The all-new Volkswagen Golf will arrive here in early January. Now in its sixth generation, the Golf was first launched in 1974 since when more than 26 million units have been sold world-wide. Currently being presented to the international motoring media, the new Golf exhibits a high standard of quality and design. All key body elements have been restyled to present a sportier, more distinctive image. Precisely defined lines and edges and finely proportioned flared surfaces and recesses give the new Golf a more relaxed look.
From the front, its appearance features echoes of the first generation Golf as seen in its high gloss black radiator grille, horizontally aligned between the headlights. Matching bumper lines, chrome light housings set against a black background, dynamically styled headlamps and a pronounced air scoop accentuate its appearance. The rear is characterised by a predominance of horizontal lines. During darkness, its wide tail lights resembling those of the Touareg display an unmistakably unique design.
Offered in 2-door and 4-door versions, in three equipment lines - Trendline, Comfortline and Highline - its high value features are exhibited also in a newly-designed interior with brushed chrome accents, round instruments and a steering wheel derived from the recently introduced Passat CC. Boot space of 350 litres is expandable to 1,305 litres.
Billed as the quietest Golf since the model series began, its pioneering acoustics are attributed, in part, to the use of common rail injection. Two 2.0-litre TDI CR engines will be offered initially, both with diesel particulate filter, of which a 140bhp version will be the standard bearer in Ireland at launch date.
This will be followed in March of next year by a 1.6-litre common rail TDI - a model which their sales manager in Ireland, Tom O’Connor believes will be the volume seller. Four petrol engines will be produced, all of which should be available here at launch date.
Reduced fuel consumption, lower by up to 28 per cent, is accounted for by what Volkswagen terms ‘innovative engine and transmission technology’ that include the use of TDI, TSI and DSG to deliver a fuel consumption range from 4.5 litres to 7.1 litres per 100kms. All petrol and diesel engines meet future Euro-5 emission standards. Suspension is MacPherson at front and multi-link at rear. There will be 11 colour options. Transmission is 5-and 6-speed manual with 6 and 7-speed DSG automatic included in the mix.
