New 2005 Golf Mk V Launched at Frankfurt Motor Show

Expect it in Detroit This January and On Sale Soon After

Volkswagen is looking for big things from its smallest North American offering. The next-generation Golf, the fifth in a legendary line that started way back in the mid-70s with the speedy Rabbit moniker, definitely looks the part.

Not straying at all from the functional hatchback formula that has earned the little VW such an ardent following over the years, the new Golf pulls a few design cues from the past with four round headlamps, this time shrouded with large headlamp covers, a very Jetta-like two-slat grille and a similar reverse cant C-pillar, finished off with new rounded taillamps.

As is the usual fare for a new model, the new Golf is longer, wider and taller than the current car, with increased passenger and cargo capacities. Driver and passengers will enjoy an even higher quality interior, hard to believe as it is currently the best in its class, while equipment levels will be going up in standard and optional trim levels.

The safety conscious will appreciate a standard stability control system, which should also translate into standard ABS, plus an automatic climate control system, something usually only found in premium brands, will be available.

The new Golf will ride on Audis A3 platform architecture, a hatchback model that so far has not been made available in North America. Its engines will be shared with the premium Audi as well, starting with a 150-hp direct-injection 5-cylinder gasoline engine replacing the geriatric 115-hp 2.0-L 4-cylinder, followed by a 200-hp 2.0-L turbo that will be shared by the entry-level GTI, and what may be a 250-hp VR6, available in GTI trim only. Rumors of a 300-hp VR6 have surfaced too, plus VWs 4-Motion AWD as an option.

No doubt Volkswagen will continue to bring its venerable diesel to the U.S. as well, even more important in the market when low sulfur diesel fuel becomes mandated throughout North America in 2006.

It is also expected that both manual and automatic transmissions will each provide six forward speeds, with a direct-shift gearbox (DSG) featuring paddle shifters in top GTI trim.

Handling should improve dramatically too, not that the old car is particularly wanting. The aging beam-axle rear setup will make way for a much more sophisticated 5-link suspension, while electromechanical steering should provide crisp turn-in.

The 2005 Golf will debut in North America at the Detroit Auto Show in January, with sales expected to start soon after.