VIDEO | Test of the 2024 Volkswagen Golf, which says goodbye to the three cylinders

Have passed 50 years since the Volkswagen Golf will reach the market. In this half century we have been able to enjoy 8 different generations of the legendary German compact and see more than 37 million units produced. In fact, it is the third best-selling car in the world and the first in Europe, which is said soon.

But data is not a lifeline. In fact, in recent years, and mainly due to the demand for SUV vehicles, the best-selling car in the world has been the Volkswagen has significantly reduced its sales. In any case, we have already been able to see, touch and test the restyling of the Golf, or what is the same, the VW Golf 8.5.

Before going into the changes and news, it is important to highlight that the Golf 2024 has received subtle modifications in the exterior aesthetics, some improvements in technology and notable changes in the mechanical range. As a preview, there are several versions under 30.000 euros, even some with the DGT Ecolabel on the windshield.

Minor cosmetic touch-ups

Starting from the outside, at the front of the Golf They mainly change the headlights and the grilleIt is noteworthy that the headlights can be connected by an illuminated central band, as before, but now even The VW logo is backlit, being the first car of the brand to wear it. The bumper also changes, especially at its lower edge.

Otherwise, we see revised designs of tires ranging from 16 to 19 inches, while at the back the inner part of the pilot lights have been slightly retouched. Honestly, it doesn't change too much compared to the previous one, but we must not forget that it is a makeover and not a generational change.

More technology inside the VW Golf 8.5

Inside, too, there are few changes, but where there are changes, they do so in a noticeable way. It is mainly in the centre of the dashboard, where we find a new screen for the Multimedia system that grows to 12,9 inchesNot only is the larger size interesting, but it is now more fluid and has the touch area for the temperature illuminated, something that did not happen previously and which was disastrous when changing the temperature at night.

One aspect that could have been improved in the German house taking advantage of this restyling would have been to reduce the Surfaces in glossy black finished plastic, as there are many and, as you know, they get dirty and scratched very easily. The quality of the fit and materials is good, especially in the most visible areas and high parts of the dashboard and doors.

Yes We welcome the fact that Volkswagen has rectified on the steering wheel buttons, which in the 2020 version were touch-sensitive in some high-end versions. Now they are simpler and more intuitive again, which is appreciated.

Interior and trunk space

In terms of habitability, the Golf does not change and remains A great car for four average-sized adults to travel in, with good spaces to leave the usual objects that we usually carry with us, lined door compartments for greater comfort, central armrests in both rows and a good feeling of comfort due to the good glass surface.

In turn, the Volkswagen Golf trunk It covers the usual standards of its category, the C segment. It has 380 liters in the conventional versions and is reduced to 270 litres if we opt for one of the plug-in hybrid versions. By the way, it has good upholstery and a hatch for transporting skis or other thin and elongated objects.

Important innovations in the Volkswagen Golf mechanical range

We said at the beginning that there are interesting new features in the mechanical section. Among other things we can highlight the total disappearance of three-cylinder engines, as well as the arrival of plug-in hybrid versions with improved autonomy and power. Let's go step by step.

Starting with gasoline engines, For access we have the 1.5 TSI block, which is marketed with potencies of 115 and 150 CV linked to the manual transmission and with a C label. If we opt for the DSG automatic transmission dual-clutch in either of these two, a mild hybrid system is introduced, so it is called 1.5 eTSI and receives the different environmental Eco.

Also in gasoline we will be able to opt for a 2.0 TSI in 204 hp versions with all-wheel drive, Golf GTI, which now produces 265 hp, the Clubsport with no less than 300 hp and the new Golf R, which increases power to 333 hp.In the case of these 2.0 petrol engines they always have a dual clutch transmission.

There are also Volkswagen Golf TDI, as they do not say goodbye to diesel. It is offered with powers of 115 CV and six-speed manual transmission or in a version of 150 CV with a seven-speed DSG transmission. The diesels do not have any type of electrification, so they carry a C label. In case you were wondering, no, there are no Golf GTDs in Spain.

We conclude with the Golf PHEV, the plug-in hybrids. Access is the version eHybrid, which develops 204 CV and reaches 141 kilometers of autonomy with a single charge. The most powerful option within this branch is the so-called VW Golf GTE, with 272 hp. They share one new 19,7 kWh battery, this being the main reason why they now have such a long range in 100% electric mode. Needless to say, they have a Zero label from the DGT.

At the wheel of the VW Golf 1.5 eTSI 150 hp

For the first contact with the Volkswagen Golf 2024 we have opted for a balanced engine, such as the 1.5 eTSI of 150 HP with DSG transmission and Eco badge from the General Directorate of Traffic. It generates 250 Nm of torque, goes from 0 to 100 in 8,4 seconds and reaches 224 km/h according to its technical specifications.

It is possible that for 80% of the journeys the new 1.5 petrol engine with 115 hp will be sufficient, but I consider that Extra power of 150 HP can provide peace of mind when travelling with several passengers and a loaded boot. In the eTSI version with DSG gearbox and the 50th Anniversary finish, between one and the other The price difference is less than 800 euros.I think it's worth it.

This engine is smooth, progressive and with the necessary push for the vast majority of drivers. In addition, it is very efficient due to the slight support of the electrical system and due to having technologies such as the variable geometry turbo or the cylinder disconnection in certain situations.

As for the rest of the dynamic part, the Golf remains a Golf. That is, it is A car that does everything well, without standing out in any aspectWhat I like most about it is the compromise achieved in its suspension, which is comfortable but also manages to hold the body very well when driving aggressively in curved areas, while also maintaining great poise on the highway at high speed.

This good comfort is also helped by a good sound insulation, both in terms of rolling and aerodynamics, which reduces fatigue for the driver and occupants. Something that I also find positive is the precision of its steering, despite not being as informative as we would like.

Our test unit uses the variable hardness suspension, known as DCC chassisIn the customizable driving mode, we can adjust the hardness of the suspension in 10 different levels. The throttle response or the electric steering assistance can also be adapted.

Conclusions

As always, the Volkswagen Golf leaves us with a very good taste in our mouths, but it is true that the fact of having many interior finishes in shiny black or using touch control for the climate control is not a good idea for me. As I usually say to those who ask me about the Golf, it is the Typical student who does not get outstanding grades in any subject, but gets good grades in all.

That is, as long as the price is not evaluated, because unfortunately we cannot say the same thing there. Yes, The Golf has been an expensive car for several decades., which does not stray too far from the premium ones in its rates.

Below we have a list of prices, but to summarize, now starts at 28.050 euros with a 115 hp TSI engine, manual transmission and the basic finish, it even stays slightly below 30.000 with the Eco label, but the truth is that practically nobody buys an entry-level Golf.

As a note, these rates are without discounts, promotions or financing campaigns; that is, it is the official RRP. It is also important to mention that PHEV versions, having so much electrical autonomy, they can receive aid from the Plan Moves as if they were electric cars, that is, receiving up to 7.000 euros if we send an old car to the scrapyard.

Volkswagen Golf 2024 prices

Gallery Volkswagen Golf 8.5

Images | Volkswagen

More information about this model

Volkswagen Golf

• Plazas 5
• Power 116 - 333 hp
• Consumption 0,3 - 8,5l/100km
• Assessment 4,7