Car safety advancements over three and a half decades: Dekra illustrates just how secure modern vehicles have become
The latest iteration of the iconic VW Golf, the VIII, showcases a significant leap in safety features compared to its predecessor, the Golf II, according to various tests and evaluations.
One of the most noticeable improvements is in the area of lighting. The Golf VIII is equipped with modern LED headlights, providing significantly better and more even illumination compared to the halogen headlights in the Golf II. The light color of the Golf VIII's LED headlights is close to daylight, reducing driver fatigue in the dark. Additionally, the rear lighting in the Golf VIII has been optimized, with LEDs being brighter and more flexible in design.
The braking performance of the Golf VIII is superior in all situations, as demonstrated in driving tests. The braking test results indicate an average reduction of 30 percent in braking distances compared to the 1980s model. This improvement is apparent in all situations, resulting in shorter braking distances for the Golf VIII compared to the Golf II, on average about 30 percent shorter.
The Golf VIII now has a mandatory third brake light, increasing safety in traffic. This safety feature, combined with improvements in braking performance, contributes to the overall safety of the vehicle.
In the event of a collision, the passenger compartment of a current VW Golf VIII remains stable, providing occupants with a higher level of protection compared to the 1980s VW Golf II. Airbags, seat belt tensioners, and seat belt force limiters are present in the VW Golf VIII, enhancing occupant safety in the event of a collision.
The VW Golf VIII demonstrates significant gains in both active and passive safety. Its superior braking performance and stable passenger compartment contribute to its overall safety. However, it's important to note that technical systems in the VW Golf VIII cannot fully overcome physical limits.
The safety features of the Golf VIII have been extensively evaluated by organisations such as SchadenBusiness ADAC Accident Research, which has been systematically recording 50,000 crashes for 20 years, and the TÜV Association. The TÜV Association's report states that weaker road users are insufficiently protected, highlighting the need for continued improvement in vehicle safety.
The DEKRA comparison demonstrates the progress made in vehicle safety over the past 35 years, with improvements in vehicle structure, braking systems, driving stability, and lighting technology. The SchadenBusiness DEKRA Traffic Safety Report 2025, titled "Mobility in the course of time", further underscores this progress.
In conclusion, the VW Golf VIII represents a significant step forward in vehicle safety, offering increased safety during evasive maneuvers and boasting superior braking performance and optimised lighting. However, the ongoing work of safety organisations such as SchadenBusiness ADAC Accident Research and the TÜV Association will continue to drive improvements in vehicle safety for all road users.
