New Volkswagen Golf: 50 Years of Evolution

As the Volkswagen Golf marks its first 50 years, the German brand has unveiled the customary mid-life update. On this occasion, it applies to the eighth generation.

After five decades and more than 37 million examples built, the Volkswagen Golf continues to develop. This refresh brings a more upright front-end design and a new set of light units. For the first time in European markets, the brand’s badge is illuminated.

At the rear, the LED lighting system is again the main highlight, adopting a new three-dimensional internal design on both the five-door model and the estate.

Inside, the most obvious change is the new MIB4 infotainment system. It features a revised menu layout for the touchscreen, which can measure up to 12.9 inches. An optional head-up display can also be fitted to the Volkswagen Golf.

Ahead of the driver, the instrument panel - known by Volkswagen as the Digital Cockpit Pro - uses a 10.2-inch display. The steering wheel receives new physical controls in place of the previous, less practical touch-operated items.

Another new feature is the IDA voice assistant, which Volkswagen says can understand natural language. If that proves to be the case, it will make it easier to operate systems such as the air conditioning, telephone and navigation, as well as access local information including the weather, for example.

Optimised engine range

The updated Volkswagen Golf also introduces several changes to its powertrain line-up. The plug-in hybrid versions, for instance, now use a new 1.5-litre petrol engine with a variable-geometry turbocharger, alongside an electric motor and a six-speed dual-clutch DSG automatic gearbox.

This arrangement is paired with a new battery offering 19.7 kWh of usable capacity, allowing a maximum all-electric range of 140 km. When both the electric and petrol motors are used, the total range can reach 900 km.

Buyers need only choose between the eHybrid, which delivers a combined output of 150 kW (204 hp), and the more sporting-looking GTE, with a combined power output of 200 kW (272 hp).

What about combustion engines?

Alongside the plug-in options, the Volkswagen Golf range continues to offer petrol and diesel engines. The entry-level version uses the 1.5 TSI engine producing 115 hp, paired with a manual gearbox.

One step up, the same 1.5-litre engine gains a 48V mild-hybrid system and a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox, and can be specified with either 115 or 150 hp.

For drivers covering greater distances, the TDI engines remain the most desirable choice. They retain the 2.0-litre unit, available with 115 or 150 hp. The latter is offered exclusively with the DSG gearbox.

The sportiest models in the range still share the 2.0 TSI engine, albeit with different power outputs. The Golf GTI now develops 265 hp, the GTI Clubsport reaches 300 hp, while the R, with permanent four-wheel drive, benefits from 333 hp.

New Volkswagen Golf range and prices

In terms of trim levels, the Volkswagen Golf is initially available in four versions: Golf, 50 Years, Style and R-Line.

Nevertheless, every version comes as standard with automatic climate control, the new multifunction steering wheel, keyless entry and start, Park Assist and a range of other features.

The special anniversary edition - available solely with the five-door body style - adds several chrome details, ambient lighting and 17-inch alloy wheels. The Style trim level includes even more standard equipment.

For those seeking a sportier appearance, the R-Line is the appropriate choice. It adds a number of gloss-black exterior details, sportier bumpers, a sports steering wheel and seats with improved lateral support.

In price terms, the updated - and extensively equipped - Volkswagen Golf range is arranged as follows: