The VW Golf is one of Australia’s favourite cars, as the hatch balances safety features with plenty of power and gadgets to suit families as well as your inner car enthusiast. Having won multiple Car of the Year awards over recent years, the Golf has gone from strength to strength within the Australian market. And now with the 2017 model set to go on sale mid next year, VW are gearing up to continue their success.
2017 VW Golf GTI © 2016 Volkswagen Media Service.
Few could argue against the complete package of the current Golf model. Its specs, design and raw power, even in the basic models, is something to be admired. But what is in store for the next model, the Golf Mark 7.5? Well, according to VW sources, the newest model comes equipped with more safety improvements and tech features, with the intention obviously to have the new model as a market leader. The Golf line is also set to become more streamlined, with diesel engines and some models not likely to be included within the 2017 line-up.
Externally, there isn’t much difference between the 2016 and 2017 Golf and GTI models, with slight alterations to the bumpers, grille and new LED lighting making the majority of external changes at this stage. Little is known about the style of the R, with test cars heavily covered during practice laps around European circuits. Set to be released later in 2017, VW will no doubt keep consumers waiting for the reveal.
2017 VW Golf R © 2016 Volkswagen Media Service.
But while the look of the Golf remains the same, it’s the features and engine improvements that make it stand out. VW’s Active Info instrument, similar to the Virtual Cockpit found in the latest Audis, allows the driver to interact with the car via a 12.3 inch screen behind the steering wheel. Combined with interior sensors, this system allows the driver to control certain features by gesturing, an obvious stepping stone to the capabilities of the future. These same sensors will also play a part in driver safety, as they can detect if a driver has become incapable of safely driving, and will take over. Combining with Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Assist with cruise control and pre-crash configurations, the 2017 Golf will be the safest yet.
2017 VW Golf interior © 2016 Volkswagen Media Service.
Under the hood, the Golf will be powered by 1.5 TSI Evo engine, increasing the output to 110kW/250Nm, compared to the current year engine’s output of 92kW/200Nm. This improved engine will also feature variable turbine geometry, which assists in broadening the torque curve, a feature usually only found in more expensive sports cars. To assist in reigning in the beast under the hood, VW has overhauled their six-speed transmission for a new seven-speed, meaning that the new model will bring a smile to your face when you put your foot down.
The GTI and R are predicted to be even more powerful, but details are yet to be confirmed. The way things are looking though, many will be counting down until the official release.
All images © 2016 Volkswagen Media Service.