The next-generation Volkswagen Golf is set to be an electric vehicle based on Volkswagen Group’s upcoming SSP modular platform. This means that future iterations of popular models such as the Golf GTI and Golf R will also likely be electric vehicles, signaling a shift away from traditional gas-powered engines in these cars.
The SSP platform is not expected to be ready until around 2028, which means there is still plenty of shelf life left for the current gas-powered Golf range. However, Volkswagen is already preparing for the future with a round of updates for the Golf range. These updates are expected to be introduced for the 2025 model year in the U.S., and prototypes of the updated models have already been spotted out and about.
Recent sightings of prototypes for the updated regular Golf, Golf GTI, and Golf R indicate that the models are undergoing a significant facelift. The exterior changes include revised fascia designs at both ends, new internals for the lights, a blue accent line connecting the headlights, and a revised rear diffuser design. Additionally, the Golf R will continue to feature its signature four round exhaust tips, though the design of the tips will be updated.
In terms of interior upgrades, the updated Golf range is expected to sport a much larger infotainment screen. The current 8.3-inch infotainment screen is likely to be replaced with a larger screen, possibly up to 15 inches in size, matching the screen in the newer version of the Tiguan that was unveiled in September.
While it’s not clear whether any major mechanical modifications will be made with this update, there is speculation that the models could see an increase in power. The current all-wheel-drive Golf R is offered with a 2.0-liter turbo-4 engine delivering 315 horsepower, and it’s possible that the updated version could offer even more power. Additionally, there’s speculation that the manual transmission option may be phased out for the updated models, as Volkswagen has already confirmed that a manual won’t be offered on the updated Golf GTI.
The current Golf is closely related to the Audi A3, with the Golf R sharing similarities with the Audi S3 variant. Just as the Golf is undergoing updates, the A3 is also set to receive updates for the 2025 model year.
Looking further ahead, the shift towards electric vehicles is a significant step for Volkswagen, and the transition to the SSP platform is part of a larger effort by the Volkswagen Group to unify its electric vehicle platforms. While the change may be bittersweet for traditional enthusiasts who are fond of the gas-powered Golf models, the move towards electric vehicles reflects an industry-wide shift towards sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation.
Overall, the updates to the Golf range and the future transition to electric vehicles demonstrate Volkswagen’s commitment to innovation and the evolving automotive landscape. With the upcoming release of the next-generation Golf and the continued evolution of electric vehicles, Volkswagen is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the automotive industry.
