Potential pricing for Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI
The new Golf 8 GTI has been a hot topic for Volkswagen, so it came as exciting news when it was launched in its domestic market of Germany. Shipping will be available in standard seven-speed DSG form.
The Golf 8 GTI was revealed back in February 2020, alongside the Golf 8 GTD. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged hatchback has been tuned to deliver 180 kW and 370 Nm of torque.
The new Golf 8 GTI comes with a new multifunctional leather sports steering wheel that features touch controls and an optionally joined Travel Assist button which allows ‘assisted driving’ from speeds of 210 km/h. It also comes standard with VW’S Discover Media infotainment system as well as an optional 10-inch Discover Pro system.
With the new Golf 8 GTI going on sale in Germany with a starting price of €37 607,38, this equals to R735 125 at the current exchange rate. Keep in mind that the current Golf 7 GTI retails for R614 200 and the limited-edition Golf 7 GTI TCR at R669 000.
The Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI launch date in South Africa has seen delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, moving from the last quarter of 2020 to the first quarter of 2021.
Also worth a look: the Volkswagen Golf and the Volkswagen Touareg.
FAQ
Q: What does the 2021 Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI cost in South Africa?
The Golf 8 GTI was expected to launch in South Africa with an estimated price of around R735,125 based on the German pricing, though final local pricing may vary due to import duties and local market factors.
Q: Is the 2021 Golf 8 GTI worth buying over the Golf 7 GTI?
The Golf 8 GTI offers 180 kW and 370 Nm compared to the Golf 7 GTI's lower output, plus it gets upgraded tech like the new infotainment system and Travel Assist, making it worth the premium if you want the latest performance hatch.
Q: What engine does the Golf 8 GTI have?
The Golf 8 GTI packs a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 180 kW and 370 Nm of torque, paired with a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission.
Q: When did the Golf 8 GTI launch in South Africa?
The Golf 8 GTI launch in South Africa was delayed from late 2020 to the first quarter of 2021 due to COVID-19 pandemic disruptions.
Q: What are the main differences between Golf 8 GTI and Golf 7 GTI?
The Golf 8 GTI gets more power at 180 kW versus the Golf 7 GTI's lower output, a new multifunctional steering wheel with touch controls, upgraded infotainment systems, and Travel Assist technology for semi-autonomous driving up to 210 kph.
Should You Buy It?
The 2021 Golf 8 GTI is a solid yes if you're after the ultimate hot hatch under R800,000 in South Africa. With 180 kW and 370 Nm on tap, plus all the latest tech wizardry like Travel Assist and the slick new infotainment setup, it justifies the estimated R735,125 price tag over the older Golf 7 GTI at R614,200. Sure, it's a decent chunk more cash than its predecessor, but you're getting genuine performance upgrades and tech that'll keep you grinning for years. The best performance hatch under R750,000 in SA is definitely the Golf 8 GTI, especially if you can snag one of the early units before prices inevitably creep up.
