Despite the global shift towards SUVs, the VW Golf continues to maintain its status as one of the most popular nameplates in the automotive world. Recognizing its significance, VW CEO Thomas Schäfer has officially confirmed a mid-lifecycle update for the eighth-generation Golf, set to arrive in 2024. As we eagerly await its release, we have gathered all the available information and even created speculative illustrations to give you a glimpse of what to expect from the facelifted model.
Introduced in 2019, the current eighth-generation Golf has already made its mark. However, in line with VW’s commitment to continuous improvement, the upcoming 2024 update promises significant visual and technological revisions. While VW typically adopts a subtle approach to facelifts, this does not diminish the importance of the changes that the Golf will undergo.
Stay tuned for more details as we approach the release of the 2024 VW Golf facelift, and get ready to witness an enhanced and captivating version of this iconic hatchback.
Excitement is brewing as prototypes of the facelifted VW Golf have recently hit the road, albeit cleverly disguised under the current model’s bodywork and lighting units. However, we’ve managed to create renderings that provide a glimpse of the possible changes to this compact hatchback. Rest assured, the Golf’s iconic identity will be preserved, paying homage to its heritage and VW’s evolutionary approach to this beloved model.
While the overall greenhouse and profile will remain familiar, expect some noticeable updates to the bumpers, featuring redesigned intakes that contribute to a refreshed appearance. The headlights and taillights will receive a makeover with new LED graphics, possibly drawing inspiration from the cutting-edge ID. family of electric cars. Enthusiasts will be pleased to hear that the performance-oriented GTI/GTD/GTE and R trims will retain their distinctive bodykits. But even the base Golf is anticipated to exude a sportier vibe compared to its predecessor, taking cues from the successful facelift of the 2024 VW ID.3.
Prepare to be captivated by the upcoming VW Golf facelift, where style meets substance in a package that pays homage to its rich heritage while embracing the innovative future of Volkswagen.
Larger Screen And More Tech
Our exclusive spy shots have granted us a valuable peek into the interior changes of the facelifted VW Golf, revealing some of the new components that will grace the cabin. At the heart of the update lies a significantly larger touchscreen for the infotainment system, serving as the centerpiece of the revamped interior. This impressive new screen, bearing a striking resemblance to the 15-inch unit found in the fully electric VW ID.7, represents a substantial upgrade. However, lower trims may feature a still-generous 12-inch screen, akin to the one seen in the ID.3, surpassing the current Golf’s 10-inch display.
Volkswagen has made a commitment to bid farewell to touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel, and the Golf could be among the first models to reintroduce physical buttons. This transition to physical buttons will eventually extend across the entire VW range, ensuring a seamless and consistent user experience. Additionally, the facelifted Golf is likely to embrace new and improved materials, elevating the overall quality of the cabin. Look forward to innovative tech features, such as the digitally controlled “Smart Air Vents,” set to debut in the ID.7. Furthermore, expect an enhanced suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to accompany the new model, building upon the Golf’s strong safety foundation. Notably, the 2023 model year introduced a central airbag, contributing to the Golf’s impressive five-star EuroNCAP rating.
Prepare to embark on a refined journey with the upcoming VW Golf facelift, where the interior upgrades promise to enhance your driving experience with advanced technology, premium materials, and enhanced safety features.
Updates Under The Skin And Heavier Electrification
The 2024 Golf is built upon an upgraded MQB Evo architecture, shared with other VW Group models like the Tiguan and Passat Variant. This platform refinement brings improvements to the Golf’s chassis setup, handling, and ride quality. As a longstanding benchmark in the compact segment, the Golf continues to offer a well-rounded driving experience that drivers have come to expect. With the enhanced architecture, engineers have aimed to further elevate the Golf’s performance and overall driving dynamics, ensuring it remains a top contender in its class.
Regarding powertrains, the upcoming facelifted Golf is expected to be the final model powered by internal combustion engines (ICE) before Volkswagen transitions into an all-electric brand by 2033. As a result, there won’t be any surprising engine options under the hood. The updated 1.5 TSI Evo2 turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, equipped with mild-hybrid technology, will likely be the primary choice across the Golf lineup. Additionally, the entry-level 1.0 eTSI engine may receive updates to enhance its environmental performance. The potential inclusion of the 2.0 TDI diesel engine in the final model remains uncertain. However, the 2.0 TSI engine is expected to make a comeback in the GTI and R hot hatch variants, possibly with some level of electrification incorporated.
The eHybrid/GTE variants of the facelifted Golf will receive increased attention, as they are expected to feature the next-generation Plug-in Hybrid Electric Car (PHEV) system. This new system will be based on the 1.5 TSI engine and paired with a seven-speed DSG transmission, replacing the previous 1.4 TSI engine and six-speed DSG setup. Volkswagen has hinted at a combined power output of up to 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) for its future PHEVs. Moreover, the targeted zero-emission range is set to see a significant improvement, potentially reaching up to 100 km (62 miles) between charges, thanks to the implementation of a new battery pack.
While competitors like the Peugeot 308 and Opel Astra have introduced electric-only versions to their lineup, Volkswagen has chosen not to electrify the MQB platform since they already have the MEB architecture available. The fully electric ID.3 model closely aligns with the Golf in terms of market positioning and target audience. However, there have been reports suggesting the possibility of a slightly smaller electric model called the ID. Golf. This alternative electric option could be offered alongside the traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) Golf until the end of its lifecycle, which is anticipated to occur sometime between 2028 and 2030.
The highly anticipated unveiling of the refreshed VW Golf Mk8 is scheduled for 2024. As we eagerly await its official debut, we anticipate that more revealing images of production-ready prototypes will surface later this year, offering us a clearer glimpse into the exterior and interior design of the car. It is a great relief that Volkswagen has made the decision to continue the legacy of the Golf even in the era of electric cars. This means that the upcoming model won’t be the final iteration to carry the iconic Golf name, ensuring its continued presence and influence in the automotive world.
