2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI 380: A Farewell Salute to Manual Transmission

Volkswagen Canada has pulled the curtain back on the 2024 Golf GTI 380, signalling both an ode to manual-transmission purists and the final chapter for the three-pedal setup in its famed "hot hatch." Designed exclusively for the North American market, this special edition also serves as an homage to the vehicle's internal model code, with the "380" moniker tracing its roots back to the fourth-generation GTI “337” special edition from 2002.

If you're an enthusiast who's emotionally attached to the tactile experience of shifting gears manually, you might find the GTI 380's features compelling. The model will be the last of its kind to be outfitted with a 6-speed manual transmission. Future Golf GTIs will only offer the dual-clutch DSG transmission. Sadly, 2024 will also mark the final year of manual transmission production in other models from Volkswagen's stable, namely the Golf R and Jetta, although the sporty Jetta GLI will continue to offer a manual version.

To set it apart from its stablemates, the GTI 380 comes with distinctive design elements that are instantly noticeable. Two exclusive paint colors—Pomelo Yellow Metallic and Dolphin Gray Metallic—complement the vehicle’s standard hues of Deep Black Pearl, Kings Red Metallic, and Oryx White Pearl. The exterior further benefits from 19-inch gloss black multi-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels shod in summer performance tires, along with a gloss black roof and mirror caps. All these features make the car stand out without overshadowing the classic red detailing that the GTI has sported for years.

Internally, the GTI 380 is available in "Autobahn" and "Performance" trims, each furnished with its own set of upholstery options. The “Autobahn” trim will feature classic Scalepaper Plaid cloth seats and honeycomb accents. Those opting for the “Performance” trim will get Vienna leather seating surfaces as standard, although the iconic Scalepaper Plaid can be substituted upon customer request. A golf-ball inspired manual shift knob, a mainstay across nearly every GTI generation, also finds its way into the GTI 380’s cabin.

Under the hood, the GTI 380 shares its powertrain with the rest of the 2024 lineup—a turbocharged EA888 2.0L four-cylinder engine delivering 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. As for availability and pricing, expect to see the 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI 380 in Canadian dealerships by early Fall, carrying a starting MSRP of $36,895. Meanwhile, the DSG-equipped GTI continues to be available in three trims for MY2024, with a starting MSRP of $34,795.