Volkswagen has revealed the eighth-generation Golf, which will introduce mild hybrids and a revised plug-in hybrid as well as new connected technologies.

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While the styling may be evolutionary and the new Golf is roughly the same size as its predecessor, the latest-generation brings more revolutionary changes in terms of technologies. In fact, the carmaker says the new model marks the greatest leap forward since its debut.

This includes a hybrid offensive that sees the new Gol become the first Volkswagen to launch onto the market with five hybrid versions. Three 48V mild hybrids will be offered – bringing 110hp, 130hp and 150hp outputs – which are said to cut WLTP consumption by up to 10%.

In addition, two plug-in hybrids will be available, depending on the market, covering a 204hp variant and the more sporty 245hp GTE. Both feature a new 13kWh lithium-ion battery on board that enables longer electrically powered ranges of approximately 60km.

Engines also include two four-cylinder petrol engines with 90 and 110hp, two four-cylinder diesel engines with 115 and 150hp and a TGI with 130hp. The new TSI variants are said to have particularly low consumption values and emissions thanks to elements including the TSI Miller combustion process. Meanwhile for the TDI powertrains Volkswagen has used twin-dosing SCR technology, claimed to significantly reduce nitrogen oxide emissions (NOx) by up to 80%; in addition, TDI consumption is lowered by up to 17% compared with its predecessor.

Compared to the exterior, the interior brings bigger changes, with a clear focus on digital technology and bringing two screens, one for infotainment and one as a digital cockpit. The latest version of VW’s MIB3 infotainment system features, including Amazon Alexa functionality.

Semi-autonomous driving tech also debuts in the form of the ‘Travel Assist’ system, offering assisted driving at up to 200km/h.

The Golf is also the first Volkswagen to use swarm intelligence from traffic via Car2X, meaning it can warn against hazards on an anticipatory basis, notifying the driver via a display. Not only does the system exchange information with other Golfs but it can also communicate with other brands thanks to an online connectivity unit (OCU). Included as standard, the OCU features integrated eSIM links to ‘We Connect’ and ‘We Connect Plus’ online functions and services.

“Over the course of seven generations, the Golf has impressed more than 35 million customers. The entire automobile industry expects a new Golf to set the standard,” said Dr Herbert Diess, chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG.

Ralf Brandstätter, chief operating officer of Volkswagen Passenger Cars, added: “This car is completely new. But of course, a Golf always remains a Golf. Because the underlying concept is timeless. This car has defined our brand over decades. The Golf has consistently made new technologies available for everyone.”

The Golf Mk8 goes on sale from the end of the year. Specifications are yet to be confirmed.