Volkswagen Golf models – Eighth generation (2020-present)

The Volkswagen Golf is a popular small family car that has been produced by the German automaker since 1974.

Now in its eighth generation, the Golf is Volkswagen’s all-time best-selling model, with more than 35 million units sold worldwide. (It is also among the world’s top three best-selling car models, placing only behind the Ford F-Series and Toyota Corolla!)

The latest generation of the VW Golf was revealed in October 2019 in Wolfsburg, Germany. It utilises a revamped version of the MQB platform and is available with petrol, diesel and hybrid electric powertrains. (The electric e-Golf model that was available with the previous generation has been discontinued – and replaced with the new ID.4 line.)

The VW Golf Mk8 is available as a 5-door hatchback and a 5-door estate. (The three-door version was discontinued due to low sales.)

Key technological improvements for this generation include a fully-digital 10.25” driver’s display – and an 8.25” (or 10”) central multimedia touchscreen, standard LED headlights (and optional matrix LEDs), Alexa integration – and a semi-autonomous driving system, which can operate at speeds of up to 130mph by utilising adaptative cruise control and lane-keeping assist technology.

Seventh generation (2012-2020)

The seventh-generation Volkswagen Golf was first shown at the Paris Motor Show in September 2012. Although slightly larger than its predecessor, this generation managed to be around 100kg lighter (for some engine configurations).

The VW Golf Mk7 was built on the MQB platform, which it shares with the third-generation Škoda Octavia, Audi A3 and SEAT Leon models.

In 2016, the Golf Mk7 received a mid-generation facelift. Key features included a new 1.5-litre engine, a larger infotainment system (and an optional fully digital dashboard). The rear lights incorporated LED technology as standard (and optional sweeping-effect indicators were available with the performance models).

Sixth generation (2008-2013)

The sixth-generation Volkswagen Golf was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in October 2008. It was designed to be quieter, more aerodynamic and fuel-efficient than its predecessor.

In response to criticism concerning the interior quality of the VW Golf Mk5, Volkswagen overhauled the interior for this generation - and focused on matching the quality of the Mk4 (whilst providing the same level of user-friendliness as the Mk5).

This marked the first Golf generation to offer air-conditioning as standard. The Golf Mk6 scored 36 out of 37 points for occupant protection from Euro NCAP, earning it a five-star rating. This version came with seven airbags as standard and was considered one of the safest vehicles on the road at the time of its release.

Fifth generation (2003-2010)

The fifth generation Volkswagen Golf was first showcased at the Frankfurt Motor Show in October 2003. Standout features included overhauled suspension, a four-link rear axle, separately mounted dampers and springs - and enhanced chassis tuning.

The VW Golf Mk5 was available as a 3-door and 5-door hatchback – and a 5-door estate/wagon. Drivers could choose between 4, 5 and 6-cylinder petrol engines – and a new Pumpe Duse unit injector Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) diesel engine.

Transmission options available with the Mk5 included: manual, automatic, Direct-shift Gearbox (DSG) and Tiptronic.

The Golf Mk5 received plaudits for its safety, earning the maximum 5-star Euro NCAP rating - and 5 stars in the 2010 edition of Monash University’s ‘Used Car Safety Ratings’.

Fourth generation (1997-2003)

The VW Golf Mk4 took advantage of improved laser-welding technology, which afforded greater precision and improved build quality. It boasted a cleaner C-pillar, which ran from the roof to the boot. Clear lens headlights were also introduced for the first time, providing owners with an unrestricted view of the rounded headlights, fog lights and indicators.

Numerous safety improvements were made during this generation, including the introduction of Brake Assist and Electronic Stability Control, which were both standardised in 1998. The Golf Mk4 was also the first to feature Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive technology.

Sales for the Golf Mk4 were strong – and more than 5 million units were produced. It was also critically acclaimed, winning numerous awards such as What Car’s ‘Best Small Hatchback’ and Top Gear’s ‘Best Family Car’.

Although the Mk4 was discontinued for the European market in 2003, production for the South American and Chinese markets continued until 2014.

Third generation (1991-2003)

The third-generation Golf launched in August 1991 and was slightly larger than its predecessor but retained the same wheelbase.

This was the first Golf generation to offer a Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) diesel engine – and the first to include an estate model (The Golf Variant).

Notable features available for the Golf Mk3 included a six-cylinder engine (VR6), oxidising catalytic converter (diesel only), side airbags – and a cruise control system.

Second generation (1983-1992)

The Mk2 Golf had a slightly larger wheelbase and exterior dimensions than its predecessor – and weighed around 120kg more. Whilst its looks didn’t differ drastically from the flagship generation, the Mk2 had a slightly more rounded appearance.

New features for this generation included a lambda-probe-controlled catalytic converter, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) - and the Golf’s first all-wheel drive.