Volkswagen Golf turns 50 and takes a leap into the future

Volkswagen is updating the eighth generation of the iconic German compact with new plug-in hybrid engines with increased electric range and a new high-speed multimedia system.

He Volkswagen Golf turns 50 years old and, in honor of this, the legendary German compact completely renews the engine range and gives big leap in technological level which allows you to finally enter the future. After eight generations and more than 37 million units sold all over the world, the Volkswagen Golf wants to continue to be a symbol, fully adapted to new times, without giving up what allowed it to be the most successful European car in history.

The main novelties of the new Volkswagen Golf presented this Wednesday by the German brand are: new infotainment system with a faster processor and two plug-in hybrid drives with fast charging function and electric autonomy up to 100 kilometers, which is almost twice as much as in previous versions. In addition, he represents light aesthetic touchesmainly in the light signature, and new help systems which makes driving safer and more comfortable.

Let’s start with the new line of engines. The main novelty is the versions 204 hp eHybrid and 272 hp GTEboth are related to 6-speed DSG automatic transmission which promise maneuverability and lack of vibration. Featuring a new, more efficient 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine and a new Battery 19.7 kWh (10.6 kWh net), the new plug-in hybrid versions reach full autonomy up to 1000 kilometers (of which 100 are in electric mode).

He battery charging time also noticeably improved and can now be charged from alternating current (AC) to 11kW, three times more power than before (the previous Golf only supported 3.6kW from a household socket). In addition, the Golf eHybrid and Golf GTE will be able to charge for the first time at fast charging stations in direct current (DC) up to 50 kW, reducing charging time to just a few minutes. Of course both versions have Label DGT ZERO.

For drivers who do not have the opportunity to install a home charging station, the Golf still has two 48V mild hybrid versions called eTSIWith 115 and 150 hp, combined with a 1.5 TSI turbo engine with a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission. Both versions have DGT ECO label, is highly valued by drivers who have to get to the center of large cities. In addition, there are other two petrol versions without 48V system (which corresponds to label C) with the same 1.5 TSI engine, with the same power (115 or 150 hp) and six-speed manual transmission.

Golf GTI: even more powerful

Deserves special mention Golf GTIthe most desirable version of the German compact, which is now even sportier thanks to an increase in power by 20 hp. up to total amount 265 hp. Finally, the new Golf is also available with two turbodiesel versions (TDI) from 115 and 150 hp, the first with a 6-speed manual transmission, the second with a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission. Both the Golf GTI and TDI versions have Label DGT C.

All these versions will be available in launch phase this spring. Sports versions will arrive in the second half of the year. GTI Clubsport, Golf R And Golf Option R (R models with 4Motion all-wheel drive). IN 2025 other versions will come with all-wheel drive with an engine 204 hp TSI.

As for the new infotainment systemVolkswagen has completely redesigned the hardware and software to improve and simplify its operation and managementone of the most controversial aspects of the Golf 8. It is now available in two formats. Tablet-type screen located horizontallyone of 10.4 inches and one more from 12.9 inches diagonal. Both screens independent of 10.2″ digital instrument cluster, the so-called Digital Cockpit Pro, which has also been improved and is standard across the entire range. Besides, Head-up display again available as an option for the Golf and Golf Variant.

Maneuver and parking With the Golf 8 this has become much easier thanks to new driving assistance systems such as improved Parking assistance plus And Parking Assist Prowhich is offered for the first time for Golf for Park and unpark using a remote control via your mobile phone.. Thanks to these parking assistants, the Golf maneuvers, brakes and accelerates independently within a predetermined range. Another new feature is the system View areawhich generates 360 degree view on touch screen multimedia system using images from four cameras.

Both Golf and Golf Variant (station wagon) are offered with four equipment levels called Golf (basic), life, style And R-line (with sporty details on the bumpers and side trims and 17″ black wheels). Alloy wheels up to 19 inches They are not mandatory.

Price

The new Volkswagen Golf will be available in second quarter 2024 and although Volkswagen has not yet announced pricewill be slightly more expensive than the current model, and the Access version with 115 hp. 32,000 euros.