Volkswagen Australia has confirmed the updated 2025 Mk8.5 Golf will arrive in local showrooms soon, promising enhanced technology, luxury, and performance. The latest iteration of the iconic hatchback introduces a more advanced infotainment system, upgraded driver assistance features, and more powerful engines for the flagship GTI and Golf R models.
The Golf Life remains the entry point to the range, now featuring a 10.3-inch infotainment system with digital radio, wireless App-Connect, and a more powerful ventilated wireless smartphone charging pad. Standard equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors, park assist, keyless entry, LED headlights with light assist, and an alarm.
Volkswagen’s Travel Assist suite, incorporating adaptive cruise control, lane assist, front assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection, and side assist with rear cross-traffic alert, is also included as standard. Interior refinements such as carpeted door pockets, vanity mirror lights, and a multi-tier adjustable centre armrest remain.
New to the lineup, the Golf Style replaces the former Highline trim, adding 18-inch alloys, chrome exterior highlights, dark-tinted privacy glass, and upgraded LED Plus headlights. The cabin is fitted with a larger 12.9-inch infotainment display with embedded navigation and IDA voice assistance, while 30-colour ambient lighting sets the mood.
Comfort is further enhanced with an ErgoActive 14-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and ArtVelours microfleece upholstery. Optional upgrades include a panoramic sunroof and a Sound & Vision package, which introduces a Harman/Kardon premium audio system, head-up display, and – a first for the Golf – a 360-degree camera.
The popular Golf R-Line continues, now offering Vienna leather-appointed upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and an electric driver’s seat with memory. It retains its dynamic focus with 18-inch alloys, sport mode driving profile selection, progressive steering, and R-Line-specific exterior and interior styling.
The Golf Life, Style, and R-Line variants are powered by a 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 110kW and 250Nm, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Meanwhile, the performance-focused GTI and R models, which often account for more than half of Golf sales in Australia, receive significant upgrades for 2025. The GTI’s engine now produces 195kW (up 15kW) and 370Nm. Further enhancing its performance credentials are revised steering and Adaptive Chassis Control (DCC Pro).
Standard features include new 19-inch alloy wheels, replacing the previous 18s, along with a 12.9-inch infotainment system, tri-zone climate control, LED Plus headlights, metallic paint, and new park assist plus. Buyers can now separately option the panoramic sunroof, allowing the classic tartan-cloth interior to be paired with a sunroof for the first time.
A newly introduced Leather Package offers Vienna leather seats, an electric driver’s seat, and heated and ventilated front seats, without requiring a sunroof. The Sound & Vision package expands functionality with a 360-degree camera, Harman/Kardon premium audio, and head-up display.
The flagship Golf R also sees a power bump, now producing 245kW (up 10kW). It comes standard with LED Matrix headlights, premium LED taillights, Nappa leather upholstery, an electric driver’s seat with memory, heated and ventilated front seats, and a Harman/Kardon audio system.
The addition of the ‘Area View’ 360-degree camera and 19-inch alloys reinforces its premium appeal, while a torque-vectoring rear axle, Sport ESC, and specialised Nurburgring and Drift modes elevate its track-ready capability. Volkswagen will also offer the Golf R Black Edition, featuring dark-themed styling elements.
Volkswagen says the 2025 updated Golf range will arrive in Australia in April. Prices will be announced closer to its arrival.
