With its fully digital cockpit, new driver assists, wireless charging, and a head-up display, the eighth-generation Volkswagen Golf is more technologically advanced than its predecessor. However, software issues delayed the launch of the new Golf and have continued to cause problems since the redesigned hatchback went on sale. Last year, for example, VW had to delay deliveries after discovering a problem with the infotainment system's emergency call function.

Since it launched, owners have complained about the infotainment system being unresponsive and glitchy. Thankfully, Volkswagen is rolling out a significant update for the 2022 Golf that fixes software issues, adds requested features, and makes the infotainment system faster and more responsive.

Due to start series production in the next few weeks, the software update adds a new improved voice control providing "fast recognition and precise response." By saying "Hello Volkswagen," the system can understand freely worded phrases such as "I'm cold" or "Where can I find a Japanese restaurant in Berlin?" and respond to requests accordingly.

Thanks to the use of digital microphones, the voice control can detect whether the driver or passenger is speaking, meaning it can activate the air conditioning specifically for the person making the request. The optimized system can also ask questions, allow interruptions, and enable the owner to operate the entertainment, navigation, telephone, and climate control. Whether used online or offline, the voice control's responses and reactions are four times faster than before according to Volkswagen.

The touchscreen has also been improved. When the user's finger comes within a few inches of the screen, the buttons around the hazard warning light switch are blocked. When contact is made, the volume and temperature sliders are also blocked, preventing the control panels from being activated accidentally. In addition, Volkswagen's MIB3 infotainment system has been upgraded with a new System on Chip with 25 percent more power, while the performance of the graphics card has tripled. Thanks to the upgraded hardware, the navigation system will display results in less than five seconds.

While these upgrades will be added to new versions of the Volkswagen Golf, existing owners will be contacted by Volkswagen to have the software updated in a voluntary service update. The regular Volkswagen Golf isn't sold in America, but we expect these updates will also be rolled out in the Golf GTI and Golf R next year.