As for diesels, VW will be offering a 1.9 liter turbodiesel that makes 105 horsepower and 189 lb-ft of torque. Quicker, and more efficient than the current 1.9 liter TDI engine, it can hit 100 km/h in 11.3 seconds, topping out at 191 km/h. The most powerful oil burner offered on the Golf will be a 2.0 liter turbodiesel that creates a whopping 140 horsepower, and 236 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate to 100 km/h in a very un-diesel-like 9.3 seconds, sprinting to a top speed of 203 km/h. Like the gasoline engines, these diesels can be fitted with either five or six speed gearboxes in manual or automatic format. VW will also offer their dual-clutch DSG sequential gearbox on the diesel models for even quicker, enthusiast-driven performance. These diesels are impressive, matching their gasoline counterparts for performance, beating them hands-down for economy and meeting them decibel for decibel with regards to noise levels. Just which diesel(s) makes it to our shores has not been announced.

Volkswagen has developed an all-new chassis delivering seriously enhanced dynamics for the new Golf. (Photo: Volkswagen)

As the exterior, interior and powerplants have evolved with time, Volkswagen has developed an all-new chassis offering seriously enhanced dynamics for the new Golf. In its fifth generation the company's best-seller finally moves to an independent rear suspension system. No longer will a simple torsion beam rear axle and standard struts attempt to keep the trailing wheels planted on pavement. From now on it's a sophisticated multi-link setup. Class-leading, its four-link rear suspension is comprised of three latitudinal links connected to one longitudinal arm. VW's engineers have cleverly designed the unit to be compact, as to maximize interior space.

The new Golf should prove to be a formidable handler, whatever condition the road ahead may be. (Photo: Volkswagen)

At the front end aluminum is used extensively, particularly on the car's suspension mounting points and subframes, in effect reducing pesky unsprung weight. Revised spring rates and a three-piece anti-roll bar ensure that the front end will remain on course, preventing the wash-out feeling that understeer often entails. Combine this with VW's new electronically-assisted steering with automatic self-centering, and the new Golf should prove to be a formidable handler, whatever condition the road ahead may be.