The running gear in the Golf is the benchmark in the compact class. By systematically optimising many of its components, e.g. by bionic design – structures designed after examples in nature –, the objective was to extend this position with the seventh generation of the best-seller. Based on the new Modular Transverse Matrix, specific proven components were further advanced to perfect ride and comfort properties. At the same time, weight was lowered in many areas of the running gear – and this brings advantages in terms of fuel economy and ride comfort. To fully exploit the greatest possible weight reduction, a new rear suspension was developed for the engine versions with less than 90 kW / 122 PS: the modular lightweight design suspension. It weighs just 38 kg. For the more powerful engine versions, the further developed modular performance suspension was used (weight: 49 kg). In front, Volkswagen has also integrated a MacPherson suspension in the new Golf as well.
MacPherson-type front suspension
As mentioned, a MacPherson front suspension (spring struts) with a newly developed low wishbone as well as its track-stabilising scrub radius provides for optimal handling and steering properties in the Golf as well as balanced vibration behaviour. All components were reworked for improved functionality, weight and costs. The result, despite not using aluminium components, was a weight savings of 1.6 kg. This was made possible, for example, by the use of high-strength steel in the transverse links and an innovative bionic design approach to the pivot bearings. A subframe is centrally positioned on the front axle; its frame - designed for maximum transverse rigidity - handles loads from the engine mounts and steering as well as loads of the front suspension components.
The now universally employed tubular anti-roll bar has a spring rate that has been adapted to the requirements of different running gear layouts. The rubber bearings are vulcanised directly onto the painted anti-roll tube; this assures optimal acoustic properties. For the combination with the 16-inch and 17-inch brakes, a new aluminium pivot bearing was also developed. The use of aluminium and the bionic design of this pivot bearing enabled a weight reduction of 2.8 kg.
Modular lightweight suspension
The new modular lightweight suspension consists of a transverse profile that is open at the bottom, into which an insert plate is welded at the outer ends. Different torsion rates for different versions are attained by different lengths of the insert plates. This yields a considerable weight advantage compared to a welded-in tubular anti-roll bar. The use of a transverse profile that is open at the bottom in the layout also enables optimal roll-steer behaviour and high transverse rigidity. By using high-strength steels and innovative design methods, Volkswagen succeeded in significantly increasing rigidities compared to previous suspensions of this construction type. Despite this, its weight was reduced. Compared to the modular performance suspension of the Golf versions with more engine power, a weight savings of 11 kg is achieved here. The modular lightweight suspension is an optimal match for the smaller engines; in combination with the McPherson front suspension it delivers excellent comfort and handling properties.
Modular performance suspension
The rear suspension of the seventh generation Golf was further developed from the perspectives of improved kinematics, acoustics, weight situation and modularity. However, nothing has changed with regard to its fundamental approach of consistently separating longitudinal and transverse rigidities. The low longitudinal rigidity has been preserved by the soft axle control of the trailing link; this was a necessary precondition for further improving ride comfort.
Furthermore, Volkswagen successfully improved the transverse rigidity of the modular performance suspension, which is important for steering behaviour, by a new tie rod bearing tuning. Tracking and camber values are individually tuned by excentric screws on the spring link and at the upper transverse link according to requirement for each vehicle type. Key design changes to the rear suspension are the connections of the tubular anti-roll bar and the suspension damper, which are now made at the spring link. This reduces forces within the suspension; there are also significant package advantages. In addition, the suspension was made 4.0 kg or 8 per cent lighter in weight by structural optimisations of many components and the use of high-strength steels.
Notes:
TDI, TSI, DSG and Twincharger are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG or other companies of the Volkswagen Group in Germany and other countries.
Features and technical data apply to models offered in Germany. They may differ in other countries. All fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions data cited in this press kit refer to official vehicle registration values (combined values), which were determined under standard conditions in the NEDC cycle. Fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions values for the Golf 1.4 TSI with ACT (103 kW / 140 PS) and the Golf BlueMotion 1.6 TDI (81 kW / 110 PS) are forecast values as of September 2012.