New Golf Variant coming to NZ

Completely redesigned, the new Golf Variant utilises key engines from the Golf, as well as materials and instruments in the interior.

The new Volkswagen Golf Variant features a modified bumper and radiator grille, new engine bonnet styling and redesigned fenders and headlights; all transferred from the Golf hatch. At the rear there are modified taillights and body colour bumpers.

The new Golf Variant will be available in New Zealand with two engine options; both of which meet the emission limits of the new Euro-5 standard. Both the diesel TDI 77kW and petrol TSI 90kW come with the Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) as an automatic transmission.

The TDI 77kW diesel engine is characterised by noticeably quiet noise levels, low emissions (119 g/km CO2) and low combined fuel consumption of just 4.5L/100km. The TSI 90kW petrol engine has a combined fuel consumption of 6.0L/100km and emissions of 139g/km.

One specification level is available in New Zealand, which includes six airbags (front driver and passenger, front side and curtain), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP, including ABS and an Electronic Diff Lock) and daytime running lights.

Other features include electrically adjusted and heated exterior mirrors, an RCD 310 stereo system, leather steering wheel, Climatic air conditioning system and roof rails, and optional panoramic sunroof.

Two driver assistance systems are available as options for the first time in the Golf Variant: “Park Assist” (automatic parking assistant) and “Rear Assist” (rearview camera).

Key for the Golf Variant is the luggage compartment. With the rear seat back rest upright, the Golf Variant boasts 505 litres of boot space. The 1/3 to 2/3 split folding rear bench seat and backrest can create a flat load floor, boosting cargo capacity to 1550 litres.

The Golf Variant TDI with the 7-speed DSG transmission will arrive in New Zealand in January 2010 with a RRP of $43,990. Expected to arrive about three months later, the Golf Variant TSI will have an RRP of $40,990.

Dean Sheed, Volkswagen General Manager for New Zealand, says, “The new Golf Variant will tick all the important boxes for many corporate customers – high levels of safety, low fuel consumption and emissions, and competitive whole of life costs.”