What's the news?
The updated Volkswagen Golf has gone on sale in Ireland, with subtle styling changes to the exterior and new high-tech interior options. New front lights make up part of the refreshed face that also features restyled bumpers and a new radiator grille. All Xenon headlights are now LED units while all versions of the Golf also get LED rear lights as standard.
Inside, there are even bigger changes with all models now receiving larger touchscreen displays including the optional 9.2-inch Discover Pro system that features gesture control. The standard offering in the Trendline model is the 6.5-inch Composition Colour unit that includes both USB and Bluetooth connectivity. From Comfortline up the eight-inch Composition Media system is fitted. Meanwhile, Highline models also get the Active Info Display, which replaces the traditional instrument display with a 12.3-inch screen that can be configured to suit the driver.'s preferences
The engine range includes a 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol option in both 85- and 110hp guises, joining a 150hp 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder unit. On the diesel front the familiar 1.6-litre TDI remains in 90- and 115hp outputs, both up 5hp over the previous model. There is also a 2.0-litre TDI with 150hp.
The plug-in hybrid Golf GTE has come in for some attractive styling updates that include a blue signature line running along the base of the grille extending into the headlights. The distinctive C-shaped LED daytime running lights have been tweaked to fit in with the restyled front bumper, too.
On the performance model front, the Golf GTI gets a power increase to 230hp, and there's a Performance version that ups the output to 245hp. The Golf GTD's power output remains unchanged at 184hp, but the range-topping Golf R now gets 310hp.
Anything else?
The same three levels of specification remain, and Volkswagen is continuing to offer its staggered APR rate for PCP finance, which is 5.9 per cent on Trendline, 3.9 per cent on Comfortline and 1.9 per cent on Highline.
To mark the introduction of the new Golf range, Volkswagen has put together a number of Innovation Packs, which group some of the most popular optional items into a bundled price. Starting with Trendline models, the Innovation Pack offers 15-inch 'Lyons' alloy wheels, front fog lights and cruise control at a cost of €399, which represents a saving of €725.
On Comfortline models, a similar €399 Innovation Pack includes Park Distance Control, High Beam Light Assist, a Light & Vision Package and electrically folding door mirrors, saving €880 on the full cost of those items. In Highline, GTI, GTR and R models, a €599 Innovation Pack groups together the Discover media infotainment system, High Beam Light Assist, rear view camera and the Winter Pack with heated front seats, saving a total of €1,100. Volkswagen Ireland is also running a reduced price service offer, and half price offers on the R-Line exterior on the updated Golf.
Click this link to read our first drive review of the updated Volkswagen Golf.