Volkswagen has kicked off pre-sales of the facelifted Golf in Europe with the release of the “Edition 50” model. This special edition commemorates 50 years since the debut of the original iteration of the hatchback.
However, it also serves as a distraction from the elevated pricing of the updated range, which now starts from €27,180 (equal to about $29,300 at current exchange rates).
The Golf Edition 50 is based on the top-tier Style trim, incorporating several distinctive features to commemorate this significant milestone. Notable additions include “50” badges adorning the B-pillars, discreet “Edition 50” emblems on the side sills and steering wheel, as well as exterior enhancements such as 18-inch Leeds alloy wheels, a LED strip on the grille, and tinted rear glass. Inside, owners will appreciate details like brushed stainless steel pedals and a black headliner.
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Volkswagen Europe
Standard equipment includes the flagship 12.9-inch Discover infotainment system with navigation, keyless access, the IDA voice assistant with ChatGPT integration, an anti-theft alarm, and driving profile selection. Those who want more can tick the box for the optional Plus package which adds a tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof, head-up display, and the admittedly cooler IQ. Light matrix LED headlights
Four Trims, Four Powertrain Options
Besides the special edition, VW announced the full lineup for the series, which comprises the entry-level Golf, the mid-spec Life, and the flagship Style. A visit to the German configurator reveals that the base model comes with 15-inch steel wheels, although it still has features like LED headlights and wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto.
At launch, the powertrain lineup includes the non-electrified 1.0 TSI and 1.5 TSI paired with a six-speed manual, and the mild-hybrid 1.0 eTSI and 1.5 eTSI paired with a seven-speed DSG. Both 1.0-liter engines deliver 113 hp (85 kW / 115 PS), while the larger 1.5-liter engines produce 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS). However, the automatic mild hybrid versions benefit from improved efficiency and performance thanks to the 48 Volt system. Additionally, the powertrains feature VTG (variable turbine geometry) turbocharger and Active Cylinder Management (ACTplus) technologies.
VW confirmed that “further derivatives and drive systems” will follow in the future. These will most likely include the improved plug-in hybrids that will bring a significant increase in the zero-emission range, and the good-old turbodiesel that will make one last appearance before being retired. We also expect the local launch of the performance-focused Golf GTI and the upcoming Golf R.
More Expensive Than Before
The facelifted VW Golf is now available for pre-order in European markets. In Germany, prices start at €27,180 ($29,258) for the entry-level Golf Hatchback and €28,280 ($30,442) for the Golf Variant. TThis marks a price hike from the pre-facelifted model, attributed to inflation rates and added features.
As for the high-spec VW Golf Edition 50, this one starts from €36,820 ($39,617) since it is only available with the more powerful 1.5-liter engines.
In total, VW has sold over 37 million units of the Golf since its debut in 1974, designed by Giugiaro, making it one of the most successful nameplates. While the compact hatchback was a best seller in Europe for many years, it’s now being outsold globally by the Tiguan SUV.
