The Volkswagen Golf sold a total of 52,676 units in South Korea through July this year, becoming the first imported compact hatchback to surpass 50,000 deliveries in the country. Launched in 1974, the Golf is an iconic Volkswagen model that has run for half a century and a steady seller with more than 37 million units sold worldwide.
The Golf is regarded as a car that stays true to the fundamentals, offering a comfortable ride, an enduring design, stable driving performance and strong fuel economy. It is equipped with a 2.0 TDI engine and a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission. With a maximum output of 150 horsepower and peak torque of 36.7 kg·m, its smooth acceleration is a standout feature. The refinement of a body and suspension that grip the road firmly is another point for which the Golf has long been recognized.
The certified combined fuel economy of the Golf 2.0 TDI is 17.3 km/L. At 15.2 km/L in the city and 20.8 km/L on the highway, it boasts the highest efficiency among models in its compact segment. On a single tank of fuel, it can travel more than 860 km combined and more than 1,000 km in highway driving.
The design retains the sturdy C-pillar and stable body proportions that have served as a symbol since the first generation, while this eighth generation adds an "illuminated logo" for the first time on a Golf. The center display has been enlarged to 12.9 inches from the previous 10 inches. The driver's seat comes standard with an "ergoActive power seat," featuring functions such as massage and an adjustable thigh support. Using a hands-free microphone and rear speakers, the driver can converse smoothly with rear-seat passengers without turning around or raising their voice.
The Golf comes standard across the entire lineup with Volkswagen's advanced driver assistance system, IQ.DRIVE. It offers safety features including Travel Assist, which supports acceleration, braking and steering on long drives, as well as Adaptive Cruise Control, Front Assist, Lane Assist, an exit warning system and a rear traffic alert system. Through Park Assist Plus, it supports parallel and perpendicular parking without the driver operating the steering wheel or pedals, easing the burden of using the vehicle in the city.
The Golf's official prices are 40.07 million won ($29,000) for the Premium trim and 46.4 million won ($33,600) for the Prestige trim. Buyers are offered a five-year, 150,000-km extended warranty program, a monthly payment support program, and a deductible support program that covers deductibles up to five times free of charge for insurance repairs of accident-damaged vehicles at official service centers during the first year.
