During the annual shareholder meeting, Volkswagen has revealed more juicy details about the new generation Golf. For the first time, they have also provided a first look inside.
Compared to its predecessor, the cabin has a completely different layout, with a central screen that tries to merge with the digital gauges and a radical reduction of physical buttons. The lower side of the dashboard incorporates the slim air vents, separated in the middle by a few buttons.
The center console has a couple of storage spaces, including one that appears to feature a wireless charging pad for compatible mobile devices. The gear selector appears to have been redesigned -gone is the traditional lever in automatic models- and continues to be found next to the electric parking brake. There’s a new multi-function steering wheel, too. Expect revised trim and plusher materials that will help the new Golf carry on its legacy into the next decade.
Volkswagen has teased the exterior of the car as well in another official sketch, revealing what we already knew, thanks to previous spy shots: an evolutionary design with new headlights flanking the slim grille and more muscular bonnet. The sloping roofline is there for dramatization purposes only, as the hatchback won’t go down the ‘coupe’ lane.
According to the German automaker, the Golf Mk8 will be unveiled in October, during an internal event hosted in Wolfsburg.
The engine family will continue to include petrol and diesel units, as well as a CNG model. For the first time, though, it will get a 48-volt mild hybrid powertrain. A plug-in hybrid variant has also been announced, with a claimed electric range of 80 km (50 miles) on a single charge.