The increase in size was used wisely by engineers; the 67 mm wheelbase stretch means more rear legroom, 24 mm width increase means better shoulder room, and 40 mm of extra height allows for the accommodation of taller passengers. Trunk room has also increased - 350 L (12.4 cu ft) with the rear seat up versus 320 L (11.3 cu ft) in the old car, and when the split seatbacks are folded down 1,305 liters (46.1 cu ft) of space is available from floor to roof. Five-door models are inherently geared towards practicality, thus appearing taller and a bit stodgier. Three-door models are sportier, with lower, longer windows giving the impression of a more aggressive performer. Regardless of which model is chosen, the improvements are clear - more room, more space, and that means everyone is more comfortable, even if three are riding in back.
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| All cars should feature the same attention to interior detail as the Golf does, regardless of price. (Photo: Volkswagen) |
As for the interior, Volkswagen has followed up the Mk IV's class leading perceived quality yet again with top-of-the-category style and equipment. VW has the uncanny ability of making competitive interiors seem half-finished, boring, sometimes tacky and even cheap. Inspired heavily by Audi's calm-inducing ambient interior theme, as well as a trickle down effect from the top-level quality seen in the upscale Phaeton and Touareg models, even the most basic Golfs feature high quality levels from the soft-touch plastics, chrome-ringed gauges, a steering wheel that adjusts for reach and rake, and the benefit of having quality switchgear, each of which, regardless of purpose, is illuminated in a lovely shade of violet-blue or crimson red. All cars should feature such attention to detail, regardless of price.
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| Other manufacturers are scrambling, wondering why the Golf is always two steps ahead in terms of interior refinement. (Photo: Volkswagen) |
Depending on what model is chosen, the Golf can be equipped with everything from dual-zone electronic climate control, a CD-ROM-driven navigation system displayed on a massive screen, leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel, heated leather seats and wood or aluminum trim inserts. While Volkswagen has its interiors down-packed, it seems that other manufacturers are scrambling, wondering why the Golf is always two steps ahead.
