Volkswagen Canada has just lifted the veil on its 2024 Golf GTI 380, earmarked as a special send-off edition to the manual transmission in the iconic GTI lineup. Slated to be the last of its kind with a manual gearbox, the Golf GTI 380 is making waves in the North American market with its unique attributes. The "380" in the moniker takes inspiration from the internal model code and serves as an acknowledgment to its predecessor, the fourth-generation "337" special edition launched in 2002.
Distinctive Design Elements
The GTI 380 is no slouch when it comes to exterior aesthetics. Two trims are available—“Autobahn” and “Performance,” each offering a distinctive exterior package. The vehicle is adorned with 19-inch multi-spoke gloss black aluminum-alloy wheels outfitted with high-performance summer tires. Furthermore, both trims come standard with a gloss black roof and matching mirror caps. For an extra flair, two special metallic exterior colours, Pomelo Yellow and Dolphin Gray, join the standard palette of Deep Black Pearl, Kings Red Metallic, and Oryx White Pearl.
Dynamic Comfort and Handling
Driving enthusiasts are in for a treat as the GTI 380 comes standard with Volkswagen's DCC adaptive damping system. This state-of-the-art feature ensures optimal road handling while adapting to various driving conditions. The DCC system is not an optional add-on but a standard feature across both trims, emphasizing the marque's commitment to performance and comfort.
The Interior: A Nod to Tradition
On the inside, the Autobahn trim echoes GTI’s rich history with its classic Scalepaper Plaid cloth seats and honeycomb accents. If you opt for the Performance trim, Vienna leather seating surfaces become the default, although Scalepaper Plaid can be requested as an alternative. Retaining its iconic golf-ball inspired manual shift knob, the GTI 380 salutes its lineage in a subtle yet impactful manner.
Power and Performance
Under the hood, the GTI 380 is propelled by the turbocharged EA888 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, churning out 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Marking the end of an era, this will be the final Golf GTI available with a 6-speed manual transmission. Future models will solely feature the dual-clutch DSG transmission.
Availability and Pricing
The Golf GTI 380 is set to arrive at Canadian dealerships in the early Fall of 2023, with a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $36,895. For those who still wish to stick with automatic transmission, DSG-equipped GTI models will be available in three trims, starting at an MSRP of $34,795.
In summary, the 2024 Golf GTI 380 not only honors the legacy of the manual transmission but also raises the bar in terms of design, performance, and comfort. With manual gearboxes also bidding adieu in the 2024 Golf R and Jetta models, the GTI 380 serves as Volkswagen's poignant farewell to a beloved automotive tradition.