The Volkswagen Golf has been a best-seller for decades, and the launch of a new version is usually big news in the automotive world. However, it feels as though VW has been holding back on Golf 8 We expected the all-new car to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Instead, the German auto giant released its all-electric ID.3, which many people see as the next evolution of the Golf, in the same way that Golf took over from the venerable Beetle. To whet our appetites the company released Golf 8 first official images today.

Click here to see spy pics of the Golf 8 testing.

Unveil

VW has announced October 24 as the date that Golf 8 will make its debut. Before that happens the company has teased us with these sketches. As expected Golf 8 isn’t a massive departure in terms of its appearance. Look at the sketch of the various generations (below) and you can see the gentle steps taken across successive models. A benefit of this approach is that it is instantly recognisable as a Golf from all sides. You can see how close the official image is to the story we ran earlier this year.

Golf generations

Cabin

On the inside, fresh colours and fabrics define the look of the new model, as well as a new digital cockpit. The official image shows a modernised cabin with a large centre screen and a facia with a bow design.

Golf 8 generations interior

VW’s press blurb states:

In the new model, the strengths that have made the Golf a worldwide bestseller have been further perfected. In addition to the new range of efficient engines, further enhanced suspension technology provides a boost in terms of agility. The new Golf is also a trendsetter in terms of its digitalised and connectivity-oriented interior world, its assisted driving features and its online-based functions and services.

Golf 8 will go on sale in Europe later this year and make its way to South Africa in 2020.