Volkswagen has been beating its drum quite a bit over the last few days. So much so that I thought the German brand was about to break the skin. It’s with good reason though, the Golf has been updated, meaning buyers will be able to enjoy improvements in just about every area.
More refined, striking looks
Ok, so let’s start with the outside and although it may look like business as usual, the Golf’s exterior is pretty much all new. The front and rear bumpers are new, as are the front wings, plus all models can enjoy the inclusion of LED rear lights. Higher end models will receive progressive indicators which I think are really cool.
Speaking of LED, the xenon headlights have been binned to make way for LED bulbs of which will be surrounded by red piping on the GTI model and blue on the GTE model. Both the GTI and GTE receive a colour-coded strip on the front grille as well to help mark them out from other models. The interior has also been refined to make it a more comfortable place to sit in.
More Power and More Gears
Let’s start with the most interesting bit – the GTI has received an increased power output of 227bhp whilst the GTI Performance is able to enjoy a power output of 242bhp. There is also a new 1.5 litre engine with Active Cylinder Management that’s able to offer 148bhp and there will also be a Bluemotion version which will be able produce 128bhp. The 6-speed DSG has gone the same way as the xenon headlights and has been replaced by a new 7-speed ‘box.
Tech, Tech and More Tech
Technology is an area where the new Golf does pretty well in. It has so much in fact that it could be quite easy to write an whole article dedicated to just that. I’m going to try and keep it short though and start with the headlines – the new Golf will feature bigger infotainment systems and even gesture control which is a world first of a car of its type.
You will need to opt for the Discover Pro system which is the top of the range infotainment system but in doing so you will gain a massive 9.2″ screen which looks and acts the same way a tablet would. The new unit replaces the outgoing 8″ unit and is able to offer 155 ppi compared to 117 ppi. The old black and white 5″ screen has also been scrapped and has been replaced by a base unit that comes in colour and is 6.5″.
Active Info Display offers a 12.3″ display and a digital instrument display, much like Audi’s Virtual Cockpit. It has five different displays to choose from and is able to offer a sharp display. There will of course be smartphone integration and there will also be a host of apps that can be downloaded to control the audio settings, register a breakdown and help with navigation.
The new Golf will also feature a fair few safety features as well which is sure to give buyers peace of mind. They include Traffic Jam Assist, City Emergency Braking, Trailer Assist and Park Assist to name but a few. The new model will come next year with prices and release date yet to be confirmed.