Currently reading: Leaked: VW Golf mk6
Pictures of the sixth-generation Volkswagen Golf have surfaced ahead of schedule

Pictures of the new, sixth-generation Volkswagen Golf have leaked onto the internet ahead of its official unveiling.

They show that Volkswagen’s design team has taken an evolutionary approach to restyling the company’s biggest-selling model. The most noticeable changes are Scirocco-style headlamps and tail lights that are strongly reminiscent of the Touareg SUV.

>> See more pics of the VW Golf mk6

Under the surface we know that the new Golf sticks to the same mechanical package as the outgoing car, and will be offered with much of the same range of petrol and diesel powerplants. Engines will be more fuel efficient, with a super-frugal ‘Bluemotion’ version likely to be offered from launch.

Volkswagen also appears to have taken on board criticism of some of the previous Golf’s cabin materials, with the new car’s interior getting more soft-touch plastics and sharing switchgear and instruments with the Scirocco. Satnav has also been upgraded to VW’s latest touch-screen system.

The Golf has long been Volkswagen’s most successful car, with the current version still topping the European sales charts. That explains the subtle nature of the visual transformation – but will it be enough to persuade buyers that this is an all-new car?

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Jon Hardcastle 5 August 2008

Re: Leaked: VW Golf mk6

Well, what a reaction, but why? Yes they are playing it safe and yes VW are being a bit copy cat in the styling department. The thing is, is this not the same as any other maufacturer with a long established model with a history to protect? Allright Ford broke the mould with the reincarnation of the boxy is looks Cortina when they replaced it with the Sierra, but in the main most will play safe.

I happen to agree that the majority of manufacturers are generally boring these days, but with so much too lose who can blaim them. This is why new smaller manufacturers have to make statements with their designs. Oh, and the Italians!!!

So why the surprise?

Mini1 5 August 2008

Re: Leaked: VW Golf mk6

It's growing on me. Apparently it's going to have Daytime Running Lights!! And there are two 1.6 Diesel engines - with 90 or 110 bhp - the 110 bhp version should have emissions of under 120 g/km. The 7-speed DSG should also be available. We'll get more info tomorrow. Just a shame about that rear end. The front is very reminiscent of Golf Mk1 and Mk4, though...

Vili 5 August 2008

Re: Leaked: VW Golf mk6

Quattro369 wrote:

PLEASE STOP CALLING THIS THE MK6 GOLF!!!

Surely any 'new' car which retains the chassis, glasshouse and basic structure of the old car is nothing more than a facelift? A bit like the Previous AUDI A4 Saloon in 2005.

This is a MK6 because its a new design. The platform and mechanical makeup doesn't matter. The Golf MK2 and Passat MK4 were nothing more than reskins of the previous versions afterall.

I welcome the styling changes. The front especially is an improvement. The MK1-type horizontal bars and new headlamps make the car appear to be wider and lower. I don't know what VW was thinking when they made the MKV design look so tall and narrow.

Anyone who wants flash styling that will look dated and be totally abandoned by the next redesign can buy a Renualt.