Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

Manufacturer	Volkswagen, Karmann (for convertibles)
Also called	Volkswagen Rabbit
Production	1974–present
Predecessor	Volkswagen Beetle
Class	Small family car
Platform	Volkswagen Group A platform series
Related	Volkswagen Jetta, VW Scirocco

The Volkswagen Golf is a small family car manufactured by Volkswagen since 1974 and marketed worldwide across six generations, in various body configurations and under various nameplates — as the Volkswagen Rabbit in the United States and Canada (Mk1 and Mk5), and as the Volkswagen Caribe in Mexico (Mk1).

The front-wheel drive Golf was Volkswagen's first successful replacement for the air-cooled Volkswagen Beetle. Historically, it is Volkswagen's best-selling model and the world's third best-selling model, with more than 25 million built by 2007^[1].

Most production of the Golf was initially in the 3-door hatchback style^[2]. Other variants include a 5-door hatchback, estate/wagon (Variant, from 1993), convertible (Cabriolet and Cabrio, 1979–2002), and a Golf-derived notchback saloon/sedan, variously called Volkswagen Jetta, Volkswagen Vento or Volkswagen Bora (from 1979). The cars have filled many market segments, from basic personal cars, to high-performance hot hatches.

The Golf name derives from the German word for Gulf Stream — and the period in its history when VW named vehicles after prominent winds, including also the Passat (after the German word for Trade wind), Jetta (after the Jet stream), Bora (after Bora) and Scirocco (after Sirocco). "Golf" is also a sport, a theme that is shared with the Volkswagen Polo.

Every single Golf has been a runner-up in the European Car of the Year awards, but only one has been awarded it. That was the Golf Mk3 in 1992.

Golf Mk1/Rabbit (A1/Typ 17, 1974-1984)

Volkswagen Golf Mk1 (17)

Predecessor	Volkswagen Beetle
Successor	Volkswagen Golf Mk2
Engine(s)	1.0L, 1.1L, 1.3L, 1.6L, 1.7L, 1.8L 8v
Related	Volkswagen Jetta Mk1 Volkswagen Scirocco Mk1/Mk2

In May 1974^[3], Volkswagen presented the first-generation Golf as a modern front-wheel-drive, long-range replacement for the Volkswagen Beetle. Later Golf variations included the Golf GTI "hot hatch" (introduced in June, 1976), a Diesel-powered version (from September, 1976), the Jetta notchback saloon version (from October, 1979), the Golf Cabriolet (from January, 1980) and a Golf-based pickup, the Volkswagen Caddy. All variants proved instantly popular with the only notable technical flaw being the poor braking in RHD models, due to the master cylinder for the brakes being placed on the left for LHD cars, as Volkswagen never intended the Golf to be sold abroad.

The Golf Mk1 was sold as the Volkswagen Rabbit in the United States and Canada, and as the Volkswagen Caribe in Mexico.

A facelifted version of the Golf Mk1 was produced in South Africa as the Citi Golf from 1984-2009^[4].

Golf Mk2 (A2/Typ 19E, 1983-1991)

Volkswagen Golf Mk2 (19E)

Predecessor	Volkswagen Golf Mk1
Successor	Volkswagen Golf Mk3
Engine(s)	1.3L, 1.6L, 1.8L, 1.8l 16v, 1.6L Diesel, 1.6L Turbo Diesel, 1.8L G60
Related	Volkswagen Jetta Mk2 Volkswagen Corrado SEAT Toledo Mk1

September 1983 saw the introduction of the second-generation Mk2 that slightly grew in terms of wheelbase, exterior and interior dimensions while retaining, in a more rounded form, the Mk1's overall look. In 1985, the first Golfs with four-wheel-drive (Golf Country) went on sale with the same Syncro four-wheel drive system being employed on the supercharged G60 models, exclusively released on the continent in 1989 with 160 bhp (120 kW) and ABS braking.

A Mk2-based second generation Jetta was unveiled in January 1984. There was no Mk2-based Cabriolet model; instead, the Mk1 Cabriolet was continued over the Mk2's entire production run.

Golf Mk3 (A3/Typ 1H, 1991-1999)

Volkswagen Golf Mk3 (1H)

Predecessor	Volkswagen Golf Mk2
Successor	Volkswagen Golf Mk4
Related	Volkswagen Vento

The third-generation Golf Mk3 made its home-market début in August 1991 and again grew slightly in comparison with its immediate predecessor, while its wheelbase remained unchanged.

New engines included the first Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) diesel engine in a Golf, and a narrow-angle 2.8 L VR6 engine. The VR6-engined version accelerated from 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) in 7.1 seconds, posting a record 15.5 1/4-mile time at 90.5 mph (145.6 km/h). EPA estimate 18 mpg (city) or 25 mpg (highway), with 261 mi (420 km) per tank (city) and 363 mi (584 km) per tank (highway). For the first time ever, a Golf estate (Golf Variant) joined the line-up in September 1993 (although most markets did not receive this model until early 1994), at the same time a completely new Mk3-derived Cabriolet was introduced, replacing the 13-year-old Mk1-based version. With a body style similar to that of the Golf, it was continued on until 2001 with only minor changes in the 1999 model year. The notchback version, called VW Vento (or Jetta III in North America), was presented in January, 1992.

It was European Car of the Year for 1992, ahead of PSA's new ZX model and GM's new Astra model.

The Mk3 continued to be sold until 1999 in Canada and parts of South America, also in Mexico as a special edition called "Mi" (Golf CL 4-door, added A/C, special interiors, OEM black tinted rear stop lights, and ABS, no OEM radio) ("Mi" ("i" in red) stands for Multipoint Injection and the 1.8 L engine was upgraded to 2.0).

Golf Mk4 (A4/Typ 1J, 1997-2003)

Volkswagen Golf Mk4 (1J)

Predecessor	Volkswagen Golf Mk3
Successor	Volkswagen Golf Mk5
Related	Audi A3 Mk1 Audi TT Mk1 Volkswagen Bora SEAT León Mk1 SEAT Toledo Mk2 Skoda Octavia Mk1

The Golf Mk4 was first introduced in August 1997, followed by a notchback version (VW Bora or, in North America, again VW Jetta) in August 1998 and a new Golf Variant (estate) in March 1999. There was no Mk4-derived Cabriolet, although the Mk3 Cabriolet received a facelift in late 1999 that comprised bumpers, grill and headlights similar to those of the Mark 4 models. New high-performance models included the 3.2 L VR6 engined four-wheel-drive Golf R32 introduced in 2004, a 3.2 L four-wheel drive Golf VR6 4Motion version available succeeding the Mk3 VR6 which used a 2.8 L VR6 and only had front-wheel drive, as well as the famous 1.8T (turbo) 4-cylinder used in various Volkswagen Group models.

As of 2008, certain variants of the Golf/Bora Mk4 were still in production in Brazil, China, and Mexico. Revised versions of the Mk4 are currently on sale in Canada marketed as the City Golf and City Jetta and Golf City and Jetta City in 2009. The two models are VW Canada's entry-level offerings. They received a significant freshening for the 2008 model year, including revised headlamps, taillamps, front and rear fascias, sound systems, and wheels. Both models are offered only with the 2.0 L, 8-valve SOHC four-cylinder gasoline engine, rated at 115 bhp (86 kW). They are the only entry-level offerings with an optional six-speed automatic. The production of Golf Mk4 for the U.S. market ended in 2006. But for the European markets, the production of the fourth generation ended in 2003.

Golf Mk5 (A5/Typ 1K, 2003-2009)

In Germany, the Volkswagen Golf Mk4 was succeeded by the Golf Mk5 in 2003 in Europe. This model did not reach the North American markets until model year 2006, where it was marketed as the Rabbit. The North American base model is powered by a 2.5 L five-cylinder engine. A GTI version is powered by a turbocharged version of the 2.0 FSI engine, producing 200PS.

Volkswagen also introduced the "Fast" marketing ploy for the North American market, dedicated to the "fast" that lives inside every driver. Drivers who purchase new GTI Mk5s from a dealership are shipped a model of said Fast, which employs GTI-like features, and appears as a small robot thing in the commercials. The GTI version is the only on sale in Mexico.

The saloon/sedan version, again called Volkswagen Jetta in most markets and assembled in Germany, South Africa, as well as Mexico (In Mexico this car is named Bora, in Europe it is now again named Jetta, as well), followed in 2004, a new Golf Variant in 2006. The Jetta however, is not the only variant, as the notchback version of the GTI can also be had in the GLI version. The front ends of the car are the same, with the only difference being that the GLI is a sedan, while the GTI is a "hot hatch".

Later models of the Mk5 introduced the 1.4 TSI turbocharged petrol engine with front wheel drive.

In a comparison test conducted by Car and Driver Magazine, the Volkswagen Rabbit S was named the winner among eight small cars. While it was praised for its excellent driving position, fine instruments, and strong engine, it was criticized for having high levels of road noise, uncomfortable seats, and poor fuel economy. Though, the final verdict stated, "This one is all about driving pleasure, so it wins." The Rabbit also placed first in their final comparison in December 2006.

The Volkswagen Golf Plus model was also introduced in 2004. This was a slightly larger version of the Golf Mk5 with a higher roofline.

Golf Mk6 (A6/Typ 5K, 2009-present)

Volkswagen Golf Mk6 (5K)

Manufacturer	Volkswagen, Karmann (for convertibles)
Predecessor	Volkswagen Golf Mk5
Related	Audi A3 Mk2 VW Golf Mk5 Volkswagen Jetta VW Scirocco SEAT León Mk2 SEAT Altea SEAT Toledo Mk3

Volkswagen based the latest Golf Mk6 on the existing PQ35 platform from the Golf Mk5^[5]. This vehicle was debuted at the 2008 Paris Motor Show^[6].

The Mk6 Golf was designed by Volkswagen's chief designer Walter de'Silva, with design cues inspired from the previous generations of the Golf, particularly the Mk1 and the Mk4. The design is said to be more aerodynamic, helping fuel efficiency, and is quieter than its predecessor. Following criticism of the downgraded interior trim quality of the Mk5 Golf in comparison to the Mk4, Volkswagen opted to overhaul the interior to match the quality with the Mk4 Golf, while maintaining the same user friendliness from the Mk5. The car will also be cheaper to build than its predecessor; Volkswagen claims that it will be able to pass on these savings to the customer as a result.^[7]

Turbocharged Direct Injection diesel engines which use the common rail direct injection will replace the longstanding Pumpe Düse (PD) Unit Injector system. New on the Golf, is the optional Volkswagen Adaptive Chassis Control, which will allow the driver to select between 'normal', 'comfort' and 'sports' modes, which will vary the suspension, steering and accelerator behaviour accordingly^[8].

The Mk6 Golf was introduced for sale in the UK in January 2009^[9].

North American version of the 2010 Golf shown at the 2009 Canadian International Autoshow

The car was introduced in North America in October 2009 as the 2010 Golf, rather than Rabbit^[10].

Electric versions

The VW Golf has had several generations made into electric CityStromer models. The first of these was in the 1970s, when VW took a standard Golf Mk1 and converted it to electric power. By the time the Golf Mk2 came into production a limited number of electric Golfs were made, using lead-acid battery packs and a custom-made motor and controller. VW continued with the production of limited numbers of CityStromer electric cars with the introduction of the Golf Mk3. The electric CityStromer Mk3 included a Siemens based AC drive system, and lead-acid battery packs. They had a maximum speed of 60 mph (97 km/h) and a range of approximately 50 mi (80 km)^[11]. With a few exceptions, only left-hand drive Golfs were converted by VW into Citystromer models. These vehicles are still used today and have popularity in mainland Europe with only a few present in England. Only two right-hand drive Mk2 CityStromers were built for the UK market and it is believed only one remains today. It is owned by EV advocate and broadcaster Nikki Gordon-Bloomfield, host of Transport Evolved. The CityStromer EV on PositiveTV

VW CEO Martin Winterkorn announced Volkswagen Golf Twin Drive plug-in hybrid vehicle based on Mk5 Golf, which uses 2.0 L 122 bhp (91 kW) turbodiesel and 82 hp (61 kW) electric motor with lithium-ion batteries. The car can run about 50 km (31 mi) on battery power^[12]. The combined power is 204 bhp (152 kW)^[13].

Volkswagen developed the Twin Drive system with eight German partners and is planning a trial fleet of 20 Golfs outfitted with the system in 2010.

The production version was expected to be based on Mk6 Golf featuring a 1.5 L turbodiesel engine and electric motor, with estimated arrival date of 2015^[14].

Golf blue-e-motion

At the ceremonial launching of Germany’s “National Electric Mobility Platform” (NEMP)^[15] in Berlin, Volkswagen presented the Golf blue-e-motion electric vehicle concept to German Chancellor Dr. Angela Merkel. NEMP is a German government initiative to develop Germany into a leading market for electric mobility.

The blue-e-motion has a range of 93 mi (150 km). Field testing with 500 units will begin in 2011 and sales are scheduled for 2013.^[16][17]

Other Twin Drive vehicles

• SEAT León Twin drive

Popularity

The Golf has been very popular with British buyers since its introduction in 1974. By March 2009, nearly 1,500,000 had been sold in Britain, making it the eighth most popular car ever sold there [1].

Upon the release of the Mk1 Golf in the mid 1970's in Australia, interest from prospective buyers was much higher than anticipated and most had to be placed on a waiting list. Some Golfs were shipped whole, whilst others were shipped in separate parts, which were then assembled in Australia at the VW Clayton plant in Melbourne. Buyers who requested certain colours such as red, had to wait longer until their colour was shipped. Some of these buyers chose to take a different colour temporarily until their requested colour became available, some waiting for their colour for up to 12 months.

Motorsport

In auto racing, APR Motorsport has led two MKV VW GTI's to victory in the Grand-Am KONI Sports Car Challenge Street Tuner (ST) class^{[18][19][20][21]}.

Awards and recognition

• In April 2010 Kelley Blue Book included the VW Golf TDI (clean diesel) among its Top 10 Green Cars for 2010.^[22][23]

See also

• Volkswagen Group A platform
• VDub
• List of Volkswagen Group petrol engines
• List of Volkswagen Group diesel engines
• List of discontinued Volkswagen Group petrol engines
• List of discontinued Volkswagen Group diesel engines
• Hot hatch

References

External links

• Volkswagen Golf Website