With the 2024 model eliminating the manual transmission, the Golf GTI still boasts tremendous fun and functionality for consumers. With a large following, the Golf is no secret to the VW fleet as its deep roots have dated back many years.
In 2025, Grasso’s Garage gets a Slate Blue Metallic VW Golf GTI SE to test this week and fun it is. Powered by a 2.0 TSI 4-cylinder engine and 7-speed automatic DSG transmission with Tipronic and Sport mode, the GTI is front wheel drive and is all gas, sticking to its long roots of consumer success. The numbers came in with 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque.
The 2025 GTI SE comes in 4 exterior colors, and 18-inch wheels standard, with one option for interior color known as Titan Black, the leather upgraded SE seating is multi-colored and is an additional $1,300. Accessories for the GTI SE are vast and confirm that your GTI is unlike others, by adding a bike rack, cargo box, upgraded center caps, and much more. Interior-wise, the Golf GTI has a bigger infotainment system over previous generations, but lacks a volume knob and offers a slide volume adjustment with your finger, which I am not a fan of. The classic volume knob and the modern ideologies of changing it irks me as there is no benefit to changing what works perfectly for all consumers. I do enjoy the simplicity of the modern day infotainment system, including everything in a one-stop shop, but the old fashion 3 knob control system and push button utilities certainly proves my age and identifies the continuous motto of “don’t fix it if it isn’t broken”.
For VW, the Golf has been a staple in the fleet for some time now. It delivers good fun and usage for an array of consumers while still maintaining a decent price point for what you get. Although the GTI is typically better than any commuter would want it for, it certainly fits the price point and fulfills the needs for those consumers and more, especially for Golf GTI lovers abound.
Grasso’s Garage is here for you! Looking for more auto reviews or are you in the market for a new car? Head to https://ift.tt/MmTEGlQ. Also, for honest input, reach out to me directly: marc.grasso@bostonherald.com.
2025 Volkswagen GTI SE
MSRP: $37,420
MPG: 24 city / 32 highway / 29.4 as tested
As Tested: $38,645
