The first generation Volkswagen Golf (Typ 17) was officially introduced in May 1974 as the revolutionary successor to the air-cooled Beetle. Designed by Italdesign under the guidance of Giorgetto Giugiaro, the car brought a modern transverse engine layout paired with front-wheel drive. It quickly captured global market success owing to its compact exterior dimensions, surprisingly practical cabin layout, and low running costs. Body options included three-door and five-door hatchbacks, complemented by a distinctive roll-bar cabriolet introduced in 1979.

Engine choices encompassed carbureted gasoline units from 1.1 to 1.8 liters, alongside naturally aspirated and turbocharged 1.5 and 1.6-liter diesels. The launch of the hot Golf GTI in 1976, powered by a 110 hp fuel-injected 1.6-liter engine, defined an entirely new high-performance compact segment. Over its production lifecycle, the Mk1 received updated safety features and plastic bumper trims before European production concluded in 1983.