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Golf VII (2012–2019)

Golf VII (2012–2019)
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The king

Factory code: Type AU

The seventh-generation Golf redefines the compact segment yet again at the end of 2012. At its world premiere in Berlin on 4 September 2012, it looks familiar but also of a higher quality than ever before, and progressive in key details. Its trademark remains its powerful C-pillar, serving as a calming influence in profile. Stretching across the front is a horizontal line consisting of a streamlined grill and headlights; at the rear, two-part taillights accentuate the width.

Golf DNA also characterises the spacious interior: a driver-oriented cockpit with sophisticated haptics. The new optional Active Info Display and enhanced online services are technical treats for everyday life in digital. The technical basis is the Modular Transverse Toolkit (MQB). It combines moderate weight, high rigidity, and integration of the latest assistants. With Front Assist and City Emergency Braking function, multi-collision brake system, lane departure warning system, ACC, parking assistant, DCC, and Trailer Assist, the VW Golf VII democratises innovative technology options.

Its drive systems are more diverse than ever; the TSI petrol engines combine turbocharging and direct fuel injection, from everyday entry-level models to sporty versions. The TDI diesel engines score with common rail injection, smooth running, and tremendous range. The 1.6-litre TDI Golf BlueMotion has an average diesel consumption of 3.4 litres and energy efficiency class A+ as standard.

In 2014, the GTE becomes the first plug-in hybrid Golf. It combines e-drive technology with e-Boost for dynamics and relaxed combustion engine range on long journeys. The combined average fuel consumption is just 1.5 litres of super unleaded petrol per 100 kilometres; the pure electric range is around 50 kilometres. And with a high-voltage battery of up to 31.5 kWh (net), the e-Golf is emission-free and almost silent when driving short distances. It has clever everyday charging management and autonomous aerodynamic details. It proves that electromobility is a good fit for Golf.

The R redefines maximum Golf feeling. With 4MOTION all-wheel drive and huge power reserves it is the perfect exclusive sporty understatement. It is a compact high-calibre car in any weather, with the ideal mix of comfort and control.

Around 6.3 million units are built before series production comes to an end.

Golf VII profile

Vehicle data

Volkswagen Golf

Engine versions

Volkswagen Golf

Golf VII variants & highlights

Golf VII model update

2013

Start of production

Advance sales at the end of 2012, launch in spring 2013. The seventh-generation Golf debuts as a completely redesigned, lighter, modular Golf based on the MQB platform with an extremely extensive range of options (Limousine, Variant, GTI, GTD, R).

2014

Electrifying

The first series derivatives introduced are the plug-in hybrid Golf GTE and the e-Golf, the first Volkswagen model with electric drive to be produced large-scale. The systematic electrification of the series gets underway.

2015

Extras but not a diva

The new Allstar special edition significantly enhances comfort on board. The Golf Allstar has 16-inch Linas alloy wheels in black with a diamond-cut surface, multifunction leather steering wheel, MFA Premium, cruise control, Climatronic, radio composition colour, tinted rear windows, mirror package, and fog lights. Other highlights are the special colour Carbon Steel Grey, aluminium pedals, and the Pentastripe seat covers. For peace of mind, the warranty is extended by three years for up to 50,000 kilometres. The ALLSTAR Plus package comes with 17-inch Singapore alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running light and Dynamic Light Assist, as well as LED taillights and the Lights & Vision package.

2016

Sounds good

The Sound special edition enhances the comfort line with 16-inch Woodstock alloy wheels, fog lights, “SOUND” stickers on the B-pillar or mudguards, door sills with SOUND lettering, seat materials with the Equalizer promotional design featuring contrasting stitching, additional chrome elements, Climatronic, ParkPilot, winter package, heated front seats, as well as tinted rear side windows and a tinted rear windscreen.

2017

Major update

A huge product upgrade gets the Golf in top shape. A multitude of changes are made to the optics and the interior: subtle, modernised front with new illuminated displays, newly designed bumpers and rims. The interior is upgraded with an optional, fully digital instrument cluster (Active Info Display) and newly developed touch infotainment systems.

The drive systems are also redesigned: the new 1.5-litre TSI (ACT) with cylinder cut-off (1.5 TSI ACT) is a powerful high-volume engine. Compared with the original versions, consumption and emissions are optimised.

As part of the model update, the technology of the Golf R top model is revamped and boosted to 310 PS.


2019

Cleverer driving

The IQ.Drive special edition showcases the current driver assistance systems offered by the Modular Transverse Toolkit (MQB). 16-inch Dublin alloy wheels, Cushion fabric seats (black in the central section, Petrol at the sides), ACC system, Lights and Vision package, Blindspot and Lane Assist, parking assistant, Climatronic, winter package, and the IQ.DRIVE logo projection onto the front doors all come as standard.

2019

End of production

The world premiere of the eighth-generation VW Golf in October 2019 marks the gradual discontinuation of the seventh series. Production of the combustion engine model stops at the Zwickau plant in December.

2020

Final e-Golf

Production of the e-Golf outlasts that of the limousine with combustion engine. Manufactured in Wolfsburg and Dresden, the final e-Golf rolls off the production line of the Transparent Factory on 23 December 2020.

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The specified fuel consumption and emission data does not refer to a single vehicle and is not part of the offer but is only intended for comparison between different types of vehicles. Additional equipment and accessories (additional components, tyre formats, etc.) can alter relevant vehicle parameters such as weight, rolling resistance and aerodynamics, affecting the vehicle's fuel consumption, power consumption, CO₂ emissions and driving performance values in addition to weather and traffic conditions and individual driving behavior.

Further information on official fuel consumption data and official specific CO₂ emissions for new passenger cars can be found in the "Guide to fuel economy, CO₂ emissions and power consumption for new passenger car models", which is available free of charge from all sales dealerships and from DAT Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH, Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, D-73760 Ostfildern, Germany and at www.dat.de/co2.