Volkswagen is aiming to restore its classic identity by taking inspiration from the legendary Golf Mk4 model for the next-generation Volkswagen Golf Mk9.
The company's boss, Thomas Schafer, has announced that the new model will bring a return to the design known and loved by fans. According to him, the Golf Mk9 will help restore the brand's identity.
Development of the model is at a very advanced stage. Development director Kai Grunitz has stated that the project is about 96–97% complete. The car will be based on two platforms, one for internal combustion engines and hybrid versions and another for electric.
The last few years have been difficult for Volkswagen, with sales falling and market share being lost. Several recent models have failed to meet expectations and have alienated some customers. The company is even considering cutting production to as little as 1 million units.
Since taking office in 2022, Schafer has promised big changes. The first signs were seen with the updated Volkswagen ID.3 model, which removed the much-criticized touch controls. The upcoming Volkswagen ID.Polo model will also follow the same more practical philosophy.
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First images of the Golf 9 revealed
The future of the brand is closely linked to the success of the new Golf. Although it is no longer Volkswagen's best-selling model, its importance remains very great. In fact, the Golf Mk9 could be as crucial for the company as the first model of 1974 was.
Prototypes of what the Golf 9, inspired by the 4, will look like have yet to be made public. Schafer said that the initial prototypes he has seen at the company are impressive.
