VW has released official technical details for the upcoming Golf hatchback

With prototypes spied undergoing testing and the launch date less than two weeks away, Volkswagen has released technical details of the next generation Golf.

The new Golf will be the first VW to be built on the versatile MQB platform. The new Golf's wheelbase will be lengthened by 59mm and will sit 28mm lower and 13mm wider. The front axle borrows a locking differential normally found in sports models to aid cornering and sits out 48mm further forward. The new extended dimensions give the new Golf a larger footprint and better stability.

Interestingly besides gaining a larger frame, the new Golf has trimmed 100kg off its weight with the entry-level tipping the scales at just 1,150kg, similar to a fourth generation Golf. This is achieved thanks to the use of high-strength steel and advanced manufacturing processes for thinner, stronger body sections.

A new 'driver oriented' cockpit, angles the centre console towards the driver where a new infotainment system, with a 5, 5.8 or 8-inch display can be found. Higher end versions will feature 3D global positioning and 'Heptactic' touch technology, which switches from display to operating modes when it senses your finger approaching the screen. A similar technology can be found in the Phaeton according to Head of Electronic Development, Dr Volkmar Tanneberger.

VW’s most efficient model, the Golf BlueMotion TDI, returns an impressive 37.5km/L and emits 85g/km while a turbocharged 138bhp 1.4-litre petrol engine returns almost 30km/L. On average, the new Golf is 23 per cent more fuel-efficient while producing 13.9 per cent lesser CO2 excluding the all-electric Golf that's due next year.

The seventh generation Golf will make its public debut at the Paris Motor Show before going on sale in December with first deliveries in January 2013.