Volkswagen Golf Variant debuts at Geneva with lighter body and BlueMotion estate
Volkswagen unveiled the new Golf Variant at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, introducing a lighter platform, expanded boot space and its most efficient estate to date.
Volkswagen used the 2013 Geneva Motor Show to unveil the new Golf Variant, marking the world premiere of its latest estate based on the MQB architecture. The new model brings a weight saving of up to 105 kg compared to its predecessor and introduces a more efficient range of engines, as well as increased practicality for buyers in the market for a family estate.
Lighter platform, more space
The new Golf Variant adopts the same MQB underpinnings as the latest Golf hatchback, resulting in a substantial weight reduction. This helps both efficiency and handling. At 4,562 mm long, the estate is 307 mm longer than the hatchback, which translates directly into more luggage space. Boot volume now stands at 605 litres with the rear seats in place, up from 505 litres in the previous model. When loaded to the roof and front seat backrests, capacity reaches 1,620 litres, an increase of 125 litres over its predecessor.
Engine range and new BlueMotion estate
Volkswagen is offering the Golf Variant with a choice of petrol and diesel engines, spanning from 85 PS to 150 PS. The highlight is the TDI BlueMotion, which pairs a 110 PS diesel with a six-speed manual gearbox. Volkswagen claims a combined fuel consumption of just 3.3 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 87 g/km for this model, positioning it as the most economical Golf estate produced to date. The BlueMotion badge signals features such as stop-start technology and aerodynamic tweaks.
For buyers needing extra traction, the Golf Variant 4MOTION made its debut at the same show. This all-wheel drive version extends the estate’s appeal to those in rural areas or with regular need for improved grip.
Design and practicality
Styling closely follows the latest Golf hatchback up to the front doors, with the estate’s extended rear section providing the extra cargo room. The new bodywork is not only lighter but also designed to maximise interior space without sacrificing the Golf’s familiar proportions. The MQB platform allows for improved packaging, which benefits rear passengers and luggage alike.
The Geneva launch of the Golf Variant brought Volkswagen’s estate offering in line with the seventh-generation Golf family, following the Mk7 hatchback’s debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. For more on the Mk7’s introduction, seeVolkswagen Golf Mk7 to Debut at 2012 Paris Motor Show.
What it means for estate buyers
The new Golf Variant’s lighter construction and more frugal engines are aimed at both private and fleet buyers looking for lower running costs. The increased boot space and flexible cargo arrangements are likely to appeal to families and business users alike. With the addition of the BlueMotion and 4MOTION variants, Volkswagen has widened the estate’s appeal across efficiency-minded and all-weather markets.
