Volkswagen launches updated Golf GTI as Polo Vivo recall affects more than 25k cars

Volkswagen has launched the updated Golf GTI, introducing styling changes, more power and new technology, as the brand continues to evolve one of its most iconic performance hatchbacks.

The launch comes as more than 25,000 Volkswagen Polo Vivo vehicles in South Africa have been recalled due to a handbrake-related issue affecting certain models sold over the past year.

Motoring journalist Ernest Page told CapeTalk he rode in the new Golf GTI during a launch event, saying Volkswagen had made several updates following feedback on the previous generation.

Golf GTI gets styling updates and more power

Volkswagen is calling the updated model the Golf GTI 8.5, a facelift of the eighth-generation GTI.

The previous generation did not perform as strongly in the market as earlier GTI models, prompting Volkswagen to address several issues.

The changes include new exterior styling, updated wheels and improvements inside the cabin.

One of the biggest updates is the return of physical steering-wheel buttons after drivers complained about the previous touch-sensitive controls.

“If you use the steering wheel properly with the correct hand position, you’d hit the heating system on the steering wheel,” Page said.

“So, they’ve changed those buttons now to actual physical buttons.”

The infotainment system has also been improved with a faster centre screen.

Volkswagen has increased power as well, with the new GTI producing 195kW and 370Nm.

A more sophisticated Golf GTI

The latest Golf GTI is priced at R908,000, keeping it below the R1 million mark.

Page said the GTI has evolved into a more refined performance car compared with earlier generations.

“It’s a lot more of a sophisticated car. It’s not a raw performance boy-racer car anymore,” he said.

While still fun to drive, he believes the Golf GTI now competes more with premium vehicles rather than traditional hot hatch rivals.

“I think the person who buys a GTI is looking for an alternative to something like an Audi or a BMW.”

Polo Vivo recall affects thousands of cars

Separately, the National Consumer Commission (NCC) has announced a recall affecting more than 25,000 Volkswagen Polo Vivo vehicles.

The recall applies to cars sold between February 2025 and February 2026.

The issue involves the height of rivets used in the handbrake mechanism, which could cause the parking brake to disengage in certain situations.

Page said recalls are common in the automotive industry and usually involve parts supplied by external manufacturers.

“There’s a small percentage of those cars that are affected,” he said.

Owners can take their cars to a Volkswagen dealership for a free inspection, which takes about 15 minutes.

If the issue is found, the vehicle will be booked in for repairs once replacement parts arrive.

What Polo Vivo owners should do

Volkswagen has advised drivers to take precautions until their vehicles are inspected.

Drivers of manual Polo Vivos should park in first gear, while those with automatic models should ensure the car is fully in park.

Motorists have also been advised to avoid parking on inclines until the vehicle has been checked.

Affected owners can contact their nearest Volkswagen dealership to confirm whether their car is part of the recall.

No Polo facelift planned for 2026

Meanwhile, Volkswagen has confirmed that a Polo facelift is not planned for 2026.

Page said the brand is still considering updates for the future, but there are currently no confirmed plans for a facelift.

However, Volkswagen is expected to release a Polo GTI Edition 20 update.

For more information, listen to Page on CapeTalk’s Lunch with Pippa Hudson using the audio player below: