Volkswagen has revealed the facelifted Golf, ahead of the model’s arrival in the UK next year.
Described as smarter, safer and more connected, the newcomer promises improved technology, including connected car systems, autonomous driving functions and a new infotainment system with a 9.2in screen and gesture control.
At the front, the updated Golf has been given a new front bumper and new headlights, with LED lights and “dynamic” scrolling indicators available as an option.
Inside, the Golf gets the new Digital Cockpit, which uses a 12in digital instrument display capable of displaying the navigation map and the new Discover Pro 9.2in infotainment system, described by VW as an “automotive tablet”.
The Discover Pro system will also get 3D navigation and Car-Net apps, which will link the car to the driver’s smartphone, and provide information such as real-time fuel prices. It will even be able to communicate with the smartphone to remind the driver where the vehicle has been parked.
Power for the new Golf will come from a number of engines similar to those currently found in the range, although there will be a new 1.5-litre petrol with standard cylinder deactivation, which switches off two cylinders when not under load.
A new seven-speed automatic transmission will be introduced, too, while the high-performance GTI version now gets more power, up from 217 to 227bhp.
Electrified versions of the new Golf will also be offered, with the plug-in hybrid GTE offering 31 miles of all-electric range, and the e-Golf, with an extended range of 186 miles.