Photos of the all-new sixth generation VW Golf have leaked out just a few days prior to its official media release. Set to make its public debut in Paris this October, the hugely important Golf VI represents VW's best selling model as well as one of the best selling models in the world.
Despite positive reviews from the press for its driving performance and attractive interior, exterior design was to blame for the slow selling Golf V in Europe. Additionally, blaming high production expenses as a result of a lengthy per unit manufacturing time, VW brass set out to cut their losses and push development of a new MK VI Golf which is based on the current MK V platform – just nipped and tucked in all of the right places for a faster turnaround time.
For the exterior design, which was overseen by Volkswagen's head designer, Walter de Silva, top execs sought a design that was conservatively evolving off of the MK V yet somewhat sexier with a more aggressive stance as the vehicle gets a more purposeful looking front end plus a hovering slammed effect as the wheels fill the wheel arches nicely.
The Golf VI will have three and five door versions, a rumoured cabriolet and of course the GTI which may get a glass roof. A new 1.6-liter TFSI engine is also said to be on the plans generating about 200 bhp, however, the Golf VI is set to get a new entry level engine below the 1.4-liter TSI found in the current generation. According to Wolfgang Steiger, VW's manager for powertrain research, tells the new generation Golf will offer either a 1.0-liter or 1.2-liter engine producing 75 horsepower. A final decision on which displacement will be used is yet to be finalised. It will depend on whether VW management decides on three or four cylinders.
Diesel engines are also expected to equip the hatchback, both in BlueMotion and twin-drive plug-in hybrid versions which are scheduled for release from 2010. The GTI will get even more power than the current model with an engine delivering 230 hp, and an even hotter 4Motion performance edition along the lines of the current R32 producing 265 hp following later.
Stay tuned as official information plus more images is expected to arrive in the next few days.
