Honda Civic vs Volkswagen Golf GTI

The eighth-generation Volkswagen Golf GTI was introduced for the 2022 model year and enters 2024 essentially unchanged. The main news is that 2024 marks the last year a manual transmission will be available in this classic hot hatchback. Volkswagen is making a 380 special edition package standard on all stick-shift GTIs to commemorate that. A more substantial update is expected for the 2025 model year.

Verdict: The GTI is a great all-rounder held back by poor interior design choices and a staid personality.

As it previously did for the Accord and the CR-V, Honda has now divided the Civic lineup by powertrain. This review focuses on the gas-only Civic, offered in LX and Sport trims or as the Civic Si, which we flew to Nashville to test drive. The Civic Hybrid (offered in Sport or Sport Touring trims) and the Honda Civic Type R are covered as separate models.

Verdict: We absolutely recommend the 2025 Honda Civic Si for driving enthusiasts. For those new to the road and anyone looking for an affordable sedan or hatchback, the base Civic is a great choice.