The countdown to the Golf VIII continues with the lookback at the Golf Country model, the SUV Forerunner.

• Unique: Golf is available in all the usual drive systems
• GTI & Co.: Sporty Golf versions become cult models

When Volkswagen presented the first generation of the Golf in 1974, this was the beginning of an impressive success story. And by this we are not just talking about more than 33 million Golfs produced in total. 

But rather the unique fact that Volkswagen is the world’s first and only automotive manufacturer to offer all currently relevant drive systems in one series – with the Golf. There are also various car bodies and the most individual of equipment lines.

The very first Golf in 1974 thus became the catalyst for a vehicle family that meets an unusual number of mobility wishes.

Golf drivers today have a choice of petrol, diesel, natural gas, electric, plug-in hybrid, front and all-wheel drive. 

In addition, there are various body and special versions that make this series range unique. 

For example, in addition to the two- and four-door vehicles, Volkswagen offers the current Golf in the all-round Variant and Sportsvan versions. The sporty "GTs" (GTI, GTE, GTD) and the all-wheel drive Golf R have also achieved cult status.

Important Golf versions and their debut year:

• Golf GTI – 1976
• Golf Cabriolet – 1979
• Golf GTD – 1982
• Golf syncro (forerunner of the 4MOTION all-wheel drive) – 1986
• Golf City Stromer (forerunner of the e-Golf) – 1989
• Golf Country (SUV forerunner) – 1990
• Golf Variant – 1993
• Golf R32 (forerunner of the Golf R) – 2002
• Golf Plus (forerunner of the Golf Sportsvan) – 2006
• Golf TGI (powered by natural gas) – 2013
• Golf GTE (plug-in hybrid drive) – 2014