We already know that Volkswagen’s best-selling model is officially receiving a facelift next month, but what exactly will the latest Golf bring?
Although the facelift was described as “extensive”, don’t expect any substantial design changes; some minor detail tweaks here and there should suffice. Nonetheless, most of the changes will reportedly be under the skin. According to Auto Express, VW’s head of powertrain development, Dr. Heinz-Jakob Neußer, confirmed that the upcoming model will feature gesture control technology, paired with a new infotainment system – a first in its class.
A larger, hi-res 9.5-inch screen will replace the current display on the center console, while a smaller 8-inch screen will take over the functions of the conventional instrument cluster, while the entire cabin will offer a more “button-less” experience.
But if that’s not interesting enough, Autocar reports that the 2017 Golf will be so heavily updated, that it will actually be regarded as the eight-gen Golf. Moreover, it will allegedly feature a new 48 V petrol mild-hybrid system as its main powertrain option.
It may sound farfetched, but the move will actually be in tune with Volkswagen’s mission to concentrate on electrifying its fleet.
The powertrain won’t be a conventional hybrid, though, as it will comprise the company’s 1.0-litre, turbocharged and supercharged three-cylinder petrol engine, and a starter motor/generator (used together with an energy recovery system). Basically, the belt that connects the starter motor to the engine will be used to aid the latter when it requires extra oomph, while the energy recovery system will feed the supercharger.
As usual, these are rumors and should be taken with a grain of salt, but we’ll find out more the next month.
Rendering via RMcardesign
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