Volkswagen has recently unveiled the latest iteration of the hybrid Golf, a notable addition to the VW range. Following the introduction of the Passat and Tiguan in the market, the updated Golf represents a significant model improvement in the midst of its product cycle, subsequent to the release of the Golf 8 in October 2019 and the introduction of two PHEV drives in August 2020.
A key enhancement in the new hybrid Golf is the advancement to the Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) drive generation. The battery now boasts a usable net energy content of 19.7 kWh, a substantial increase from the previous 13 kWh, which is projected to result in an all-electric range of over 100 kilometres in the WLTP. Furthermore, the new charging system enables the battery to be charged at AC charging points with 11 kW, as opposed to the previous 3.6 kW, and at DC charging points with up to 50 kW.
The updated Golf also showcases a revised combustion engine, with the 1.4-liter petrol engine being replaced by the 1.5 TSI evo2, recognized internally at VW as the EA211evo. The plug-in hybrid is offered in two performance levels: the Golf eHybrid with a system output of 150 kW and the Golf GTE with 200 kW, positioned as a sporty model reminiscent of the iconic Golf GTI.
In terms of design, the facelift encompasses modifications to the front end, new light graphics in the headlights, and an illuminated VW emblem at the front. The rear lights also boast a new 3D light graphic. Internally, the new infotainment generation proffers revised menu navigation and a larger touchscreen of up to 32.8 centimetres. Notably, the touch sliders at the bottom of the screen have been illuminated, while the touch surfaces on the steering wheel have been replaced by conventional buttons. A prominent highlight is the integration of the AI chatbot ChatGPT, presented at CES in early January, into the VW voice assistant IDA, allowing access to a “constantly growing database of artificial intelligence”.
Thomas Schäfer, the head of the VW brand, expressed his enthusiasm for the new evolutionary stage of the Golf, remarking that the vehicle offers affordable mobility at the highest technical level, and that the new model represents even higher efficiency, comfort, quality, and a new operating concept.
VW has yet to disclose the official launch date and price of the revised Golf 8, but the anticipation for this new addition to the VW line-up is already evident.