Loads better? New Mk8 VW Golf Estate spied for first time

Published: 15 May 2020

► New 2020 Mk8 VW Golf Estate
► Our latest spyshots pap Golf wagon
► All the details, specs and news

As sure as night follows day, here’s the new 2020 Volkswagen Golf Estate, aka Variant on the Continent. Our new spy photos capture the booted and suited Golf wagon on test in Germany ahead of an official launch later in the year.

It’s no big surprises: the Golf range has included an estate derivative ever since the third generation in 1993, and although it’s never overtaken the big-selling hatch, it’s a popular choice for families needing a compact footprint with a more generous boot. 

The Mk8 VW Golf Estate isn’t messing around with the tried-and-tested formula. These spyshots suggest the rear overhang will again be extended to allow for a bigger loadspace and there will be a conventional tailgate for access.

When can I buy the new Golf Estate?

This car was originally slated for a Q4 2020 launch, pointing to first pictures around this summer or the diminished Paris motor show, but that timetable is now up in the air, post-coronavirus shutdown. It is unclear if the new Golf wagon may push back into early 2021.

New 2020 VW Golf Estate (white car) lines up alongside Mk8 Golf hatch

Our spy photos capture the car nearly totally shorn of all disguise; our gallery above shows it from all angles – and alongside a Mk8 Golf hatchback (above).

Although we have yet to see inside the luggage compartment, we understand the boot will be peppered with clever storage solutions, including moveable lashing points, a clever parcel shelf solution and ingenious underfloor cubbies. It’s just what you’d expect in a family-friendly estate car.

A small smattering of black tape attempts to disguise the exact windowline (DLO, or daylight opening in designerspeak!), but it’s plain to see the longer roof of the new Mk8 Golf Estate.

Want a faster Golf wagon? Don’t go waiting for a GTI version – that’ll be reserved for the hatchback – but a spicier all-wheel drive R model is on the cards again.

More Volkswagen spy photos

By Tim Pollard

Group digital editorial director, car news magnet, crafter of words

Comments