2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI to continue back-track on touch-sensitive buttons

The Volkswagen Golf hatch is about to receive what may be its last major update before switching to electric power towards the end of the decade – and it is set to solve key complaints with the current model.

Volkswagen will take another step back from touch-sensitive controls for key functions in its vehicles with the updated 2025 Volkswagen Golf, expected in Australian showrooms next year.

The facelifted Golf has been previewed in camouflage in GTI hot-hatch form at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, ahead of its formal unveiling due later this month.

In addition to a revised exterior – with restyled bumpers, slimmer headlights and new tail-light graphics – it gains an updated interior designed to fix key complaints about the touch-sensitive controls in the current model from Volkswagen customers and media.

The air conditioning controls and vehicle settings remain integrated into the infotainment touchscreen – with no physical dials or buttons – and there are still touch-sensitive buttons for other infotainment and vehicle shortcuts.

However the touchscreen has been enlarged – now expected to measure 12.9 inches across, up from 10 inches today – and runs new software said to be faster, with climate-control shortcuts ‘pinned’ at the bottom of the display.

The touch-sensitive sliders for air conditioning and audio volume below the touchscreen are now illuminated for easier use at night, and the touch-sensitive steering wheel buttons on top-of-the-range models have been replaced by physical switches.

The new infotainment software includes an updated voice assistant which integrates artificial-intelligence service ChatGPT to answer general-knowledge questions.

“ChatGPT does not gain access to any vehicle data; questions and answers are deleted immediately to ensure the highest possible level of data protection,” claims Volkswagen in its media release.

The ChatGPT-powered assistant will also be available from the second quarter of 2024 (April to June) in the new-generation Tiguan SUV and Passat wagon in Europe, plus the ID.3, ID.4, ID.5 and ID.7 electric vehicles.

The Golf GTI shown appears to be a Clubsport edition – not sold in Australia or the US – which has more power, and Golf R-derived design features, such as the rear roof spoiler, aggressive rear diffuser, and 19-inch Estoril alloy wheels.

A 3D rendering of the regular, updated GTI uncovered in the CES show car’s infotainment screen by UK magazine Autocar show more sedate styling, and new Alfa Romeo telephone dial-like 18-inch alloy wheels.

Reports suggest mild-hybrid technology may be added to the Golf GTI for its facelift – to provide a small boost under hard acceleration, and trim fuel consumption on the move – but it is yet to be confirmed.

For more details on the other engine changes reportedly in the works for the 2025 Golf, click here to read Drive‘s earlier story.

The 2025 Volkswagen Golf is expected to be unveiled later this month ahead of an Australian introduction next year.

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