Behold, Golf the sixth

The remarkable endurance and popularity of the Volkswagen Golf - the latest version of which was unveiled last week - represents five generations of the model spanning 34 years. Since the first Golf was introduced, some 26 million vehicles have been sold - surely a record. Volkswagen claims the new model continues the evolution of this motoring icon. It claims that the new Golf is the safest, most technically advanced and most dynamic version yet. Not only does it promise great value, but it aims to set benchmarks in quality, style, safety and the reduction of emissions. Volkswagen goes on to claim this sixth generation of the Golf will completely redefine the quality and comfort level of its class, offering more customer value than ever before. The car"s looks draws on the new design direction established by the Scirocco, though it"s still very much a Golf. The new look aims to combine the elements that define the Golf across five generations while bringing them up to date. The result is a clean, elegant design that"s easily recognisable as a Golf but one which is still an all-new shape. The same elements of simplicity and attention to detail were applied to the vehicle"s interior. The car uses white backlit dials in recessed, individual cowls behind a three-spoke steering wheel with the option of controls for entertainment and communications functions. High-quality, soft touch plastics are integrated with aluminium and chrome highlights. The new look is combined with advances made by Volkswagen engineers in reducing wind noise, including a completely new design of door and window seals, a new damping film that supports the windscreen and a new engine mounting system. Volkswagen claims the result is new levels of acoustic damping to make the new Golf the quietest yet. Aiding this refinement are new petrol and diesel engines. The new 2.0-litre TDi 110bhp common rail diesel engine emits just 119g/km of CO2 while returning 4.5 litres/100km (62.7mpg) on the combined cycle. Other diesel variants are available with 90bhp, 140bhp and 170bhp outputs linked to a choice of six-speed manual or DSG gearboxes. Many of the petrol engines adopt highly efficient TSI technology with outputs of 80bhp, 102bhp, 122bhp and 160bhp. For the first time, Volkswagen"s Adaptive Chassis Control (ACC) will be offered on the Golf. This is available on the Passat CC and standard on the new Scirocco, and allows the driver to select from normal, comfort or sport modes to define the desired suspension, steering and accelerator response settings for any particular journey. Automatic Distance Control will also be offered which monitors the area around the vehicle through a series of sensors and will, if necessary, reduce the vehicle"s speed should an obstruction be identified. In extreme cases, the vehicle can be brought to a complete stop using the system. On the safety front, the addition of a knee airbag for the driver brings the total number of airbags fitted as standard to seven. A new head restraint system designed to reduce whiplash injuries and rear seat belt detection sensors are joined by new, more advanced Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) software. Prices and specifications for the new Golf will be announced closer to the vehicle"s launch towards the end of the year. The new Golf will go on sale in Ireland in January.