The Volkswagen Golf has been updated with a focus on digital technology and becomes the first compact car to feature gesture control.

Alongside design tweaks, the 2017 model year Golf gets new engines and assistance systems plus a completely new generation of infotainment systems featuring the largest display in its class, says Volkswagen.

With a 9.2-inch screen the top-of-the-range “Discover Pro” system can be operated by gesture control, linking with the Active Info Display, which is also new to the Golf. 

The update to the Golf also includes new assistance systems such as City Emergency Braking with a new Pedestrian Monitoring function, the new Traffic Jam Assist (partially automated driving at speeds of up to 60 km/h) and Emergency Assist, which is also new in this segment, says VW.

A new turbocharged petrol engine is making its debut in the new Golf, the “1.5 TSI Evo” – a 150 PS four-cylinder turbo with Active Cylinder Management (ACT). This will be followed by a BlueMotion version producing 130 PS. Volkswagen has also boosted the performance of the Golf GTI, which will produce 230 PS and 245 PS (GTI Performance) and a new 7-speed DSG (dual clutch gearbox) will gradually replace the 6-speed unit .

Volkswagen presented the update to the two- and four-door Golf, the Golf Variant and the sporty Golf GTI and Golf GTE at company’s headquarters in Wolfsburg. 

All new versions of the Golf now feature redesigned bumpers at the front and rear, new halogen headlights with LED daytime running lights, full LED headlights instead of xenon headlights, new front wings and full LED tail lights.

There are also new wheels and colours as well as new trims and fabrics for the interior, but VW says the range of equipment versions is to remain unchanged.

UK pricing and delivery dates have yet to be announced.