Although the facelifted Volkswagen Golf 7.5 was recently introduced in South Africa, details for the next generation Golf 8 have surfaced and if reports are to be believed, the new Golf will be revealed at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Reports suggest that the arrival of the new Golf 8 will coincide with the introduction of Volkswagens I.D. electric vehicle lineup, but Golf will remain a key focus for the brand. The Golf 8 is expected to arrive in South Africa in 2020, following its official reveal in 2019.

Speaking to a British publication, Volkswagen chiefHerbert Diess commented that"the priority is Golfbecause in the next generation it will be our main core productand that's where the focus goes. You might call it once again 'Das Auto', because it is such a good package for a 5-seater; it works so well."

This Cars.co.za render provides some insight into what the next generation Golf GTI could look like.

The next generation Golf will be built on an updated version of the MQB platform that will result in a weight saving of up to 70 kg. Exact engine details have yet to be confirmed, but reports suggest that a turbocharged1.0-litre (in various states of tune) and 1.5-litre petrol engine will be offered. On the diesel front, a new 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre turbodiesel powerplants areon the cards.

We previously reported that the 2.0-litre turbopetrol Golf GTIwill in all likelihood comprise 3 derivatives including a standard GTI, Performance Pack GTI and Clubsport GTI. The standard GTI could offer as much as 195 kW, while the Clubsport could see power figures of 240 kW. As for the Golf R, a 300 kW 2.0-litre turbopetrolis likely but a 3.0-litre VR6 engine with up to 370 kW is not out of the question either. There will also be mild hybrid versions on offer, employing a 48 V electric system.

According to Diess:"mild hybrid systems will play a major role in the next generation of the Golf; that will be the first application."

The redesigned interior of the VW Golf 8 will likely feature a large central touchscreen and a digital Active Info Display.

In terms of design, exterior changes to the Golf will be evolutionary and will be similar in design to the current iteration. The Golf 8, however, will likely gain slimmer LED headlights, a lower, redesigned bonnet and the "Golf" lettering will likely appear below the Volkswagen badge, taking direction from the recently-revealed Arteon luxury fastback sedan.

The interior, however, is where the major upgrades are expected. The interior design will be overhauled and digital displays will likely replace most of the switchgear. The Golf will probably feature a large touchscreen that will control most of the vehicle’s functions and Volkswagen’s Active Info Display is expected to be used extensively throughout the range.

We will keep you updated as more details become available.

Watch our video review of the faceliftedVolkswagen Golf GTIbelow:

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