Jul 17, 2025
Drivers side view of a black 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI S

Two of the sportiest models at Doral Volkswagen are the 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI and the 2025 Volkswagen Golf R. Both of these compact, sport-tuned hatchbacks are ideal for unleashing your inner speedster, particularly if you live in the city or suburbs where a smaller vehicle comes in handy. Check out the performance specs and other key features of each model to decide which sporty VW hot hatch is right for you. 

The 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs. the 2025 Volkswagen Golf R: Performance Hatchback Showdown at Doral Volkswagen

Each VW hatchback is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder motor, a seven-speed automatic transmission, sport suspension, and progressive steering. The progressive steering system reduces steering input at lower speeds for more precision and increases the steering ratio at higher speeds for more stability. 

Read more: The 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs. the 2025 Volkswagen Golf R: Performance Hatchback Showdown

Where the two models differ in terms of performance comes down to mechanical features. The Golf GTI has a limited front slip differential, vented front and rear brake rotors, and selectable drive modes. The Golf R has Adaptive Chassis Control, an XDS Cross Differential System, and a signature R-Performance 4MOTION AWD system with built-in torque vectoring to master the road with optimized traction in all weather conditions. 

Exterior Features

The Golf GTI has 18-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires, while the Golf R is optimized for sporty performance with 19-inch alloy wheels and summer performance tires. Each model has an Adaptive Front Lighting System, automatic LED headlights and daytime running lights, and Dynamic Cornering Lights to illuminate curbs as the vehicle turns corners. A front grille with a light bar and illuminated VW logo is also standard.

The power-folding and power-adjustable side mirrors have position memory, heated glass, puddle lights, and an auto-tilt feature on the passenger’s side mirror to maximize your view of the road. Features like rain-detecting windshield wipers are standard on both models, while the Golf R adds a power panoramic sunroof and Poor Weather Lights to the standard equipment package. 

Interior Features

While each model has VW’s sophisticated Climatronic Touch automatic climate control system, the GTI has a single-zone system, and the R comes with a three-zone system for customized climate settings for all riders. Heated front row seats are standard for the Golf GTI, while the Golf R adds heated second-row outboard seats for rear rider comfort. Both models have a 60/40 folding rear seat with a pass-through space. 

Both models are outfitted with a 12.9-inch Discover Pro infotainment system with HD radio, integrated navigation, and App-Connect connectivity to integrate your preferred entertainment apps on the central touchscreen. Each model also has a 10.25-inch Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro for a customized digital gauge cluster. 

The VW Golf models are fun to drive with turbocharged powertrains, sport-tuned mechanical features, and standard equipment packages that prioritize comfort and convenience. Book a test drive for your favorite model at Doral Volkswagen in Doral, FL.