For 45 years now, Volkswagens with extra-large cargo areas have been called – unless they are a van – "Variant". To date, more than 6.1 million of them have been sold worldwide. Now there is a new one: The Golf Variant. Its market introduction will begin this summer, initially in Europe.

Once again the Golf Variant is characterized by an ideal ratio of interior and exterior dimensions. When the cargo net is installed (standard starting with Comfortline), even with five occupants on board the Golf Variant can carry 690 liters of cargo; up to the load sill at window level this still amounts to 505 liters (without spare wheel well). When the rear bench seat is folded, the full interior height (0.83 meters) can be utilized to stow up to 1,550 liters of cargo.

A synthesis of new and classic stylistic elements distinguishes the car design. The rear end of the Variant shows a completely new side of the Golf. While about half of each taillight is integral to the rear hatch on other body versions of the model series, on the Golf Variant they are integrated completely in the fender. Visually, the taillights emphasize the large load width of the hatch opening.

At its market introduction Volkswagen is offering the Golf Variant with one gasoline and two diesel engine options. The gasoline engine outputs 75 kW / 102 PS. The two diesels of the Golf Variant deliver even more power with extraordinary economy: 77 kW / 105 PS and 103 kW / 140 PS, and they are among the most efficient engines ever. The smaller of these two TDIs is content with just 5.2 liters fuel per 100 kilometers. Moreover, the large TDI is as fuel efficient as it is environmentally friendly. The Golf Variant 2.0 TDI that can reach speeds of up to 205 km/h consumes just 5.6 liters fuel per 100 kilometers. CO2 emissions: 148 g/km.

No word as yet of a UK release but it should be on the cards - after all, us Brits' love the Estate.

More pics here.

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