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It may look like a generic Golf but the seventh-generation model is all-new.
Chances are you've already seen the pictures and read all the basic info on the seventh-generation Golf. Now let Denis Droppa take you on a detailed tour of the technological innovations.
The Golf represents 38 years of continuous success since the launch of Golf 1 in 1974, and global sales of the first six generations have totalled 29.13 million cars.
“We want to continue this success story in the seventh generation Golf,” said VW chairman Martin Winterkorn. “Although the new Golf is safer, more comfortable and spacious than the previous model, it is ligher and more fuel efficient.”
Click here to see more pictures of the new Golf
Everything was redesigned: from the body and powertrain to the interior – as well as all information and entertainment systems and its many new assistance systems.
The new Golf is the first car in the compact class in which – despite significant gains in comfort and safety – the weight of the car has been reduced by up to 100kg.
The new model is more spacious, safer, more economical and lighter.
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Volkswagen developed two entirely new generations of engines for the Golf that offer a power range from 63kW to 110kW. All engine versions are equipped with a standard stop/start system and battery regeneration, which contribute towards improved fuel economy.
The 77kW diesel engine, for example, only consumes a claimed 3.8 litres of fuel per 100 km, equivalent to CO2 emissions of 99g/km.
The Golf BlueMotion sets the new benchmarks for the model series with CO2 emissions of just 85g/km and a combined fuel consumption of 3.2 litres of diesel per 100km.
The 1.4 TSI engine’s active cylinder management (ACT) is the first time this fuel-saving technology is used in a mass-market four-cylinder engine.
It works by shutting down two cylinders when the load on the engine is low or moderate, thus reducing fuel consumption.
Here’s a look at some of the new technology being offered in Golf 7:
Driver Profile Selection System
It offers the following modes: Eco, Sport, Normal, Individual and, in combination with DCC (adaptive chassis control), Comfort. In Eco mode the engine management, air conditioning and other ancillary systems are set for optimum fuel consumption. In vehicles with the DSG dual-clutch auto gearbox, Eco mode also has a coasting function which disengages the transmission when the driver takes their foot off the accelerator.
Multi-Collision braking system
Accident studies show that approximately a quarter of all traffic accidents are multiple-collision accidents, with a second impact after the initial collision. The multi-collision braking system automatically brakes the vehicle when it is involved in an accident in order to significantly reduce its residual kinetic energy. Triggering of the multi-collision braking system is based on detection of a primary collision by the airbag sensors.
Proactive occupant protection system
Used in the luxury Touareg SUV, the system now makes its debut in the new Golf. If the system detects a potential accident – such as by hard braking – the seatbelts are automatically pre-tensioned, and the side windows (except for a small gap) and sunroof are closed to give the head and side airbag their best possible effectiveness.
Adaptive cruise control (ACC)
Until now reserved for vehicles in higher segments such as the Volkswagen CC or Phaeton, adaptive cruise control employs a front radar sensor to automatically maintain a safe following distance by controlling the brakes and throttle. On vehicles with DSG transmissions the system intervenes to such an extent that the car gets slowed to a standstill and in Stop-and-Go mode automatically pulls away.
Front Assist
This helps the driver in critical situations by preconditioning the brake system and alerting the driver to a potential collision by means of visual and audible warnings. If the driver fails to brake hard enough for the hazard, the system automatically brakes to avoid a collision. An extension of this is the City Emergency Braking function which works at speeds below 30 km/h.
Fatigue detection
This system, which was first introduced in the current Passat, detects waning driver concentration and warns the driver with acoustic and visual signals to recommend taking a break from driving.
Lane Assist
A camera-based lane-keeping assistant with steering intervention. If the driver creeps across lanes without indicating, the system gently steers the other way.
Progressive steering
Conventional steering systems operate with a constant gear ratio. However, the new optional steering system in the Golf operates with a progressive gear ratio which noticeably reduces steering work in manoeuvring and parking.
On roads with lots of bends and in turning, meanwhile, steering has more direct gearing.
Dynamic Light Assist
Via a camera on the windscreen, the system analyses the traffic ahead and the oncoming traffic, and automatically switches off the main beam to avoid dazzling other road users. Cornering lights are optional.
Park Assist 2.0
The latest version offers assisted parallel parking. The system detects a large enough parking space and, having put the vehicle into reverse, all the driver has to do is operate the accelerator and brake. The car takes care of the steering. -Star Motoring
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