Update (19 September 2025): Introduction edited, and ‘On the reported delay’ revised.
Volkswagen is preparing to reinvent one of its most iconic models for the electric age, the Golf. The next-gen Golf, which was originally expected to debut in 2028, has been pushed to around 2030, as per an Automobilwoche report.
On the reported delay
German publication Automobilwoche has learned that Volkswagen plans to extend production of the combustion-engined Golf at the Wolfsburg plant for up to 12 months beyond the original schedule, citing continue demand. The company intends to shift production of the ICE Golf to Mexico after that period and wants to avoid a supply gap during the transition. This delay could result in the VW ID. Touareg becoming the first model based on the SSP architecture in 2029, pushing the launch of the ID. Golf to 2030.
Exterior
The VW ID. Golf will carry forward familiar cues but with a cleaner, more modern execution. According to an Automobilwoche report, we can expect it to feature shorter overhangs, a flatter roofline than the VW ID.3, and smoother surfacing in line with VW’s latest design philosophy.
Andreas Mindt, Volkswagen’s Head of Design, has confirmed the future all-electric model will avoid retro styling while respecting the Golf’s heritage. Wider tracks and near-flush wheels are expected to boost aerodynamics and give the car a planted stance.
Interior
Inside, Volkswagen intends to correct the missteps in the Mk8 Golf. Controversial haptic buttons and touch sliders are set to be replaced by physical switches for key controls, improving usability. A sleek, decluttered dashboard and flat floor will maximise space, with features such as a movable centre console and reclining rear seats under consideration. Digital displays will remain central, but the layout will be more intuitive, supported by the new MIB4 infotainment system, as per a CAR report.
Specifications
The ninth-generation Golf will be based on SSP, Volkswagen Group’s scalable platform that merges elements of MEB and PPE. It will debut a new software architecture developed with Rivian, allowing faster over-the-air updates, zonal control of vehicle systems, and more advanced integration of safety and driving functions.
Range is expected to be around 300 miles/480 km (WLTP) in standard versions, with efficiency, practicality, and affordability placed ahead of luxury. Performance fans will be catered to with GTI and R variants. The GTI will focus on agile handling with front-wheel drive, while the R will adopt dual motors for all-wheel drive and sub-4-second 0–62 mph (0-100 km/h) capability.
Launch
The future of the (Wolfsburg) plant will also be secured at the end of the decade with the introduction of the electric Golf and another model based on the future SSP electric car architecture.
From Volkswagen’s announcement on 20 December 2024
Production of the next-gen VW Golf Electric will take place in Wolfsburg, Germany, continuing the Golf’s long-standing manufacturing tradition. To make space, combustion Golf (and Golf Estate) production will move to Mexico, with both developments officially confirmed in December 2024. The combustion-powered Golf is set to continue in plug-in hybrid form in the UK and other European markets until regulations phase it out by 2035.
The next-gen VW Golf Electric is unlikely to lead to the discontinuation of the VW ID.3. The latter is expected to continue and get a complete makeover for a second generation. How Volkswagen plans to differentiate and position the two remains to be known, but the hatchback carrying decades of legacy is certain to have a wider availability globally.
Featured image: Volkswagen (e-Golf)
