Over thirty three million units since 1974 and one million in 2016 alone. The Golf is like an old friend and, as the Volkswagen managers say, there will always be a car with this name in the VW range. So here we are in front of the “new Golf”, in fact an evolution of the seventh generation launched in 2012 rather than the eighth, which we will actually see in a few months.
From a purely aesthetic viewpoint, the layout of the model designed by De Silva has been retained. However, the design team led by Klaus Bischoff has operated a number of upgrades in the bumper area consequential on the new led lighting, to add more aggression. All this is rounded off with a renewed range of wheels and colours, where the special Kurkuma Yellow metallic stands out. In the cockpit, as well as new fabrics and mouldings, it is worth noting the new digital instrumentation (very visible) and the availability of the new navigation system plus Discovery Pro online services, with 9.2” screen that is controlled by hand gestures. In addition, via MirrorLink ™ and the new DoorBird app, you can now also open your house door from the car. On the safety front, we would mention the automatic emergency braking with Emergency Assist pedestrian recognition, and drive assistance in columns moving at up to 60 kph. Then, interfaces for Apple and Android phones, a Security & Service package with automatic call for breakdowns or accidents, Car-Net Guide & Inform for searching for special destinations, Trailer assist for manoeuvering with a trailer, Park Assist in semi-automatic mode. In addition to all this, you can also call up your favourite driver settings through the key: climate, rearview mirrors, seat and more.
There are six trim levels: Trendline, Business, Sport, Highline, Executive, GTD. Initially the following engines are available: petrol 1.0 TSI/85 and 110 bhp, 1.4 TSI/125 bhp, 1.5 TSI/150 bhp; turbodiesel TDI 1.6/90 and 115 bhp, 2.0/150 and 184 bhp (GTD only); CNG 1.4 GTD/110 bhp. Gearboxes with 5 and 6 gears plus the seven gear DSG.
