July 23, 2003

Volkswagen reveals new Golf

Wolfsburg, Germany - Volkswagen AG has revealed photos of the fifth generation Golf which will be introduced this Fall.

The new Golf is larger than the current model and will be available as a two or four-door hatchback. The body is wider (+ 24 mm), higher (+ 39 mm) and longer (+ 57 mm) providing more interior room particularly in the rear-seat area (+ 65 mm legroom, + 24 mm headroom at the rear and + 8 mm at the front). The cargo area now holds 347 litres.

Click image to enlarge

When it is first introduced in Germany, the new Golf will be launched with a choice of four engines - two gas engines and two diesels. A new six-speed manual gearbox will be standard with the option of a direct-shift gearbox (also with six speeds).

The front strut suspension layout has been revised while at the rear is a new multi-link suspension layout. Steering is a new electro-mechanical system.

Safety features include six airbags, five head restraints (active for the front seats), lap-and-shoulder seat belts, a new type of safety steering column and a pedal assembly that minimizes the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Unique features include a Climatronic automatic air conditioning, which has separate controls for the driver and front passenger: if the car is reversed, it switches to the recirculated-air mode. If the windscreen washer is operated, the intelligent control system interrupts the fresh-air supply immediately.

Volkswagen is the first manufacturer to offer a car in this segment with the option of four-way electric lumbar support (integrated into the power driver's seat) and an independent heater for use when the car is stopped.

In addition 60/40 split rear seat backs, the Golf features an optional front passenger's seat back that folds down for extra load-carrying capacity.

The new Golf goes on sale this Fall in Europe. A date for North American introduction was not announced.

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