Volkswagen has revealed teaser images of the new-for-2024 Golf GTI, which itself previews the forthcoming updates to the more conventional Golf hatchback. But as well as showing off pictures of the camouflaged vehicle, VW is also using the new model to demonstrate the company's integration of ChatGPT artificial intelligence in its vehicles at this month's Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.
Golf gets a revamp
Although Volkswagen is making some noise about this being the GTI version of the Golf, the fact remains that this is our first real glimpse of the new family hatchback that will likely be very popular with consumers. On the face of it, not all that much has changed, save for new light designs and a new rear diffuser, as well as a new front bumper design, but that's all to be expected from what is, essentially, a mid-life facelift.
But as befits the GTI, the new model clearly gets plenty of extra kit, including a rear spoiler, more aggressive bumpers and big alloy wheels, behind which lurk brakes with red callipers. A large sunroof also appears to make the grade, with a dark (presumably glass) panel covering most of the roof.
Undisguised interior
But while the Golf's exterior has been hidden behind the performance-orientated accoutrements and the dazzle camouflage, the interior is not hidden at all. In fairness, not all that much has changed - there's much the same basic structure as before - but Volkswagen has fitted a massive new central touchscreen. Considerably larger than that of the outgoing Golf, the new screen appears to be similar to the one seen in the next-generation Tiguan SUV, which means it gets toolbars at the top and bottom for easier navigation, and in the case of the GTI, it'll likely offer bespoke features to suit the performance-orientated model.
Aside from that, it's much the same as before, although the car on display at CES doesn't have the tartan seat upholstery for which the GTI has become known. Still, it comes with plenty of GTI-specific features, including the sporty steering wheel with red trim, and the red finish on the instrument cluster and touchscreen displays.
ChatGPT integration
As well as giving us a sneak peek of the new Golf, Volkswagen has also used CES to reveal its new ChatGPT system that will be used in new VW models. Working with tech firm Cerence, the German car maker will use "automotive-grade" ChatGPT tech to power its voice assistant, with "researched content" being read to the driver.
According to Volkswagen, the system will allow the driver to access more than just climate control functions or navigation systems with their voice. By providing "additional information", VW claims the system will "be helpful on many levels" during a car journey, offering drivers conversation and interactions in "more intuitive language."
The company also says the system will be seamlessly integrated, with activation via voice command (a driver would just have to say "Hello IDA") or a button on the steering wheel. Then, the system will automatically prioritise whether a vehicle function should be executed, or whether to search for a destination or adjust the temperature.
Naturally, VW is at pains to point out that ChatGPT has no access to vehicle data, and questions and answers are deleted immediately to "ensure the highest possible level of security." However, the system uses ChatGPT to access "a multitude of sources" to provide information to drivers.
"Volkswagen has always democratised technology and made it accessible to the many," said Kai Grünitz, member of the Volkswagen brand board of management, responsible for technical development. "This is simply ingrained in our DNA. As a result, we are now the first volume manufacturer to make this innovative technology a standard feature in vehicles from the compact segment upwards. Thanks to the seamless integration of ChatGPT and strong collaboration with our partner, Cerence, we are offering our drivers added value and direct access to the AI-based research tool. This also underlines the innovative strength of our new products."