The Volkswagen Golf GTI is undoubtedly an all-time favourite. First launched in September 1975 at the Frankfurt International Motor Show, the popular hatchback has won countless hearts with its attractive package of handling, suspension, throttle response, and looks.
Over the years, the icon has undergone numerous upgrades, each one upping the ante with modern updates while staying true to what makes it legendary. What further elevates its game is the GTI itself, which stands for Grand Touring Injection, providing the agility and performance that have been synonymous with the hatchback.
Initially used by Gran Turismo Italian models, the technology was later adopted by Volkswagen Golf GTI, which helped cement its legendary status. Men’s Folio Malaysia was honoured to have the chance to test drive both the standard Golf GTI — the eighth-generation or Mk8 — and the Golf GTI Black Edition, which debuted at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025.
At first glance, the standard edition features the unmistakable honeycomb front grille and red GTI trims. For the Black Edition, Volkswagen Malaysia has enhanced the look with GTI dynamic hub caps, GTI valve caps, 18-inch Black Richmond alloy wheels, and ‘BLACK’ Emblem on B-Pillars, adding a touch of street cred without going overboard. Slight points to the Black Edition for sleekness here.
Stepping into the cabin, both editions are equally eye-catching, featuring a sporty interior that blends in well with the car’s exterior design. The front seats are upholstered in Vienna leather with GTI embroidery, while the sports steering wheel is swathed in fine leather. The Black Edition also comes equipped with a Universal Traffic Recorder 2.0 (UTR 2.0).
Recordings in low-light environments are no longer a challenge, thanks to its latest CPU and Sony STARVIS sensor that are able to capture razor-sharp imagery under less desirable conditions. Once recorded, we can easily access and save the recording via the mobile app. In the event of an incident, the footage can also be downloaded directly to a mobile device via the app. Talk about the extra care Volkswagen puts into each of its customer experiences.
When it comes to performance, both GTIs live up to their name. Whether it is climbing hills, cruising through the city, or speeding on the highways (within limits, of course), it was all a walk in the park. This is thanks to the 7-speed DSG gearbox, which perfectly combines the ease of an automatic with the performance of a manual, offering a punchy 245PS and 370Nm of torque.
In today’s tech-driven world, no car would be complete without modern gadgetry. Both hatchbacks come furnished with a head-up display. The head-up display brings a new level of convenience to your drive. It projects vital stats like your speedometer and Adaptive Cruise Control directly onto your windshield, ensuring you stay informed without taking your eyes off the road.
Speaking of which, the Golf GTIs are also equipped with IQ.DRIVE, an advanced driver-assistance technology that enhances road safety. We all know blind spots can be tricky, and when a vehicle is detected within said blind spot, Side Assist will kick in to alert the driver. No more leaning forward to get a better angle of the side-view mirrors needed.
Driving under dim light or heavy rain with faded road markings? Fret not — Lane Assist is here to help. No matter the road conditions, or even if you forget to turn on the signal, Lane Assist activates, helping keep the vehicle between the lines or warning and counter-steering in the face of imminent danger.
While the vehicle is also packed with other safety features like the Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Front Assist, and Emergency Assist, there is only so much tactility we can put into words here. The best one can do to discover why we love these responsive vehicles is to try one out for themselves.
With the launch of the Golf GTI Black Edition and the eighth-generation Golf GTI, Volkswagen shows why it is a car still adored by many. Despite a competitive automotive industry that is dominated by a horde of electric vehicles, the hot hatchback from the German marque still stands firm, holding its ground as an all-rounder that excels in performance, practicality, and appearance.
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