IMPROVED GOLF

Volkswagen has given the Mk 7 Golf a major update, nearly five years after the model debuted.

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Volkswagen has given the Mk 7 Golf a major update, nearly five years after the model debuted. 

The restyled exterior features new bumpers and redesigned headlamps, with LED headlights replacing the xenon units previously used. 

Inside, the Golf can be specified with an infotainment system that features a 9.2-inch screen and gesture controls. Other new options include Traffic Jam Assist, a semi- autonomous system that can take over driving duties at speeds of up to 60km/h.

Hot hatch fans will be more excited about the GTI models, which have received power boosts. The GTI is now good for 230bhp, or 10bhp more than before, while the GTI Performance kicks out 245bhp, or 15bhp more than the preceding model. 

Complementing this added performance is VW’s new 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, which will eventually replace the older 6-speed dualclutch transmissions.