Volkswagen’s best-selling Golf resumes duty in South Africa

02/07/2025

February 2025

Proudly listed among the top three best-selling vehicles in the world, Volkswagen first introduced the spiritual successor to the venerable Beetle in 1974. Designed by Italian maestro Giorgetto Giugiaro, the back-to-basics yet charming Golf would quickly find favour among a global audience, the one millionth unit rolling off the Wolfsburg production line just 31 months after the car’s launch.

On the eve of its 50^th birthday in 2024, Volkswagen had sold 37 million Golf models through eight generations of this vehicle.

The introduction of the updated eighth-generation Golf to South Africa continues the legacy of this humble hatchback in this market.

The Mk8.5 Golf is now available in four model lines, each powered by the brand’s proven 1.4TSI turbo-petrol engine and paired with an 8-speed Tiptronic transmission. In addition to updated exterior styling, the latest-generation Golf introduces VW’s newest interior conveniences, infotainment technologies, and considered levels of comfort for all occupants.

Available in a broad selection of colours, the entry point to the new Golf range begins with a Life derivative that introduces Eco LED headlamps and 16-inch Norfolk alloy wheels. Standard equipment within this package includes a 12.9-inch infotainment display with wireless App Connect smartphone mirroring, a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 10-colour interior ambient lighting arrangement. Cruise control adds convenience.

The appeal of a new Life + derivative is an upgrade of the ambient lighting system to include 30-colour options and the introduction of Art-Velour seating that offers a considered combination of comfort and lateral support. A rear-view camera is added to the car’s parking assistance programme, and the driver gains access to an individual profile configurator.

A proven favourite among the South African audience, Volkswagen Group Africa is excited to offer two R-Line derivates in the modern Golf portfolio. The first introduces 17-inch Coventry alloy wheels to complement bespoke, colour-coded bumpers, front and rear and LED Plus headlamps.

Keyless entry reveals bespoke R-Line upholstery and integrated headrests, a multifunction steering wheel with a heating function and transmission paddles and three-zone Climatronic climate control.

This distinct-looking derivative also gains Progressive steering and a sports suspension.

The new flagship Golf 1.4TSI R-Line + is showcased via the brand’s IQ. Light Matrix LED package that introduces an illuminated VW badge in the car’s grille and a set of 18-inch Leeds alloy wheels. The interior of this model is upgraded to include Vienna leather upholstery, electric adjustment on the driver’s seat, brushed stainless steel transmission paddles mounted to the steering wheel and heating and ventilation functions for front occupants.

Prices (VAT and emissions tax included)

Volkswagen Golf 1.4TSI Life                  - R580 900
Volkswagen Golf 1.4TSI Life +               - R604 500
Volkswagen Golf 1.4TSI R-Line             - R660 000
Volkswagen Golf 1.4TSI R-Line +          - R688 100

The updated Golf range is sold with a 3-year / 120 000 km manufacturer warranty and 5-year / 90 000 km service plan.

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