The hatchback isn’t the only new Golf coming in 2008 – VW will also unveil the next Golf Plus quasi-MPV this autumn. As our disguised scoop photos show, there are few big visual changes in store for the Golf Plus and many of the revisions are under the skin.
We’ll see the tallboy Golf at the Bologna motor show in December 2008, before UK sales kick off in early 2009. The front end gets the same styling treatment as the Golf Mk6 hatch, but the rear is apparently going to be similar to today’s Plus model. This is borne out by the partial disguise.
VW Golf Plus: engineering changes
The VW Golf relaunch is an intriguingly modest facelift; the Mk6 due for an October 2008 Paris unveiling will be only gently upgraded from today’s Mk5, we hear, whereas the Mk7 is earmarked to be the next step-change model.
However, the Golf Plus and its hatchback siblings will receive a barrage of technical improvements, including direct-injection engines to trim fuel consumption and emissions without harming performance. Expect an expansion of the 1.4 TSI engines, which are now available in 140, 150, 160 and 170bhp form.
Click ‘Next’ to read more about the new Golf Plus and GTIA VW Golf Plus GTI, did you say?
Afraid not. The Golf Plus will be the sensible Golf – a slightly taller hatch with a sliding rear bench to juggle space for bodies or baggage. You’ll have to wait a little longer for the Mk6 Golf GTI, which will be shown in summer 2009. It’ll stick with front-wheel drive and a power output of ‘not less than 200bhp’.
Interesting VW fact of the day? Amazingly, one in ten Golfs sold in the UK are the GTI.
The Golf hybrid
Of rather more interest in these eco-aware times is the hybrid Golf tipped for production. Volkswagen showed a concept at the 2008 Geneva show, and we hear it will be launched with the Mk6. The concept managed an impressive 83mpg while emitting just 89g/km of CO2.