Starting from ¥2.79 Million in Two Grades

The seventh-generation Golf, already unveiled in Europe, has been eagerly anticipated in Japan. Since 1974, it has been Volkswagen's flagship model and the undisputed benchmark for compact cars worldwide. As we've reported multiple times on OPENERS, this new seventh generation marks a complete overhaul of the platform inherited from the fifth generation,6th Generationand the sixth generation. While retaining its identity of an eco-friendly turbocharged engine paired with a dual-clutch transmission, the new model boasts enhanced adaptability to new energy sources, increased rigidity, reduced weight, improved comfort features including infotainment, and comprehensive passive and active safety systems.

While the new Golf was rumored to be introduced around this summer, advance orders for a limited edition model, celebrating both the new model's arrival and the 60th anniversary of the Golf's official import to Japan, will commence on April 13th.

This model, named "Golf Der Erste," will be available in two variants: the "TSI Comfortline Der Erste," combining a 1.2-liter TSI turbo engine with a 7-speed DSG transmission, and the "TSI Highline Der Erste," featuring a 1.4-liter TSI turbo engine with cylinder deactivation technology and a 7-speed DSG transmission. Both variants append "Der Erste" to their model names.



The "TSI Comfortline Der Erste" is equipped with "Multi Collision Brake," which automatically applies the brakes in a collision to mitigate damage from subsequent impacts, and the millimetre-wave radar-based "Front Assist Plus," an advanced version of the "City Emergency Brake" found in models like the Volkswagenup! and the all-speed "Adaptive Cruise Control" used in higher-end models such as the VolkswagenCC, "Lane Keep Assist" for lane departure prevention, and bi-xenon headlights.

The "TSI Highline Der Erste" further enhances the "TSI Comfortline Der Erste" features with LED positioning lights and exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels. It also includes Alcantara and fabric sport seats and the "Driving Profile Selection" function.

Available in five body colors, both models are right-hand drive. The "TSI Comfortline Der Erste," limited to 750 units, is priced at ¥2.79 million, while the "TSI Highline Der Erste," limited to 1,250 units, costs ¥3.05 million. Both are expected to qualify for 100% eco-car tax reductions.

Volkswagen Golf Der Erste | Volkswagen Golf The First
Body Dimensions | Length 4,265 x Width 1,800 x Height 1,460 mm
Weight |
(TSI Comfortline Der Erste) | 1,240 kg
(TSI Highline Der Erste) | 1,320 kg
Engine |
(TSI Comfortline Der Erste) | 1,197cc Inline 4-cylinder DOHC Turbo
(TSI Highline Der Erste) | 1,394cc Inline 4-cylinder DOHC Turbo
Max Output |
(TSI Comfortline Der Erste) | 77 kW (105 ps) / 4,500-5,500 rpm
(TSI Highline Der Erste) | 103 kW (140 ps) / 4,500-5,000 rpm
Max Torque |
(TSI Comfortline Der Erste) | 175 Nm (17.8 kgm) / 1,400-4,000 rpm
(TSI Highline Der Erste) | 250 Nm (25.5 kgm) / 1,500-3,500 rpm
Transmission | 7-speed Dual Clutch (7DSG)
Drivetrain | FF
Tires |
(TSI Comfortline Der Erste) | 205/55R16
(TSI Highline Der Erste) | 225/45R17
Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode) | Pending application
Price |
(TSI Comfortline Der Erste) | ¥2.79 million
(TSI Highline Der Erste) | ¥3.05 million