Seventh Generation VW Golf Confirmed for End 2012

Volkswagen Golf, one of the most popular models ever produced by the German manufacturer, will receive its seventh iteration at the end of 2012 or in early 2013. The car will be based on the new MQB platform, just like the new generation Audi A3 that's likely to go on sale in the summer of 2012.

Not many details are known about either the new Golf or the newly-developed platform, but Automotive News writes that the Volkswagen Group hopes to deliver up to 3 million vehicles based on the new platform each year to customers worldwide.

If we are to trust the computer-generated images (CGIs) we published back in October 2009, the future Golf will receive multiple exterior styling enhancements, but will still be based on the same design as the current model. The grille is likely to look like the existing one, but will be smaller, thus aiming to contribute to the overall sportiness boasted by the revised car. The front fascia will be reworked as well, so expect new designs for the front bumper and the headlights.

And speaking of headlights, the CGIs show that Volkswagen could drop the old Golf headlights in favor of new elongated ones, thus obtaining a more aerodynamic and aggressive look.

As for the engines, most of the existing powerplants will likely make it to the new generation as well, with the same popular versions probably to reach production. A GTD and a GTI are almost 100 percent part of the project, while a hybrid variation is also on the table.