Volkswagen Golf GTI vs Tesla Model 3

2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI
2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI
$32,445MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Tesla Model 3
2026 Tesla Model 3
$36,990MSRP
Overview
2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI
$32,445MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Tesla Model 3
$36,990MSRP
Overview

Overview

Years produced

1985-1992

Years produced

2017-Present

MSRP

$32,445

MSRP

$36,990

Listings

3883

Listings

5458

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10

Expert reviews

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

No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 241 hp I4

Engine

425 hp Electric

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

RWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

241 hp @ 5000 rpm

Horsepower

EV Battery Capacity

EV Battery Capacity

82 kWh

MPG City

24

MPG City

145

MPG Highway

32

MPG Highway

128

Battery Charge Time (240V)

Battery Charge Time (240V)

11.7 hours
2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI
2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI
$32,445MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Tesla Model 3
2026 Tesla Model 3
$36,990MSRP
Overview
2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI
$32,445MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Tesla Model 3
$36,990MSRP
Overview

Overview

Years produced
1985-1992
2017-Present
MSRP
$32,445
$36,990
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.6

4.7

Expert reviews

7.8 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.

Video
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.0L 241 hp I4
425 hp Electric
Drive Train
FWD
RWD
Seating Capacity
5
5
Horsepower
241 hp @ 5000 rpm
EV Battery Capacity
82 kWh
MPG City
24
145
MPG Highway
32
128
Battery Charge Time (240V)
11.7 hours
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