It offers more space, more air to breath. The new Golf Plus. A second Golf. A new Volkswagen. Market début in Germany: end of January. The Golf Plus is positioned as an extremely versatile all-round vehicle. With this conceptual stand-alone model another line is being added to the most successful car family in the world. To date over 32 million Volkswagens have been built using Golf technology. Besides the Golf, the Golf family includes the Touran, Bora/Jetta (the most successful German car in the US), the Caddy Life, the New Beetle and the New Beetle Convertible.
Completely new Golf dimensions
Genuine character: The body and interior of the Golf Plus were completely re-designed. Factual characteristics: A taller car body (9.5 centimeters) and higher seats (7.5 centimeters), more leg room in the back, variability and functionality. Tailored point for point to today’s needs.
New rear seat concept, LED taillights, active curve lights
Cleverly done: Among other things, the equipment of the Golf Plus includes a rear seat equipped with a newly developed kinematics system which allows the rear seat to be moved lengthwise by 16 centimeters, first-class seat ergonomics and up to 43 options for storage and fastening. Apart from ESP and six airbags, an added safety feature making its début in the Golf class is the particularly quick-response integrated LED taillights. And during the first half of 2005, the Golf Plus will also be available with active curve lights.
Done differently: It doesn’t matter which of the five doors including hatchback is opened on the Golf Plus - an entirely new Golf world opens up to you. The instruments, the seating system, the door coverings, and many functional components such as the entire rear seating concept are being used for the first time in this car. This is how a different “Golf Feeling” has come about. The subjective new feeling of ergonomics and space combined with a sweeping effect on overall comfort.
Instrument cluster example: To match the new height of the Golf Plus the research department designed a new instrument cluster base. The combination of an instrument cluster built significantly higher in the center and the seating position similarly raised by 7.5 centimeters (in front) ergonomically and visually creates the impression that ergonomic and design features normally associated with SUVs and MPVs are merged with the classic features from compact mid-range cars, thus leading to a new vehicle segment.
Trunk example: Depending on the positioning of the rear seat, trunk storage capacity varies between a minimum of 395 liters and a maximum of 505 liters. If the rear seats are folded completely away, storage capacity of up to 1,450 liters is available. The floor of the trunk is also made for flexible use: a dual position adjustment rack allows for extra storage space to open up when adjusted to the higher level.
Optional equipment example: The center console between the front seats comes in two versions. The top model offers an armrest with an integrated storage compartment with cooling option (in cars with air-conditioning) as well as the option of integrating an optional CD jukebox or a DVD player from VW Individual’s Rear Seat Entertainment. Another innovation in the Golf class is the option of ordering the vehicle with a center console which has an integrated 230 Volt power outlet, enabling laptop batteries or other electrical devices to be charged.
Four important engines in the opening phase
Between 75 and 140 hp: In the opening phase a standard four-door Volkswagen will be available with two gasoline and two diesel engines, which comply with the EU 4 standard. The power output of the gasoline engines are 55 kW/75 hp and 85 kW/115 hp, the higher performing one a Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) engine. For the diesel engine Volkswagen is using a 1.9 liter TDI with 77 kW/105 hp or a 103 kW/140 hp 2.0 liter TDI, also a direct injection diesel. The 115-hp FSI and the 140-hp TDI come with a six-gear transmission. In the second half of the year two more FSIs, a TDI as well as an automatic transmission and double clutch system (DSG) will be introduced.
BODY
- 9.5 centimeters taller, completely new design, LED taillights
- 1.58 meters tall: The Golf Plus was positioned between Golf and Touran
- Cw value of 0.32: aerodynamic refinement reduces noise from wind
This Volkswagen is instantly and unmistakably recognizable as a Golf. Definitely a Golf. Any yet completely different, taller, intimate, surprising. An addition of 9.5 centimeters in height compared to the classic Golf is only half of the story. Because the Golf Plus shows its own unique character, new perspectives, and new facets of a Volkswagen. The Golf Plus demonstrates how precisely a car can be tailored point for point to the needs of its time, visually as well as technically. One example of this is the body of the Golf Plus. It is the body of a car showing greatness, because it is not too big and yet remarkably spacious on this inside.
Dimensions: At 1.58 meters the Golf Plus is taller than the Golf by exactly those 9.5 centimeters. The length, width and wheelbase in contrast underscore the similarities between the Golf and the Golf Plus: The length of the Golf Plus measures an almost unchanged 4.21 meters and the width is also an identical 1.76 meters. And even the wheelbase of 2.58 meters is the same.
Conspicuous differences: The designers and engineers of the Golf Plus re-created doors, hood, bumpers, fenders, roof, headlights and taillights for the new model. Except for the door mirrors, the VW logo, the door handles, and the antenna for the optional navigation system there are no identical body parts for both the Golf and the Golf Plus due to their different package requirements.
A detailed view of the Golf Plus body
Even if the engines, chassis and of course many other technical components were taken over from the Golf, in terms of the body you would have to say it’s a completely new car. Things such as the aerodynamics or the requirements for vibration comfort were exacting demands in doing so.
Aerodynamics: Even before the first 1:1 model of the Golf Plus engineers carried out an analysis of flow behavior on the body. In the “imaginary space of the digital world” they used CAD (computer-aided design) descriptions for the design model. Only afterwards did real trials take place with a “1:1 wind tunnel model”, fitted with all equipment. Airflow to the radiator and to the front brakes could already be optimized at this very early stage of development. The background: while many design parallels were used between the classic Golf and the new Golf Plus for the underside of the vehicle, the front section in particular had to be laid out completely new with respect to aerodynamics. The size and length of the front spoiler in particular was optimized aerodynamically.
Due to the completely re-designed body there were naturally other fundamental aerodynamic conditions in the rear area as well. The focus here was on the trailing edge on the rear end of the roof among other things. It has a significant impact on air resistance and the lift values of the rear suspension. Among other things, the roof edge spoiler homogenously integrated in the body design was able to give the Golf Plus a very low, and thus good, “rear lift value”. The result: handling also optimized via aerodynamics.
Even the door mirrors themselves show attention paid to aerodynamic details. The mirror base was designed for extremely favorable flow; a final touch contributing to both a good cw value (0.32) and to reduced noise from wind.
Acoustic and vibration comfort: The taller body in contrast to the classic Golf, its larger hatchback opening and the rear seating system which can be moved lengthwise are enough to change the basic conditions for ideal acoustics and outstanding vibration comfort.
Specific optimization of the body structure during the early development phase was the ticket for an especially quiet and low-vibration Golf Plus show. The body in white achieved its best values at 43 Hz for the lowest torsion and 52 Hz for the lowest bending shape. The same applies to the fully equipped car body.
Steering attachment: What at first glance appears to be an interior or chassis feature is at the same time also related to the body. The electro-mechanical power steering along with the steering column were taken over from the classic Golf. Its installation position still had to be adapted to the higher seats in the Golf Plus. And this is not done with a few minor corrections. In fact, a completely re-worked connection of the steering column to the body had to be developed. A natural frequency at the level of the very good classic Gold level could also be attained here. Noticeable result: the reduction in vibrations transmitted by the steering.
Attachment of the rear seating system: This interior feature also has an impact on the design of the body. The background: the lengthwise adjustable rear seating system required extra work on acoustical absorption in the back area of the body. The tasks set out in the specification were also completed and a fundamentally higher level of noise comfort was achieved.
A detailed view of the Golf Plus body
Visually, the Golf Plus makes it unmistakably clear that it is a Golf. The characteristic radiator grill, the C-pillars and the basic appearance of the rear area in particular were extracted from the genetic material inherited from over three decades of Golf tradition. And yet when looking at the Golf Plus it’s just as quickly apparent that everything is different and new after all:
The Front: The V-shaped hood continues the classic line of the radiator grill in both the Golf and the Golf Plus. Yet while this “V” can be found deeply embedded between the distinctly high-arching fenders in the classic model, the proportions used in the “new” version are exactly opposite. The V-modulation is contoured upwards, while the fenders lie lower in contrast. In this respect, the Golf Plus follows the stylistic example set by both the Touran and the Touareg, meeting the demands of a comparably tall vehicle, as in this case the hood must form a homogeneous unit with windshield attached higher up.
The change in fender contour is striking, while the headlights, with their three round integrated light elements (indicator, low beam and high beam), are as large as they are impressive. These extend, like the Touareg 4×4, far into each fender. During the first six months of 2005, the Golf Plus will in addition be available with active curve lighting, whose beam constantly follows the direction of steering, offering a clear safety advantage.
Silhouette: The headlight extension starts off a side line, which continues from the height of the door handles to the taillights. This lends a clear tension to the silhouette of the Golf Plus, because it divides the naturally high door surface in the upper quarter. At the same time, this line ensures that both front and rear fenders have a broad and muscular effect.
The back: The back of the Golf Plus was also completely re-designed. The inwards-pointing, trapezium-shaped taillights and the large rear window extend into the C-pillars. Typical Volkswagen: the round functional components that form the revolutionary Phaeton-style LED taillights, used for the first time in this class. The back is also characterized by being extremely well-suited to everyday life: the edge is a mere 62.4 centimeters high, the narrowest storage loading width is 100.8 centimeters, with the maximum height 84.2 centimeters. The hatchback opens up to an impressive 2.08 meters in height.
LED taillights functionality: The Golf Plus’ taillights consist of two basic elements, with one of each located outside on the fender and inside in the hatchback. For the first time ever in a Golf the tail, brake and turn signal lights are all LEDs. This forms an added safety feature, particularly as far as brake- and turn signal lights are concerned: In contrast to conventional light bulbs, LED lights excel by means of a far faster response time. Traffic behind is thus given earlier warning.
A further advantage is the homogeneous nature of the lit surfaces. The use of LEDs allows the functional surfaces to be constructed for the first time completely of brilliant optics without colored intermediate discs. Furthermore, LEDs demonstrate considerably longer service life than regular light bulbs. The third brake light, integrated into the roof edge spoiler, also works using LEDs.
The inner parts of the lighting unit are, in contrast, fitted with light bulbs, as this technology does better justice to the job performed by reverse and fog lights. Also when considering their service life, since they are used much less often.
INTERIOR
- More air to breathe
- 100.7 centimeters: maximum interior height allows a higher seating position
- Completely re-designed: higher built instruments and variable rear seats
It doesn’t matter which of the five doors including the hatchback is opened on the Golf Plus - an entirely new Golf world is concealed inside it. The instruments, the seating system, the door coverings, and many functional components are being used for the first time in this car. A completely new “interior feeling” has been created. A subjective perception of ergonomics and space with resounding objective influences on total comfort, the experience of this car. Taken literally: this Volkswagen marks an increase in space, air, variability, freedom and size. It fits. And it doesn’t matter how many of a maximum of five people are on board.
New dimensions: Naturally the headroom in particular could be enlarged: The maximum interior height is 100.7 centimeters in the front and 97.6 centimeters in the back. The raised seating position of 7.5 centimeters in the front and 8.5 in the back also makes for more relaxing long trips, happier children and a better all-round view.
The new Golf Plus also sets new standards with its interior length of 1.74 meters, because it allows 2.5 extra centimeters of legroom in the back compared to the not exactly cramped classic Golf. In practice this means: Even if a driver of 1.9 meters in height takes over at the wheel of the Golf Plus, a guest of the same stature can sit behind him without digging his knees into the back of the front seat.
And even in this configuration 395 liters of trunk space is still available. Thanks to its adjustable back seat the volume can be increase to 505 liters; with the seat completely folded down there is storage space of 1,450 liters (also see the section on rear seating system).
New instruments: To match the new height of the Golf Plus the research department designed a new instrument cluster base. The combination of an instrument cluster built significantly higher in the center and the seating position similarly raised by 7.5 centimeters creates an ergonomic and visual impression that the elements of SUV, MPV and compact mid-range have been merged into a new class of car.
In particular the instruments rising upwards in the middle and the useful functionality of the Golf Plus are by all means reminiscent of a mixture of van and off-road vehicle. It goes without saying that this Volkswagen will be easy to handle.
Middle console in Detail: Four (of a total of eight) air vents arranged in this area are round, not square, and have a chrome border. They are now located on the sides and no longer above the audio or navigation system. The Golf Plus air conditioning is located, as usual, underneath.
Everything is a little different: These kinds of modifications are spread across the interior, referring to the gearbox tunnel and it’s console, middle armrest and passenger area, door trimming and the seating system. In all of these places the Golf driver will see new things and just as often find the familiar in details. He will certainly find an abundance of options for storing and securing items - up to 43 depending on equipment. For example, it’s possible to put a street atlas in the front door pocket next to a 1.5 liter bottle. Another compartment is located above the driver in the ceiling area. A large roof console with four compartments is available as an option.
Front seating system: Compared to the Golf, all seats in the Golf Plus are positioned higher. The driver enjoys a perfect all-round perspective and passengers get an all-encompassing view. As for the driver’s area, the position of the steering column and the angle of the gas pedal angle have been perfectly and ergonomically adjusted to the higher seating position. As outlined previously, more than 100 centimeters of interior height at the front make sure that even the tallest of us don’t have to worry about making contact with the ceiling.
Starting with the Comfortline series the Golf Plus comes with a 2-way back support setting for the driver and passenger seat as standard equipment. In combination with a leather interior and/or electric seat adjustment this includes an electric 4-way lumbar support setting on the driver’s side (front passenger seat is adjusted manually). The Golf Plus can be optionally equipped with a passenger seat armrest that folds down towards the front. This feature adds 2.30 meters to the maximum length of usable inside storage. Or the foldable passenger seat armrest can be used as a place to keep beverages in the integrated plastic table with integrated cup holders. When the passenger seat is in normal position the table, just like on the driver’s side, can be folded up, to be used as a table and beverage holder for backseat passengers, both big and small.
Rear seating system: Generally, the back has a lot to offer. This applies especially to the new rear seating system. As part of standard equipment, this can be divided on a 40/60 ratio. The same holds true for the backs of the rear seats that can be folded down in a 40:20:40 ratio. The seats can also be moved independently from one another up to 160 millimeters laterally. Length adjustment is done easily using the lever under each seat section. Depending on the size of passengers or the load being carried the volume of the trunk can vary from between a minimum 395 liters and a maximum of 505 liters. Up to 1,450 liters of storage capacity is available if the backs of the rear seats are lowered completely. The angle of the back supports in the rear can also be adjusted in multiple settings, which can be a great help when making the proper adjustments for a child seat.
Rear seating kinematics system: The seat backs are remarkably easy to fold down. You only have to pull on a loop below the armrest area to release the catch. When the rear seats are lowered, a cleverly designed kinematics system automatically lowers the seating area, resulting in an almost level storage space. Seating area and back rest amount to just 160 millimeters when folded down.
A luggage net attached behind front or back seats and another net for the floor of the trunk (which can also be drawn tight and used as a bag net) guarantees that the load doesn’t develop a life of its own. Both nets are optionally available. In addition, a standard fastener in front of the back seats on the passenger side ensures that a large, standard-size umbrella can be stored away safely, saving space and still easily accessible.
Multi-functional middle seat: The Golf Plus seats 5 people. If you don’t need the middle seat as such, but could use the extra storage space, you can put down the back to hold your skis, for example. This can be done practically from both the inside and the trunk.
In the first of three possible variations the back becomes a table with integrated cup holders. In the second variation a pad can be used to transform it into a comfortable middle armrest. In the third variation the back seat becomes a large, multi-functional compartment that also has integrated cup holders. This box, available separately, is easy to lock into place in the folded-down seat back. Children on board can then have fun using a one-of-a-kind toy box.
Variable trunk floor: The floor of the trunk also proves to be flexible to use, because it has two settings for adjusting its height. A dual position adjustment rack allows for extra storage space to open up when adjusted to the higher level, used to hold smaller items or sports equipment such as a tennis racket and shoes. At the same time an almost level storage space is created by two variable plates attached to the seat back between the trunk and the lowered rear seat rests. For maximum storage capacity, the floor and variable plates can of course also be removed if necessary.
230-V outlet: The Golf Plus is a car that lets you have fun. Because the amount of well thought out attention given to the details makes life easier. Because it surprises you again and again. With electricity, for instance. An optional 230-V outlet is available for the back half of the middle armrest, enabling you to recharge your laptop battery or other devices. The center console between the front seats comes in two versions. The top model offers an armrest with an integrated storage compartment with cooling option (in cars with air-conditioning) as well as the option of integrating an optional CD jukebox or a DVD player from VW Individual’s Rear Seat Entertainment range.
Rear Seat Entertainment: The system is controlled from the rear either using an operating panel at the back of the middle console or a remote control. You can listen using the on-board loudspeakers or headset included in delivery, ensuring that it’s also possible to listen to both DVD and radio simultaneously. An AUX interface allows for the connection of a games console or camcorder. As soon as the system is activated via a play button and the 7-inch monitor is folded out from the roof console’s end compartment, the cinema experience can begin.
Air conditioning: Like the classic Golf, in terms of air conditioning there is a choice between standard ventilation/heating, semi-automatic air conditioning (Climatic/standard for the Comfortline and Trendline) and Climatronic.
The two air conditioning systems are distinguished by a combination filter, which doesn’t just fulfill the function of a pollen filter, but also contributes to an additional improvement in air quality in the interior using an active charcoal filter. A glove compartment with cooling option also comes with both versions
Climatic: This air conditioning system works semi-automatically and in contrast to conventional, manual systems offers the advantage that the selected temperature is maintained, even when outside conditions change, a feature normally only provided by a climate control system. The inside temperature is measured by an element visible in the middle of the Climatic button panel. The sensor has no moving parts and is therefore free from wear.
Climatronic: The fully automatic air conditioning system was designed as a two-zone system. The driver and passenger can set their own air conditioning separately from one another. The temperature for both sides is shown to within a half degree of accuracy is separate displays. It is not necessary to readjust when outside conditions change. Added comfort is contributed by the fact that the intensity of sunlight on the driver and passenger side is also detected separately and fed into the control.
In combination with the Climatronic the new Golf also provides indirect ventilation via an additional air vent. This air vent is located on top of the re-designed instrument panel instead of the integrated storage compartment normally provided. The interior is ventilated virtually with creating drafts, an approach similar to the one first demonstrated in the Phaeton. In addition, additional optional air vents are available for the back section of the middle console, adding improved air conditioning comfort in the back.
As in the classic Golf, the climate control system automatically switches to circulating air when the car is driven in reverse; when the windshield washer is activated, an intelligent control instantly interrupts fresh air intake. Both air conditioning systems also have an externally regulated compressor. It features low power consumption. The result: a reduction in fuel consumption.
Auxiliary heating: An auxiliary heating system is also optionally available (not for the 55 kW gas gasoline engine). It also offers menu-driven operation via the instrument cluster for climate control. Auxiliary heating is activated via a time or an instant heat button. It can also be programmed via remote control.
Passive safety: Like every Volkswagen, the Golf Plus features an excellent protection system. Restraint system example: As standard equipment every version of the new Golf Plus comes with six airbags (front airbags, side airbags and head airbags running across the entire flank of the vehicle). Side airbags for the back are also available as an option. In addition, the front seats have active headrests (AKS) and pyrotechnic seat-belt tighteners with integrated belt force limiters (the later also in the back). Last, but not least, even the base model has five three-point seat belts and five headrests, also for the middle seat in the back. Also as standard on board equipment: Isofix child seat points in the two outer rear seats (optionally available for the passenger seat) and an option to disable the passenger airbag.
Seat-belt system: The seat-belt restraints are electrically activated by a central control device depending on accident severity. Seat-belt restraint provides an early and ergonomically ideal connection of the driver and passenger to the vehicle structure. This allows energy to be dissipated over a longer span of time with correspondingly gentler deceleration values. The seat-belt force limiters prevent excessive torso stress from seat-belt straps. The seat-belt systems in the back are also equipped with force limiters. Re-designed retraction devices optimized for comfort also provide a high level of wearing comfort.
Front airbags: The front restraint system consists of a driver airbag with a capacity of 60 liters and a passenger airbag with a capacity of 120 liters. Like the classic Golf, a further improvement of passive safety is provided by the steering column with a novel clamp for longitudinal and vertical adjustment. This clamp together with the steering track rod prevents the steering wheel from moving upwards in the event of a crash.
Side airbags: As before, the side airbags of the Golf are integrated in the front seat backrests. They protect the chest, abdomen and pelvis and have been optimally adapted to the car’s more rigid side structure. An innovative sensor concept also provides for faster triggering times. Integrating the side airbags in the backrests ensures optimum positioning of the driver and front passenger with respect to the airbags. The same applies to the optional rear side airbags.
Head airbags: Volkswagen also uses especially large head airbags (window airbags) as standard equipment to prevent to reduce the risk of injury to the area of the head during a side crash. In detail, these airbags cover the side window areas from the A-pillar to the C-pillar and from the headlining down to over the doorsill. The result of this feature is that maximum protection is afforded to all outer seat positions regardless of passenger body size. The fact that these airbags cover such a large area prevents the head from swinging out, extremities from being thrown out and objects from penetrating the interior even in the event of the car overturning.
STANDARD EQUIPMENT
- ESP, ABS, six airbags and active front headrests
- Three Design Lines: Trendline, Comfortline and Sportline like the Golf
- Climatic: Standard from Comfortline up, Sportline with sport chassis
Like the Golf, the Golf Plus will also be available in the Trendline, Comfortline und Sportline design lines. The Trendline represents the entry-level model. The Comfortline version offers extra exclusivity. In contrast, the Golf Plus Sportline is dynamism personified.
Trendline: The basic version of the Golf Plus offers expansive comfort, functional and safety equipment as standard. Included in this are ESP, six airbags, active head-rests in front, central locking, electromechanical power-steering, all-round electric windows and asymmetrically adjustable rear seating. The Golf Plus Trendline comes in “Media” design seats. Standard fixtures of the Golf Plus Trendline in a nutshell:
Trendline exterior
- Door mirror housings in body color
- Side turn signals integrated into door mirrors
- Halogen headlights and turning signals under a common clear glass cover
- Galvanized body
- Radiator grille in body color
- LED taillights
- Black side protection strips
- 4 6 J x 15 steel wheels with full-size wheel trim, 195/65 R 15 tires
- Bumpers in body color and black protection strips
- Green heat-resistant glass
Trendline interior:
- Storage compartment in roof liner and in the middle of the instrument panel
- Storage pockets in all doors (support for 1.5 l bottle and map in front)
- 2 cup holders in front and 1 in back
- Driver’s seat with height adjustment
- Luggage compartment cover
- Lockable, illuminated glove compartment
- Three-spoke steering wheel
- Asymmetrically split rear seating, folds down and is lengthways adjustable with adjustable seat backs and middle armrest (also acts as table)
- Fabric seat covers in “Media” pattern
Trendline safety equipment:
- Airbags for driver and front passenger, with front passenger airbag deactivation
- Active front headrests
- Three-point automatic seat belts (3) in back with height adjustment to the other seats
- Three-point automatic front seat belts with height adjustment and belt tensioners
- Electronic stabilizing program (ESP) including Brake Assist, ABS, EDS and ASR
- ISOFIX points (fixture to safely fasten 2 child seats to the rear seating)
- Head airbag system for front and rear passengers incl. front side airbags
- 3 head-rests in the rear, can be lowered
- Front and rear disc brakes, ventilated at front
- Warning buzzer and lights for non-fastened belts in front
- Electronic anti-theft device
- Warning triangle
Trendline functional:
- Electrically adjustable and separately heated door mirrors, aspherical on driver’s side
- Electric windows in front and back
- Luggage compartment light
- Bracket for first aid kit and warning triangle
- Rear window wash/wipe system with interval switch
- Heating and fresh-air system with 4-speed fan and recirculating-air mode
- Front interior light with switch-off delay and contact switches on all doors
- Instrument cluster with electronic speedometer, odometer and trip recorder, tachometer, outside temperature and brake pad wear indicator
- Warning lamps and service interval display
- Steering column with height and longitudinal adjustment
- 2 reading lights in front
- Vanity mirrors in sun visors
- Non-smoker model, storage compartment and power outlet in place of front ashtray and cigarette lighter
- Umbrella holder in the rear
- Reflectors integrated into all doors
- Windshield wipers with intermittent operation
- Electro-mechanical power steering, speed-regulated
- Dust and pollen filter with active charcoal insert
- Fuel filler cap with remote unlocking
- Tire mobility set, 12V compressor and tire sealant
- Warning buzzer for lights when not switched off
- Central locking with wireless remote control, 2 remote keys (enabling opening and closing of windows and luggage compartment with wireless remote control)
Comfortline: As usual, the Comfortline was designed for luxury. Features such as the semi-automatic “Climatic” air conditioning system, variable trunk floor, a back support setting, the middle armrest in front, and alloy wheels are included in this series. The Golf Plus Comfortline comes with seats in the “Opera” pattern design. Extra features of the Golf Plus Comfortline in comparison to the Golf Plus Trendline (excerpt):
Comfortline exterior +
- 4 “Misano” 6 1/2 J x 15 alloy wheels with anti-theft wheel bolts, 195/65 R 15 tires
- Door mirror housings and door handles in body color
- Side protection strips in body color
- Bumpers and protection strips in body color
Comfortline interior +
- Storage pockets on backs of front seats
- Front passenger seat with height adjustment
- Luggage compartment cover with net
- Luggage compartment lining with cover
- Folding tables on backs of front seats
- Comfort seating system with center seat section in Loop velour
- Front lumbar supports
- Front center armrest with storage compartment with cooling option, 2 air vents and 2 cup holders at the back
- Drawers below front seats
- Seat covers in Loop velour, “Opera” pattern
- Bag hooks in luggage compartment
Comfortline functional +
- 2 reading lights with chrome frames in front and 2 in back
- 12V outlet on the middle console in the back and in the luggage compartment
- Two-tone horn
- Cruise control system (CCS)
- “Climatic” air conditioning system with semi-automatic control and glove compartment cooling option
- Adjustable and removable luggage compartment floor
- Illuminated hatchback
- Illuminated vanity mirrors in the sun visors, sun visors can be pulled out
- Multifunctional display
Sportline: Sportline is distinctly geared for dynamics. Apart from the Climatic (also standard here), it includes 16″ alloy wheel rims, leather steering wheel and sport seats. The sports seats feature covers in the “Siempre” pattern; these can also be optionally ordered for the Golf Plus Comfortline. Extra features of the Golf Plus Sportline in comparison to the Golf Plus Trendline (excerpt):
Sportline exterior +
- 4 “Imola” 6 1/2 J x 16 alloy wheels with anti-theft wheel bolts, 205/55 R 16 tires
- Door mirror housings and door handles in body color
- Bumpers and protection strips in body color
Sportline Interior +
- Storage pockets on backs of front seats
- Front passenger seat with height adjustment
- Luggage compartment lining with cover
- Leather 6PC handbrake handle
- Folding tables on backs of front seats
- Leather steering wheel (3-spoke)
- Front lumbar supports
- Leather stick shift knob
- Drawers below front seats
- Fabric seat covers with “Siempre” pattern
- Front sports seats
- Bag hooks in luggage compartment
Sportline Functional +
- 2 reading lights with chrome frames in front and 2 in back
- 12V electrical outlet in luggage compartment
- Two-tone horn
- “Climatic” air conditioning system with semi-automatic control and glove compartment cooling option
- Adjustable and removable luggage compartment floor
- Illuminated hatchback
- Illuminated vanity mirrors in the sun visors, sun visors can be pulled out
- Multifunctional display
- Sport suspension, lowered approx. 15 mm
OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT
- Customization from A for anti-theft device to W for winter package
- 250 Watt: optional sound system in combination with CD radio system
- Variable und warm: retractable passenger seat armrest and auxiliary heating
The optional equipment for the new Golf Plus consists of classic features such as leather and leather/Alcantara seat covers, navigation system, preparation for telephone, and CD jukebox. The following list provides an overview of some of the features available for customizing the Golf Plus:
- Storage package, storage compartments in the roof console, luggage compartment cover with net and net on the trunk floor, storage compartment below the front passenger seat
- Trailer hitch removable
- Front passenger seat with height adjustment
- Front passenger seat armrest fully foldable, improved load through option, foldable armrest can be used as a table
- CD jukebox for 6 CDs instead of a storage compartment in the front center armrest (only in combination with a front center armrest and radio system or radio navigation system)
- Climatic (standard feature in Comfortline and Sportline), semi-automatic air conditioning, glove compartment with cooling option
- Climatronic, air conditioning with fully automated control and 2-zone temperature control, left and right side individually controllable, glove compartment with cooling option, forgoing of the storage compartment in the instrument panel
- Cool & Sound 1, glove compartment with cooling option, “Climatic” air conditioning with semi-automatic control, “RCD 300″ including a CD player 2 x 20 Watt, 6 speakers in front, (higher quality radio systems or radio navigation system instead of the “RCD 300″ radio system can be ordered at the difference in price)
- Cool & Sound 2, clove compartment with cooling option, “Climatic” air conditioning with fully automated control and 2-zone temperature control, left and right side controlled individually, “RCD 300″ including CD player 2 x 20 Watt, 6 speakers in front (higher quality radio systems or radio navigation system instead of the “RCD 300″radio system can be ordered at the difference in price)
- Anti-theft alarm system with electronic anti-theft device and back-up horn (can either be ordered with a choice of comfort closing or comfort closing and individual door opening)
- Anti-theft alarm system Plus with electronic anti-theft device, interior monitoring, backup horn and tow protection (can either be ordered with a choice of comfort closing or comfort closing and individual door opening)
- Cruise control system/CCS, (standard feature for Comfortline)
- ISOFIX points for front passenger seat (standard feature in back)
- Luggage compartment floor variable and removable (standard in Comfortline/Sportline)
- Leather interior Alcantara/Nappa with sport seats in front, including seat heating in front
- Leather interior Vienna with sport seats, including seat heating in front
- Alloy wheel rims
- Wstoril, 7 J x 17, sterling silver paint, 225/45 R 17 tires
- Grand Prix, 7 J x 17 multipart, titanium screwed connections, bright-turned rim flange, 225/45 R 17 tires
- Hockenheim, 6.5 J x 16, 205/55 R 16 tires
- Indianapolis, 7 J x 17, bright-turned surface, 225/45 R 17 tires
- Zandvoort, 7 J x 17, 225/45 R 17 tires
- Davos, 6 J x 16, winter wheels, 205/55 R 16 H winter tires
- Front lumbar supports, including front passenger seat with height adjustment (standard in Comfortline und Sportline)
- Light and vision package, automatic driving light control with “coming-home” and “leaving-home” functions, automatic anti-glare interior rear-view mirror, lights in footwell, rain sensor
- Front center armrest, 12 V power outlet in the back center console, storage compartment with cooling option, air vents and 2 rear cup holders (standard in Comfortline)
- Mobile telephone ready, Volkswagen original equipment adapter set, handsfree, GSM 900/1800 MHz, radio muting, cable including power supply
- Multifunctional display (standard in Comfortline and Sportline)
- Multifunctional display Plus with additional display options: extra features have been added to the multifunctional display including auxiliary heating control, winter tires, light and vision as well as time, language and units
- Multifunctional steering wheel (3-spoke) for operating radio and car phone
- Multifunctional leather steering wheel with wood rim (3-spoke) for operating radio and car phone
- Fog lights
- Parking sensor, back distance warning via acoustic warning signal
- Radio navigation system MFD2, radio system 4 x 20 Watt, 10 speakers, 6.5” multifunctional display, colored map display when navigation CD is inserted, option to switch to icon view, CD-ROM for Germany, CD-ROM drive for listening to audio CDs (deactivated when navigation activated), acoustic direction recommendation (speech output), visual direction recommendation available for “Plus” multifunctional display in driver’s immediate field of vision, can be integrated optionally into the multifunctional display of the navigation system, GPS roof antenna, dynamic navigation via TMC
- Radio system RCD 300, 2 x 20 Watt, 6 speakers in front, CD player
- Radio system RCD 300 plus, 4 x 20 Watt, 10 speakers in front and back, CD player
- Radio system RCD 500, 4 x 20 Watt, 10 speakers in front and back, integrated CD jukebox for 6 CDs, traffic information memory for retrieving the last four minutes (TIM: Traffic Information Memory)
- Radio system RCD 500 Volkswagen Sound, the same features as “RCD 500″, yet with an additional 8-channel amplifier, operation via RCD 500, total output 250 Watts, speakers specially adapted to output
- Tire control display
- RME model for use of RME fuel (biodiesel) in accordance with DIN EN 14214
- Sliding/tilting glass sunroof, electric
- Side airbags in back
- Side windows in back and tinted back window, up to 65% light absorbing
- Mirror package 1, equipment as in light and vision package, but also with electrically adjustable and foldable door mirrors and individual heating option, entrance illumination
- Mirror package 2, equipment as in light and vision package, but also with electrically adjustable and foldable door mirrors and individual heating option and automatically dimming, entrance illumination
- Sport chassis (Sportline series), approx. 15 mm lower, stiffer spring/damper (not in combination with Grand Prix and Zandvoort alloy wheels)
- Sport seats in front, back of passenger seats fully reclined, driver seat electrically adjustable for lengthwise position, seating height, tilting seat and armrest, lumbar support on driver’s side adjustable electrically, drawer under front passenger seat
- Textile floor mats in front and back
- Winter package 1, heated front windshield washer nozzles, headlight cleaning system, heated front seats, low washer fluid warning
- Winter package 2, equipment as in Winter package 1, but also featuring: “Plus” multifunctional display, auxiliary heating as additional water heating including wireless remote control, (not available for 55 kW gasoline models, all other engines only with manual transmission)
ENGINES
- Four important engines for the market launch
- Gasoline engines: Starting with 75 hp and 115 hp, 102 hp and 150 hp to follow
- Diesel engines: 105 hp and 140 hp versions available immediately, 90 hp TDI coming later
In its opening phases, the Golf Plus will be available with two gasoline and two diesel engines (TDI). All engines comply with the EU 4 standard. The top gasoline and diesel engines feature a six-gear transmission as standard equipment.
Gasoline engines: The basis for the Golf Plus is formed by the 1.4 l, four-cylinder model with 55 kW/75 hp. A 1.6 l Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) engine is used in the next output level. The 1.6 FSI is capable of 85 kW/115 hp and is designed for use with 95 ROZ super fuel. During the first six months of 2005, the set will be rounded off by a 1.6 l with 75 kW/102 hp, and a 2.0 FSI with 110 kW/150 hp.
Diesel engines: The two most important diesel engines for the Golf Plus will be available immediately at market launch: the 1.9 l TDI with 77 kW/105 hp and the 2.0 TDI with 103 kW/140 hp. During the course of the first six months of the new year, these will be followed by an entry-level diesel engine, the 1.9 TDI with 66 kW/90 hp.
The diesel engines have also been readied for the installation of a diesel particle filter (DPF) close to the engine. The modifications related to the DPF include an optimized cylinder head with improved oil separation, a new layout for the exhaust turbo-charger and modified pump jets.
Automatic transmissions: A state-of-the-art six-gear automatic transmission is available for the Golf 1.6 FSI and for the 2.0 FSI. The transmission shifting system automatically adjusts to driving conditions. It is also possible to change gears manually by using the Tiptronic function (). For even more agility a very sporty “S” transmission shifting system is available.
TDI engines with 77 and 103 kW can alternatively be combined with the sporty double clutch system (DSG). The innovative transmission system takes a fascinating approach to combining the comfort of an automatic transmission with the agility and inexpensive operation of a manual transmission system. In addition to fully automatic mode, DSG also has a Tiptronic function that makes manual shifting possible. Both give you a feeling that is not only one of high-class comfort, but one marked by great fun when changing gears.
In general, the engine coupled to DSG always runs at the best speed since each gear generates immediate power. No less decisively, the fact that the new transmission system delivers an exceptional level of agility at a manual shift rate of fuel consumption. Acceleration and top speed rates are nearly identical.
1.4 l with 55 kW/75 hp: The basis for the Golf Plus is formed by the 1.4 l, four-cylinder model with 55 kW/75 hp (at 5,000 rpm). Above 3,800 rpm a top speed of 126 Newton meters is available. The four-cylinder model in the Golf Plus consumes an average of 7.1 liters of fuel for 100 kilometers. With its five-gear transmission the Golf Plus 1.4 achieves a top speed of 161 kph. It can handle the classic sprint from 0 to 100 kph in 16.2 seconds. Like all Golf Plus engines, the 1.4 l engine complies with the EU 4 standard.
1.6 l FSI with 85 kW/115 hp: Already available in the introductory phase, the FSI for the new Golf Plus achieves 85 kW/115 hp. This classic performance variant accelerates the Volkswagen to 100 kph in 11.8 seconds; top speed is 189 kph. Compared to this is an average fuel consumption of 7.2 liters. The 4,000 rpm, 155 Newton meter FSI features a six-gear transmission as standard equipment. Maximum output is 6,000 rpm. The 1.6 FSI in the Golf Plus works purely according to the homogeneity principle.
The 1.6 l engine fitted with an aluminum crankcase was further perfected for use in both the Golf Plus and the Golf in the areas of acoustics, weight and internal engine friction.
1.9 l TDI with 77 kW/105 hp: The 1.9 l TDI with 77 kW/105 hp and top engine speed of 250 Newton meters is for the time being the “smallest” turbodiesel used in the Golf Plus. The four-cylinder engine delivers top performance of 4,000 rpm and top engine speed of 1,900 rpm. An innovation of this agile and economic engine, similar to the 2.0 TDI also offered for the Golf Plus, is its diesel quick start system that enables an immediate start in any weather conditions without any preheating being noticed by the driver. The standard 1.9 l TDI is combined with a five-gear transmission.
The Golf Plus 1.9 l TDI achieves a top speed of 183 kph, accelerates to 100 kph in 11.9 seconds, and consumes only 5.4 liters of diesel for 100 kilometers.
2.0 l TDI with 103 kW/140 hp: Solid power and low consumption. These two benchmarks characterize the Golf Plus 2.0 l TDI. It accomplishes 103 kW/140 hp and generates engine speed of 320 Newton meters. The sporty and economical engine achieves top performance at 4,000 rpm and top engine speed starting at 1,750 rpm. The four-valve, four-cylinder engine has a six-gear transmission. The 2.0 l TDI is the first VW turbodiesel engine to have the components of four-valve technology added to its pump injector unit.
As a 2.0 l TDI the Golf Plus achieves a top speed of 202 kph. The Volkswagen manages the sprint to 100 kph in 9.7 seconds. On average the 1,968 cm3 engine consumes only 5.7 liters of fuel for 100 kilometers. It also complies with the EU 4 standard.
CHASSIS
- Agility and safety at the accustomed high level of quality
- Front and rear axle: special tuning of leading technology
- Steering: electro-mechanical power steering known from the Golf and Touran
The high-quality safety chassis with front axle suspension strut and multi-steer rear axle were taken over from the original Golf. The modules thus enable the high vibration comfort and accentuated agile handling qualities typical of Volkswagen to be maintained through a targeted selection of springs, shock absorbers, auxiliary springs and stabilizers.
The front axle is perfectly tuned to the multi-link axle developed especially for this series, allowing Volkswagen to leap into the next generation of chassis technology. That’s why the new Golf Plus sets the standards in its class when it comes to driving dynamics, driving safety and driving comfort.
In addition, the standard Golf Plus Sportline will be delivered with a suspension lowered by 15 millimeters. This package with stiffer spring/damper setting is optionally available for the Golf Plus Trendline and the Golf Plus Comfortline.
Handling and comfort features are perfected by the electro-mechanical power steering also used in the Golf and the Touran. It not only offers speed-adjusted steering support, but at the same time it also contributes to an excellent directional stability. In addition, the Golf Plus is standard equipped with ESP and Dual Brake Assist.
[source: volkswagen-media-services.com]
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