Sebagai penghormatan kepada 50 tahun Golf yang ikonik, Volkswagen memperkenalkan versi yang dikemaskinikan dari model paling larisnya, menjanjikan pelbagai penambahbaikan untuk pelanggan. Siri Golf yang diperkemaskinikan ini mempunyai pelbagai ciri, termasuk reka bentuk hadapan yang direka semula, sistem hiburan terkini, dan sistem pemanduan yang memberi tumpuan pada kecekapan.
Golf GTIGolf baharuGolf Varian Baharu
Ciri yang menonjol menandakan peristiwa bersejarah ini ialah logo Volkswagen yang menyala, membuat penampilan sulungnya pada Golf. Lampu hadapan LED dan lampu belakang LED IQ.Light 3D yang dihasilkan semula menyumbang kepada penampilan luar yang segar, memberikan penampilan moden dan dinamik. Dalaman juga sama hebatnya, menampilkan sistem hiburan yang intuitif dengan touchscreen (diagonal skrin sehingga 12 inci), bersama dengan penggeser sentuhan untuk kawalan suhu dan volume.
Menambah daya tarikan, pembantu suara IDA yang baharu mengambil peranan utama, menawarkan interaksi bahasa semulajadi untuk mengawal pelbagai fungsi dalam kereta, mengakses maklumat dalam talian, dan memintegrasikan chatbot inovatif ChatGPT, yang dipamerkan di CES 2024.
Siri Golf yang diperkemaskinikan memperkenalkan sistem bantuan baharu, seperti Park Assist Plus yang diperkemaskan, yang menyederhanakan manuver letak kereta dengan mengesan tempat yang sesuai dan memulakan proses letak kereta. Park Assist Pro kini membolehkan pemandu memandu kereta mereka masuk dan keluar dari tempat letak kereta menggunakan telefon pintar mereka, menambah dimensi baru kepada keselesaan.
Penambahan teknologi yang signifikan adalah sistem Area View, menyediakan pandangan menyeluruh 360 darjah dengan menggabungkan imej dari empat kamera, meningkatkan ketelitian dan kemudahan letak kereta.
Di bawah penutup enjin, Volkswagen membawa pelbagai sistem pemanduan yang dikemaskinikan kepada Golf. Pemanduan plug-in hybrid kini menawarkan kuasa yang lebih tinggi dan julat elektrik yang diperluas kira-kira 100 km. Selain itu, model-model ini dilengkapi dengan ffungsi pengecasan pantas DC, menekankan komitmen Volkswagen terhadap mobiliti yang cekap dan mampan.
Fasa pelancaran akan menyaksikan keseluruhan sembilan pilihan yang berbeza, termasuk hibrid ringan, hibrid plug-in, petrol turbo, dan diesel turbo, memenuhi pelbagai citarasa. Golf GTI, yang terkenal dengan prestasi sporty, telah mengalami penambahbaikan untuk kuasa yang lebih besar berbanding pendahulunya.
Model Golf baru dijangka akan tersedia untuk pesanan dalam beberapa minggu akan datang, membolehkan pelanggan merasai evolusi model ikonik ini. Dengan Volkswagen terus mendorong batasan inovasi, siri Golf yang diperkemaskinikan ini memberikan penghormatan kepada sejarahnya yang kaya sambil merangkul masa depan teknologi automotif.
In a tribute to five decades of the iconic Golf, Volkswagen is set to unveil an upgraded version of its bestseller, promising an array of advancements for customers. The enhanced Golf series boasts a host of features, including a redesigned front end, next-generation infotainment system, and efficiency-focused drive systems.
The new GolfThe new Golf GTEThe new Golf GTIThe new Golf Variant
A standout feature marking this milestone is the illuminated Volkswagen logo, making its debut on the Golf. The LED headlights and reimagined IQ.Light 3D LED tail lights contribute to the refreshed exterior, providing a modern and dynamic appearance. The interior is equally impressive, featuring an intuitive infotainment system with a user-friendly touchscreen (screen diagonal up to 12 inches), along with touch sliders for temperature and volume control, creating an immersive driving experience.
Adding to the allure, the new IDA voice assistant takes centre stage, offering natural language interaction for controlling various in-car functions, accessing online information, and integrating the innovative ChatGPT chatbot, showcased at CES 2024.
The enhanced Golf series introduces new assist systems, such as the upgraded Park Assist Plus, which simplifies parking manoeuvres by detecting suitable spaces and initiating the parking process. Park Assist Pro now allows drivers to guide their cars in and out of parking spaces using their smartphones, adding a new dimension to convenience.
A significant technological addition is the Area View system, providing a comprehensive 360-degree all-around view by merging images from four cameras, enhancing visibility and ease of parking.
Under the hood, Volkswagen is bringing an array of updated drive systems to the Golf. The plug-in hybrid drives now offer increased power and an extended electric range of approximately 100 km. Additionally, these models are equipped with a DC quick-charging function, emphasising Volkswagen’s commitment to efficient and sustainable mobility.
The launch phase will witness a total of nine diverse options, including mild hybrid, plug-in hybrid, turbocharged petrol, and turbocharged diesel, catering to various preferences. The Golf GTI, known for its sporty performance, has undergone enhancements for even more power compared to its predecessor.
The new Golf models are expected to be available for order in the coming weeks, allowing customers to experience the evolution of this iconic model. As Volkswagen continues to push the boundaries of innovation, the enhanced Golf series pays homage to its rich history while embracing the future of automotive technology.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) hari ini memperkenalkan Golf GTI yang telah dinaik taraf, lengkap dengan sistem audio Harman Kardon dan ciri paparan Head-up Display. Dengan peningkatan baru ini, Golf GTI kini ditawarkan pada harga RM252,990.
Sistem audio premium Harman Kardon 480-watt meningkatkan lagi ambien dalaman GTI dengan 10 unit pembesar suara. Ia mampu memberikan pengalaman bunyi keliling yang mengasyikkan dan akustik
mengagumkan. Menggabungkan aspek keselamatan dan kepekaan yang pintar, paparan head-up display memaparkan pelbagai maklumat penting pada ruang pandangan pemandu pada cermin utama. Maklumat-maklumat penting seperti kelajuan, navigasi dan sistem amaran memastikan pemandu sentiasa peka dan melihat informasi tersebut tanpa perlu mengalihkan mata mereka daripada jalan raya di hadapan.
Golf GTI ialah sebuah ikon yang tidak perlu diperkenalkan lagi. Ia merupakan sebuah hot hatch yang menawarkan prestasi penuh kuasa dan meningkatkan pengalaman pemanduan. Jentera itu dijana oleh enjin 2.0TSI turbo berkuasa 245PS dan tork 370Nm yang dipadankan bersama kotak gear 7 kelajuan klac basah DSG. Hot hatch itu amat mudah dikenali dengan adanya gril hadapan jenis honeycomb dan kemasan GTI berwarna merah yang menjadi signatur rekaannya. Penampilan itu dilengkapkan dengan rim aloi Richmond bersaiz 18” yang sporty, angkup brek berwarna merah, serta lampu utama dan belakang LED sepenuhnya.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has unveiled an upgraded version of the Golf GTI, now equipped with a premium Harman Kardon audio system and a Head-up Display. Priced at RM252,990, these enhancements aim to provide an elevated driving experience for enthusiasts.
The addition of the Harman Kardon 480-watt audio system complements the Golf GTI’s interior, delivering an immersive surround sound experience through its 10 speakers. This feature enhances the overall ambience of the GTI, providing impressive acoustics for an immersive driving experience.
Another notable feature introduced in the upgraded Golf GTI is the Head-up Display. This innovative safety feature projects essential information directly onto the driver’s field of vision on the windscreen. Vital data, including speed, navigation details, and system warnings, is presented in a way that allows drivers to stay informed without diverting their attention from the road.
The Golf GTI, a renowned icon among hot hatches, continues to impress with its powerful performance. It is powered by a 2.0TSI turbocharged engine coupled with a 7-speed wet clutch DSG, generating an impressive 245PS and 370Nm of torque. Recognisable by its signature honeycomb front grille, red GTI trims, and sporty 18” Richmond alloy wheels, the Golf GTI also features full LED headlamps and taillights.
Volkswagen values the GTI name highly, thus it looks like that the acronym’s meaning will need to change as a result of the new emblem seen above. As is already public knowledge, Volkswagen plans to convert its entire line-up to fully electric models soon. Currently, GTI refers to “Grand Touring Injection,” with the final component clearly referencing fuel injection. As such, that name may have to change, or does it?
However, Volkswagen will update the GTI emblem, adding a lightning bolt in place of the last letter. No, it does not mean “The Flash”, it simply means that the GTI moniker will live on in this new electric era. Does this mean that the GTX designation that high-performance VW EVs now carry may be dropped?
The latest Volkswagen Golf 8 R-Line now has a price which starts from RM169,990. The model, one of the versions of the new Golf 8 range launched in February this year, was displayed but at that time, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) did not have a price for it yet. The Golf GTI and Golf R (CBU) are priced from RM214,900 and RM389,990, respectively.
1.4TSI engine with torque-converter AT
Like the Golf GTI, the Golf R-Line is assembled at the Volkswagen facility in the DRB-HICOM manufacturing complex in Pekan, Pahang. Under the bonnet is a 1.4TSI turbocharged engine with an output of 150 ps/280 Nm, mated to an Aisin-supplied 8-speed automatic transmission (the trusty torque converter type) with shift-by-wire control. Fuel consumption is claimed to be 17.2 kms/litre.
The driver can select from 3 driving modes to suit driving conditions or personal preference, and can customise the settings as well.
Apart from the R-Line styling and low C-signature front bumper, the new model comes with 17-inch Valencia alloy wheels and chrome-effect trapezoid faux exhaust tailpipes.
Better connectivity
The latest Golf generation has enhanced digitalisation in the cockpit with far greater connectivity than before. It also comes with intelligent voice control system to manage various functions. The ‘trigger phrase’ is ‘Hello Volkswagen’ which will ‘wake up’ the system to await a command. Alternatively, pressing a button on the steering wheel also activates the system.
The voice recognition system has been improved from earlier systems and uses digital microphones. The new software has fewer system interfaces than before, and comprehension rate is said to reach a level of around 95%. It recognises whether the driver or the passenger is speaking. which means it can adjust the air conditioning system (to colder or warmer, for example) specifically for the person making the request.
The Golf has always had optimised interior packaging with space for the occupants as a priority. The hatchback offers plenty of room for all the family while, at the rear, is a 381-litre of luggage compartment.
Like the Golf GTI, the Golf R-Line has a tough structure constructed using a combination of high-quality steel extensively engineered to provide maximum occupant protection in the event of an accident. Other key safety features include Electronic Stability Control; Post Collision Braking System that prevents a second collision; Electronic Differential Lock that improves traction and reduce understeer; and 6 airbags at the front and sides.
Customers can choose from a range of 5 colours for the Golf R-Line – Moonstone Grey, Metallic Kings Red, Atlantic Blue (in metallic finishing), Deep Black and Oryx White with pearl effect.
The price includes a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, free scheduled maintenance for the first 3 years of ownership, and complimentary roadside assistance for the first 5 years. To locate a showroom in Malaysia to view and test-drive the new Golf GTI, visit www.volkswagen.com.my.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has announced a voluntary recall for models produced between 2011 and 2015 to rectify the hydraulic pressure accumulator within the 7-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG) caused by a production deviation.
In individual cases, it has been found that the hydraulic pressure accumulator starts to run at an excessive pressure and this can cause a leak, leading to possible pressure loss. This can interrupt power transmission between the engine and gearbox.
A total of 12,732 Volkswagen vehicles have been identified as being affected by this recall. The affected models are the Beetle, Cross Touran, Golf (Mk 6 and Mk 7), Jetta, Passat (B7), Passat CC, Polo (6R) and Scirocco. This exercise does not affect Volkswagen models produced from 2016 and newer.
Some of the models sold between 2011 and 2015 in Malaysia which are being recalled.
The nationwide campaign will be executed in phases in order to manage the number of cases, and notification to identified owners will be conducted by mail with immediate effect. In the event that you own one of the Volkswagen models mentioned but do not receive any communication from VPCM, it could be that they do not have your contact details because you are not the original owner and their database has not been updated with details of the current owner. Nevertheless, your vehicle will still be accepted under the recall exercise.
Owners can also visit the Volkswagen website to check if their vehicle is affected or call Volkswagen customer care at 1800-18-8947 for further information.
Owners can use the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) usually located on the dashboard as shown to check whether their vehicle is affected.
They may then contact any authorised Volkswagen service centre to book an appointment and have their vehicle inspected and parts replaced, if need be. VPCM has taken the necessary steps with its dealer partners to ensure parts availability and that the exercise is conducted smoothly and efficiently. All labour and replacement parts for this service will be at no cost to owners.
Additionally, owners will receive a free Volkswagen Care Plus (VCP) membership card as a token of appreciation from Volkswagen. An integral part of Volkswagen Cares, VCP is an exclusive program for owners with vehicles that are 5 years old and older. Member privileges include three 20% service discounts vouchers, 2 years of complimentary Roadside Assistance, and 24-hour on-site battery support (terms and conditions apply).
“As a responsible car manufacturer, customer confidence and peace of mind is of utmost importance to us, and we hope that our owners understand that this campaign is necessary to ensure their continued confidence in the performance of their vehicles,” said Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM.
He expressed his regret for the inconvenience caused to the owners and added that while the affected vehicles have been identified, it is possible that not all the vehicles will require parts replacement. “This is a significant exercise for us, and we would like to ensure that all these vehicles are inspected. This campaign is part of our Volkswagen Cares initiative, and we are committed to a high level of customer safety, service and satisfaction,” he explained.
There was a time when the Volkswagen Golf was the de facto go to car if you wanted something cheap and reliable as your daily runner.
Today though, the Golf is far from cheap (in Malaysia at least), but for some, it is still the ideal day to day companion.
Price & Competition:
At RM178,110, this Golf 1.4 TSI R-Line with Sound & Style package is punching above its weight; it is up against some of the finest from Europe and Japan.
Take the new Mazda CX-5 Turbo for example, it offers more living room, more power and comes with the decades old seal of Japanese reliability. A seal trusted by many.
Then there is the BMW 1-Series, the entry-level pawn to the world of Bavarian motoring. The Golf may better in some aspects, but let’s face it, in Malaysia, a BMW holds a lot more bling-factor than VW when arriving at a family dinner party. That’s just how we roll.
What is it like?
There are many other great options in the market too that would happily thumb their nose at the VW. So, what’s the case for the Golf then?
A lot actually. As I found out after a couple of days with one.
I like its size for one. It makes it easier to “kung-fu” your way around traffic jams and snug into parking lots.
I also like the interior and its fine quality, decent leg and shoulder space. Maybe not for the rear passengers though as it can get quite cramped back there.
It is also surprisingly quiet at all speeds, something that I think is extremely important in modern cars. Find a car with great insulation and you will be one step closer to finding the perfect car.
What we like about it:
Features like cruise control are nifty to have, but it is features like a Speed Limiter that make my list of must haves in a car. Why? Well, I spend a significant amount of time on highways, and I sometimes involuntarily creep into speeds that will amuse the “pak ciks” sitting beneath the overhead passes. They have sent me a couple of letters telling me how they are such big fans of my speeding habits.
These days I prefer to set the limit and just let my mind wander. Speed guns have nothing on a car with a speed limiter.
Friends say I’m getting dull, but I have come to appreciate regular, negligible features such as an auto dimming rear view mirror, rear air-conditioning vents, dual-zone temperature control. In fact I appreciate these features so much that anything lesser just doesn’t cut it anymore.
And there’s also features like the app-connect smartphone connectivity that launches either the Apple CarPlay or Android Auto applications, depending on which part of the never ending apple vs android war you are aligned to.
You access these apps via a 12.3-inch high-definition touch screen display that seems more like an on-board computer screen than an entertainment unit. Which is a good thing, simply because you spend so much time in a car that entertainment and the way you access it is important. You could have 500hp under your right foot, but when you’re stuck in traffic all that power is useless. A good entertainment system though goes a long way, traffic or not.
And this particular model with its sound and style package has quite a bit of entertainment to offer since it comes with a 300W Helix sound bar placed in the booth (seen below). This gives you rich bass that wouldn’t be out of place in a Dr Dre rap video, and makes you want to take the long way home since you would probably want to spend more time with your 90s hip-hop playlist.
The package also gives you aluminium sports pedal and side scuff plates, but the sound bar is easily the coolest part about this package. If you don’t mind the RM4,000 premium over the standard golf and don’t mind sacrificing some space in the booth, spend on the Sound & Style package.
Engine, Power and Performance:
When it comes to driving it, the Golf offers a plush ride, dull but precise handling and an aura that matches its expensive price tag. Of course not as indulging as its elder siblings, the GTI or the R, but there’s always a little hint that it wants to play behind all that vanilla character. Perhaps it is the R-line specific design with the rear spoiler, sill extension and 17-inch wheels, or perhaps it is the way it holds on to its gears in Sport mode, and lets you ride the wall of torque just the way a classic hot hatch would. Either way, there is a fun side to the Golf, but it runs out of breath pretty quickly.
That’s not to say that it is a sports car on a budget since the 1.4-litre TSI engine only makes 150PS (147hp) and 250Nm of torque. But to make it feel sportier than it really is, it offers three driving modes – Sports, Normal and Eco – and another called Individual that lets you customize how the steering feels, how quickly the throttle responds to your foot and how quickly the seven gears shift. It doesn’t do anything to the suspension though, so you could ask the car to be at its sportiest, but you can’t do anything about its softish suspension, which kinda takes the fun away.
Sportiness may not be part of this Golf though, but fuel economy definitely is. It’s 50-litre tank capable of taking you past the 600km mark depending on whether you tickled the pedal or consistently stomp the hell out it.
Should you buy it?
So why isn’t such a well-sorted car enjoying brisk-er sales in Malaysia?
When it comes to the asking price, the Golf sits in a rather awkward position. It sits in a spot where buyers who have the money are willing to pay the RM50,000 or so for a Mercedes-Benz or a BMW. Because that amount translates to just a few hundred Ringgit in monthly installments and just a few thousand more in downpayment. So why the hell not?
But that’s probably the only case against the Golf considering there really isn’t much not to like.
You could argue that its rather expensive for a hatchback, but that would be missing the point of a modern Golf. It may have been go-to car for cheap and cheerful cars once upon a time ago, but the Golf has grown up to be one that pampers and indulges your senses in a way only a continental car can. And that means forking out more money.
But then again, if you don’t give a damn about the brand like some of us and would get a Golf because you like well-engineered cars, I’d say hold back a little longer and go for the complete package instead – the GTI. That’s where things get serious very quickly.
On October 24, Volkswagen will have the attention of the motoring world when it unveils the 8th generation of the Golf. The event will take place at its home city in Germany, Wolfsburg. Prior to the event in 12 days, the carmaker has released these sketches as teasers.
One of the bestselling cars for decades, the Golf has evolved continuously from one generation to the next, meeting the changes in society and demands of consumers. For the new generation, Volkswagen says there will be more digitalisation and connectivity than ever before, packed with innovations and sporting a highly expressive design.
Evolution of the ‘face’ of the Golf through eight generations.
New range of efficient engines
In the new model, the strengths that have made the Golf a worldwide bestseller will be complemented by a new range of efficient engines (which will undoubtedly include hybrids). Enhanced suspension technology will provide a boost in terms of agility.
From the sketch, it can be seen that the exterior design is more dynamic – and yet instantly recognisable as a Golf from all sides. On the inside, fresh colours and fabrics define the look of the new model as well as a new digital cockpit.
How the dashboard of the Golf has changed since the first generation launched in 1974.
More digitisation for the instrument panel of the Golf Mk.8
Will it be assembled in Malaysia?
Following its debut, the first deliveries of the new Golf Mk.8 will commence in December. Now that the assembly facility in Pekan, Pahang, has the MQB platform for the Tiguan, it would be easier to put the Golf Mk.8 on the line as well, allowing a more competitive price. This could then allow the Malaysian facility to become a regional production hub for the model to be distributed using AFTA privileges. However, we have heard that although Volkswagen has been keen to export cars, certain duty issues have yet to be sorted out.
The next generation of Volkswagen’s Golf – among the top ten bestselling cars of all time – is nearing launch. This will be the 8th generation of the model which appeared in 1974 to take over from the Beetle as the modern ‘people’s car’. To date, over 35 million units have been sold worldwide.
7 generations of the Golf have been launched to date, with the current one having had its debut in 2013.
Designed for the 21st century
The new Golf will be a product for the 21st century, with design and digital innovations for the new era of electrified drives, a digitalised and connected interior world, assisted driving and online-based functions and services.
The camouflage lets onlookers identify that the black and white lines are disguising a 5-door hatchback. The DNA of the Golf, evolved over 45 years, is still evident but the camouflage still masks the finer details of the new design.
The design of the original Golf has evolved over the years but its DNA continues in the new generation.
Commenting on the all-new model, Klaus Bischoff, Head of Volkswagen Design, says: “At this time, we will not disclose all details of the new Golf, but you can already perceive its elegant proportions.” The next generation will be a genuine eye-catcher!”
The countdown to the global debut of ‘No. 8’ has already begun and Volkswagen says its world premiere will be in autumn 2019. That would almost certainly be at the Frankfurt Motorshow.
