Volkswagen Golf debuts in Paris

We might have already had an early drive of the Volkswagen Golf at Yahoo! Cars, but Paris is the first opportunity for the buying public to see the new hatchback in the metal. A European best-seller, the new VW is one of the most important cars on the Parisian show stands.

What's all the fuss about?

The Golf is a huge story, not least because it's an absolutely massive seller in Europe and across the globe. Volkswagen has built some 26 million Golfs in its various incarnations. You could be forgiven for missing the new styling changes though, as the makeover is pretty conservative. VW has improved it where it matters, the interior now living up to VW's 'cut-above' reputation and refinement is vastly improved. So much so it feels like a premium model inside - which is sure to appeal to its many customers.

Anything that stands out?

Volkswagen has been very busy with acoustic equipment to ensure that the Golf is among the quietest in its class. It's been successful too: it's notably refined. In keeping with that, the German firm is offering the Golf with big car equipment options: kit like adaptive cruise control and Adaptive Chassis Control (ACC) will be offered with the new Golf. It's cleaner and greener too, Volkswagen refreshing its engine line up with down-sized and enhanced motors that deliver stronger performance but with improved economy and emissions.

When can I buy one?

The Golf is on the road now in Europe. UK deliveries will begin soon, and the new Golf is certain to take its spot up near the top of the sales charts. A huge line up is offered: three- or five-door models, petrol or diesel engines and a wide choice of manual, automatic and DSG transmissions. The GTI will join the standard cars soon, as will a tax-busting, fuel-saving BlueMotion model.

Extra images by United Pictures

Kyle Fortune