Volkswagen is doing a mighty fine job of keeping the final design of its new Golf 7 under wraps for now, so while this rendering is believed to be fairly accurate, we may very well have to wait until the covers come off at the Paris Show in September this year to see what VW's all-important new model really looks like. For what it's worth, the rumour mill suggests fairly conservative styling once more, but a few "surprising details". We published recent spy images a few weeks ago that seem to correspond with the above rendering.
The new Golf will most likely go on sale in South Africa during February or March next year. The GTI will likely debut at the Geneva Motor Show next year before reaching South African shores soon after.
Golf 7 is based on the Volkswagen's group's new Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform that will be shared with a variety of models within the group, including the new Audi A3 and next Volkswagen Passat. MQB allows Volkswagen to engineer new models faster and more cost-effectively by simply varying five of the six MQB modules – longer wheelbases, different size fuel tanks and even alternative drivetrains or battery packs are not problems for MQB.
Up to 90 kg lighter than equivalent Golf 6 model
New Golf will be about 70 kg lighter than its predecessor with obvious resultant improvements in performance, dynamics and economy. The GTI version will likely make use of even more lightweight materials (predominantly aluminium) and it has been said it could be 90 kg lighter than the current model.
As we reported earlier, the petrol powerplant line-up could feature three variants, each in two states of tune; a 1,2-litre TSI (64 kW/165 N.m and 78 kW/175 N.m), a 1,4-litre TSI (90 kW/200 N.m and 120 kW/250 N.m) and a 2,0-litre TSI unit (134 kW/320 N.m and 150 kW/ 400 N.m). The GTI is rumoured to pack a turbocharged 2,0-litre unit that pumps out around 190 kW, while the all-wheel drive Golf R is likely to become a rather fierce machine, potentially sporting the liberal use of carbon fibre and a turbocharged, 2,0-litre engine developing 223 kW. The GTI should be able to sprint to 100 km/h in 6,7 seconds and reach a 250 km/h top speed. It will also be fitted with the marque's new VAQ front differential, said to offer more "agile steering behaviour."
The diesel line-up could follow suit in terms of tuning and comprise a 1,6-litre TDI (67 kW/230 N.m and 78 kW/250 N.m) a 2,0-litre TDI (104 kW/320 N.m and 126 kW/350 N.m, with a 150 kW/450 N.m GTD version also a possibility). An uprated version of the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, reportedly capable of handling torque outputs of up to 500 N.m, will be offered on some models. There is even talk of an all-electric model later on in the Mk 7's model life cycle.
The most advanced car in its class?
Volkswagen is keen to position Golf 7 as the most advanced in its class and will add a number of big-car features to the cabin. Talk is of an interior with class-leading infotainment systems, including an eight-inch, full-colour display on top of the centre console to control the entertainment and navigation systems, as well as provide in-car Internet access. Also rumoured to be offered are; radar- and camera-based adaptive cruise control, self-park and even a fatigue-monitoring system.
