Blog: At the launch of the VW Golf Mk7

Last night was spent in the presence of Volkswagen’s most important men – including CEO Martin Winterkorn – and their newest star, the Mk 7 Volkswagen Golf.

By now you’ll have read almost everything there is to read about the new Golf and – judging by the social media reaction – you’ll either like it or you’ll be left a little cold by it.

In the metal, I actually rather like it. It’s not revolutionary by any means but the detail in the headlights, the more angular front end and the sharp creases in the bonnet, boot lid and flanks give the Golf a sense of aggression it's been missing.

It looks more premium too thanks to some nice subtle touches like the slim LED indicators mounted in the door mirrors and the fuel-filler cap that’s designed to complement the Golf’s lines.

Step in to the interior and you’ll get the same premium treatment. Chrome, gloss black and white LED lighting all feature and there’s loads of hi-tech kit too. All models get a five-inch touchscreen but we tried the larger 5.8-inch model which displays extra buttons when you move your hand towards it. You can swipe and zoom just like on an iPhone too.

And in case you’re wondering I did sit in the back seats and there is a noticeable improvement in legroom. That’s despite having a boot that’s 30 litres bigger too.

The biggest question though, is how the new Golf will drive. VW bosses were certainly confident, with CEO Martin Winterkorn claiming that rivals had narrowed the gap to the Mk6 Golf but the all-new model would blow them out of the water.

Based on the figures alone there’s every reason to believe him. The 88mpg Bluemotion Golf will be the cleanest and most efficient out of all of its rivals. The 1.4 TSI ACT petrol with cylinder deactivation not only has 138bhp, but it also emits just 112g/km – that’s compared to 114g/km in the 123bhp 1.0-litre Ford Focus EcoBoost.

Add all that to the fact that the Golf comes fitted as standard with the XDS electronic differential to improve handling and can weigh as little as 1050kg and Professor Winterkorn’s assertions look like they could be spot on.

And with electric, plug-in hybrid and a new GTI version all confirmed this latest Golf will appeal to more buyers than ever before. So whether you like the look new Golf or not get ready to see thousands of them on UK roads from early next year.