Volkswagen is gearing up to unveil the highly anticipated 'Mk8.5' Golf hatchback, and new images from CES in Las Vegas provide an early look at the redesigned model. Although the official reveal is just a few weeks away, these images offer insights into the exterior and interior changes of the facelifted Golf. Let's explore the key features and updates:
Exterior Design
- The facelifted Golf, seen here in a camouflaged GTI guise, showcases a redesigned front end with changes to the lower grille, air intakes, and light designs.
- While the exterior changes are minimal, they bring a more angular and refreshed look to the iconic hatchback.
- The rear of the Golf is also expected to undergo a similar overhaul, contributing to an updated overall appearance.
Interior Upgrades
- The 2024 Golf will feature a revised interior, addressing criticisms related to ergonomics, quality, and functionality.
- The dashboard is redesigned to accommodate a larger 12.9-inch central infotainment display, paired with a 10.4-inch digital instrument cluster.
- The latest generation of VW’s MIB infotainment platform powers the enhanced system, offering improved menu structures and faster processing speeds.
Advanced Infotainment System
- The MIB system introduces an upgraded version of the IDA voice assistant, incorporating the ChatGPT artificial intelligence model.
- The system responds to a variety of voice commands, enabling a more natural and conversational interaction with the car.
- Over-the-air updates will bring this advanced software to all Volkswagen cars equipped with the latest-generation infotainment system.
Haptic Steering Controls
- Responding to feedback, Volkswagen has replaced the haptic steering wheel controls with traditional physical buttons, reminiscent of the seventh-generation Golf.
- The new layout aims to enhance usability and bring familiarity to users.
Materials and Touch-sensitive Controls
- The interior incorporates upmarket materials, including Atrilur, a recycled material similar to Alcantara, in upper-end variants.
- Touch-sensitive slider bars for climate control now light up, improving visibility and ease of operation during nighttime driving.
Powertrain Options
- The 2024 Golf will offer a range of powertrain options, including pure-combustion, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid configurations.
- Revisions across the lineup target improved efficiency and performance.
Transmission Update
- The GTI model will no longer offer a manual gearbox, with the decision based on uncertainties related to Euro 7 emissions regulations.
- The standard Golf will continue to have an entry-level manual version.
Public Unveiling and Pricing
- Further details and a full public unveiling of the new Golf are imminent, providing a comprehensive overview of the changes and enhancements.
- Changes to the pricing structure will also be announced, with potential adjustments reflecting the updated features and configurations.
As the Golf approaches its 50th anniversary, the Mk8.5 aims to rejuvenate the model's appeal and sustain its legacy until the electric-only Mk9 arrives at the end of the decade. Stay tuned for more information on this iconic hatchback's official reveal.