2020 Volkswagen Golf Mk8 Photographed Virtually Undisguised From All Angles

While VW did not reveal the all-new 8th generation 2020 Golf at this week’s Geneva Motor Show as many of us anticipated, we believe we can make it up with the best and most revealing photos of the popular compact model yet.

It’s virtually undisguised, as only the front and rear lights have some distracting fake decals. However, the production car will use similar lighting units on both ends, so styling-wise, we don’t anticipate any surprises between now and its unveiling later this year.

New Age Golf

VW’s latest design language seems to fit the MK8 Golf pretty well, giving it an overall sleeker and more modern appearance, while also paying homage to the MK7 model, which ditched the MK6’s curvy lines in favor of a sharper look.

Still, every single body panel is new on the MK8, and the front end design gives it a squinty, sort of menacing aesthetic, somewhat similar to the Arteon’s.

Our hasty attempt at removing the decals from the front. Not our best work, but it gives you an idea of what the headlamps actually look like

The car also looks wider than before and if you look close, you’ll notice that the base of the mirrors sits on the actual door panel, rather than on the window line – an interesting choice. As for the new rear end, it allows the MK8 Golf to hold onto its personality, as it looks nothing like the smaller Polo.

High expectations

We have yet to see an all-new VW Golf prototype with an exposed interior, which is a shame because the German automaker will surely bring the nameplate up to date with the rest of the C-segment as far as on-board tech and active safety is concerned. It should also feature higher quality materials than the MK7, a Virtual Cockpit digital gauge cluster and a bigger and better infotainment system than before.

The MK8 Golf will ride on an upgraded version of the current car’s platform, dubbed MQB Evo. As a result it will weigh less (up to 45 kg / 100 lbs) and have a slightly larger wheelbase, which in turn means more room for passengers and possibly even a bigger trunk.

Production is expected to commence this June, starting with a range of turbocharged three- and four-cylinder petrol and diesel versions, joined later on by either full or mild-hybrid models, as well as top-of-the-range GTI and R models.

The public will likely see the car in person this September at the Frankfurt Motor Show.