Volkswagen Waves Goodbye to Stick Shift with 2024 Golf GTI 380 Special Edition

In a move that marks the end of an era, Volkswagen has decided to discontinue manual transmission for its iconic Golf GTI. To commemorate this significant turn, the automaker is rolling out a unique North American equipment package named the 2024 Golf GTI 380.

This exclusive package will come standard on all 2024 Golf GTIs that sport manual transmissions, covering the S, SE, and Autobahn trims. Buyers can look forward to DCC adaptive damping and 19-inch multi-spoke aluminum alloy wheels, a feature originally from the Golf R 20th Anniversary Edition. These wheels are complemented by summer performance tires and enhanced by gloss-black roof and mirror caps, along with red accents.

The interior isn't left behind either. It comes fitted with a golf ball-shaped gear shift knob and honeycomb motifs.

While S and SE models will have Scalepaper Plaid cloth seats, the Autobahn variant offers luxurious Vienna leather seats, which are also optional for the SE trim.

Named as a tribute to the 2002 fourth-generation GTI 337 special edition, the GTI 380 comes with Volkswagen's EA888 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that delivers 241 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. This engine will only pair with a six-speed manual transmission. However, standard GTIs and Rs will continue to feature the seven-speed DSG transmission.

Adding to its exclusivity, the GTI 380 will be offered in a unique Graphite Gray Metallic color. It will also share other paint options with the general 2024 Golf GTI line-up, including shades like Deep Black Pearl and Kings Red Metallic.

Pricing starts at $32,485 for the S model, $37,285 for the SE, and $40,625 for the Autobahn trim in the U.S. For Canadian buyers, the starting price is set at $36,895 CAD. Sales will commence in early fall 2023.