The release of the Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI is just around the corner – but not everyone is happy.
The new GTI has been criticized for a not-that-different look, while the new all-digital interior received negative reactions.
It is not all bad news for the brand though, as the Golf 7.5 GTI is still highly desirable in the local market.
This model was heralded for its timeless design that still looks fresh nearly four years after its last update – while a generous mixture of digital and analogue elements in the interior has made it one of the best ever versions from VW.
Golf 7.5 GTI vs Golf 8 GTI
The Golf 8 GTI is a clear descendant of the 7.5 in terms of looks.
It does, however, look somewhat more sleek – with fewer angles and protrusions.
The interior was also on the receiving end of many upgrades, and Volkswagen said this is the first Golf GTI with an all-digital interior.
The lights, aircon, and music are adjusted through touchscreens, while a significantly-smaller gear lever produces a highly-modern atmosphere.
This is opposed to the 7.5 GTI, which had a nice level of technology mixed in with analogue elements that made it an enthusiast favourite.
For power, both models are fitted with a 2.0-litre, 4 cylinder, turbocharged motor.
In the Golf 8 GTI it has been tuned to push out 11kW more, to achieve a power output of 180kW; and 20Nm extra, for a total torque output of 370Nm.
Both models are treated to the latest DSG automatic transmission with power sent to the front wheels, and acceleration from 0-100km/h is achieved in 6.4 seconds for both – according to the official figures from VW.
A top speed of 248km/h and a claimed combined fuel consumption of 6.4l/100km is on the books for the 7.5, whereas no official figures for these selling points have been released for the 8 yet.
It is fully expected to improve on those of its predecessor, though.
In terms of price, the 7.5 GTI had a starting price of R545,800 when it was released in 2017, while the price of the 8 has not been confirmed yet.
It is quite safe to assume, though, that it will cost more than the version it is replacing.
If you are in the market for a new GTI, and the release of the 8 left you a bit underwhelmed, there are several near-new deals from accredited VW dealerships which will still see you driving away in your dream Golf GTI.
A breakdown of these deals is listed below.
2020 Volkswagen Golf VII 2.0 GTI DSG – R559,900
- Mileage – 35,000km
- Link – Click here
2020 Volkswagen Golf VII 2.0 GTI DSG – R599,950
- Mileage – 16,500km
- Link – Click here
2020 Volkswagen Golf VII 2.0 GTI DSG – R609,500
- Mileage – 11,000km
- Link – Click here
2020 Volkswagen Golf VII 2.0 GTI DSG – R619,900
- Mileage – 16,000km
- Link – Click here
2020 Volkswagen Golf VII 2.0 GTI DSG – R629,990
- Mileage – “Low kms”
- Link – Click here
2020 Volkswagen Golf VII 2.0 GTI DSG – R632,700
- Mileage – New
- Link – Click here
2020 Volkswagen Golf VII 2.0 GTI DSG – R639,900
- Mileage – 13,000km
- Link – Click here
2020 Volkswagen Golf VII 2.0 GTI DSG – R639,951
- Mileage – 2,000km
- Link – Click here
Keyword: Great near-new Golf 7.5 GTI deals from VW dealerships