It is finally here, the facelifted Volkswagen Golf Mk8.5 has been launched here in Malaysia! The hot hatches are back, locally assembled (CKD) in Pekan, Pahang, bringing the GTI and the regular R-Line back into the game.

GTI is Live, R-Line Gets a Boost!

Right now, only the GTI is launching, priced at RM255,490 (with the full VAP warranty package). But if you’re an early bird, you can snag it for RM249,990 until Dec 31st (limited to 50 units)!

The really big news is under the hood of the R-Line (which is coming later). It’s ditching the old 1.4L mill and leveling up with a 1.5-litre EA211 Evo turbo that churns out 150 PS and 250 Nm. And get this: it now rocks a mild hybrid (mHEV) system! This means smoother starts, better acceleration assist, and even allowing the engine to turn off when you’re coasting. It’s also swapping the 8-speed auto for a seven-speed dry-clutch DSG. It does 0-100 km/h in a respectable 8.6 seconds while being super fuel-efficient at 5.2 L/100 km.

The GTI doesn’t sit still either! Its legendary 2.0-litre EA888 turbo is pumped up to 265 PS and 370 Nm (up 20 PS!). Paired with the same seven-speed wet-clutch DSG, it now sprints to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds—half a second quicker than before! It still comes equipped with all the fun bits like DCC adaptive dampers and XDS diff lock.

Fresh Looks & Finally, Better Tech!

Globally launched in Jan 2024, the Mk8.5 brings some neat visual tweaks:

• Sleeker Headlights: New IQ.Light Matrix LEDs with a cool illuminated VW badge. The GTI finally gets that full red “unibrow” across the front!
• Sportier Bumpers: Both the R-Line and GTI get a sharper, “fanged” front bumper for a meaner look.
• GTI Swag: It keeps its iconic hexagonal “chequered flag” fog lights and rolls on 18-inch Richmond alloys (sigh, still no “telephone dial” wheels).

Inside is where VW really listened. Say goodbye to frustration! They’ve fixed the biggest pain points:

• Bigger, Better Infotainment: A new, hopefully much faster, system with a touchscreen up to 12.9 inches.
• Illuminated Sliders: Yes, the air-con control sliders finally light up! No more fumbling in the dark.
• Physical Buttons Are Back! The steering wheel gets proper, tactile physical controls, just like the beloved Mk7.
• Smart Voice: There’s also a new IDA voice control system with ChatGPT integration—fancy!

The cabins are distinct: the R-Line gets sporty grey fabric seats with an embroidered R logo and faux suede, while the GTI goes all out with black, grey, and red Vienna leather, power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory, a Head-Up Display, and a sweet 480-watt Harman Kardon sound system.

It looks like the legend is back and better than ever!