Volkswagen improves its Golf game

VOLKSWAGEN has revised the bottom half of its Golf line-up, reducing the available variants, changing the model names and adding considerably more equipment – including electronic stability control as standard across the range – without raising prices.

The mid-life upgrade brings to an end the Trendline and Comfortline specification levels that have been part of the fifth-generation Golf line-up since it was introduced to Australia in October 2004.

Replacing the dozen Trendline and Comfortline models that previously sat below the GT and GTI models are now eight models bearing the names Golf Edition and Golf Pacific.

Golf Edition, with an unchanged 75kW/148Nm 1.6-litre petrol engine, is the new entry-level model, priced the same as the previous 1.6 Trendline at $25,490, but now comes with alloy wheels, body-coloured exterior features, a multi-function steering wheel, trip computer, Brake Assist, front seat height and lumbar adjustment, and leather and chrome interior features as well as ESC.

The 77kW/250Nm 1.9-litre turbo-diesel model continues, still priced from $27,990, while automatic transmission (DSG with the TDI) remains a $2300 option.

Golf Pacific models are powered by VW’s 2.0-litre petrol and turbo-diesel engines, still producing 110kW/200Nm and 103kW/320Nm respectively and selling from $29,990 and $32,490.

Extra equipment in Pacific models over the Comfortline models they replace includes 16-inch alloys, dual-zone climate-control, front sports seats with anthracite upholstery, a larger trip computer screen and front foglights.