We may have called it a bit early before, but this time it’s for real. Yes, we’re finally getting the latest Mk8.5 Volkswagen Golf GTI, which is set to make its public debut at the paultan.org Auto Car Expo (ACE) this weekend, November 8 and 9, ahead of the official launch. No details just yet, but the revised hot hatch will sport a mild redesign that hides a welcome tech upgrade, addressing a key gripe on the Mk8. Unveiled back in January 2024, it features slimmer headlights, an angrier “fanged” front bumper (still with the five hexagonal fog lights on either side) and the ditching of the chrome fender appliqués, the GTI badge now moved to the front doors. It also marks the return of the beloved “telephone dial” alloy wheels (now measuring 19 inches) that were first introduced on the Mk5 GTI. The teaser image shows a new illuminated VW badge, indicating the presence of the optional IQ.Light matrix LED headlights. Inside, Volkswagen has made a series of usability tweaks, including a brand new (and hopefully much faster) infotainment system with touchscreen sizes up to 12.9 inches (previously ten inches max), illuminated air-con control sliders (finally) and physical steering wheel controls – in the style of the previous Mk7 model – to replace the capacitive touch items. There’s also a new IDA voice control system with ChatGPT integration. Under the bonnet lies the venerable 2.0 litre EA888 turbocharged four-cylinder engine, but with power boosted by 20 PS to 265 PS; torque holds station at 370 Nm. You still get a seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, an XDS electronic front differential lock and Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) adaptive dampers. Only the GTI version has been teased so far, but Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has previously indicated a desire to reintroduce the standard Golf. The company had previously offered an R-Line variant starting in July 2022, but pulled it from sale after less than a year. If you want to check out the new Golf GTI in person, ACE 2025 will take place on November 8 to 9 from 9am to 7pm at the Setia City Convention Centre (SCCC). Entrance is free. GALLERY: Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk8.5 Compare prices between different insurer providers to save the most on your car insurance renewal compared to other competing services. Many payment method supported and you can pay with instalment using Grab PayLater or Shopee SPayLater.