History has not preserved the name of that leader german concern Volkswagen AG, which had the idea to repeat the success of the first "people's" car of the 30s of the last century. However, sociological studies today have established that the brand Volkswagen Golf, which first appeared on the autobahns in 1974, has become one of the most called by motorists in all countries of the world.
The Germans tried to create a compact, easy to operate and maintain, inexpensive, but at the same time comfortable car with the possibility of universal use. The task was accomplished perfectly. Volkswagen Golf 4 has reproduced a large number of its generations and continues to roll off the assembly lines of Volkswagen, but in such a form and with such technical characteristics that there is little that it can resemble its progenitor.
Exterior Volkswagen Golf 4
In line volkswagen cars Golf occupies a special place in the 4th generation car, which was released in 1997. It was from her that the technical and marketing policy changed somewhat, which in fact meant the replacement of excessive modesty with authority and solidity.
Photo of Volkswagen Golf 1997-2006
- The designers slightly changed the dimensions of the car, which as a result reached 4.15 m in length and added 3 cm to the previous width and height.
- The body of the "hatch" could be either 3-door or 5-door.
- The idea of \u200b\u200bincreasing the comfort of the car could not be solved without increasing the space in the cabin.
But that was not the most important thing. In the manufacture of a hatchback body Volkswagen Golf 4 galvanized steel was used for the first time. This slightly increased its cost, but made it possible to provide consumers with a 12-year warranty period for the operation of the body metal. In practice, the company recognized as its own defect all cases of through corrosion on the surface of the body. At that time, such a step was not only a technical breakthrough, but also a unique opportunity, from the benefits of which many buyers did not have the strength to refuse.
Specifications Volkswagen Golf 4 generations
The Germans immediately laid the foundation for the power plant with a wide range of engines, in which there was a place for both gasoline and 3 diesel engines.
- The main row stretched in power from 75 to 115 forces, which is quite enough for a compact car.
- Additionally, a faster version of the Volkswagen Golf 4 was created with a 2.4 liter petrol engine and 150 hp.
The increase in power and speed indicators did not end there. The list of cars of the 4th generation is a real monster, not much like a Volkswagen Golf. This modification received an additional RSI attachment, which in reality meant the installation of a 240 hp engine, created by 3.2 liters of working volume of cylinders. This semi-racing car accelerated to 100 km / h in 6.6 seconds, which was about 4 seconds faster than the average Golf 4. The slightly "rickety" 75-horsepower engine in this respect with its 15 seconds of acceleration is not goes.
Fuel consumption of the Golf 4 on gasoline hovered around 8 liters per 100 kilometers, and the diesel engine lowered the bar to 5 liters. The transmission equally accepted a manual transmission and an automatic transmission. Brake mechanism on both axles was made on the basis of the disc-caliper system. The front brakes are naturally ventilated.
Volkswagen Golf 1997-2006 appearance
The appearance of the "four" was distinguished by a fresh solution in the layout of the front light-optical devices.
- The designers placed high and low beam lamps, a direction indicator and even fog lights under a single glass cover.
- Another feature of the machine outline is located at the rear of the machine. The C-pillar bent slightly and smoothly passed into the wing.
- Volkswagen Golf 4 was still a rather squat car, but with a panoramic sunroof on the roof.
The emphasis on comfort has also resulted in a doubling of the trim levels offered. Since then, all volkswagen models acquired at least the following names - Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, GTI. For a small car, the volume allocated for the luggage compartment has always been relevant. Have Volkswagen Golf 4 it is equal to 330 liters, and when the rear row of seats is folded out, it triples. For cars of this class, these are quite acceptable figures.
Compared to the third generation, the interior got a new, better upholstery, which immediately significantly reduced the noise inside the car. The driver received control of the steering gear with a variable gear ratio and the amount of effort applied to the steering wheel. A set of front airbags fit in front of the front row of seats.
The Golf 4 was one of the first cars in which the start of the windshield wipers depended on data from a rain sensor. And on the center console, a place was allocated in advance for the installation of a navigation system, and most importantly, a rather impressive liquid crystal display.
Photo salon VW Golf 4
Volkawagen Golf Price 1997-2006
Today, the 4th generation Volkswagen Golf can be bought for a very reasonable price. The cheapest cars with mileage of 250-300 thousand km. cost from 150,000 rubles. As already mentioned, the car turned out to be very solid, and there should not be any serious problems with the operation of even such a veteran. But in any case, it is better to diagnose all possible systems before buying. And if finances allow, then you can aim at a more "straight from the tin" Golf with a mileage of 70-80 thousand. You will have to pay for such a car from 270 thousand rubles.
Video test drive of the 4th generation Golf
A few years ago, the fourth Volkswagen Golf was the most demanded car on secondary market along with VW Passat B5. Today many buyers are opting for the more modern Golf variants, but the fourth generation still has a lot to offer. This is one of the best options for those looking for an inexpensive, compact and cheap car to repair and operate.
The model was launched in September 1997. Despite the great similarity to the Golf 3, the fourth Golf was not a deep restyling, but an independent model. It was built on the new A4 platform that formed the basis for the VW New Beetle. Skoda Octavia, Audi A3, Audi TT, SEAT Leon, SEAT Toledo. Golf IV had many common components and assemblies with them.
VW Golf family fourth generation quite varied. In fact, the Golf 4 itself was offered in the back of a three- and five-door hatchback. The station wagon, which went on sale in May 1999, was traditionally called the Golf Variant. The sedan, which entered the assembly line in September 1998, bore the name Bora (for the American market - Jetta) and was distinguished by other external body parts. The Bora Variant differed from the Golf Variant in the front end. And the Golf Cabrio was, in fact, the previous model, that is, the Golf 3, which underwent a facelift in the style of the Golf 4.
The basic equipment could boast of at least two airbags, seat belts with pyrotechnic tensioners, ABS, electric windows and mirrors. In addition to the base, three basic packages were also presented: Comfortline, Trendline and Highline. From September 1999, the ESP stability control system could be ordered. In later versions, you can often find not only side cushions safety placed in the backrests of the front seats, but also windowed. As a result - one of the best indicators in the class for passenger safety.
Engines
A wide range of power units is opened by a 1.4-liter engine with a capacity of 75 hp. This unit is clearly not suitable for those who like to ride with the breeze. In order not to get out of the stream, it constantly has to be twisted, which, accordingly, affects the resource. Among the shortcomings can be noted a clogged crankcase ventilation system and high oil consumption (wear of piston rings).
It is followed by an 8-valve 1.6-liter engine with 100 hp. and a 105 hp variant with 16 valves. Both with multipoint fuel injection. These motors are the most common for the Golf 4, and they are also recognized as the most successful. The engine can travel more than 300,000 km without serious intervention. The main thing is to change the oil on time, monitor its level and not overheat the engine. Of the typical "sores", it is worth highlighting the flow of antifreeze through the cracked plastic pipes of the cooling system and the thermostat housing, malfunctions throttle and ignition coils. The 8-valve version has proven itself in the best way.
The 110 hp FSI engine was also produced with the same displacement. He has direct injection and poorly adapted to our operating conditions. The main problems of this engine are related to the fuel equipment, which often fails due to low-quality gasoline (98th gasoline is recommended), and the cost of troubleshooting is much higher than on engines with distributed injection. The engine suffers from carbon deposits on the valves, electronics ailments and short-lived elements of the gas distribution mechanism.
The 1.8-liter engine is presented in two versions: naturally-aspirated 125 hp, and turbocharged 150 and 180 hp The naturally aspirated version can claim to be a fairly dynamic car, especially with a manual transmission. With a turbine, a fairly light Golf accelerates to "hundreds" in just over 8 seconds. But the risk when buying a turbocharged version is quite high (the price of a new turbine is about $ 1000), and such copies in decent condition are not cheap. After all, the owners of the turbo versions were, as a rule, far from retired. The main rule when operating these motors is not to turn off the engine after a dynamic ride, thus allowing the turbine to cool. Better yet, install a turbo timer immediately. Well, change the oil more often.
The 2 liter engine (115 hp) is rather unpretentious and reliable. Especially if you do not forget about replacing the timing belt and pump every 90,000 km. The V5 2.3 (150 HP), VR5 2.3 (170 HP), V6 2.8 (204 HP) and VR6 3.2 (240 HP) motors give the Golf 4 excellent dynamics, and the driver - driving pleasure. But you have to pay for the pleasure. These power units are more complex and expensive to repair, although they have a fairly decent resource. They appear on sale, as a rule, when the time comes for major repairs.
Were in the model range and diesel versions... All - with a volume of 1.9 liters. The weakest "aspirated" SDI developed only 68 hp, and the TDI versions - 90, 101, 110, 115, 130, 150 hp. These units have an enviable resource, efficiency and environmental friendliness. But all this is achieved using high quality fuel. It makes sense to take a diesel engine if the engine with low mileage is in excellent condition, and the future owner is planning large annual runs.
1.9 SDI, if someone is not intimidated by the dynamics (0-100 km / h in 17.2 seconds), will demonstrate exemplary reliability, durability and low cost of ownership. But there is one drawback - it is very noisy.
Old 1.9 TDI with 90 and 110 hp. have only one weakness - injection pump. Its repair will cost $ 100 if out of order. mechanical part, and $ 400 if electric. Rebuilding the injectors on this engine costs around $ 70 apiece.
1999 saw the introduction of the 1.9 TDI with 115 hp unit injectors. In subsequent years, the diesel range was supplemented by 100, 130 and 150-horsepower versions of the engine. Compared to the old 1.9, they provide better performance, economy, but more expensive to maintain. The cost of new unit injectors is about $ 500, and refurbishment costs $ 100.
The weakest of the 1.9 TDIs lacked the vulnerable dual-mass flywheel and variable geometry turbos. The repair of a conventional turbine will require about $ 150, and with a variable geometry - already $ 300. New components cost twice as much on average. Replacing a dual-mass flywheel with clutch costs $ 600. A definite plus of these diesels is the absence of a DPF filter.
A common disadvantage of all diesel units before 2001 - flow meter malfunction.
Transmission
The Golf 4 offered 5- and 6-speed manual transmissions as well as 4- and 5-speed automatic transmissions. The latter could boast of a manual gearshift function. All "boxes" are reliable enough.
On a manual gearbox, the gear lever is sometimes loose. It is "treated" in most cases by replacing the switching mechanism (about $ 160 with work). On many "boxes" with a 1.6 liter engine, it is often difficult to engage the first gear. It is recommended to change the oil in the "mechanics" every 90,000 km, and the replacement of the clutch depends on the driving style and the experience of the person sitting behind the wheel. The average figures are 120,000-200,000 km.
In "automatic machines" it is necessary to change the oil every 60,000 km, and fill only the one recommended by the factory. But there are some nuances here. When buying, you need to ask the seller how often he renewed the oil in the automatic transmission. It does not change completely, but partially, since the new in most cases, having high detergent properties, dissolves old deposits and disables the box. Do not trust services that claim that oil is filled for the entire service life of the box.
Starting with a 1.8-liter engine, an option could be ordered four-wheel drive 4 MOTION. In versions with a 2.8 liter engine and R32, it was already in basic configuration... The all-wheel drive makes the Golf 4 extremely stable on slippery roads and an unforgettable driving experience. The downside of these modifications is the complexity of maintenance and the high cost of spare parts related to all-wheel drive elements. In addition, such devices are not taken by the first owner for trips to the bakery, and they appear on the secondary market, as a rule, either very worn out or very expensive.
Chassis
The chassis of most Golf 4s has simple construction, it is reliable, inexpensive to maintain and quite comfortable for its class. The front suspension was MacPherson strut and the rear had options. On the front-wheel drive versions, a simple H-shaped beam was used, and with all-wheel drive, it was installed multi-link suspensioncomplicating and making maintenance more expensive.
Suspension wear is directly related to driving style and hole speed. The stabilizer struts and bushings are the first to make themselves felt - on average, every 50-60 thousand km. But the cost of spare parts and work is cheap - about $ 60 for everything. With active driving to 150,000 km, shock absorbers can "die" ($ 150 with work). The rest of the suspension elements are on average more than 100,000 km. The front pads (depending on the driving style) "go" 20-30 thousand km, and the discs - 80-90 thousand km. Rear pads "live" about 60-70 thousand km. Suspension repair is not financially burdensome, since today there are quite a few substitutes in various price ranges.
With age, the steering rack begins to knock.
Body and interior
The body of the Golf 4, without exaggeration, can be called a reference in its class. Thanks to galvanizing, the manufacturer has given a 12-year guarantee against perforating corrosion. Chips of paint to metal, which survived several Moscow winters, did not give rise to rust. All body panels fit perfectly, and the gaps between the elements are minimal. As a result, practically complete absence aerodynamic noise at any speed. So if you have a car with traces of corrosion in front of you, then, most likely, it has been in an accident and has been poorly restored.
The only drawback is the freezing of doors in the openings when the temperature goes over 0 ° C. The manufacturer even produced a special lubricant, which made it a little easier to get into the cabin.
The German interior is strict and comfortable for its class. Many adjustments allow you to find correct position driving a driver of any height. The center console a la BMW is turned towards the driver. From ergonomic miscalculations - the inconvenience of using the air conditioner. It is out of sight of the driver; you have to be distracted by buttons while driving. There is no such problem in configurations with mechanical climate control.
Interior disadvantages - scuffs on the plastic doors and on the edges of the front panel. With age, the interior plastic begins to creak. At the end of production, the build quality improved slightly.
Due to age and huge mileage (the counters are twisted several times, which is very easy to do in this model), the condition of the seats, steering wheel and gear lever is often not the best. So, if the chair looks shabby and rumpled, and the steering wheel is shabby, then you can rest assured that the mileage here is more than 400-500 thousand km, and not 180-230 thousand km, as the "owner" assures.
Typical problems and malfunctions
The electrician is not a big deal. Although the rear wiper motor often fails. Front wiper trapezoid may acidify. Many people try to lubricate it, but it either does not help, or it helps temporarily (it is "treated" by replacing the trapezoid - on average $ 100 with work).
Also, the brake light switch located in the pedal assembly may fail. Often, before failure, it ignites various control lamps on the dashboard related to stabilization and braking systems, but itself works. In the event of a complete breakdown, the braking signals go out. In the presence of an automatic transmission, in addition to the "feet", the selector box is blocked - and the car is immobilized. In order not to call a tow truck, you can try to throw the chip off the switch, most likely the selector will unlock. The cost of the switch is $ 15, the replacement work is $ 10.
On cars manufactured before mid-2001, window regulator defects were often observed.In addition, the climate control display, power windows and central locking may fail.
Conclusion
VW Golf of the fourth generation has retained all the advantages of its "ancestors", adding comfort and significantly increasing the active and passive safety, which made the onboard electronics a little more complicated, which sometimes malfunctions. As for the rest, high reliability and excellent maintainability in combination with affordable prices for spare parts make the car one of the best options in the class for purchasing in the secondary market.
The legendary Volkswagen Golf was first introduced to the world in 1974. The car was awarded the original name in honor of the warm ocean current - the Gulf Stream (German: Golfstrom). Golf is the most successful model of the German auto giant and one of the best-selling in the world. This car laid the foundation for a whole class of cars that was named after him. Modest plastic trim, angular design and average comfort paid off with front-wheel drive (extremely rare at the time), a wide range of gasoline and diesel power units, a choice of bodies (three- or five-door hatchback, jetta sedan and convertible).
Golf was produced in two versions (basic and luxury), had a wide range of options: a rear window washer, a wiper, a sunroof, a lockable gas tank cap and wheels with alloy wheels.
The basic power unit was a 1.1-liter 50 hp engine. from. With it, the car accelerated to 90 km / h in 13.2 seconds. The maximum speed is up to 149 km / h. Average fuel consumption is 8.6 liters per 100 km. From the very beginning, customers were offered cars not only with a manual transmission, but also with an "automatic".
In the fall of 1975, the VW Golf GTI was presented to visitors to the Frankfurt Salon. The sports version of the model, combining the cost of a subcompact and the dynamics of a sports coupe. The GTI version was distinguished by black window frames, sports seats and a steering wheel, wheel frames extended with plastic linings and a number of other details. The main driving force was the 1.6-liter engine with the K-Jetronic fuel injection system. The motor had a power of 110 horsepower at 6100 rpm. This made it possible to develop a speed of 100 km / h in 9 seconds, and its maximum speed was 183 km / h.
Cars with the GTI badge began to be in special demand on the market, therefore, already in 1976, the Golf Diesel GTI appeared, equipped with a 1.5-liter turbodiesel with a capacity of 50 hp.
In 1979 Volkswagen presents the new Golf convertible with a folding soft top. The body was made by the renowned Karmann atelier from Osnabrück. The production of Golf I convertibles stretched from 1980 to 1993, until the appearance Golf III... This was due to the fact that during the period when the production of the Golf I had already been stopped and replaced by the Golf II, the convertible version of the Golf II did not appear.
The Golf I was discontinued in 1983. During the production of the first model, about 5,625,000 vehicles were produced in Germany, including about 450,000 in the GTI version. In the USA and Canada it was produced under the Volkswagen Rabbit trademark, and in Latin America - Volkswagen Caribe.
The second generation Golf was released in August 1983. The car has become larger. The length has increased by 300 mm, the width by 55 mm, the interior has become more spacious and comfortable. A more perfect body shape reduced the air resistance coefficient from 0.42 for the previous model to 0.34. The main features of the car were preserved by Volkswagen specialists, but at the same time they were supplemented and improved. A set of gasoline and diesel engines from 1.1 to 1.8 liters with a capacity of 50 to 90 hp was offered, gearboxes are manual and automatic.
The Generation Golf II has proven generous with modifications. 1984 saw the introduction of the GTI with an 8-valve 112 hp engine. Maximum speed up to 186 km / h and acceleration to 100 km / h in 9.7 s. In 1985 the legendary GTI 16V (139 hp) expands the range. Sales of the Golf GTI II surpassed sales of the first generation GTI to 17,193 vehicles in 1989.
The four-wheel drive Golf Syncro appeared in 1986.
But the most striking addition to the family was the appearance in 1989 of the all-wheel drive version of the Golf II Country. The body and units of the Golf Syncro are mounted here on the frame, which gives the car an impressive ground clearance, while, like the Syncro, the Country has a viscous clutch in the rear axle drive, which automatically connects the rear wheels when the front wheels slip. This modification was assembled at the Steyr plant in Graz (Austria). Due to the high price, the model did not find wide demand, only slightly more than 7000 units were produced.
In the late 80s VW experimented with mechanical supercharging. The result is a "charged" Volkswagen Golf G60 equipped with a 160-horsepower 1.8-liter engine.
Golf II was produced not only in factories in Germany, but also in France, the Netherlands, Great Britain, Spain, Austria, Switzerland, Finland, Japan and the USA. Volkswagen continued to produce the Golf II until 1992. 6.3 million copies rolled off the assembly line.
The debut of the third generation Golf took place in August 1991 at Geneva Motor Show... Body choices included a three-door and five-door hatchback, a Golf Variant station wagon, and a convertible. The luggage compartment of the station wagon with the rear seats folded back was 1425 liters.
The Golf III received a unique design and a much more spacious interior. Among additional equipment can be distinguished aBS system, electric heated seats, air conditioning, electric adjustment of the angle of inclination of the seat backs, centralized control of locks, electric adjustment of the position of outside mirrors, a system for preheating the engine in cold weather and much more.
The range of engines included seven gasoline engines (from a 60-horsepower 1.4 liters, to a powerful VR6 12V volume of 2.9 liters / 190 hp) and three diesel engines (two atmospheric 64 and 75 hp and one turbocharged 90 hp). All gasoline engines were equipped with neutralizers. The most "modest" engine had a volume of 1.4 liters, and the most powerful - 2.8 liters (with this the car developed a speed of 225 km / h, and "hundred" gained from a standstill in 7.6 seconds). The most powerful versions received a four-speed automatic transmission with an electrohydraulic drive, equipped with two programs - for economical and sporty driving styles, as well as disc brakes on all wheels (front - ventilated). All cars were equipped with power steering and brakes.
In 1995, a unique VW Golf appears with a 2.8-liter VR6 engine under the hood. The VR6 concept was to take a regular V6 and change the angle between the two cylinders by 15 degrees so that all the pistons fit under one cylinder head. The 2.8-liter VR6 delivered 172 hp.
The developers paid special attention to safety - there were easily crushed volumes on impact, a reinforced frame, amplifiers built into the doors. Also on the Golf III there were airbags for the driver and front passenger, a 170 mm deformable steering column covered with foam instrument cluster and steel backs of the rear seats. Plus, the developers of the Golf III gave their customers a 12-year corrosion protection guarantee.
Golf III has sold 4.8 mil. copies and production ceased in 1997.
The "fourth" Golf, which began production in 1997, has become more comfortable and expensive car with a rich list of options.
Without major changes, the designers managed to give the car a modern look. First of all, unusual lighting devices... Under the common glass cover are hidden two large headlights for low and high beam, as well as two small rounds for the direction indicator and fog lamp. The rear part of the car has changed noticeably, the characteristic element of which is now the curved rear roof pillar, which passes into the wing. New sound-absorbing materials and new engine and exhaust system mounts were used. The Golf IV has four equipment levels: Trendline, Comfortline, Highline and GTI.
Maintaining the overall proportions, the Golf IV is larger. Its length has increased to 4149 mm (+131 mm), width - up to 1735 mm (+30 mm), and the base - up to 2511 mm (+39 mm).
An impressive list of standard equipment: ABS, front airbags for the driver and passenger, two side airbags in the backrests of the front seats, disc brakes on all wheels (front ventilated), power steering with variable gear ratio and steering effort, height adjustable seat driver, air vent dust filter, rear head restraints, body-colored bumpers, radiator grille and exterior mirrors.
On request, the customer can install on the center console navigation system with liquid crystal display. There are things that were not previously installed on cars of this class. For example, a rain sensor monitors the intensity of the wipers.
The range of engines includes six petrol and three diesel engines from 68 to 180 hp.
The fifth generation Golf was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2003. The car is built on the latest platform, which also formed the basis for the second generation Audi A3 and VW Touran. Together with her, the car received a multi-link rear suspension, and in addition - new body, the rigidity of which has increased by 80%.
The Golf V is 57 mm longer (4204 mm) wider by 24 mm (1759 mm) wider and 39 mm higher (1483 mm). Rear passengers will be the first to feel the increase in space: legroom has increased by 65 mm, and the ceiling has been raised by 24 mm. Trunk volume increased to 347 liters.
The silhouette of the model is determined by five main elements: a belt line passing under the side windows and noticeably rising up, a clear graphic of the side windows that form a single whole, embossed sidewalls in the zone rear doors and pillars, the characteristic shape of the C-pillar, curved at an angle, and the rapid roofline. Completely redesigned front end with improved aerodynamics. The twin round headlights with laterally positioned direction indicators, like the Phaeton, characteristically "taper" towards the center of the front end. The raised surfaces of the fenders rise above the headlights. As an extension of the bonnet, together with the radiator grille, they form a V-shape.
The interior of the car is German style, functional and very ergonomic: all functional levels are clearly separated, all buttons and switches are in place. Every detail has been refined and improved in comparison with the previous model. For example, the center console with the devices located on it: here the controls for the audio / navigation system and ventilation / air conditioning are located higher, so they are better visible and easier to operate.
The front seats have been completely redesigned for maximum comfort. The Golf V is the first car in its segment to offer an optionally available seat with an electrically adjustable four-mode lumbar support (integrated in the seat) or with an independent heater. In addition to the standard rear seat with a 60:40 split-folding backrest, an optional front passenger seat with a forward-folding backrest extends the cargo area and allows the transport of long items.
There are several engine and gearbox options available for the Golf V. The diesel line is represented by two units: 2.0 l / 140 hp. and 1.9 / 105 hp. The choice of petrol engines is much larger: 1.6 l / 102 hp, 1.4 l / 75 hp, 1.6 l / 115 hp. The car can also be equipped with 1.4TSI units (three versions - 122, 140 and 170 hp), 2.0 FSI (two versions - 150 and 200 hp).
The Golf V will be offered in 3 basic equipment versions: Trendline, Comfortline and Sportline, differing in some trim details. Each of them already includes 6 airbags, ABS with brake assist and ESP.
In the summer of 2009, the presentation of the sixth generation of the car took place. The Golf VI measures 4199 mm in length, which is 5 mm less than that of the previous model... On the other hand, the car is 20 mm wider at the same height. The entire look of the Golf VI speaks of its sporty character. The front end of the body attracts attention with a radiator grille and elegant headlights. A pronounced line from the headlights to rear lights, visually stretches the body and makes the car lower.
In the interior, high-quality design elements delight the eye, including chrome appliqués, numerous decorative inserts in the dashboard and door trim. Nice to the eye and white backlight new design devices. A Climatic air conditioner is included as standard.
The new Golf is equipped with a variety of safety systems: next-generation ESP, anti-skid system, ABS with brake assist, MSR, trailer stabilization and traction control. aSR system... The manufacturer took care of the safety of both the driver and all passengers and installed seven airbags, and one of them protects the driver's knees.
The powertrains of the car remained the same. The basis is a 1.6 liter engine that runs on gasoline and has a power of 102 horses. There is also a 1.39 liter turbo unit with 122 or 160 horsepower. And also the manufacturers took care of diesel engines with a 2.0-liter turbo unit that develops 110 or 140 hp. Power units are traditionally different for Volkswagen low consumption fuel and develop excellent power. New 7-speed transmission dSG transmission provides comfortable gear shifting without interrupting the power flow.
Especially worth emphasizing sports version Golf GTI. Its 2.0 TSI engine develops 155 kW (210 hp), accelerating the car from 0 to 100 km / h in 6.9 seconds (top speed 240 km / h). With such indicators, fuel consumption remains acceptable - 7.3–7.4 l / 100 km. The choice is also an automatic 6-speed DSG, or traditional mechanics.
The seventh generation Volkswagen Golf was officially unveiled at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. The new generation, as usual, has become more spacious, lighter and more economical. Contrary to expectations, the chief designer of the concern Walter da Silva, known for his daring works, did not dare to radically change the design of the model. But even minor modifications were enough for the Golf VII to acquire modern features, become more attractive and dynamic.
Having retained the main features of the style by which this brand is recognized, the seventh Golf nevertheless changed its geometric dimensions. The car is 56 mm longer (4255 mm), 13 mm wider (1799 mm) and 28 mm lower (1452 mm) than its predecessor. Extended by 59 mm (up to 2637 mm) wheelbase, which made it possible to "stretch" the interior by 14 mm and the legroom of the rear passengers by 15 mm. It has become more spacious in the shoulders: at this level, the interior has expanded by 30 mm. The seating position of the driver is lowered by 2 cm, the gas and brake pedals are moved apart by 16 mm and the steering angles are increased. The extended trunk has added 30 liters (up to 380 liters), and its loading height has decreased by 17 mm.
The continuity of generations in the VW Golf family is a non-negotiable concept, but at the G7 you will not find a single common body panel with a sixth generation car. This car is really completely new. It has a more dynamic silhouette due to the reduced body height and slightly longer roof. It has more sharp edges, and the headlights with LED sections now look out from under the shifted "eyebrows" of the edge of the hood. The lowered roof not only gave the car a dynamic look, but also improved aerodynamic performance. Despite the increased body width, the drag coefficient is lower.
Using the latest modular platform MQB, Volkswagen's designers managed to reduce the vehicle weight by 100 kg. The body was lightened by 23 kg, engines and new seats became lighter, 3 kg were gained due to the changed wiring, another 26 kg of weight was dropped by the suspension. German engineers fought for every gram, realizing that reducing the weight of the car would reduce fuel consumption.
The chairman of the board of Volkswagen AG, Martin Winterkorn, challenged his employees to radically improve the fuel efficiency of the model. As a result of the work done, the car consumes 23% less fuel, and the apotheosis of the struggle for fuel efficiency was the Volkswagen Golf 1.9 TDI BlueMotion. This turbocharged diesel engine with a capacity of 110 hp. and a torque of 250 N * m with a five-speed manual gearbox consumes only 3.2 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. This result was achieved with the help of a start-stop system, installation of tires with reduced rolling resistance, and a braking energy recovery system. The height of the BlueMotion suspension has been reduced by 15 mm, and additional aerodynamic elements have been installed on the body to improve engine cooling and reduce drag. By the way, the drag coefficient of the VW Golf BlueMotion is only 0.27.
In addition to this power unit, the line of diesel engines is represented by motors with a capacity of 90, 150 and 180 horsepower. The TSI petrol family includes: 1.2-liter (105 hp), 1.4-liter (122 hp) and 1.4-liter (140 hp). A more powerful version of the model with the GTI prefix received a 2.0-liter gasoline turbocharged unit with a capacity of 220 horsepower. Transmission to choose from - 6-speed manual transmission or 7-speed "automatic" DSG.
As for the suspension, the seventh generation "McPherson" Volkswagen Golf in front, and two types rear suspension: for modifications with motors weaker than 125 horsepower, a semi-independent beam is provided (it is more compact, lighter and cheaper), and for all other versions - a multi-link.
A lot of new electronic systems have appeared in the car. The equipment will include an adaptive cruise control with an automatic braking function, a circular video surveillance system, a lane tracking system, as well as a road sign recognizer and a driver fatigue detector. The classic "handbrake" will give way to electronic, and steering will receive five operating modes (Eco, Sport, Normal, Individual and Comfort). The list of options also includes an adaptive suspension. Whether an adaptive suspension will appear in Russia is not yet clear. But it is known that for our Golf market another "adaptation" will take place: the ground clearance will increase, and the settings of the elastic elements will also be revised.
The seventh generation Golf is a prime example of a mass-market car demanded by the buyer. Only the first three generations of Volkswagen Golf were sold around the world with a circulation of 17 million cars, and already in 2002, 22 million Golfs found their owners. It was in honor of the Golf that the C-class was named, the Golf - the class. The fourth generation of the Volkswagen Golf played an important role in increasing sales. In this review, we will pay attention to the fourth Volkswagen Golf. Volkswagen Golf 4 was first demonstrated at car show in Frankfurt in 1997. Already from the third generation Golf was sold officially in most of the CIS countries, but most of the cars that drive on the roads of the CIS came to us from abroad. When choosing a used fourth-generation Golf, it should be borne in mind that the car was assembled not only in Germany, but also in North America, Mexico, Asia, production was established even in South Africa, when buying it is better to give preference to a European assembly machine.
Appearance and body:
Volkswagen Golf of the fourth generation was the first Golf with a galvanized body. As well as the warranty on the body, the corrosion protection was 12 years, and the warranty for the paintwork was 3 years. Body clearances do not exceed 3.5mm, while for golf-class cars of those years, clearances of 5mm were the norm. The car is offered in bodies: three and five-door hatchbacks, a station wagon was shown in 1999, a convertible was also produced on the basis of the third generation, but it is almost impossible to see it in the CIS. Also worth mentioning is the BORA sedan, which was the name of the sedan created on the Golf platform. 
Even in the minimum configuration, the bumpers and mirrors were painted in body color. From the factory wheel arches The VWs were covered with plastic wheel arch liners, which also has a very positive effect on corrosion protection. When external review bodywork, you may find that the right side mirror is smaller than the left side mirror. It is to the right mirror, according to the owners there are reproaches, because the mirror does not provide good visibility. Compared to the third generation, the fourth golf course is 130mm longer and 40mm wider. Most cars are shod in 175/80 R14 and 195/65 R15 tires, but sporty modifications such as the Golf V6 3.2 are shod in 225/40 R18 tires.
Salon and equipment:
The basic configuration of the Volkswagen Golf 4 includes two airbags, steering wheel adjustment for reach and tilt angle, and seat belt pretensioners are also standard equipment for the Volkswagen Golf. 
Many cars are equipped with four airbags, air conditioning and electric windows and mirrors, there are even Golfs with leather interior, climate control and front seat servo drives. The disadvantages include the fact that the brake and gas pedals are at different levels. Depending on the equipment, the backrests of the rear seats can be folded either entirely or in parts in a 60/40 ratio. Luggage compartment the hatchback holds 330 liters, at first glance not much, but even today it is the norm for the C-class. The hatchback luggage compartment can be increased to 1185 liters. The station wagon initially holds 460 liters, if desired, the station wagon's trunk volume increases to 1470 liters. Regardless of the type of body in the trunk of the Golf lies a full-size spare wheel.
Technical part and characteristics of Golf 4
As for others german cars, a wide range of power units was offered for Volkswagen Golf. Some, but most powerful engines installed on the older model - Volkswagen passat B5. The Golf's least powerful gasoline engine is a four-cylinder 1.4 with a sixteen-valve engine block head. Power gasoline engine 1.4 16v - 75 horsepower, even with such, not the most powerful engine, with a five-speed manual, Golf gains one hundred kilometers in 13.5 seconds. It is worth emphasizing that 1.4 engines are found under the hood of the Volkswagen Golf somewhat less often than gasoline 1.6. There are three 1.6-liter engines. The first with an eight-valve cylinder head develops a power of 102 horsepower, on the highway such a motor will allow it to reach a speed of 185 kilometers per hour, and to accelerate for a hundred kilometers, the Golf will take 10.9 seconds. More powerful 1.6 engines have a sixteen-valve cylinder head, 1.6 16v 105 and 110 horsepower. The maximum speed of the Golf with 1.6 16v power units exceeds 190 kilometers per hour. So it makes sense for fans of high-speed driving to buy a sixteen-valve Volkswagen Golf. There are also more powerful motors. The naturally aspirated 1.8 is equipped with five valves per cylinder and produces 125 horsepower. With a manual transmission, it takes 9.9 seconds to set the Golf to one hundred kilometers per hour, the maximum speed is 201 km. The 1.8 engine can be equipped with a turbocharger, in this case its power, depending on the year of manufacture, is 150 and 180 horsepower. One hundred and eighty strong car gains the coveted hundred in 8.5 seconds, and on the highway the hatchback is capable of reaching a speed of 222 km. Eight-valve atmospheric gasoline unit a volume of 2.0 liters produces 115 horsepower. The five-cylinder V5 is known from the Passat, depending on the model year, the V5 2.3 has 150 and 170 horsepower. With the latest engine and manual transmission, the Golf is capable of reaching 224 kilometers per hour. The most prestigious Golfs are equipped with powerful six-cylinder engines with a V-shaped arrangement of cylinders. The 2.8-liter petrol V6 develops a power of 204 horsepower, this car is equipped with 4motion all-wheel drive and six-speed mechanics. The four-wheel drive is distributed using a Haldex viscous coupling. Thanks to the equipment described above, it takes only 7.1s to climb one hundred kilometers. The top is the 3.2-liter V6 with 241hp. This motor is known for the fact that it was installed even on the Phaeton executive sedan. Three latest engine: V5 2.3, V6 2.8 and V6 3.2 are equipped with a timing chain drive. All other Volkswagen engines have a timing belt drive.
All diesels Volkswagen Golf 4 have the same volume - 1.9 liters. The base diesel is a 68hp diesel, this diesel is not equipped with turbocharging, acceleration to one hundred kilometers takes 17.2s. Other diesels Volkswagen Golf have power: 90, 100, 110, 115, 130 and 150 horsepower. According to experts, the most reliable diesel is a 90-strong modification, so if you need reliability and a minimum of repairs, it makes sense to look after a diesel Golf with such an engine. More powerful diesel installations Volkswagen may be asked to repair the pump injectors (one costs $ 1,000) and the fuel pump. On all engines, you should monitor the condition of the air filter, because a dirty filter will sooner or later lead to failure of the air flow meter sensor. The timing belt on gasoline engines should be replaced no later than 90,000, and on diesel engines even earlier - 60,000 (the mileage on the original timing belt is indicated, if a neo-original is used, the replacement should be done even earlier). For new owners of non-new diesel Golfs, it should not come as a surprise that diesels love oil, it is advisable to check the oil level before each trip. Oil change in diesel engines is carried out with a mileage of 7,500 km, with a mileage of 10,000 km, the oil should be changed in gasoline engine... Much attention should be paid to the 1.8t turbocharged engine. On this power unit, an individual coil is installed on each spark plug, unfortunately for owners of cars with such motors, the coils fail from time to time. Every 30,000 in a 1.8t engine, the oil supply pipe to the turbine should be replaced, and with a mileage of 50,000 by 1.8t, the pipes and the crankcase ventilation valve should be replaced, and the oil receiver mesh should also be cleaned.
Already in basic equipment Golf includes four-channel ABS. For Volkswagen Golf were offered automatic boxes with four and five steps, as well as mechanics for 5 and 6 steps. As time has shown, all boxes are happy and reliable and, as a rule, they go 200,000 km before repair. The clutch on machines with a manual transmission usually serves at least 150 thousand. An oil change in a manual transmission should be carried out every 60,000 km, and in an automatic transmission every 30 - 40 thousand.
Most Volkswagen Golfs are equipped with front-wheel drive, front-wheel-drive cars have a McPherson-type suspension in front, and a semi-independent beam at the back, all-wheel drive Golf modifications are equipped with a fully independent suspension.
Bushings lateral stability for Golf 4 they go for 40 thousand, the steering rods are enough for 80 thousand, and with a mileage of 100,000, replacement will be required wheel bearings. Steering rack with mileage exceeding 150,000 it may leak. Good quality front shock absorbers live for 40-50 thousand.
Some characteristic this car a breakdown is a failure of the wiper motor, so that this does not happen, once a year you should disassemble the wiper drive and lubricate the trapezium axles.
Let's pay attention to the technical characteristics of the Volkswagen Golf 4 with a 1.6 16v engine and a manual five-speed gearbox. Body - hatchback:
Specifications:
Engine: 1.6 petrol
Volume: 1598cc
Power: 110hp
Torque: 155N.M
Performance indicators:
Acceleration 0 -100km: 10.6s
Maximum speed: 194km
Average fuel consumption: 6.2L
Capacity fuel tank: 55L
Dimensions: 4149mm * 1735mm * 1444mm
Wheelbase: 2511mm
Curb weight: 1100kg
Ground clearance / Clearance: 130mm (170mm - bad road package)
The cost
Today the price of Volkswagen Golf 4 is $ 6,000 - $ 10,000. Volkswagen price Golf 4 mainly depends on the technical condition.
