Volkswagen didn't want to completely lose the segment of the compact-sized SUV segment and introduced a Golf-based family MPV in 2004. It was refreshed in 2008, after the introduction of the Golf MkIV.
In 2008, the sixth generation of the Golf was introduced in October at the Paris Motor Show. Two months later, the Golf Plus received a face similar to the famous Volkswagen compact car. It was a needed refresh for a car that struggled in a market that was shrinking.
The front fascia featured similar headlights and grille with the Golf 6, but the taillights were similar to the 5th generation. The roof-rails were fitted as standard for most of the range. A new design for the wheels and the modified front bumper improved the car's look.
With its higher greenhouse, the Plus version allowed a higher seating position inside and still offered enough headroom. The legroom was improved as well so all the five passengers could sit comfortably inside. Most of the interior was similar to the Golf 5, including the instrument panel, centers stack, and controls.
The engine range was improved with the addition of the newly developed 1.6-liter turbodiesel engine range. A newer 2.0-TDI unit and improved gasoline engines were added to the list. The car was fitted with a choice of manual or automatic gearboxes, depending on the engine. Since the car was based on the Golf 5, it featured independent suspension an all corners, which added comfort for its passengers.
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