Volkswagen Golf Gets a Redesign

Exciting news from the New York Auto Show: Volkswagen’s popular Golf model is getting a 2018 redesign. Following the mid-year upgrades to the 2017 eGolf, VW is offering standard Golf upgrades both inside and out. Both the base Golf and other models such as the Alltrack, SportWagen, GTI and Golf R will have added value for the next model year.

This new redesign features new chrome grille accents, LED tail lights, daytime running lights as a standard feature, and a front bumper in a hot new shape. Previous Golf models offered optional Bi-Xenon headlamps, but the new LED lights will be standard for the GTI SE/Autobahn and Golf R models. New color options and interior trims will be available, as well as standard redesigned alloy wheels and a bigger interior touch screen, which will be either 6.5 or 8 inches, depending on the model. The Golf R will be especially well-appointed, featuring VW’s driver-selectable Digital Cockpit instrument cluster.

Most importantly, Volkswagen proves once again that they care about driver safety. The 2018 Golf will feature autonomous emergency braking, a blind spot monitor, optional front assist with pedestrian monitoring, and forward collision warning. For the upgraded models, VW will also offer park steering assist, park distance control, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise, and high beam control, not to mention keyless access and an upgraded Fender Premium Audio system.

But Volkswagen knows not to mess with success: the powertrain upgrades to the 2018 models are modest. Like the 2017 Golf, all models come standard with 170 hp and an 1.8 liter turbocharged TSI 4-cylinder engine. But VW has now added a standard Performance Package which bumps the 2.0-liter turbocharged TSI engine from 210 to 220 hp. Pricing has yet to be announced for any model; it’s expected to be released closer to the 2018 Golf’s fall launch date.