The Mk8 VW Golf has arrived in Australia. At launch, the Mk8 Golf line up consists of seven variants, which include two wagons and the hot-blooded GTI. However, the line up is expected to grow to eight or nine variants when the Golf R joins the party, in hatch and wagon form.
Also read: VW Golf Mk8 to launch in more RHD countries, Malaysia by 2H 2021
Volkswagen Group Australia (VGA) says that the highlight of the new-generation Golf is the standard inclusion of its IQ.Drive ADAS suite, which includes;
- Travel assist
- Front assist with pedestrian and cyclist monitoring
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane assist
- Driver fatigue detection
- Rear traffic alert
Besides the range-topping GTI, Australian-spec Mk8 Golfs are powered by a turbocharged 1.4-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine developing 150 PS and 250 Nm. Depending on variant, you either get a 6-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic.
The Golf GTI gets its own turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine (245 PS, 370 Nm) paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Prices for the Australian Mk8 Golf range starts from AUD 29,350 (RM 91,230) to AUD 53,100 (RM 165,053).
After the UK, most right-hand drive (RHD) markets for the Mk8 Golf has been delayed due to a software issue in the infotainments system. With that out of the way, the RHD models are slowly but surely making their way into the respective markets.
Following the UK's market launch, other RHD countries like Japan, Australia and Singapore also unveiled the Mk8 Golf for sale . Thus, it's not an exaggeration to say that Malaysia will be next on the list.
Also read: Spied: VW Golf GTI Mk8 seen in Putrajaya, to be CKD
What we already do know is that for Malaysia, the Mk8 VW Golf GTI will be locally assembled in VW's facility in Pekan, Pahang. Regardless, I personally can't wait for this model to be unveiled here, as I do have a soft spot for it. It won't be long, we hope!