On 22/7, Volkswagen Vietnam began accepting deposits for the Golf, a high-performance hatchback making its debut in the domestic market. The car is expected to launch and be delivered to customers around the end of September.

Launched in 1974, the Volkswagen Golf is one of the German automaker's most successful models in terms of sales, especially in its European home market. The car is currently in its 8th generation, featuring a 5-door configuration. In Germany, the Golf also comes in an extended-tail variant called the Variant (similar to the Estate or Wagon).

The Golf 1.5 R-Line version in Germany. Photo: Volkswagen

The top-of-the-line R version.

The GTI version.

Rear design of the 1.5 R-Line version.

Blue brake calipers on the R version.

Standard LED headlights.

GTI version cockpit.

10-inch infotainment screen.

Electronic gear lever.

Sport-style seats.

Gray interior on the R version.

The Golf sold in Vietnam is the traditional 5-door version. It has a wheelbase of 2,636 mm and overall dimensions of 4,287 mm in length, 1,789 mm in width, and 1,456 mm in height. These specifications place the Golf in the B+ segment hatchback category.

Volkswagen Vietnam announced six versions of the Golf. The three base versions – Life, Style, and R-Line – feature a 1.5 turbocharged mild-hybrid engine producing 148 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 250 Nm of torque at 2,000-5,600 rpm. This engine is supplemented by a 48V motor.

The two mid-range GTI versions of the Golf are equipped with a 2.0 turbocharged engine generating 242 horsepower at 5,000-6,500 rpm and 370 Nm of torque at 1,600-4,300 rpm. The GTI version also features variable-ratio steering and ventilated disc brakes with red calipers.

The top-tier Golf available in Vietnam is the R version. It uses a similar 2.0 turbocharged engine as the GTI but with increased output, reaching 315 horsepower at 5,600-6,500 rpm and 420 Nm of torque at 2,000-5,600 rpm.

In Germany, Volkswagen's 0-100 km/h acceleration test for the Golf R clocked in at 4.6 seconds. This version boasts 4Motion all-wheel drive, while the other versions are front-wheel drive. All versions sold in Vietnam come with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The Golf R features an active torque vectoring system. Depending on the driving situation, the system distributes torque flexibly to the wheels to enhance grip and deliver a sporty driving experience. The R version also includes the R-Performance suspension with links and reinforcements at the front and rear.

The R version has dynamic chassis control, allowing drivers to adjust the stiffness of the shock absorbers based on road conditions or driving mode. There are four driving modes: Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Individual.

Each version has some exterior and interior design differences. From the GTI version upwards, sport seats with headrest logos are included. Standard features across the range include LED headlights, a 10-inch infotainment screen, and 3-zone automatic climate control.

Pricing for the Volkswagen Golf versions in Vietnam:

The high-performance hatchback segment in Vietnam has limited options. In the mainstream segment, Honda is selling the Civic Type R, imported from Japan, priced at 2.999 billion VND. The Honda's design isn't a traditional hatchback like the Golf. Instead, its C-pillar has a more stylish curved design, typically referred to as a liftback. In the luxury segment, Mercedes previously offered the AMG A45, but it's no longer available.

Pham Trung