Volkswagen is expanding the new Golf range: following the models with front-wheel drive launched at the end of 2012, the versions with 4MOTION all-wheel drive are now being unveiled. Volkswagen is thus continuing the long tradition of four-wheel drive Golf models – the first Golf with four driven wheels made its debut back in 1986. The new Golf’s permanent four-wheel drive system is one of the most modern and efficient of its kind in the world. In this latest version of the Golf 4MOTION Volkswagen is using a four-wheel drive system with an enhanced, fifth-generation Haldex coupling. The intelligently controlled 4MOTION drive weighs 1.4 kilograms less than the previous system, requires no pressure accumulator and reacts extremely quickly to every conceivable influence exerted on it. The result is greater active safety and improved handling.

Any loss of traction is prevented before it happens. The Golf’s 4MOTION system, further perfected by enhancements including Haldex 5 coupling, becomes active even before any wheel starts to slip. Any loss of traction can thus be almost completely eliminated. To do this the system uses an advanced control function based on the respective driving conditions. When under a relatively low load or when coasting, forward drive comes primarily from the front axle, with the rear axle decoupled. This basic setting saves fuel. If needed, however, the rear axle is seamlessly engaged. This is done by the Haldex coupling, activated via an electro-hydraulic oil pump.



Situation-based power distribution.

A control unit permanently calculates the ideal drive torque for the rear axle and regulates via activation of the oil pump the extent to which the multi-plate clutch should be closed. The contact pressure at the clutch plates rises in proportion to the desired torque at the rear axle. The amount of torque that is transferred can be varied continuously using the level of pressure applied to the clutch plates. Even when driving off and accelerating quickly, the wheels of the Golf are prevented from spinning, as the control unit regulates the torque distribution in line with the dynamic axle loading. Activation of the Haldex 5 coupling is based primarily on the engine torque demanded by the driver. In parallel with this a so-called driving status identification system within the four-wheel drive control unit assesses parameters such as the wheels’ speed of rotation and the angle of turn. Almost 100 per cent of the drive torque can be directed to the rear axle, as required.

Rear axle always available.

When manoeuvring or going around tight corners any build up of pressure on the drive train is avoided by reducing the torque exerted on the Haldex coupling. The opposite happens in the event of heavy and rapid acceleration. In this case the coupling torque is increased with corresponding speed. Meanwhile, at high speeds the pre-control of the coupling, which is based on engine torque, is disabled in order to minimise fuel consumption. In this case front-wheel drive dominates. However, even in this situation 4MOTION remains a permanent all-wheel drive system, as the rear axle is instantly re-engaged as soon as any slippage registers on the front axle or the Golf is driven with increased lateral acceleration.



15 per cent lower fuel consumption.

Volkswagen is offering the new Golf 4MOTION in Europe in three levels of specification (Trendline, Comfortline, Highline) and with two turbo diesel engines that provide both high torque and great fuel efficiency. The common rail four-cylinder engines deliver 77 kW / 105 PS and 110 kW / 150 PS and consume just 4.5 / 4.7 litres of fuel respectively per 100 kilometres. Just how efficiently the four-wheel drive Golf works is shown by a fuel consumption comparison between the 103 kW / 140 PS version of the old Golf 4MOTION and the new 150 PS model: despite being 10 PS more powerful, the 2013 Golf 4MOTION consumes 0.8 litres (15 per cent) less diesel.

High tech as standard.

Like the front-wheel drive versions the new 4MOTION models are equipped as standard with a Stop/Start system and battery regeneration. Also included as standard even on the base version (Trendline) are features such as the four-wheel EDS (electronic differential locks on both axles), the XDS front and rear axle transverse lock, the electronic stabilisation programme, an Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, seven airbags, daytime running lights, air conditioning, electric windows front and back, a multi-function display (on-board computer) and a TFT display with touchscreen operation. The premium payable for the permanent four-wheel drive system on the Golf 4MOTION – sold fundamentally as a four-door vehicle – is €1,800 in Germany.