Volkswagen GTI With Integrated ChatGPT Shown At CES 2024
Volkswagen will offer ChatGPT-integrated voice assistant software in a slew of models, including the new Golf, as well as the ID.7, ID.4, ID.5, ID.3, Tiguan, and the all-new Passat (which won’t be coming to the US). The brand says that generative AI will offer “new capabilities that go far beyond the previous voice control [software],” like control over the infotainment system, nav, and climate control. The IDA voice assistant program will also provide additional information, like “enriching conversations, clearing up questions, interacting in intuitive language, receiving vehicle-specific information, and much more.”
Furthermore, integration should be relatively seamless, and VW says that owners will activate the voice assistant in the traditional ways, either by hitting a button or by saying “Hello IDA.” The assistant will not have access to vehicle data, and VW says that the “highest level of data protection” is maintained because the assistant deletes questions and answers immediately.
The announcement was made alongside new images of the upcoming Golf refresh, shown here in GTI guise, and the ID.7 electric sedan. By and large, the Golf looks much like a facelift for the current MK8 generation model, with some changes already visible. For example, the wheel now features physical buttons in place of the awful haptics and a larger, revised infotainment system. Outside, the new model also sports updated lighting and facias. We should be seeing the rest soon, as the facelifted model is reportedly coming later in January 2024.
Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here.
Chase is an automotive journalist with years of experience in the industry. He writes for outlets like Edmunds and AutoGuide, among many others. When not writing, Chase is in front of the camera over at The Overrun, his YouTube channel run alongside his friend and co-host Jobe Teehan. If he's not writing reviews of the latest in cars or producing industry coverage, Chase is at home in the driver's seat of his own (usually German) sports cars.
More by Chase Bierenkoven
Comments
Join the conversation
I’m noting that the 2025 GTI will apparently correct some of the infotainment issues of this generation’s Mk 8, issues that kept me from upgrading to the current generation.
But VW has taken away the manual transmission from the GTI.
I’ll hold on to my Mk 7.5 with real knobs to adjust the radio and climate control.
And I’ll keep shifting for myself as long as I am fortunate enough to have arms and legs.
If I need a new hot hatch or small sedan, I know there are some cool Hondas and Acuras waiting for my money.