It's like they've invented a whole new kind of bread and butter: Volkswagen has revealed the sixth-generation version of its mainstay model, the iconic Golf hatchback.

Golf is Europe's most successful-ever model name, with over 26 million sold. So a new one is a pretty big deal.

Sportier styling has been one priority, with Golf VI picking up some cues from the Scirocco coupe. "We have cast the Golf's core components in a precise, new mould", says Walter de Silva, design chief for Volkswagen.

"It is more accentuated, more three-dimensional than its predecessor; with precisely defined lines and edges, and with finely proportioned flared surfaces and recesses."

VW has also attempted to class-up the cabin of the Golf - one area in which the current fifth-generation model did not quite measure up to the Golf IV that preceded it. Some details, like brushed chrome accents, have been lifted directly from the Passat CC four-door coupe.

VW also claims big gains in refinement. A special damping film in the windshield reduces driving noises, as does the newly developed seal concept for the doors and side window guides.

Assistance systems such as "adaptive chassis control" (DCC) and the "park steering assistant" bring additional technologies on board the Golf. There's also a new stability control system.

All petrol and diesel (TDI) engines satisfy limits of the future EU5 emissions standard. The TDI also now features balancer shafts that make it significantly quieter than the current units.

The small-capacity, high-output TSI petrol engines will also feature prominently in the new Golf.

Volkswagen's dual clutch DSG transmission will be the exclusive automatic available on the new Golf.

Dean Sheed, VW general manager for New Zealand, says New Zealand customers will see the Golf VI in 2009: "We anticipate that the new Golf will take an already extremely competent vehicle to a new level."