2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI/Golf R Quick-Start Guide

Introduction to Your Golf

1. Digital Cockpit
Allows you to customize the presentation of vehicle information in the instrument cluster. The VIEW button on the steering wheel toggles between multiple main display views. The secondary display can be selected and configured using the horizontal menu buttons and the vertical arrow buttons on the right-side steering wheel controls.

2. Head-Up Display (not shown)
Projects selected information onto the windshield in the driver's field of view, such as current speed limit, vehicle speed, and driver assistance system actions. To turn on: select Vehicle menu > vehicle > Interior > Head-up display > toggle Head-up display to Active.

3. Quick Access Buttons
Provide fast access to often-used features below the Infotainment system:

• ASSIST: Opens a graphic interface to activate/deactivate and modify advanced driver assist systems.
• CLIMA: Opens climate control options (temperature, fan speed, airflow, etc.).
• MENU: Opens the Park Assist system menu for parking assistance.
• MODE: Opens the menu to select the vehicle's driving mode (affecting steering feel, engine sound, adaptive cruise control behavior, etc.).

4. Infotainment
Touch-sensitive icons control functions like radio, media, App-Connect, phone, vehicle functions, and navigation. Press, hold, and drag icons to reposition them.

5. Start-Stop System (not shown)
The engine automatically shuts off when the vehicle stops (e.g., at traffic lights) and restarts when the brake is released. It activates automatically when the ignition is switched on. An indicator light (A) shows its status. To deactivate, use the pull-down menu and press the Start/Stop button. (Available on DSG transmission only)

6. Automatic Transmission Selector Lever
With the vehicle on and brake pedal depressed, move the lever forward or backward to select a gear. Push past the pressure point to skip a gear. The selected gear position label will light up.

7. USB-C Port
USB Type C ports connect your mobile phone for data and charging. Ports are available in the cubby in front of the selector lever (data/charging) and in the rear (charging only). A compatible cable is required.

8. Steering Wheel Left Side Controls
Buttons for Driver Assistance features. Volume controls (slide finger or press) for radio, navigation, and phone calls. On Golf R models, press the mode button to select a driving mode.

9. Steering Wheel Right Side Controls

• Voice Control Button (c,O): Short press activates Volkswagen's native Voice Recognition; long press activates a paired phone's digital assistant.
• VIEW Button: Switches displays (Summary, Classic, Navigation, Driver Assistance, Special). Use menu buttons to select and configure secondary displays. Press and hold VIEW to show/hide secondary displays.
• OK Button (fQK): Confirms selections and answers phone calls.
• Steering Wheel Heating: Press to turn on/adjust heating level.
• Horizontal Menu Buttons: Navigate instrument cluster menus.
• Vertical Arrow Buttons: Navigate within a specific menu.
• Horizontal Arrow Buttons (kll>I): Change radio stations, scroll presets, or select media tracks.

10. Wireless Charging
Charges a Qi-capable mobile phone placed on the surface with the display facing up. An alert indicates when charging begins.

Touchscreen Infotainment/Climatronic System

Touchscreen Infotainment
The touchscreen controls many features, including Apps, Vehicle, Sound, Navigation, and Telephone. Icons can be customized by touching and holding, then dragging to a new location. Users can create custom 'widget pages' by swiping left, pressing and holding a widget, tapping Edit, tapping '+', choosing a layout, and then selecting widgets. Up to four layout screens are supported. Widgets can be edited by pressing and holding for 2 seconds.

The Climate Control widget offers swipeable screens. The Navigation widget allows easy destination input. The Phone widget displays call information. The Radio widget provides quick access to audio selections.

Radio []
Tap the radio widget to select channels (AM, FM, Sirius XM, Internet Radio). Use the @ and @ arrows to select stations or scroll through favorites.

Favorites ()
Press and hold a station to save it as a favorite. Access favorites via the () Tab. Edit/delete stations by touching the Edit icon.

Media
Playback media from data carriers and streaming services (Bluetooth, USB, Apple Music, etc.).

Help G)
Access the 'Help' application for more information and tips on using the Infotainment system.

Controlling Climatronic
Press the cA button below the Infotainment screen. Traditional controls are under the Classic Climate tab.

• On/Off: Tap the C) button at the top of the screen.
• Fan: Use touch-sensitive keys or the slider bar to adjust fan speed.
• Temp Sync: Press the SYNC button to set a consistent temperature for all zones based on the driver's settings.
• Temp Adjust via Touchscreen: Tap +/-, or press and hold the temperature number and drag left/right.
• Seat Heating/Ventilation: Tap icons on the climate screen to activate or adjust intensity. Quick access to seat heating by tapping two fingers on the touch control under the Infotainment system.
• Temp Adjust via Slider Bar: Use the slider bar to adjust temperature (left for colder, right for warmer).

Smart Climate
Offers climate control shortcuts:

• [Defrost Icon] : Clears fog and ice from the windshield.
• [Footwell Icon] and [Footwell Icon]: Directs warm or cool air to the footwell.
• [Steering Wheel Icon]: Directs warm air onto the steering wheel.
• [Fresh Air Icon]: Circulates fresh air into the interior.
• [Power Boost Icon] and [Power Boost Icon]: Temporarily increases heating or cooling power.

Rear Climatronic (Available on top-trim GTI Autobahn and Golf R)
Rear passengers can control their own temperature and heated seats. Access via the infotainment system by selecting cA and then REAR. Driver can adjust rear controls:

• AUTO [AUTO Icon]: Adjusts airflow and fan speeds to reach the desired temperature.
• [Airflow Icon]: Directs air to the upper body.
• [Footwell Icon]: Directs air into the footwell.
• [Off Icon]: Turns rear climate control off.
• [Lock Icon] : Disables rear climate controls, allowing driver control only.

TPMS/Keyless Access/Memory Seats

TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) Recalibration
After correcting low tire pressure, switch the ignition off and back on. Recalibrate as follows:

1. Switch ignition ON.
2. Turn on Infotainment system.
3. Tap Vehicle on the Infotainment touchscreen.
4. Tap Status on the left side of the screen.
5. Tap Tire Pressure.
6. Tap Set.
7. Tap OK if all tires meet required pressure.

The system adapts to new values and monitors tires after longer trips (at least 20 minutes) at various speeds.

Keyless Access
Allows unlocking/locking the vehicle without using the key, provided a valid key is within vicinity. The trunk locks/unlocks with the doors. Configure via Vehicle > vehicle > Exterior > Central Locking.

Unlocking the Vehicle
1. Ensure Keyless Access is configured.
2. Approach with a valid key.
3. Slip hand behind the handle and touch the back; vehicle unlocks, turn signals flash twice.
4. To unlock all doors, double-tap hand behind the handle.

Locking the Vehicle
1. Park the vehicle.
2. Touch the sensor on the outside of the door handle.
3. Turn signals flash once to confirm locking.

Memory Seats
1. Adjust driver's seat and mirrors to preferred positions.
2. Press and release the SET button.
3. Press and hold Memory button 1, 2, or 3 until a chime sounds. (Optional on GTI models)

Windshield Wipers/Light and Sight Panel

Windshield Wipers

• Intermittent/Rain-Sensing: Move wiper stalk up one click from OFF. Use the switch on top to vary interval (right = shorter interval). Ensure stalk is in OFF position before car wash.
• Continuous:
  - LOW: Move wiper stalk up two clicks from OFF.
  - HIGH: Move wiper stalk up three clicks from OFF.

Rear Wiper
Push lever one click away from you. Activates a single wipe if front wipers are on and car is in Reverse.

Service Position
Access via Vehicle > Exterior > Service position to move wipers into place.

Light and Sight Panel

• Turning on the Lights:
  1. Switch ignition ON.
  2. Tap the [Light Mode Button] repeatedly until the desired setting is highlighted in the Digital Cockpit Display.
• Light Indicators:
  - [Low Beam Icon] (Green): Low beams are on.
  - AUTO [AUTO Icon]: Automatic headlights enabled, adjusting to ambient brightness.
  - [Parking Light Icon] (Green): Parking and daytime running lights are on.
• Climatronic Defrost [Defrost Icon]: Clears fog/ice from windshield, dehumidifies air, and sets blower to high speed.
• Rear Window Defroster [Rear Defrost Icon]: Switches on/off while the engine is running; automatically switches off after 10 minutes.
• Fog Lights [Fog Light Icon]: If equipped, can be switched on when ignition is on and parking/low beams are active.
• Poor Weather Lights [Poor Weather Light Icon]: If equipped, helps illuminate the road in poor visibility. Requires ignition to be on.

Navigation

Press the NAVIGATION icon from the home screen to open the Navigation Home View, showing current position and suggested destinations.

To enter a destination:

1. Press the Navigation icon on the touchscreen.
2. Select the Search tab.
3. Enter address (House number, Street, City) or Point of Interest (POI).
4. Select the correct address from the drop-down suggestion bar.
5. Select Start to begin the route.

*Requires acceptance of myVW Terms of Service. Standard text and data rates may apply. Always pay careful attention to the road and do not drive while distracted. Entering destinations or changing settings can only be done when the vehicle is stationary.

Additional Settings
Modify route criteria via Navigation menu > Settings > Route guidance > Route options, or tap

Cancel Active Route Guidance
Tap the X to the right of the route plan.

Alternative Navigation
Mirror smartphone apps (maps, etc.) to the Infotainment screen via Volkswagen App-Connect using a USB-C port or wirelessly.

Car-Net Plus Premium Navigation
Subscribe for real-time navigation information, traffic, route calculations, and map updates. Requires VW Car-Net activation during myVW enrollment. (Excludes Golf GTI S trim models)

IQ.DRIVE Features

Activate Cruise Control or Adaptive Cruise Control (*depending on equipment)
Locate buttons on the left side of the multi-function steering wheel. Press the [Cruise Control Button] to activate. A speedometer icon or [ACC Icon] will appear in the instrument cluster.

Set Cruising Speed
1. Reach cruising speed, press the SET button.
2. A green cruise control indicator light [Cruise Indicator] will illuminate.
3. Use +/– buttons for 1 mph increments, or press and hold for 5 mph increments.

Cancel and Resume Cruising Speed
1. Cancel by pressing the brake pedal or the [Cruise Control Button].
2. The green indicator light will go off.
3. Resume set speed by pressing the RES button.

Turning Cruise Control System Off
Press the [Cruise Control Button] twice.

Adaptive Cruise Control Distance Level Setting
Helps maintain speed and distance from the vehicle ahead. Press the [Distance Button] to cycle through five distance levels.

Travel Assist System
Within system limits, enables the vehicle to steer, accelerate, and brake automatically, keeping it centered in lane and maintaining a set distance from vehicles ahead. Driver must maintain supervision. To enable: Press [Cruise Control Button] to activate ACC, press [Travel Assist Button] to switch to Travel Assist, then press SET at desired speed. Cancel by pressing brake or [Cruise Control Button]. Resume by pressing RES.

Emergency Assist
Recognizes driver inactivity and can keep the vehicle in lane, slowing it to a stop if necessary. Active when Lane Assist or ACC are active and the vehicle is moving forward, and lane markers are detected. Not a replacement for driver attention.

Deactivating Adaptive Cruise Control
To use Conventional Cruise Control: Press the [ACC Deactivation Button], scroll to Speed in the vertical menu, select Cruise Control in the Digital Cockpit, and press OK.

Assistance System Setting
Access the Assistance system settings menu in the Infotainment system to modify Driver Assistance feature operation. Press the ASSIST button, then touch the feature image or select from the system menu list.

Bluetooth/Voice Control

Pairing a Compatible Phone
1. With ignition on and vehicle in Park, turn on Infotainment system.
2. On your phone, search for new devices and select 'MY VW XXXX' (last four digits of VIN).
3. Confirm the PIN displayed on both phone and Infotainment screen, then press Pair.
4. Allow contacts to sync.
5. Select Handsfree for pairing.

*Enable future automatic connections. Pairing must be completed within 30 seconds.

Primary and Secondary Phone Functionality
Two phones can be connected simultaneously. Only contacts from the primary phone are shown. Switch phones by tapping the phone name in the top right of the Phone screen and selecting the desired phone. (Not available with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto™)

Answer an Incoming Call
Press the OK button on the steering wheel or the green Phone icon on the Infotainment screen.

Volume Settings
Use the Volume Up/Down buttons on the right side of the steering wheel.

End a Call
Press the red Phone icon in the phone menu.

Voice Control
Control navigation, climate, media, and telephone using voice recognition. Activate via the Talk button (c,O) on the steering wheel or by saying 'Hello Volkswagen'.

• To enable activation word: Tap Home > Settings > Voice control > enable Activation word.
• To launch via steering wheel button: Short press for in-vehicle voice recognition; long press for paired phone's digital assistant.

Voice prompts vary by language and Car-Net account status. Refer to the Owner's Manual for full details and compatible languages.

Voice Control Tips
• Say contact names exactly as stored.
• For multiple numbers per contact, use specific phrases (e.g., 'Call John Smith work') or the system may prompt for selection.
• For speech commands, tap Help > Voice operation icon.

Cancel Voice Control or Active Route Guidance
Press the Voice Control button (c,O) or say 'Cancel'.

App-Connect

Volkswagen App-Connect displays and controls cell phone content on the Infotainment screen. Pair your smartphone via Bluetooth; select apps appear on the touchscreen. Connect via USB or wireless charging mat.

*Always pay careful attention to the road and do not drive while distracted. Not all features available on all operating systems. Standard text and data rates apply. App-Connect features require compatible device, operating system, and mobile apps.

Apple CarPlay®
Use your iPhone while driving. Control music, get directions, view calendar, and use maps. Easier and more fun navigation.

Wired App-Connect with Apple CarPlay
1. Ensure latest iOS on iPhone.
2. Unlock iPhone and plug into USB port with a certified lightning cable.
3. Select 'Connect' when prompted on Infotainment.
OR
1. Pair iPhone via Bluetooth.
2. Select Apple CarPlay when prompted.
3. Select 'Allow' on iPhone to access while locked.

*You must have had an unlocked iPhone within the past hour. When connected via Apple CarPlay, iPhone cannot be used as a MEDIA source or Bluetooth device. Compatible with iPhone 5 or higher running iOS 7.1 or later.

Wireless App-Connect with Apple CarPlay
Connect wirelessly to reduce cable clutter. After initial wired connection and selecting Apple CarPlay, your iPhone may ask to use Apple CarPlay wirelessly for future connections.

Apple CarPlay Features
• Home: Return to Apple CarPlay home screen or Dashboard. Long press activates Siri.
• Phone: Use Siri for calls, missed calls, voicemail.
• Maps: Apple Maps for directions, traffic, 3D experiences. Activate Siri and say 'Navigate to [destination]'.
• Messages: Siri sends, reads, and replies to text messages.
• Volkswagen Logo Icon: Returns to the Volkswagen native user interface with CarPlay features still active. To charge iPhone only, disconnect from CarPlay, then select Disconnect.

Android Auto™
Use Android applications on the Infotainment screen. Talk to Google for directions, texts, or calls, hands-free.

Wired App-Connect with Android Auto
1. Ensure latest Android™ OS and download Android Auto from Google Play Store. Active Google account and internet connection required.
2. Plug Android phone into USB port with a certified USB Cable.
3. Press the App key on the touchscreen.
4. Select Android Auto on touchscreen. Ensure phone is unlocked OR pair via Bluetooth and select 'Use Android Auto'.
5. Select OK for data transfer prompt.
6. Follow on-device instructions.
7. Android Auto appears on Infotainment touchscreen.

*Requires Android phone running Android 6.0 or higher, active data plan, and Android Auto app. Google, Android, Google Play and Android Auto are trademarks of Google LLC.

Wireless App-Connect with Android Auto
Connect wirelessly. Pair phone via Bluetooth, then select 'Use Android Auto' or 'Cancel'.

Android Auto Features
• Google Assistant: Use voice commands ('Hey Google') for messages, directions, media control.
• Navigation: Predictive navigation with turn-by-turn directions, traffic, and estimated travel time.
• Phone: Listen/reply to texts, make calls, check voicemail.
• Home Screen: Returns to the Android Auto home screen.
• Music and Audio: Access artists, songs, playlists; stream from apps like Pandora, Spotify.

Tapping the Exit icon returns to the Volkswagen native user interface. Select Disconnect to exit Android Auto.

5-Year Included Safe & Secure Plan

Drive with confidence knowing help is available. Your 5-year included plan includes:

• Emergency Assistance: Press the SOS Button for help; a specialist can send assistance to your vehicle's location.
• Automatic Crash Notifications: If airbags deploy, a specialist will contact you to see if you need help.
• Anti-Theft Alerts: Receive alerts on your smartphone via the myVW app when an intrusion detection alert is activated. (Requires myVW app)
• Information Assistance: Use the i-button to call agents for help while keeping hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
• Stolen Vehicle Locator: If stolen, a specialist can work with authorities to access your vehicle's location remotely (upon authorization).

Enjoy the 5-year plan by signing up for myVW and activating Car-Net.

Warning/ Indicator Lights

For additional information on indicator lights, refer to your vehicle's Owner's Manual.

• Central warning light: General warning.
• Lane Assist in control, Semi-automatic vehicle control in a medical emergency (Emergency Assist) is functioning: Indicates driver assistance system status.
• Collision warning: Alerts to potential forward collision.
• Electronic parking brake: Indicates parking brake status.
• Range calculation malfunction: Issue with estimated driving range.
• Airbag system or safety belt pretensioner malfunction, Airbag system or safety belt pretensioner deactivated with diagnostic equipment: Indicates airbag system issues.
• PARK Electronic parking brake: Parking brake engaged.
• Brake system malfunction: Serious issue with the braking system.
• Brake fluid level too low: Low brake fluid level.
• Front brake pads worn: Indicates brake pad wear.
• Depress the brake pedal: Reminder to press the brake pedal.
• ACC driver intervention warning: ACC requires driver input.
• Engine coolant system malfunction: Issue with the cooling system.
• Autonomous Emergency Braking not available: AEB system is inactive.
• Turn signals, left or right: Indicates turn signal operation.
• Emergency flashers switched on: Hazard lights are active.
• Cruise control switched on, regulation active: Cruise control is engaged.
• Steering malfunction: Issue with the steering system.
• 12 V energy supply malfunction: Problem with the vehicle's electrical system.
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) regulates, no vehicle driving ahead is detected: ACC is active but not tracking a vehicle.
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) regulates, vehicle driving ahead is detected: ACC is active and tracking a vehicle.
• Engine control malfunction: Issue with the engine management system.
• Fasten safety belt: Reminder to fasten seatbelt.
• High beams or headlight flasher: Indicates high beam usage.
• High beam control active: Automatic high beam system is active.
• ESC malfunction or ESC switched off by the system: Electronic Stability Control system issue.
• ESC or ASR is working: ESC or Traction Control is actively intervening.
• Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) malfunction: ABS system issue.
• Sport driving mode: Vehicle is in Sport mode.
• Individual driving mode: Vehicle is in a custom driving mode.
• Autonomous Emergency Braking starts: AEB system is actively braking.
• Special driving mode: Vehicle is in a special driving mode.
• Drift driving mode: Vehicle is in Drift mode.
• Race driving mode: Vehicle is in Race mode.
• Driving light failure: Headlight or daytime running light malfunction.
• Washer fluid level too low: Low washer fluid level.
• Windshield wiper malfunction: Wiper system issue.
• Rain/light sensor malfunction: Issue with the sensors.
• Distance warning: Indicates distance to vehicle ahead.
• Service due: Vehicle requires scheduled maintenance.
• Tire pressure too low: Low tire pressure warning.
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) malfunction: TPMS system issue.
• Malfunction in the emergency call system: Issue with the eCall system.
• Limited function in the emergency call system: eCall system has reduced functionality.
• Outside temperature is below +39 °F (+4 °C): Indicates freezing temperatures.

Failure to heed warning lights and instrument cluster text messages can cause the vehicle to break down in traffic and result in a collision and serious personal injury. Always stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.