Golf 8 Marks End of Combustion Engine Era
The current Golf 8 will be the last combustion engine version of the hatchback car, with one more series of updates expected next year. Schaefer noted that the car is set until the end of the decade, at which point Volkswagen will reassess the segment's development.
A Shift in Investment from Combustion to Electric Vehicles
Volkswagen's decision not to invest in upgrading the Golf, which has been Europe's bestselling car for decades, reflects the carmaker's focus on combustion engines to reduce the cost of electric vehicles. The Volkswagen brand, part of the Volkswagen Group, aims for 80% electric sales in Europe and 55% in North America by 2030, targeting 50% electric sales globally.
Golf Name to Continue with Future Electric Model
While the combustion engine Golf will be discontinued, Volkswagen plans to keep the Golf name for a future electric model. However, according to Schaefer, the earliest this electric version is likely to be released is 2028.
Ten New Electric Models Launching by 2026
Volkswagen is set to launch ten new electric models by 2026, including a battery-electric car priced under 25,000 euros ($27,000).
