now producing 195kW, which is an improvement of 15kW over the current version, while peak torque remains at 370Nm.

The 0-100km/h time is now listed at 5.9 seconds, down from the current version’s 6.4 seconds, while the top speed remains electronically limited to 250km/h.

The Golf 8.5 receives a fresh exterior look, complete with new LED headlights and taillights as well as a redesigned front bumper, while the ‘performance’ headlight option also illuminates the grille strip and VW badge.

Volkswagen claims to have significantly improved the user-friendliness of the completely redesigned infotainment system, which features all-new software and graphics as well as a fresh menu structure for the 12.9-inch screen fitted as standard to the GTI.

The GTI’s cabin is distinguished by a multi-function sports steering wheel, red stitching throughout, and premium sports seats. What’s more, genuine carbon fibre interior trim details can be optionally added for the first time.

Pricing will be announced closer to launch, but expect the new Golf 8.5 GTI to command a premium over the current pre-facelift model, which costs from R853,400.

Of course, VWSA also recently introduced the humbler Golf 8.5 1.4 TSI models, which have proven to be an impressive addition to the line-up - you can read our road test review here.

ALSO READ: Is the fully-loaded Volkswagen Golf 8. 5 TSI worth the price of a GTI?

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