2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI 380 Marks the End of an Era for the Manual Transmissions
September 14 2023,
Volkswagen Canada has announced the 2024 Golf GTI 380 as the swan song for manual transmissions in its iconic hot hatch lineup. Exclusively available in the North American market, this special edition model comes with several unique features and will be offered in both “Autobahn” and “Performance” trims. The GTI 380's naming pays homage to the vehicle’s internal factory code and is a nod to the 2002 fourth-generation “337” special edition.
The GTI 380 is set to offer an array of eye-catching design elements. Available colours will include Deep Black Pearl, Kings Red Metallic, and Oryx White Pearl, in addition to the GTI 380-exclusive shades of Pomelo Yellow Metallic and Dolphin Gray Metallic. These colours will contrast sharply with the standard 19-inch gloss black multi-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels, equipped with summer performance tires. Also included are a gloss black roof and mirror caps.
Interior appointments for the 380 in “Autobahn” trim will feature classic Scalepaper Plaid cloth seats and honeycomb accents, paying homage to the GTI’s rich history. Those opting for the “Performance” trim will receive Vienna leather seating surfaces as standard, although Scalepaper Plaid can be selected per customer preference. The golf-ball inspired manual shift knob, a staple in nearly every generation of GTI, will continue in the 380 models.
When it comes to performance, the 2024 Golf GTI 380 will not disappoint. Powered by a turbocharged EA888 2.0L four-cylinder engine, the model will have access to a healthy 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Unfortunately, it will be the last Golf GTI offered with a 6-speed manual transmission, as future models will only feature the dual-clutch DSG transmission. DCC adaptive damping system will come standard on both available trims.
For those interested in making this last-of-its-kind purchase, the Golf GTI 380 will arrive at Canadian dealerships in early Fall 2023 with a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $36,895. The DSG-equipped GTI, meanwhile, will continue to be available in three trims for the 2024 model year, starting at $34,795. Note that the Golf R and Jetta models will also discontinue manual transmissions after this model year, while the sporty Jetta GLI will continue to offer a three-pedal version.
