Volkswagen top management is pushing hard to reach their target of beating Toyota to the number one spot by 2018. As a part of their quest, the company is determined to launch the next generation Golf in 2013 ahead of their original schedule.
The next Golf will have elegance to distinguish it from the other hatchback models in VW’s production lines. Expect aero dynamic body-line and increased dimensions. Interior volume will is also expected to increase due to change in wheelbase and overall length. Quality materials and some innovative features are expected to be added including an eight-inch touch screen on top of the center console that will work like an Apple IPad and provide navigation, radio control and internet access.
Another reason behind Golf VII’s early arrival is cost cutting. Interior architecture is proposed to be similar to that in the next Audi A3 which is also being launched in 2013. A new technology named MBQ is being used under which all cars on it will have the same distance between the front-axle line and the foot pedals which will reduce the number of front-end structures used by the company. Today, the company claims to use various front-end modules which is expected to be reduced to two. More than 60 models of the Volkswagen Group will be built on the MQB, enabling significant cost savings. VW’s luxury brands will carry on using their own dedicated platforms.
Powering the Golf will be a turbocharged and direct-injected (TSI) gasoline four-cylinder engines. Displacement will range from 1.2 to 2.0 liters, with output as high as 300 horses in a four wheel drive variant. The Golf VII will be adaptable to a number of alternative engines and designed to carry compressed gas tanks, dry batteries or hybrid units.
Via caranddriver.com
