The iconic Volkswagen Golf with a manual transmission is bidding farewell in style. Volkswagen has introduced a special edition to commemorate the last year of the manual hot hatch, offered for both the Golf GTI and Golf R. After a remarkable run of over four decades, the manual-equipped Golf GTI is now heading into retirement.
The term ‘380’ pays homage to the Mk8’s internal designation and also honors the fourth-gen GTI 337 special edition, available in 2002. This lineage traces back to the Mk1 GTI from the 1970s, when the Golf was named Rabbit in the United States and Canada. This nostalgic connection might resurface in the upcoming months, possibly as a trim level or special edition.
It boasts an exclusive Graphite Gray Metallic hue, reserved solely for the 2024 Volkswagen Golf’s manual transmission variations: S, SE, and Autobahn trims. Additionally, buyers have the option to select from six other available paint options.
The DCC adaptive damping system is a standard feature on this model, which cruises on multi-spoke glossy black 19-inch aluminium alloy wheels. These wheels are taken from the Golf R 20th Anniversary Edition and are paired with summer performance tires.
Volkswagen has included a gloss black painted roof and mirror caps, creating a striking contrast against the GTI’s red exterior accents.
As homage to the GTI legacy, the GTI 380 special edition features a manual shift knob inspired by a golf ball. The S and SE trims are outfitted with the traditional Scalepaper Plaid cloth seats. Meanwhile, the Autobahn trim includes Vienna leather seating as a standard feature, while for the SE trim, it’s available as an optional upgrade for an additional cost.
Propelling the Golf GTI 380 is a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, generating 241hp and 370Nm of torque. This powertrain is exclusively linked to a six-speed manual transmission, marking its final appearance. As for the Golf GTI and R models, they will persist with the dual-clutch seven-speed DSG automatic transmission.
Anticipated to debut in early September 2023, the special edition will be available for purchase in selected markets but probably not in Malaysia. The base GTI 380 S is priced at $32,485 (RM150k). Moving up the lineup, the GTI 380 SE starts at $37,285 (RM173k), and for the top-tier GTI 380 Autobahn, customers can expect a price of $40,625 (RM188k).
Closer to home, we just witnessed the launch of the 2023 Golf R. The CKD Mk8 Golf R has an estimated price range of RM330,000 to RM350,000. Customer deliveries are anticipated to start in the fourth quarter of this year.
