The most popular hatchback in the world – the Volkswagen Golf – has debuted in its eighth generation, Mark 8 (Mk8).

It sits on an updated version of Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform and the dimensions are just a tad larger than before save for the width, measuring at 4,284 mm in length (26 mm longer), 1,789 mm in width (10mm narrower) and stands 1,456 mm tall (4 mm taller). The wheelbase measures at 2,636 mm (16mm longer).

The Mk8 Golf gets five hybrid powertrains, three of which are mild hybrids that utilize 48V technology, and the remaining are two plug-in hybrid variants.

The range topper Golf at launch is the GTE plug-in hybrid, with a combined output of 245 PS and is able to run on electric only for an estimated 60 km.

As for the petrol combustion engine only options, there are two four-cylinder engines producing 90 PS and 110 PS respectively.

However, the powertrain options will be market specific and it remains to be seen which ones we will be getting in Malaysia.

The interior is completely revamped, featuring a 10-inch infotainment screen that flows into the digital cockpit display. Steering wheel is new and looks almost identical to the one on the facelifted Passat.

The gear selector appears to have made the switch to electronic and for the first time in a Golf, it has an optional head-up display (HUD).

The Mk8 Golf is featured with Car2X, which stands for car-to-everything. It allows cars to be linked together and communicate with infrastructure like traffic lights. The future is here now.