For Volkswagen, the ID.3 should be the car of the future. The Golf has thus become the car of the present. The arrival of the eighth generation of the Golf means that the cards in the C-segment are again being shuffled. The newcomer does not come a moment too soon; after all, the previous one could no longer call itself the undisputed winner in the segment for a while.
Basically, the Golf continues to use the well-known modular MQB platform, although Volkswagen has changed so much that it can now carry the addition Evo. One of the advantages of this platform is that it uses space very efficiently. Although length and wheelbase are smaller than the competition, the rear seat offers more space for an adult occupant. Especially the headroom on board the Golf stands out in a positive way. Fortunately, this has not been at the expense of the contents of the luggage compartment. With 381 liters, it also offers more space, albeit fractionally. Compared to the previous generation, it only saves one liter.
High-tech atmosphere
The progression appears to be much greater in the front, because a Golf driver will not recognize the model there. Gone is the conservative design with many physical buttons. The new model fully embraces the digital world. A 10-inch touchscreen in the center and a fully digital clock shop create a high-tech atmosphere on board. The build quality remains impeccable. Although the use of materials is no longer as far ahead of the troops as before, the Gulf still makes a good first impression when boarding. The seats also provide fantastic support and are widely adjustable.
So much for the good news. We are less enthusiastic about the ergonomics. The clean-up mania has caused some unfortunate victims onboard the Gulf, such as physical volume and temperature controls. From now on, you can operate both with sliders under the touchscreen, which doesn’t make it any easier. In addition, you sometimes accidentally hit them in an attempt to seek support when you operate that touchscreen. There is so much in it that even something as simple as dimming the interior lighting requires some searching. But: it all looks crystal clear and both the infotainment system itself and the digital counters work amazingly fast.
A few percent more dynamic
Lovers of comfort can call on Volkswagen, which is still predominant in that area. Still, the engineers have done their best to make the Golf a few percent more dynamic. Our version has adaptive shock absorbers and when they are in their sportiest setting, the Golf is almost indestructible. Every movement in the springs is meticulously controlled, so that the balance between comfort and an ample safety reserve is very good.
The Volkswagen Golf has never been a bargain and that is no different with the eighth generation: the dressed and limited Style 1st Edition costs with options no less than € 45,479. A hefty price, especially since the Golf does not even have full options. For example, a reversing camera, electrically folding mirrors and a blind spot sensor are missing. You don’t have to bite on a piece of wood, however, because electrically adjustable seats, heating of the steering wheel and seats, adaptive cruise control, a skylight and the largest multimedia system are all available.