Even though the manual transmission was eliminated with the 2024 model, the Volkswagen Golf GTI still offers tremendous fun and functionality to consumers. This model has been a staple of the VW fleet for years, and it's not surprising that it maintains a large following.

This week in Grasso’s Garage we tested a slate blue metallic Golf GTI SE, and what fun it was!

Powered by a 2.0 TSI 4-cylinder engine and seven-speed automatic DSG transmission with Tipronic and Sport mode, the GTI is front-wheel drive and is all gas, chalking up 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque.

The 2025 GTI SE comes with 18-inch wheels standard and is offered in four exterior colors; the leather upgraded SE seating is multi-colored and is an additional $1,300. Accessories for the GTI SE are numerous, including bike rack, cargo box, upgraded center caps, and much more, and allow you to create a GTI that is unlike any other.

On the interior, the GTI has a bigger infotainment system over previous generations, but lacks a volume knob. Instead, it offers a slide volume adjustment with your finger. These kinds of changes irk a lot of drivers, me included, as there is no benefit to changing what works perfectly. I do enjoy the simplicity of the modern infotainment system, but I prefer the old fashion three-knob control system and push button utilities, perhaps merely proving my age.

The Golf delivers good fun and utility for an array of consumers at a decent price.

2025 Volkswagen GTI SE

MSRP: $37,420

MPG: 24 city / 32 highway / 29.4 as tested

As Tested: $38,645

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