Volkswagen Golf GTI vs Ford Fusion

2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI
2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI
$32,445MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2018 Ford Fusion
2018 Ford Fusion
$22,215MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI
$32,445MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2018 Ford Fusion
$22,215MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced

1985-1992

Years produced

2006-2020

MSRP

$32,445

MSRP

$22,215

Listings

3883

Listings

6266

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.5 out of 10

Pros

  • Fun to drive

  • Improved technology

  • Impressive fuel economy

Cons

  • Price increase reduces overall value

  • Frustrated haptic slider controls remain

Reviews Summary

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.

Reviews Summary

Want a basic but stylish car? How about a hybrid, or even a plug-in hybrid? What about an undeniably luxurious sedan, or a genuine sports sedan? The 2018 Ford Fusion lineup has them all, ranging in price from just over $22,000 all the way up to just under $44,000.

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 241 hp I4

Engine

2.5L 175 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

241 hp @ 5000 rpm

Horsepower

MPG City

24

MPG City

21

MPG Highway

32

MPG Highway

32
2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI
2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI
$32,445MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2018 Ford Fusion
2018 Ford Fusion
$22,215MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI
$32,445MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2018 Ford Fusion
$22,215MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced
1985-1992
2006-2020
MSRP
$32,445
$22,215
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.6

4.5

Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10

Read full review

8.5 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Fun to drive

  • Improved technology

  • Impressive fuel economy

Cons

  • Price increase reduces overall value

  • Frustrated haptic slider controls remain

Summary

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.

Want a basic but stylish car? How about a hybrid, or even a plug-in hybrid? What about an undeniably luxurious sedan, or a genuine sports sedan? The 2018 Ford Fusion lineup has them all, ranging in price from just over $22,000 all the way up to just under $44,000.
Video

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.0L 241 hp I4
2.5L 175 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
241 hp @ 5000 rpm
MPG City
24
21
MPG Highway
32
32
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