2024 Volkswagen Golf adds more technology to famous hatch, but deletes a popular feature
Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the 2024 Volkswagen Golf has more interior technology, however, a popular option has been removed.
Volkswagen has announced that the latest version of its popular Golf family hatchback will be the last petrol-powered model to feature the famous name.
Unveiled to the public at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, the facelifted Volkswagen Golf has received a number of modifications.
However, speaking to Automotive News Europe, Kai Grünitz, Member of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen Brand responsible for Technical Development, noted that tightening emissions regulations has led to all new Golfs being fitted with automatic gearboxes.
He explained: “When we started with the development, there was no clear understanding when Euro 7 rules would be released.
“At some point, you have to start your development, otherwise you won’t hit the timeline.”
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The Euro 7 emission regulations are set of rules that all vehicle companies selling their models in Europe must comply with to help improve air quality.
Whilst they have been relaxed ahead of their rollout in July 2025, many car companies have struggled to introduce new petrol and diesel models that are compliant.
Volkswagen have claimed that by fitting the Golf with only automatic gearboxes, including on the high-performance GTI and R trims, the cars will produce less tailpipe emissions.
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Whilst the exterior of the Golf has not changed much from the current model, it has received a number of updates inside.
The new steering wheel features more conventional buttons, replacing the touch-sensitive controls, which are more tactile and user friendly, whilst the voice control system now uses the artificial intelligence software ChatGPT, allowing occupants to change functions within the car and answer burning questions.
Prices for the new Volkswagen Golf have yet to be announced, however Volkswagen are set to offer more information on the upcoming model later in January 2024.