The New Facelift Golf — ‘MK8.5' 2024
The new heavily overhauled 2024 Golf MK8.5 is set to be arriving in European showrooms in the next few months, including an updated GTI Clubsport and Golf R.
Celebrating its 50th birthday, the iconic Volkswagen Golf hatchback is unveiling the long-awaited facelifted version of the eighth-generation Golf in 2024 (this will include a 50 year special edition with unique trim). Aptly named the Volkswagen Golf MK8.5, the mid-life refresh aims to rejuvenate the Golf’s iconic status, despite the surge in popularity of SUVs like the VW Tiguan, which has now surpassed the Golf in terms of global sales.
Various technological upgrades include a new central touchscreen, ranging from 10.4 to 12.9 inches, ‘MIB4’ infotainment software, ‘windscreen’ head-up display, and ‘Park Assist Pro2’ which is VW’s latest self parking feature. The introduction of ChatGPT AI chatbot adds an innovative touch, seamlessly integrated into Volkswagen’s next-generation infotainment system.
The facelift brings subtle design tweaks, including new LED signatures, an illuminated VW badge, and refreshed bumpers. Notably, the interior sees a significant overhaul, addressing criticisms of the previous model. Volkswagen reintroduces physical controls on the steering wheel, alongside touch-sensitive sliders for climate and volume controls, now backlit for improved visibility.
The facelifted Golf offers a diverse range of powertrains, including petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options. The Golf GTE features a second-generation plug-in hybrid with an increased battery capacity for an extended electric range. The Golf GTI receives a power boost to 261 hp, albeit exclusively with a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox. Note the Clubsport variant of the GTI will also be made available, yet it remains to be seen if that car will see a bump in power of its current 300 hp.
Anticipated later in the year, the Golf R is expected to follow suit with enhanced power (likely 333 hp or more), continuing its legacy with an update version of the tried and tested 2L turbocharged engine, seven-speed DSG gearbox, and four-wheel drive. Additionally, a 2L TSI with 201 hp and 4MOTION all-wheel drive is slated to join the lineup in 2025. It will be interesting to see which colour palette is offered this time around for the Golf R as the outgoing MK8.5 was only available in White, Black and the iconic Lapiz Blue.
Having owned the previous MK8 Golf R, I am curious to see if Volkswagen can redeem themselves and the ‘R’ name with the revamped infotainment system. It also remains to be seen how much they will cost compared to the outgoing model, though I suspect a fully specced Golf R to be in the realm of over 90,000 euros here in Ireland, which is knocking on the door of the Audi RS3 or BMW M240i.
Technical specifications verified from source: Volkswagen AG
