The Volkswagen Golf hatchback, Europe’s top selling car has crossed the Atlantic and is scheduled to make its debut in the US at the 2006 Chicago Auto Show. Renowned for its superior automotive engineering, high build quality, top-notch materials, comfort, versatility and safety as well as attention to detail in design, the Golf has become one of the world’s most popular cars. It’s all time sales record stands at 24 million, making it the second best-selling car in the history of the automotive world.

The new VW Golf that will be introduced at the auto show is a completely revamped version of the Golf from previous years. It will feature major changes including the use of high strength body panels and advanced laser-welding systems. The new Golf boasts of substantial improvements including a fully independent suspension system that uses a multi-link rear and optimized front axle.

The US-bound Golf also has a new powerful 2.5 liter, five cylinder base engine generating 150 horsepower as well as a new optional six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic (five-speed manual standard). Other new features include a standard high-tech electro-mechanical steering system, an optional advanced electronic stability program (ESP), and new-generation ABS all-disc brakes.

Volkswagen will offer 24-hour Roadside Assistance for four years as well as new vehicle warranties. The Volkswagen Golf is slated to arrive at US showrooms this summer in two-door and four-door versions.