An updated version of the Volkswagen Golf SV has gone on sale, with the people-carrier version of the big-selling model gaining a range of upgrades.
The Golf SV has a wheelbase 50mm longer than the hatch and estate variants, and in terms of overall length sits between its sibling models. Inside occupants sit 85mm higher than in the hatch and estate, and the rear bench seat slides by up to 180mm to make the car more versatile.
Notable among the upgrades is an enhancement to the safety specification. All Golf SVs now include autonomous emergency braking, which includes a monitor to react to pedestrians crossing in front of the vehicle.
Further safety tech available on the options list includes Emergency Assist, which tries to wake the driver if they become unresponsive. If that is unsuccessful, it brings the car to a halt with hazard flashers on. Parallel parking and trailer assistance are also offered.
Upgraded kit and a new engine
Every Golf SV is now offered with a touchscreen infotainment system – the standard version increases in size from six to eight inches. Optionally available is the Discover Navigation Pro unit with a glass nine-inch touchscreen, while all models also get a CD player, DAB radio and simultaneous pairing of two mobile smartphones via Bluetooth.
On the exterior new front and rear bumpers are fitted, the rear diffuser trim is revised and all-LED tail lights fitted, while a full-LED headlamp setup is on the options list.
Four trim levels are available and among the six-strong engine line-up (four petrol and two diesel) is a new unit. The 1.5-litre TSI Evo petrol engine includes Active Cylinder Technology, that shuts down two of its four cylinders to reduce fuel consumption whenever possible. The new engine is available in 130 and 150hp forms.
Prices for the new Volkswagen Golf SV range from £20,475, buying a 1.0-litre 85hp petrol version with a five-speed manual gearbox in entry-level S trim, to £28,595 for the 2.0-litre petrol 150hp variant in GT trim with a seven-speed automatic transmission.
