While ‘iconic’ may be a vastly overused term in the automotive industry, the Volkswagen Golf might be one of the few cars that can legitimately stake a claim on it. First introduced in the 1970s as a replacement to the Beetle, the Golf changed the face of the hatchback world, with the Golf GTI going on to become one of the most recognised model names out there.
Last week, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) launched not one but a whole family of all-new Golf models, made up of the Golf R-Line, the Golf GTI and the Golf R. Here’s what you can expect from each of them:
The all-new Golf R-Line
Bookings are officially open for the Volkswagen Golf R-Line, with an estimated price range that’s between RM155,000 to RM165,000. Since its game-changing debut in 1974, the Golf has continued to evolve and improve, while adding a fun twist in each update.
In this new iteration, the Golf proves to be the most progressive generation yet with refined performance, upgraded digitalisation, intuitive control, and an edgier, sportier new look.
The striking exterior boasts a leaner front grille, narrow LED headlights, and an imposing bumper, while the interior matches perfectly with its front sport seats fitted in Sardegna fabric and luxurious Art Velours side bolsters.
With the all-new Golf, connectivity and convenience for the driver is prioritised with the Driver’s Workspace, an entirely digitised interior landscape. The dashboard offers a new-generation 10.25” Digital Cockpit, an advanced Discover Media infotainment system with navigation, and a multifunction steering wheel with haptic-touch control.
The vehicle will also be the first Volkswagen model in Malaysia to feature the innovative new-generation gear selector. Under the hood, the R-line is equipped with a 1.4TSI turbocharged engine that’s paired with an eight-speed automatic shift by wire transmission to provide 150PS and 250Nm of torque.
Customers will get to choose between five colours, including the new matte Moonstone Grey and metallic Kings Red. Atlantic Blue in metallic finishing, Oryx White with pearl effect and Deep Black are also available.
For more information on the all-new Golf R-Line, visit volkswagen.com.my or head to any authorised Volkswagen dealership to make your booking.
The All-New Golf GTI
Since its launch at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1975, the famed hatchback has defined its entire segment, representing the best of practicality and performance in a compact sports vehicle.
With the all-new GTI, the bar is once again raised thanks to its even more powerful, all-rounded performance. Powered by a 2.0TSI turbocharged engine that’s paired with a seven-speed wet clutch DSG, the GTI delivers 245PS and 370Nm of torque for an unforgettable driving experience. New to the GTI is the Vehicle Dynamics Manager system, which offers a number of pre-determined modes as well as individualised settings for more driving personalisation.
The exterior of the all-new GTI features its trademark honeycomb front grille and red trims, along with 18” Richmond alloy wheels with red brake callipers and full LED headlamps and taillights.
Inside, the GTI expresses its innovative, progressive and intuitive character with its deluxe Vienna leather seats, ambient lighting with 30 colour options. The front sport seats are decked in red trims and an active climate function, while the driver seat boasts power-adjustable memory feature and lumbar support.
With the advanced 10” Discover Media infotainment system at the dashboard, drivers can easily connect to 3D inbuilt navigation, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, and seven high-quality speakers.
The intelligent voice control system is activated at the words ‘Hello Volkswagen’, offering seamless voice recognition and voice quality for phone calls. It can also react to intuitive voice commands such as “I’m cold” to adjust the temperature of the speaker’s location.
For the GTI, customers have a choice of five colours: Kings Red, Atlantic Blue, Moonstone Grey, Deep Black and Oryx White with pearl effect.
The all-new Volkswagen GTI is priced at RM211,689.54. To make a booking or arrange a test drive, visit any authorised Volkswagen dealership nationwide. Alternatively, visit the Volkswagen eShowroom at eshowroom.volkswagen.com.my
The All-New Golf R
Rounding off the all-new Golf family launching in Malaysia is the flagship Golf R model, described as the ultimate performance hatch. Having set and broken various world records on the road and the track, yet still maintaining its position among the most well-rounded models, it is little wonder that over 250,000 units have been produced and sold.
The most powerful Golf R-model produces 320PS and 400Nm of torque from the latest 2.0TSI turbocharged engine and seven-speed DSG, topping its predecessors with its elite-level performance. With 4MOTION with Performance Torque Vectoring, drivers get optimum agility, especially while cornering.
For excellent traction, remarkable handling, and peak precision, the Vehicle Dynamics Manager system is closely integrated with other running systems like the electronic differential locks (XDS), dynamic chassis control (DCC), and progressive steering.
The exterior of the all-new Golf R points to the powerful performance underneath with its sporty yet subtle design. The hot hatchback stands out with its R-specific characteristics, namely its signature bumpers and air intake, as well as its high-gloss black diffuser flanked by two tailpipes.
Further adding to the irresistible appeal of this Golf R is its 19” Adelaide alloy wheels, as well as the unique R logo light projection that appears when the door is opened and closed.
Inside, the all-new Golf R’s embodies sporty luxury with its R-specific decorative trim in Carbon Grey and premium front sport seats in Nappa leather. The multifunctional sports steering wheel’s blue backlit R button allows drivers to instantly activate ‘Race’ mode with one push, while the Digital Cockpit’s auxiliary display shows live data on output, power, torque distribution, charge pressure, lap timer and G-meter.
Another premium interior feature includes the Harman Kardon 480-watt audio system, bringing mesmerizingly rich acoustics with its 10 speakers for an unmatched listening experience.
The all-new Golf R is available in three colours: its signature Lapiz Blue, Deep Black and Pure White. The vehicle is imported and priced at RM356,412.85.
To make a booking, head to any authorised Volkswagen dealerships nationwide or visit eshowroom.volkswagen.com.my