The facelifted, eighth-generation Volkswagen (VW) Golf is now on sale in SA, and initially available in 1.4 TSI guise exclusively and four trim levels. The German brand introduced the latest Golf GTI model back in 2021 minus the bread and butter TSI ranges, citing dwindled sales as SA customers clamoured for SUVs and crossovers. The new high-performance GTI and Golf R models will possibly join later.
The TSI models are launched in Life, Life Plus, R-Line, R-Line Plus and an optional Black Style package that brings 18-inch York alloys, privacy glass and black exterior mirrors. The range is enhanced with new features and new front bumpers, the R-Line models with an angrier, GTI-like interpretation. New LED headlight design and an illuminated front logo can be had, and the ability to project the company logo on the ground as night-time puddle lights when the front doors open.
Interior innovation extends to a 10-inch digital cockpit and 10.3-inch floating infotainment screen, upgraded to 12.9-inches in higher models. The cabin is now comparable to the new Tiguan in look and feel, with ambient lighting, new fabrics for the seats, including Vienna leather, wireless app connect, 45W Type-C USB ports and a Harman Karman sound system in top models.
Driving assistance systems under the IQ.Drive travel assist include adaptive cruise control, emergency braking, lane change assist and warning signals displayed on the digital cockpit. The above specification was found in the R-Line specification I drove at the launch, which also included a panoramic roof. A swivelling trailer hitch and head-up display are optional.
The 1.4l TSI motor outputs 110kW and 250Nm, the latter from a low 1,500rpm. All models are equipped standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s a refined motor for the applications of a daily driver, with enough tractability to cruise at low speeds without issues. The transmission has almost imperceptible shifts, and there is good bump-soaking from the dampers.
Thrift is an added bonus, our chosen car returning 5.2l/100km on the open sections of the launch route. VW claims 6.3l/100km and acceleration from 0-100km/h in 8.5 seconds with a maximum top speed of 216km/h. The active cruise control kept the car at a safe following distance when activated while speedier travel also revealed a poised premium hatch that isn’t fazed by sharp corners, with strong and confident braking ability.
Individuality is assured through nine colour pallettes, of which Grenadilla black metallic and Crystal ice blue stood out for me. Alloy wheel styles and size are plentiful, too, and range from 16-18 inches. It’s a good package that should please VW Golf and other fans of the hatchback species who were left high and dry by manufacturers who stopped offering large hatches in droves.
The 4,282mm length, 2,620mm wheelbase and 381l boot are enough space and functionality to justify the Golf above a compact crossover. All new VW Golf TSI are sold standard with a three-years/120,000km factory warranty and five-year/90,000km service plan. A similar maintenance plan is optionally available.
Prices
VW Golf 1.4 TSI Life — R580,900
VW Golf 1.4 TSI Life Plus — R604,500
VW Golf 1.4 TSI R-Line — R660,000
VW Golf 1.4 TSI R-Line Plus — R668,100
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