“The Golf is an iconic nameplate for the Volkswagen Brand and it is known throughout the world,” said Mark Barnes, COO, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “The Golf is Volkswagen’s best selling global nameplate with more than 26 million units sold in over 120 countries. Making the change back to Golf is an important step in realigning with our global heritage."
VW spokesman Tom Wegehaupt last week confirmed the market strategy saying that the German parent company prefers to return to the original nameplate, despite the positive feedback received by the Rabbit badge.
"A lot of consumers tell us they prefer the name Rabbit, but we are moving to this name strategy. There is so much weight behind Golf -- we have sold more than 26 million in 30 years in 120 countries," Wegehaupt was quoted as saying by Autonews last week.
The sixth-generation Volkswagen Golf officially saw daylight at the Geneva Motor Show this year, while the United States version is expected to arrive at the 2009 New York International Auto Show. According to Volkswagen, the new Golf will go on sale later this year in most major markets around the world.
Although not confirmed, it may seem like Volkswagen is also considering a diesel engine for the new Golf lineup that would be particularly addressed to the US market. The configuration will be the same one used on the Jetta, a 2.-liter four-cylinder with maximum output around 140 hp.
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