Volkswagen South Africa has reintroduced more accessible models of its ever-popular Golf, bringing the 1.4 TSI engine back to the local lineup after a several-year absence.
This gives South African buyers the chance to own a new Golf without having to shell out for the high-performance GTI or R variants.
Since its 1978 debut, the Golf has become one of South Africa’s most beloved nameplates. While the performance-oriented Golf GTI and Golf R have remained available, though their premium pricing has pushed them beyond the reach of many buyers. The current Golf GTI costs R853 400, while the Golf R comes in at R1 016 600.
The return of the 110 kW 1.4 TSI-powered Golf offers a far more accessible entry point to the brand, with pricing starting at R580 900. This familiar and efficient engine was notably absent when the eighth-generation Golf launched in 2021.
New look, familiar charm
All updated Golf models feature a refreshed exterior, including redesigned LED headlights and, for the first time, an illuminated Volkswagen badge on the front grille. The top-spec variants boast life-saving IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights with a range of up to 500 metres.
Four trim levels are offered: Life, Life Plus, R-Line, and R-Line Plus. All are powered by the 1.4-litre TSI engine paired with an 8-speed Tiptronic transmission. Power output is 110 kW and 250 Nm of torque, good for a 0–100 km/h time of 8,5 seconds and claimed fuel consumption of just 6,3 ℓ/100 km.
Spec highlights across the range
The Life model includes 16-inch alloy wheels, a 10,3-inch infotainment system, 6-speaker audio, wireless phone connectivity, cruise control, and 10-colour ambient lighting.
Life Plus adds a rear-view camera, 30-colour ambient lighting, driver profile selection, and sportier Art Velours seats.
R-Line brings a sportier appearance with body-coloured R-Line bumpers, integrated headrest seats, 17-inch alloy wheels, Park Assist, sports suspension, and a heated multi-function steering wheel.
Topping the range, R-Line Plus models get IQ.LIGHT matrix headlights, an illuminated badge, 18-inch alloy wheels, cooled and heated Vienna leather seats, stainless steel pedals, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
Pricing
- Golf 1.4 TSI Life – R580 900
- Golf 1.4 TSI Life Plus – R604 500
- Golf 1.4 TSI R-Line – R660 000
- Golf 1.4 TSI R-Line Plus – R688 100
Each Golf includes a 3-year/120 000 km warranty, a 5-year/90 000 km service plan, and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. Service intervals are every 15 000 km.
