The Volkswagen Golf Vi a.k.a Mk6 is the sixth generation of the golf and was released in 2008 as the successor to the Golf 5. The Golf 6 represents an upgrade from previous generations and the biggest technical changes were to the engineering side to offer a leaner more productive assembly process. Locally manufactured at the Volkswagen plant in Uitenhage, it was manufactured until 2013 when the next generation was launched.
The exterior of the Volkswagen Golf VI stayed on par with the Golf design language, with slightly smoother curves and sporty bumper and sleek headlights. With plenty of upgrades on safety features and general refinement, it remains one of the best sellers in the second-hand market that retains its reseller value. More colour options where available and wheels where re-designed. All overlook and feel of the Golf 6 still prove to be elegant and minimalist.
Interior was upgraded with premium class finishes that competed very well in the family hatchback class. Slightly shorter and wider than the Golf 5, the designers gave attention to detail to introduce the levels of refinement form higher-end cars into the compact class. The cabin was leading edge in the market at the time with superb ergonomics and quality finishes. Redesign of insulation and glass also provides for a quiet ride. No wonder that the Golf 6 won World Car of the Year Award in 2009, also boasting at the time the highest score on the EURO NCAP Crash tests.
All Volkswagen Golf 6 models sold in South Africa were fitted with seven airbags and electronic stability control as well as air conditioning with optional extras such as parking assistance, rear-view camera's and touch screen infotainment systems. The Golf 6 Cabriolet was also on offer and is still a head-turner with its stylish soft top.
Engine configurations on offer vary from the basic 1,6 litre petrol engine but the most the 1,4 TSI and the 2, liter turbo diesel. The most economical seems to be the 1,6litre Bluemotion turbo diesel with a claimed fuel consumption of 3,8litres per 100km). The GTI has its fan base, power, and performance but higher on maintenance and fuel consumption, still one of the best sellers of the Golf 6 stable. Because of Volkswagen's local manufacturing capacity, spare parts for second-hand vehicles are not a challenge and the Golf 6 remains one of the best second-hand deals out there, combining price, quality, technical superiority and elegant timeless design.