Volkswagen introduced the fourth generation of the Golf as more of an evolution than a revolution to its compact hatchback family.
The Golf’s third generation was received with mixed feelings by its fans since it was the first to sports a different shape with rounded corners and a softened look. But Volkswagen was right, and its sales exceeded the second generation. For the 1997 model, the German carmaker decided to improve the third generation and made one of the best Golf versions ever. Indeed, it was the best until then.

The exterior kept the same rounded shape as its predecessor and looked like the carmaker didn’t want to go back for the wedged-style again. It was 1997, and the biodesign trend covered most of the market. Its rounded headlights grouped all the lights it could. That led to additional turn-signals on the front fenders to comply with various safety regulations around the world. Unlike its three-door sibling, the five-door version featured shorter front doors.

Inside, the five-door version featured different front seats than its 3-door sibling. Inside, the dashboard featured an instrument cluster with back-lit dials. An LCD took center stage between the tachometer and speedometer. On the center stack, Volkswagen offered an option for an infotainment’s system display.

Volkswagen installed a wide choice of engines for the Golf, starting with a 1.4-liter unit and going up to the fierce VR6 model that sent 204 hp to all corners.