We have already seen the standard Volkswagen Golf VII and now Volkswagen is further expanding the lineup with the addition of the new generation Golf Variant. The station wagon version is enjoying a great success on the European market so is no wonder why the seventh generation brings significant updates.

When compared to the model it replaces, the new Golf Variant is about 105 kg (232 lbs) lighter, but in the same time it has grown in sizes and offers increased cargo area.

Also, as a first for the station wagon model, the seventh generation Golf Variant is being offered in an extremely fuel-efficient TDI BlueMotion version that delivers a combined fuel consumption of just 3.3 l/100 km (71.3 mpg). All the other engines and transmissions have been carried over from the hatchback version.

Updated 03/05/2013: This review has been updated with the official details, images and specs.

Hit the jump to read more about the seventh generation Golf Variant.

2014 Volkswagen Golf VII Variant

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2014 Volkswagen Golf VII Variant
  • Engine/Motor: inline-4
  • Horsepower: 140
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

On the exterior the new Golf Variant will be pretty much identical to the hatchback version, except of course its extended rear - a feature required by a station wagon model. On this new version the C-pillar has been transformed into the D-pillar thanks to the addition of a "third" side window. Also, the rear wheel arches have been carried completely over the rear of the vehicle offering the car a more muscular appearance.

Just like in any other station wagon model, the side window is longer and the roof line together with the roof spoiler are slightly rearward-sloping. As an option Volkswagen is also offering an additional roof rail that is further increasing the dynamism of the car.

At the rear the model received two-part tail lights with one half integrated into the boot lid. In the Variant version the license plate is being integrated with the boot lid.

Dimensions

Wheelbase

2636mm (103.8 inches)

Length

4562mm (179.6 inches)

Cargo area

1054mm (41.5 inches)

Cargo capacity (seats up)

605 liters

Cargo capacity (seats down)

1,620 liters


Interior

The interior is once again similar to the hatchback version, except of course it offers increased rear room and more boot volume. With seats up the new Golf Variant is offering a boot volume of 605 liter, but when seats will be down it can be increased to 1,620 liters.

The cargo area measures 1054mm (41.5 inches) long, but it can be expanded to 1831mm (72.1 inches) once the rear seats are folded. The height of the cargo are can also be increased thanks to a two-step roll-up mechanism that can be be stored under the cargo floor when not needed.

Standard features offered by basic version:

-airbags (seven)

-electrically adjustable wing mirrors

-outside temperature display

-chrome rings around the interior vents

- eco-HMI (fuel consumption-related information on the multi-function display / instruments)

-electronic stabilisation programme

-height-adjustable driver’s seat

-electric windows in the front and rear

-rear window wiper with intermittent setting

-air conditioning

-steering column with height and length adjustment

-centre console with storage compartment

-electronic parking brake with auto-hold function

-XDS differential lock

-tyre pressure monitoring indicator

-asymmetrically split and folding rear seat backrests, with remote unlocking

-electro-mechanical power-assist steering

-dust and pollen filter

- daytime running lights

-touchscreen with 5-inch TFT display

-green-tinted insulating glass

-central locking with wireless remote control

Drivetrain

Under the hood the new Golf Variant will keep the same engine lineup offered by the hatchback version. There will be petrol engines with power ranging from 85 to 140 horsepower and diesel engiens ranging from 105 to 150 horsepower.

For the first time in its history, the new Golf Variant is being offered in a fuel-efficient TDI BlueMotion variant that features a 110 horsepower diesel engine combined with a 6-speed gearbox and delivers an amazing fuel economy of just 3,3 liters/100 km (71.3 mpg).

Prices

Prices for the new Volkswagen Golf Variant will be announced closer to its market launch.

Competitors

When it comes about competition, things are going to change a little bit as not all the competitors suitable for the hatchback version are also offering a station wagon variant.

Subaru Impreza Wagon

The Impreza is maybe one of the coolest models offered in a station wagon variant. It uses a 2.0-liter horizontally-opposed four-cylinder producing 148 HP and 146 lb-ft of torque and is being priced from under $20k.

Honda Civic Wagon

The new generation Honda Civic will be offering a station wagon variant and a first preview has been offered at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show where the company unveiled the Civic Wagon Concept. First details on the production version suggest it will be offered with the same engine line-up as the sedan, but we will also see a new 1.6 i-DTEC engine. A hybrid version could also be a possibility.

Conclusion

While here in North American people aren't so enthusiastic when it comes about station wagon models, in Europe things are a little bit different. And this is where the new Golf Variant is going to enjoy its greater success. It brings innovative features, like the availability of the new TDI BlueMotion that for sure will be among the most appreciated models.