The New Volkswagen Golf - A Big Advancement

The Golf has undergone a major update, marking a new technological age for Volkswagen.

The Volkswagen Golf is one of the most popular models in the hatchback market - so far in 2019 it has accounted for over 45,000 new car registrations. However, with model updates from rivals like the Ford Focus and Mercedes-Benz A-Class, the Golf needed a refresh to stay prominent in the current market.

Welcome the Mk 8 Golf. The new design remains undoubtedly Golf, but with major styling updates for a futuristic look. Whilst the side view of the Golf remains relatively unchanged, the bumpers have gotten larger, the LED headlights are now slimmer, and the bonnet and side creases are sharper - and those with a keen eye will notice that the rear LED light cluster is similar to that of the T-Roc. High-spec variants will get Volkswagen’s new IQ.LIGHT technology, which adapts the standard main beam LED lights to the road by dimming them accordingly when it detects an oncoming traffic.

The cabin has also undergone a sizeable transformation, which will no doubt be the benchmark for Volkswagens to come. The 8.25" infotainment screen - which once sat flush with the dashboard - now extrudes from the centre console, and can be increased to an optional 10” display depending on trim level. As standard, the Golf now comes with a 10.25” Digital Cockpit Display, and drivers can also add a head-up display.

A key theme in the interior is simplicity, which is characterised by a significantly smaller gear shifter and uninterrupted air vents. The buttons have been digitalised, enhancing the car's premium feel - even the windscreen heating and lighting options have been formed into a touch-pad style cluster next to the instrument display.

For the first time ever, the Mk 8 Golf will see hybrid engines. The mild hybrids, dubbed the ‘eTSI’, will be available from launch, and contain a 48-V belt starter generator and a 48-V lithium-ion battery paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch (DSG) gearbox. Three outputs will be available: 110PS, 130PS and 150PS, providing additional fuel-saving technology, as well as a stronger moving-off performance boost.

Whilst 110PS, 130Ps and 150PS petrol TSI units and 115PS and 150PS diesel TDI units are available, it is expected the mild hybrid variants will quickly become the popular derivative thanks to their numerous monetary benefits.

Not only are there mild hybrid options, but Volkswagen will also produce an eHybrid version of the hatchback. This engine comprises of a 1.4-litre TSI unit combined with an electric drive motor and 6-speed DSG gearbox. Output varies from 204PS to 245PS, the latter being found in the hot GTE variant. GTI and R hot-hatch models are yet to be revealed.

Volkswagen’s state-of-the-art Car2X technology will also feature in the new Golf. The tech allows the car to exchange information with nearby vehicles and traffic infrastructure, from a distance of up to 800m away. This enables the Golf to be notified about things like hazards, accidents, broken down vehicles, roadworks, emergency service vehicles and traffic jams.

Travel Assist will also debut on the Golf. This technology will enable assisted driving, using the Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist lane keeping system. The driver only needs to touch the steering wheel, to let the car know that they are monitoring the situation. Failure to do this will result in visual and audible warning alerts being made after 15 seconds, followed by a braking jolt. If there is still no reaction, the car will enable Emergency Assist and stop the vehicle.

From February 2020 the new Golf will go on sale, with the first deliveries expected in April.