The all-new Volkswagen Golf has been unveiled in Berlin, 36 years after the original model
redefined the small family car. The seventh generation Golf builds on the success of its
predecessors, of which over 29 million have been sold, bringing new levels of comfort,
practicality, safety and efficiency to the class.
New production techniques contribute to the Volkswagen Mk VII Golf being up to 100 kg
lighter than the car it replaces, helping to make it up to 23% more efficient than before. The
new Golf is also safer than ever, thanks not just to a stronger body structure but also to a raft
of standard and optional passive and active safety systems.
For the first time, the Golf is also available with driver profile selection, which allows the
driver to choose from four modes Eco, Sport, Normal and Individual with a DSG gearbox
a fifth option, Comfort is also offered. Each of these modes alters the throttle mapping
and engine management to the chosen style, so in Eco mode the engine management, air
conditioning and ancillary systems are controlled to achieve maximum fuel efficiency.
The new Golf is 56mm longer and 13mm wider than the sixth generation model, the front
wheels are further forward, helping to generate more interior space, therefor rear legroom
is improved (benefiting taller drivers) .
A new -electric handbrake has freed up space on the
centre console for more gadgets and switches, the boot is also 30 litres larger and the front
passenger seat can also fold fully forward to create an extra large load space.
As the seventh-generation Golf is lighter and has a lower centre of gravity, it should drive
well and be a smooth and comfortable ride.
Powering the Golf is a new range of petrol and diesel engines, all of which incorporate Stop/
Start and battery regeneration systems. At launch, the petrol engines are a 1.2-litre TSI 85 PS
returning around 57.6 mpg and a 1.4-litre TSI 140 PS unit with Active Cylinder Technology,
which can deactivate two of the cylinders, and achieves up to 58.9 mpg . The launch diesel
engines are a 1.6-litre unit with 105 PS, which returns 74.3 mpg ,and a 2.0-litre 150 PS unit
which returns 68.9 mpg.
Further details on the new Volkswagen Golf will be revealed at the Paris Motor Show. The
car will go on sale from October, with the first UK deliveries expected in January 2013.
Best deals on new Volkswagen Golf
Best deals on used Volkswagen Golf By Joanne Hogan, motoring.co.uk
Fri, 28 Sep 2012
