Volkswagen Golf 8 Rendered With Tiguan Front End

Previous rumors stated that the Golf 7 would have a short life, being replaced by an all-new model as early as 2017 or 2018. However, we now know that isn't true. Designs for a mid-life facelift have already leaked online.

So, doing a bit of math, we discovered that the Golf 8 might come in 2020. By that time, the entire Volkswagen family will look completely differently, and we believe it might follow the line of the Tiguan and Passat.

You see, the perception of quality doesn't always have to do with the materials used - plastics used for the Audi A3 are the same as those for any other car. But if you manage to make a statement with the design, people will naturally assume that's a more expensive car.

Remco M's latest rendering is not the first to suggest that the Golf 8 will have similar features to the Tiguan and European Passat. However, the Mk7 facelift puts things into perspective. In our opinion, Volkswagen is going to use an entirely different design language than what you see here, as the German automaker cannot afford to make dull hatchbacks. Just look at the C Coupe GTE concept and you should have a pretty good idea.

As far as the technology package is concerned, the existing MQB platform will live on, but with slight updates. The same thing happened when VW turned the Mk5 into the Golf 6. Much stricter emissions regulations might affect the entire engine range, as more and more automakers find 1.5 and 1.6-liter turbocharged units are the only ones suited to satisfying the EU watchdogs.

German media previously reported that the 1.5 TSI turbo engine will eventually have variants ranging from 110 to 150 PS (see video below). Of course, plug-in hybrid and fully electric versions will be crucial to the next Golf's success, as will better handling GTI and R models.