Volkswagen has just announced that the updated version of the seventh-generation Golf will make its official debut in early November 2016. The German brand describes the facelift, which is less than a month away, as a "major update," but gives no specific information as to what the new hatchback will bring to the table. Instead, Volkswagen brags that it has sold more than 32 million Golfs between the nameplate's introduction in 1974 and the end of 2015, whle also listing other records the hatchback has broken so far.

For instance, it reminds us that the Golf outsold the iconic Beetle in 2002 and that it is being built in five different factories and exported to 155 countries. Volkswagen also takes pride in the Golf being the only car in the world that is available with five drivetrains: gasoline (petrol), diesel, hybrid, electric, and gas.

Pretty impressive, but this says nothing about the upcoming update. So what will change with the facelift?

To be honest, not much. The Germans may view it as a "major update," but the facelifted Golf VII won't get more than just a few nips and tucks. If the past is any indication, Volkswagen will only meddle with the front grille, add new wheel designs, and maybe a couple of new exterior colors. More changes are in store inside, but mostly in the technology department, with the design layout to remain unchanged. If previous reports are accurate, the Golf should get the infotainment system and instrument cluster from the Golf R Touch Concept. The 9.2-inch display should also include gesture control, a feature that Volkswagen debuted at the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show.

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Why it Matters?

No matter what Volkswagen claims in its cryptic press release, don't expect the upcoming Golf update to blow your socks off. Volkswagen facelifts have always been of the mild variety and that's not likely to change anytime soon. On the other hand, it's not something we should be complaining about. The current Golf is fine as it is and its sales figures are the best proof you can get. But, while its exterior might remain desirable for a couple more years, the hatchback definitely needs a solid update as far as technology. And, it looks like this facelift will do just that. We will find out more next month, so make sure you stick around.

Read our full review on the upcoming 2018 Volkswagen Golf R here.