Volkswagen will show an updated version of its Golf Sportsvan at the Frankfurt Auto Show and while this tall wagon has found a niche in the European market, VW has no plans to export this model to the U.S. because it could cut into Golf Sportwagen sales. But beyond the facelift of this Euro spec vehicle, there are some technical changes that could expand to other VW models, including those sold in America.
In particular is the introduction of the Discover Pro radio navigation system that incorporates a large 9.2-inch display and has gesture control. The system dispenses with traditional buttons and relies on the touchscreen and five capacitive touch buttons on the left border of the screen to control various functions. VW has also developed a Media Control app that allows users to control infotainment functions through tablets or smartphones.
Styling refinements.
Styling refinements, which also could spread to other Golf models, include new halogen headlamps with LED running lights, optional full LED headlamps instead of the previous optional xenon units, standard LED taillamps and five new alloy wheel designs. The revamp also includes the use of three new TSi gasoline engines that will be offered along with two turbodiesels. The new gas engines feature fuel saving cylinder deactivation that shuts down two of the four cylinders under light loads.
VW is also expanding the roster of driver assists on the Sportsvan including pedestrian monitoring (which is part of the front assist with emergency braking), traffic jam assist which provides semi-automated stop and go driving up to 35 mph, as well as park and trailer towing assists. The updated 2018 VW Sportsvan is expected to go on sale this fall in Europe.
