Wednesday, November 05, 2025

Volkswagen Malaysia Launches the New Golf R-Line and New Golf GTI Mk8.5

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia has launched the Newest, most current range of cars from the Golf model here. These models, from what most enthusiasts know as the refreshed Mk8.5 Golfs, are the New Golf R-Line, introduced witha new 1.5 eTSI MHEV engine replacing the previous 1.4 TSI variant, and a new Golf GTI offers more power with additional 20PS. 

With the new Golf Mk8.5, we get slightly restyled looks with redesigned IQ.LIGHT 3D LED Matrix headlights, illuminated front grille VW logo, and also slightly more refined aerodynamics on the outside. The styling is indeed visually more noticeable than the Mk8 variant especially up front. The basic, very familiar Golf hatchback styling is still there, but updated to keep the model fresh for the next few years. 
As for the interior and equipment, Volkswagen has upgraded the infotainment system. It now features an upgraded 12.9” tablet infotainment system, IDA  voice assistant, and illuminated touch sliders. One great improvement is the return of more physical controls as there were feedback from owners that these were sorely missed when the Mk8 featured controls through the touchscreen.

 Personally, this is a great move as real buttons and knobs is always better for tactile feel and safety especially when driving at higher speeds as you can easily know where a button or knob is located rather than going through menus or sub menus even to change the fan speed.

These are the basic refreshed details for what is the best designed hatchbacks in sale today. The big improvement if you're into performance is in the Golf GTi as it gets a 20hp bump in output making the hot hatch even hotter. 265hp makes it a very interesting performance car, edging even closer to the 300-320hp of the R variants from the Mk7 and Mk8 models (From what we've heard, the Mk8.5 R should also make it to our shores by next year to satisfy more Golf fans out there). 

The new Golf R-Line (above) is currently available for preview only as the official price for it has not been formalised yet. This is most likely due to the fact that the variant comes with a different 1.5liter engine compared to the earlier 1.4liter Tsi engine. The new engine features a mild hybrid system but pumps out similar power -150hp and 250Nm torque as before coupled to a 7speed DSG transmission unit powering the front wheels.

The new Golf  GTI has its official price out and it will retail from RM255,990 including the Volkswagen Assurance Package (VAP). 

As a limited-time special, early birds can enjoy an exclusive price of RM249,990 including VAP for the Golf GTI, available for the first 50 units only with registration by 31 December 2025.

More details and equipment specifications are down below in the official press release.

KUALA LUMPUR – Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) today unveiled the new Golf R-Line and Golf GTI – the latest evolutions of the iconic Golf, combining sharper design, smarter tech, and optimised performance.

The new Golf R-Line is currently available for preview only, and the new Golf GTI retails from RM255,990 including the Volkswagen Assurance Package. As a limited-time special, early birds can enjoy an exclusive price of RM249,990 including VAP for the Golf GTI, available for the first 50 units only with registration by 31 December 2025.

For decades, the Golf family has been loved for its compact size, premium fittings, and sheer driving fun. The Golf legacy now continues with the Golf R-Line and Golf GTI – both set to thrill fans and enthusiasts alike in Malaysia.


The Golf R-Line (above), inspired by Volkswagen’s performance R models, delivers dynamic styling and a sportier drive for those seeking excitement with everyday comfort. 

Meanwhile, the Golf GTI (above) redefines the “hot hatch” segment by combining everyday practicality with thrilling performance. Over the years, it has evolved while staying true to its sporty DNA: agile handling, turbocharged power, and signature red accents. 
Together, they embody the perfect blend of performance, style, and versatility that has made the Golf a global icon.

Exterior: Modern and Aerodynamically Designed Fascia
Locally assembled at the Volkswagen plant in Pekan, both variants feature refined underbody panels and aerodynamic enhancements that improve  airflow, stability and fuel efficiency.

The Golf family’s sharper lines define a more expressive, modern look from 
the front – a new front bumper is also an identifying feature. 
Visually defining features include the Volkswagen logo on the front bumper, illuminated for the first time on a Volkswagen model in Malaysia, and newly 
designed LED headlights. The top-of-the-range IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights incorporate a new high-performance main beam. The redesigned IQ.LIGHT 3D LED taillight clusters, paired with dynamic turn signals and animated rear graphics add a touch of style to function.

Interior: A Digital, Driver-Focused Cabin
Inside, the enhanced Golf family offers a fully digital, driver-centric cabin 
designed for comfort and intuitive control while keeping its unmistakeable 
sporty style.
• Tablet-style 12.9” Media infotainment display with Volkswagen’s new, highly intuitive MIB4 system providing a faster, more responsive user interface, with in-built navigation.
• Digital Cockpit Pro, featuring a 10-inch high-resolution TFT dashboard display that offers fully customisable menus and information. Drivers can choose from multiple colour themes and 
three distinct display views (Classic, Reduced, and Navigation). 

Designed for clarity and legibility, the cockpit delivers a crisp, clear 
display under any lighting conditions. 
• IDA voice assistant with voice enhancer for hands-free convenience.
• Multifunction sports steering wheel (leather, heated) with physical buttons and shift paddles for intuitive gear changes.
• Air Care Climatronic 3-zone automatic climate control with allergen filter, enhanced air filter and controls for rear passengers.
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with seamless connectivity. Wireless charging.
• Illuminated touch sliders for HVAC and volume control.

Safety: Security in Everyday Performance
From steering support, to speeding up or slowing down, IQ.DRIVE technology in the new Golfs provide an added boost of reassurance to help keep drivers safer on the road:
• Auto Emergency Braking Front Assist with Pedestrian monitoring –able to detect pedestrians on-foot and on bicycles or motorcycles.
• Travel Assist with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).
• Rear Traffic Alert and Exit Warning. 
• Park Distance Control – warning signals for obstacles in the front and rear. 
• Driver Attention Detection – monitors driver behaviour closely to alert of any abnormalities. 
• Emergency, Side, and Lane Assist.

Continuing the Golf Family Legacy in Malaysia
“The Golf family has never been ordinary; it is your everyday made excitingand your drives made unforgettable,” said Renate Noessler, Managing Director, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia.
“The new Golf R-Line is physical proof that sporty can also mean sensible by being fuel efficient without giving up the desired element of style. With the new GTI, we are giving our fans more power, sharper design, and smarter technology, ensuring the GTI continues to thrill in performance and handling,” she added.

GOLF R-LINE KEY HIGHLIGHTS
The exterior body of the R-Line features distinctive styling:
• 'R-Line' design front bumper and radiator grille.
• ‘R-Line' design rear bumper featuring chrome exhaust, left and 
right, and ‘R-Line' side skirts.
interior accents complement accordingly:
• ‘R-Line’ Black headliner.
• ‘R-Line’ brushed stainless steel pedals.
• ‘R-Line’ leather wrapped multi-function sports steering wheel with physical buttons for better tactile feedback. 
• ‘R-Line' 'Carbon Grey' trim in dash and front door panels.
• Fabric ‘R-line’ upholstery at the front and outer rear seat with
‘Artvelours’ inner side. 
A seven-speaker sound system is easily controlled through the intuitive infotainment interface. With two USB-C ports in the front and rear, both drivers and passengers may have their compatible gadgets charged and ready while on the move. 
The Golf R-Line offers mild-hybrid efficiency with its 1.5 eTSI (mHEV) turbo 
engine (150PS, 250Nm) and a shift-by-wire system for its 7-speed DSG transmission, achieving 0–100 km/h in 8.6 seconds, and just 5.2L/100km fuel consumption – contributing to better fuel efficiency and a more planted driving experience.
The Golf R-Line rides on ‘Coventry’ alloy wheels, with 7.5J x 17” with 225/45 
R17 tyres.

GOLF GTI KEY HIGHLIGHTS
The exterior body of the GTI features distinctive styling:
• ‘GTI’ design front bumper featuring radiator grill and honeycomb front air intake. 
• ‘GTI’ design rear bumper featuring chrome exhaust tailpipe, left and right.
• ‘GTI’ side skirts. 
The interior accents complement accordingly:
• ‘GTI’ Black headliner.
• ‘GTI’ brushed stainless steel pedals.
• ‘GTI’ leather wrapped multi-function sports steering wheel with 
buttons for better tactile feedback.
 ‘GTI’ ‘Black Metal Chrome’ trim in dash and front door panels.
• ‘GTI’ front sport seats with Vienna leather. 

Performance-wise, the new Golf GTI delivers 265PS (an additional 20PS from the previous GTI) from its 2.0 TSI turbocharged petrol motion engine, 
paired with Volkswagen’s 7-speed DSG transmission. Agile, powerful, and endlessly fun, it’s made for both highways and Malaysian backroads.

The Harman Kardon sound system provides an immersive audio experience with nine precisely tuned speakers with a subwoofer powered by a 12-channel digital amplifier, producing 480 watts of total output. The 
integrated subwoofer ensures deep, precise bass, while the system provides 
surround sound at every seat, all easily controlled through the intuitive infotainment interface.
With two USB-C ports in the front and rear, both drivers and passengers can 
have their compatible gadgets charged along the journey. 

The Head-Up Display projects key information directly onto the windshield, 
including speed, navigation instructions, and driver assistance alerts, keeping drivers informed without taking their eyes off the road.

The Golf GTI rides on alloy wheels, 7.5J x 18” ‘Richmond’ with 225/40 R18 tyres.

Available Colourways and Volkswagen Assurance Package
Both variants are offered in a vibrant palette of Oryx White, Moonstone 
Grey, Grenadilla Black, Kings Red, and Anemone Blue – each adding its own 
personality to the Golf family.

The new Golf GTI is supported with 5 years free maintenance, 5 years mileage warranty and 5 years complimentary roadside assistance under the VAP.

Meet the new Golf Family at Auto Car Expo (ACE) 2025
The Golf R-Line and the Golf GTI will be on display at ACE, happening on 8 and 9 November 2025 at the Setia City Convention Centre (SCCC). Visitors will have the opportunity to test drive an extensive Volkswagen lineup, including the Tiguan Allspace family, the award-winning Touareg, and the Golf GTI.
Visit www.volkswagen.com.my, or any authorised Volkswagen dealership nationwide for more details.




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