The Volkswagen Golf Plus is unmistakably based on the Golf, sharing engines, chassis and many other technical components. However, the body and interior have been totally redesigned, giving the newcomer a unique and individual identity. The VW Golf Plus is taller than the hatchback by 95 mm, features higher seats - 75 mm higher in the front and 85 mm in the back - and enjoys increased luggage space with a capacity ranging from 395 to 505 litres. These increased dimensions offer the occupants more space, including 25 mm extra leg room, whilst increasing versatility and functionality.
Due to differing requirements, the designers and engineers of the Volkswagen Golf Plus had to recreate doors, bonnet, bumpers, wings, roof, headlights and tail lights for the new model. The only body parts the Golf and the Golf Plus share are the door mirrors, 'VW' logo, door handles, and the antenna for the optional navigation system.
Exterior
The overall appearance of the Volkswagen Golf Plus - in particular the grille and C-pillars - were inspired by the look inherited from over three decades of Golf evolution. However, while the Golf Plus is obviously a Golf, it is also immediately apparent that it is a new model.
The V-shaped bonnet and radiator grille emulate that of the Golf hatchback. Yet while this 'V' can be found between the front wings of the Golf hatchback, the proportions used in the VW Golf Plus are different. The 'V' moves into the wings, while the line of the bonnet becomes more vertical as it meets the windscreen. In this respect, the Golf Plus follows the design set by both the Touran and the Touareg, meeting the demands of a comparably tall vehicle, as in this case the bonnet must form a more homogeneous shape with the windscreen.
The headlights, with their three round integrated elements (indicator, low beam and high beam), are large and distinctive. These extend, as with the Touareg, far into each front wing. Directional headlights feature as an option, where the beam follows the direction of steering, offering a clear safety advantage by enabling the driver to see further into bends.
At the rear, the bold trapezoid tail lights lend a high quality appearance to the Volkswagen Golf Plus. Using bright LED components for the tail lights, brake lights and indicators, they follow the style set by the Phaeton luxury saloon, and are a first for this class of car. In contrast to conventional light bulbs, LED lights have a far faster response time and tend to have a longer life. The inner parts of the lighting unit, featuring the fog lights and reverse lamps, are fitted with conventional light bulbs as they are used far less often than the main lights.
Aerodynamics
The aerodynamics of the Volkswagen Golf Plus were carefully considered in the early design stages of the new model. Before a scale model of the Golf Plus was even built, engineers carried out an analysis of flow behaviour on the body. Using CAD (Computer Aided Design) technology, the design model was tested aerodynamically in a virtual environment.
These balanced aerodynamic properties not only lead to improved performance and fuel consumption but also to better driving dynamics, safety and stability at speed and in cross winds. The VW Golf Plus has a drag coefficient of 0.32.
Interior
Compared with the Golf, all seats in the Golf Plus are positioned higher, for an even better view. The position of the steering column and the angle of the accelerator pedal have been ergonomically adjusted to the higher seating position.
On every Volkswagen Golf Plus, the rear seat bench can be split 60/40, while the seat backs can be folded down in a split of approximately 40/20/40. The seats can also be moved independently from one another up to 160 mm laterally. Adjustment is performed easily using the lever under each seat section. The angle of the back rests in the rear can also be adjusted in multiple settings, which helps when catering for a child seat.
The seat backs are easy to fold down by pulling on a loop to release the catch. When the rear seats are lowered, the mechanism automatically lowers the seat, to provide an almost level load space.
The centre rear seat back in the VW Golf Plus can be folded down for extra storage space. Usually, the back becomes a table with integrated cup holders. However, a pad can also be used to transform it into a comfortable centre armrest. In addition, a large, multifunctional compartment with integrated cup holders is available as an option.
Storage space
The boot floor is variable with different height settings. The dual position floor tray may be set at two different heights. The lower position provides maximum space and the upper position gives a flat floor and hidden stowage for sports gear or a folding pushchair.
Up to 1,450 litres of storage capacity is available if the backs of the rear seats are lowered completely. In addition, the Volkswagen Golf Plus features up to 43 storage spaces, depending on specification.