The new Volkswagen Golf 7 was officially revealed to the world at the 2012 Paris Motor Show this week. The new seventh-generation Golf offers more features, better safety and more performance than its predecessor and is considerably lighter.

??New Volkswagen Golf 7 improved from the ground up

Lighter Construction

Volkswagen has paid careful attention to weight savings in all aspects of the new Golf 7’s construction and has resulted in a weight reduction of up to 100kg. The weight reduction is largely attributed to the extensive use of high and ultra-high strength steels. The overall share of high-strength steels has gone from 66% in the previous model to 80% in the new Golf 7 and the use of ultra-high strength steel has gone from 6% to 28%.

Lower Fuel Consumption

Reduced weight has resulted in lower fuel consumption and the European-market 1.4-litre turbocharged TSI engine with cylinder de-activation exhibits a European Cycle combined fuel consumption figure of 5.7-litres/100km. The base model TDI Clean Diesel engine produces 78kW with a fuel consumption figure of 4.5-litres/100km.

Larger Dimensions

The new Volkswagen Golf 7 is 5.5cm longer than the outgoing model with an overall length of 4.25m. The wheel base has increased with 5.8cm to 2.63m. The front wheels have moved 4.3cm forward giving the new Golf 7 a sportier stance with an improved crash structure. The Golf 7 is also 2cm lower and 1.27cm wider than the outgoing model.

Improved Interior

The interior offers more space and the passenger compartment is 1.5cm longer with 1.5cm more knee room. Shoulder room has been improved by 3cm in both the front and back seats. A key feature of the new interior is the new infotainment system which incorporates a 5-inch touchscreen. A navigation system with a large 8-inch touchscreen is also available.

The new Volkswagen Golf 7 can be expected in South Africa in the first quarter of 2013.