Cape Town - We drove the updated Golf 7 in Spain earlier in 2017 and now, ahead of its South African release, we have prices of the automaker's initial four-model range.
There are three engines available (1.0TSI, 1.4TSI and 2.0TSI powering the GTI) and two specification levels (Trendline and Comfortline).
Four models, Golf R and GTD to arrive in July
Prices start from R289 900 for the 1.0 TSI 81kW Trendline Manual and tops out at R549 800 for the GTI which is only available with the dual-clutch gearbox. We've included full prices and specifications at the end of the article.
South Africa will receive the Golf R, and the new GTD in July 2017.
Aesthetically, the biggest change outside the exterior is the new bumpers, headlights and LED tail lights.
What's new?
The radiator grille and headlights are more prominent thanks to the chromed strip which now stretches right across, making everything look more aligned. The front assist and auto cruise control radar sensor which used to be visible in the air intake on the bumper, is now hidden behind the VW badge.
There's also new optional trapezoidal chromed trim integrated into the diffuser and the legendary red strip in the radiator grille of the GTI is even more distinctive with a red and chrome crossbar of the grille which carries through to the LED dual headlight winglets.
Look out for a new hue called 'turmeric yellow' - which looks somewhat similar to a particular BMW M colour.
Sean Parker is attending the launch of the GTI in Port Elizabeth on Thursday, follow Wheels24 on Instagram and Twitter for LIVE video, images and insight into the new model.
Prices
1.0 TSI 81kW Trendline Manual - R289 900
1.0 TSI 81kW Comfortline Manual - R304 200
1.4 TSI 92kW Comfortline DSG - R356 400
2.0 TSI 169kW GTI DSG - R545 800
Standard features:
Trendline
The Trendline is offered with the following standard features:
• Start/Stop Technology
• ESP with Hill-hold assist
• Electronic parking brake
• Electronic adjustable heated side mirrors
• Electronic windows (front & rear)
• Manual airconditioner
• Cloth seat covers “Basket” design
• Fatigue detection
• LED taillights
• 6.5-inch Composition Colour Radio System with Touchscreen, USB, Bluetooth Connectivity and 8-speakers
• 15-inch Lyon alloy wheels
• Leather multi-function steering
• LED daytime running lights
Comfortline
In addition to the Trendline standard features, Comfortline includes:
• Drawer under front passenger seat
• Front centre armrest
• Lumbar support for front seats
• Cloth seats cover in ‘Zoom’ design
• Front foglights
• 16-inch ‘Hita’ alloy wheels
• Cruise control
• Rain sensors
• Auto-dimming rear view mirror
• Auto headlights with leaving/coming home function
GTI
Standard features on GTI include:
• Sport suspension
• Exhaust chrome twin tailpipes (right and left)
• Ambient lighting (light strips in red)
• Progressive steering
• 18" ‘Milton Keynes’ alloy wheels
• Automatic aircon ‘Climatronic’
• Heated front seats
• Auto high-beam
• LED headlights
• Dynamic cornering lights
• 8-inch Composition Media Radio System with Touchscreen, USB, Bluetooth Connectivity and 8 speakers
• App Connect
• Voice Control
The range is offered standard with a 5-year or 90 000km Service Plan, 3-year or 120 000km warranty and a 12 year anti-corrosion warranty. Service intervals are 15 000km.