Volkswagen of America experienced a strong first quarter in 2024, with deliveries increasing by 21 percent. SUVs were a major factor in driving this growth, but hot hatches also played a significant role. The demand for the GTI saw an impressive jump of 156 percent, with 2,412 units sold in the first six months of the year. Sales of the Golf R also increased by 125 percent compared to the same period in 2023, reaching 1,233 units. One potential factor influencing these sales numbers is the impending elimination of the manual gearbox option.
### The End of an Era: The Demise of the Manual Gearbox
Volkswagen announced that the upcoming Golf GTI and R Mk8.5 models will no longer be available with a manual transmission. This decision marks the end of an era for enthusiasts who appreciate the engagement of shifting gears themselves. Despite this, all Golfs sold in the US starting from the 2025 model year will come equipped with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
### Impact on Sales
The elimination of the manual gearbox option is expected to have a significant impact on sales, as manual transmissions were popular among Volkswagen enthusiasts. In 2023, VW reported that 50 percent of GTI buyers and 40 percent of Golf R buyers opted for the manual transmission. The Golf R was a unique offering in the US market, as it was exclusively available with a six-speed manual gearbox, unlike in Europe where it was sold with a DSG transmission.
### Performance Upgrades for US Models
The 2025 Golf GTI in the US is expected to receive a power boost compared to the previous model. The European version of the GTI has been upgraded to 261 hp, an increase of 20 hp over the pre-facelift model. The 2025 Golf R has not been fully revealed yet, but the previous model offered up to 328 hp in Europe, exceeding the 315 hp available in North America.
### Global Lineup Variations
While the US market primarily receives the sporty versions of the Golf, the global lineup includes a wider range of engines and configurations. Other markets have variations with 1.5- and 2.0-liter gasoline engines, as well as a 2.0-liter diesel engine option. The smaller gas engine and diesel variant continue to be offered with a six-speed manual gearbox. Additionally, there are hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions available, along with a more practical wagon variant and a high-performance 268-hp GTE model.
### Future Prospects
As Volkswagen transitions away from offering manual transmissions in the US market, enthusiasts may need to adapt to the changing landscape of automotive technology. While the manual gearbox has been a hallmark of driving engagement for many Volkswagen fans, the brand is moving towards more advanced and efficient transmission options. Despite this shift, VW continues to innovate and offer a diverse range of models to cater to varying customer preferences.