Volkswagen Golf VII: A Comprehensive Review

Summary

The Volkswagen Golf VII, a newly launched model, brings a host of updates and improvements over its predecessor. With a completely revamped interior, enhanced driving aids, and a more efficient engine range, this model is set to impress. The Golf VII is lighter, more fuel-efficient, and boasts advanced safety features, making it a compelling choice for modern drivers.

Introduction

Exterior and Interior Overhaul

The Volkswagen Golf VII has undergone a significant transformation compared to its predecessor. The exterior design has been refreshed, but the real surprise lies within the cabin. The interior has been completely overhauled, offering a more spacious and technologically advanced environment.

Key Innovations

• Interior Redesign: The cabin is more spacious, with larger rear seats and a shorter wheelbase.
• Increased Boot Space: The boot space has been expanded by 30 liters.
• Enhanced Driving Aids: The model comes equipped with advanced driving aids.
• Efficient Engine Range: The new engine range is more efficient, contributing to better fuel economy and lower emissions.

Performance and Efficiency

Weight Reduction and Fuel Savings

The seventh generation of the Volkswagen Golf is 100 kilograms lighter than its predecessor. This weight reduction translates to a fuel saving of 0.3 liters per 100 kilometers and a 14.9% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to the Golf VI.

Engine and Performance

We tested the Golf VII with a 1.4 TSI engine paired with a seven-speed DSG automatic dual-clutch transmission in the Highline trim. This four-cylinder engine produces 140 horsepower.

• Top Speed: 212 km/h
• Acceleration: 0 to 100 km/h in 8.4 seconds

Transmission Modes

• D Mode: Smooth and efficient gear changes at low revs.
• S Mode: Sporty performance with high-speed gear changes.
• Sequential Mode: Allows for manual gear changes, adding a touch of excitement for those who enjoy a more dynamic driving experience.

Start & Stop System

The entire range includes the Start & Stop system, which can save up to 8% in fuel consumption during city driving with heavy traffic.

Safety Features

Comprehensive Safety Systems

The Volkswagen Golf VII is equipped with a range of safety features, including:

• Airbags: Seven airbags, including knee airbags for the driver.
• ABS and ESP: Standard anti-lock braking system and electronic stability control.
• Multiple Collision Braking System: Detects rear-end collisions and slows the vehicle to prevent further impacts.
• Electronic Differential: Improves stability.
• Air Pressure Sensors: Monitors tire pressure.

Euro NCAP Rating

The Golf VII has achieved a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, thanks to its comprehensive safety systems.

Highway Performance

Comfort and Silence

On the highway, the Golf VII offers a comfortable and quiet ride. The engine noise is minimal, and the gearbox allows the engine to run at low revs in seventh gear. Visibility from the cockpit is excellent, and the intermittent bursts feature is handy for lane changes.

Suspension and Steering

The suspension provides a comfortable ride while remaining firm in corners, giving the vehicle a sense of security and grip. The electric variable power steering adjusts based on speed, becoming more rigid and precise at higher speeds.

Fuel Consumption

During our highway test, the Golf VII's fuel consumption was slightly above the manufacturer's specified 4.4 l/100 km, registering at 6.8 l/100 km over 140 kilometers.

Technological Features

The Golf VII includes features that enhance fuel efficiency, such as advising the driver to raise the windows at certain speeds and to switch to D mode from S mode when sporty performance is not required.

Interior and Infotainment

Infotainment System

The Volkswagen Golf VII introduces a modular infotainment system (MIB) with a full-color touch screen. This system offers:

• Radio Systems
• Navigation
• Mobile Connection
• USB and Auxiliary Device Control

For more details on the infotainment system, you can refer to Volkswagen's official page on infotainment.

Cabin Space and Comfort

The cabin is spacious, comfortably accommodating four tall passengers. The front seats offer excellent support and grip, especially in curves. The fabric upholstery complements the interior, providing a premium feel.

Additional Features

The driver's door includes controls for electronically adjusting and heating the mirrors.

Conclusion

The Volkswagen Golf VII is a well-rounded compact car with high-quality finishes and impressive mechanical performance. Its combination of advanced safety features, efficient engine options, and a state-of-the-art infotainment system makes it a standout choice in its segment.

For more information on the Volkswagen Golf VII, you can visit Volkswagen's official website.

Interesting Stats

• The Volkswagen Golf VII is 100 kg lighter than its predecessor, contributing to a 14.9% reduction in CO2 emissions (Source: Volkswagen).
• The Start & Stop system can save up to 8% in fuel consumption during city driving (Source: Volkswagen).
• The Golf VII has achieved a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, highlighting its comprehensive safety features (Source: Euro NCAP).

By incorporating these updates and features, the Volkswagen Golf VII sets a new standard in the compact car segment, offering a blend of performance, efficiency, and safety that is hard to beat.