New Volkswagen Golf GTI for Sale near Springfield, IL
For the first time in nearly 50 years, the Volkswagen Golf GTI won’t be available with a manual transmission. Does it matter?
Rent a car while abroad, and there’s a decent chance the agent at the counter will ask if you’d like to upgrade to one equipped with an automatic transmission. Manual transmissions are just more common overseas, particularly in Europe. So, it’s interesting to learn that VW’s decision to drop the manual transmission from the 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI was driven by a lack of demand in Germany, and despite increased demand in the United States. The loss of the stick shift is a big deal–this is one of the first ever hot hatchbacks, after all–but it’s only the headline among a short list of notable changes the car receives for this model year.
Verdict: The 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI is still one of the best hatchbacks you can buy today. With a terrific powertrain and everyday practicality, it’s an ideal choice for anyone looking for a useful car that’s also extremely fun to drive.
4.6 Overall rating
(1,023 reviews)Customers say
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is widely celebrated for its fun and engaging driving experience across multiple model years. Owners consistently appreciate its sporty performance, comfortable interiors, and practicality as a hatchback. Many drivers enjoy the quick acceleration and responsive handling, making it an ideal choice for both daily commutes and spirited drives. However, some owners have pointed out concerns regarding back seat space in earlier models and the cost of maintenance, especially with electronic issues on some years. Overall, the GTI remains a favorite for its blend of performance and usability.
AI generated from the text of customer reviews.
What people say
This car is unique in its class, has beautiful interior, great handling and performance and overall great for the price would recommend 10/10
I am now seeking a replacement for my 2018 Audi TT Coupe. I need a car which is more practical , at a lower price point but still economical, quick and fun to drive. I have driven a 2023 Audi A3 , Mercedes CLA 250, Cadillac CT4 , BMW 230i and 330i , Honda Accord Hybrid -Sport and the VW GTI. The BMW comes closest to being a good choice but is 7k more than a GTI (although still 5 to 10k less than an Audi TT). Based on all my criteria I believe the GTI will be the best overall Swiss Army Knife of choices as it is fast , fun, economical, practical, sturdy , offers great value with the amount of standard equipment offered, and has a good warranty ( 4yr/50k overall. 3yrs roadside asst, 2yrs maint. plan. ) There are a few here which achieve higher satisfaction in some areas but when you consider overall the Swiss Army knife analogy is what makes a GTI a standout ...
Great fun fast car, six speed manual is great, get daily driver, very little turbo lag, I do not think there is a comparable for this car.
Handles extremely well. Quick. Comfortable. Ride. Better mileage on highway than I expected. Plenty of technology although more than average learning curve. Stylist design.
Adaptive suspension DSG dual clutch auto. Limited slip. Great AC. Handles great. Fair price for German built.
Volkswagen Golf GTI FAQs
Is the Volkswagen Golf GTI a good car?
CarGurus experts gave the 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI an overall rating of 7.8/10 and Volkswagen Golf GTI owners have rated the vehicle a 4.6/5 stars on average. If a vehicle has both strong expert and owner reviews, you can feel confident in its quality. If either expert reviews, owner reviews, or both are spotty, you might want to do some research to figure out where the car falls short.
Is the Volkswagen Golf GTI safe?
CarGurus experts gave the 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI a safety rating of 8/10.
What fuel types are available?
Gasoline engines are available.
-
New Volkswagen Golf GTI in Decatur IL
-
New Volkswagen Golf GTI in Bloomington IL
-
New Volkswagen Golf GTI in Peoria IL
-
New Volkswagen Golf GTI in Champaign IL
-
New Volkswagen Golf GTI in Saint Louis MO
-
New Volkswagen Golf GTI in Quincy IL
-
New Volkswagen Golf GTI in Terre Haute IN
-
New Volkswagen Golf GTI in Davenport IA
-
New Volkswagen Golf GTI in Clinton IA
-
All Used Cars
-
Manual Transmission Cars
-
Luxury Cars
-
Cars with Red Interior
-
Cheap Manual Cars
-
Hybrid Cars
-
Sports Cars
-
Electric SUVs
-
Cheap Trucks
-
Small Cars
-
Third Row SUVs
-
Three Quarter Ton Trucks
-
Lifted Trucks
-
Manual Transmission Trucks
-
Diesel Trucks
-
Hybrid SUVs
-
Dually Trucks
-
One Ton Trucks
-
Cheap SUVs
-
Lifted Ford Trucks
-
4x4 Trucks
-
Work Trucks
-
AWD SUVs
-
Ford Trucks
-
Chevrolet Trucks
-
Toyota Trucks
-
Trucks Under $10,000
-
Cars Under $15,000
-
Sports Cars Under $20,000
-
Trucks Under $20,000
-
Used Sedans for Sale with Low Mileage
-
Used SUVs / Crossovers for Sale with Low Mileage
-
Used Hatchbacks for Sale with Low Mileage
-
Used Convertibles for Sale with Low Mileage
-
Used Vans for Sale with Low Mileage
-
Used Minivans for Sale with Low Mileage
-
Used Pickup Trucks for Sale with Low Mileage
-
Used Coupes for Sale with Low Mileage
-
Used Wagons for Sale with Low Mileage