What kind of car is a VW Golf?
The Volkswagen Golf (listen ) is a compact car produced by the German automotive manufacturer Volkswagen since 1974, marketed worldwide across seven generations, in various body configurations and under various nameplates – such as the Volkswagen Rabbit in the United States and Canada (Mk1 and Mk5), and as the Volkswagen Caribe in Mexico (Mk1).
When did the first Volkswagen Golf come out?
In May 1974, Volkswagen presented the first-generation Golf as a modern front-wheel-drive, long-range replacement for the Volkswagen Beetle.
Is a golf front wheel drive or rear wheel drive?
The original Golf Mk1 was a front-engined, front-wheel drive replacement for the air-cooled, rear-engined, rear-wheel drive Volkswagen Beetle. Historically, the Golf is Volkswagen's best-selling model and is among the world's top three best-selling models, with more than thirty million built as of June 2013.
Is the Volkswagen Golf a good lease car?
Back to 'Expert guides' The Volkswagen Golf is a popular choice for lease customers looking for a practical, well-made hatchback. The latest models feature clever infotainment systems, a range of petrol, diesel and hybrid drivetrains and a stunning new look.
What kind of people drive a VW Golf?
VW drivers are… VW drivers are disproportionately likely to be male, aged between 40 and 59, and live in Wales. Their political views are typically slightly right wing, and they're most likely to work in business, construction or finance.
Why are Volkswagen Golfs so popular?
The purchase cost of the VW Golf is traditionally, affordable, great value for money and gives so much more than comparable cars in other brands. A reliable car with plenty of cargo room, it has long been the car of choice for people leasing or buying a family hatchback.
Is a Volkswagen Golf a good car?
Is the Volkswagen Golf a Good Car? Yes, the Volkswagen Golf is a good compact car . It offers an enjoyable interior, with comfortable front seats, a roomy second row, and impressive cabin materials. A hatchback design affords a massive cargo hold as well.
Are VW Golfs fun to drive?
The Golf Is Fun to Drive But it has a fluid-shifting manual transmission (or the decent eight-speed auto, if you're into that sort of thing). It puts out 184 lb-ft of torque, which comes on strong enough to make it quick at low speeds. The Golf is not as laser-like as a GTI, but it handles precisely for a cheap car.
Why do people love the VW Golf?
The VW Golf is one of the most popular family cars in the UK. That's because it does most things very well - it's comfortable, practical and its engines are both economical and refined. The Golf is considered to be a somewhat premium rival to regular hatches like the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra.
Is Golf a luxury car?
While Volkswagen is not generally considered a luxury brand, they do make models that enter realms of near-luxury outfitting. This is particularly true on many of their vehicles' upper trim levels.
Do VW Golf have a lot of problems?
The Volkswagen Golf has received a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating from RepairPal, ranking it 25th out of 36 compact cars in its segment. The Golf has average ownership costs with annual repairs amounting to an estimated $630 compared to the usual $650 for most vehicle models.
What goes wrong with Volkswagen Golf?
The VW Golf has a notorious issue with its camshaft-driven high-pressure fuel pump. You should replace yours every 20k miles even if you can't hear that rattling sound, but that's what's causing it.
What are the disadvantages of Volkswagen?
The cons include not so competitive fuel efficiency especially compared to Hyundai i10 and Maruti hatchbacks, not so competitive pricing, lesser ground clearance – a factor during monsoons or while travelling in the countryside and lack of alloy wheels in mid level segment.
Why is Volkswagen so popular?
Volkswagen vehicles are well assembled, safe, well equipped, and cheap and have good performance levels; this is ultimately what makes it the preferred vehicle of choice in several European countries and the world.
Is a VW Golf easy to drive?
The Volkswagen Golf is easy to drive You won't get a car that's much easier to drive than the Golf, which makes it one of the best cars for learner drivers to use.
Is a VW Golf good in snow?
The Volkswagen Golf is excellent in snow, front-wheel-drive versions can handle slippery conditions just fine although the all-wheel-drive models will provide even better traction. Golfs come equipped with a wide array of driver aids and safety features that optimize driving in the wintertime.
Why are VW Golf GTI so popular?
3 It's Affordable, Reliable, And Efficient. The sheer numbers of Golf GTI's, from every generation, that are still in daily service today is a glowing testament to the superior build quality that Volkswagen has poured into its fiery little creation, making sure that it lasts.
Which year VW Golf is best?
Model years 2013 and 2014 proved to be a bit more reliable, yet there were still numerous reports of 2014 VW GTI reliability problems. In fact, the GTI has had 3 generations, generation 6 (2009-2014) being the least reliable. The stories of VW Golf GTI Mk6 problems were widespread.
Is VW Golf a comfortable car?
It has three main settings: Comfort, Normal and Sport. In Comfort, the Volkswagen Golf is one of the smoothest-riding cars in the class, dealing with craggy roads exceedingly well. There's a bit of float over dips and crests, but you can dial that out by switching to the slightly stiffer Normal setting.
Will VW Golf be discontinued?
Volkswagen Discontinues Golf TSI in US Along with the new design, the US will also see the return of the Golf R, which did not have a 2020 or 2021 model. However, Volkswagen has decided to discontinue production the base model Golf TSI for the US market.
How long is the warranty on a VW?
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage. Volkswagen provides an above-average limited warranty, but its powertrain protective is below average compared with Honda and Toyota. VW does include two years of regularly scheduled maintenance, though. Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles.
How many stars does the 2021 Golf have?
The 2021 Golf earned a five-star crash-test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ( NHTSA ), but the last version that was evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety ( IIHS) wasn't named a Top Safety Pick.
How much MPG will the 2021 Golf get?
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG. The EPA estimates the 2021 Golf will earn 29 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway with the standard stick-shift transmission. With the optional automatic, it has ratings of 29 mpg city and 33 highway.
What is the touchscreen on a Golf?
The Golf's infotainment system delivers lazy response times to your inputs, but standard features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and USB connectivity are strong counterpoints to that shortcoming. A 6.5-inch touchscreen is standard, and it boasts menu buttons running along the edges of the display as well as a physical volume knob.
Is Volkswagen Golf a one size fits all?
Volkswagen has essentially turned the regular Golf into a one-size-fits-all shopping experience. The only tough decision buyers face is whether to stick with the standard manual transmission or spend an extra $800 on the optional eight-speed automatic. Those who don't know how to play the three-pedal shuffle will obviously choose the latter, but people who want maximum engagement will appreciate the manual. Other than that and a handful of dealer-installed accessories, the Golf is easy to outfit.
Is the boxy golf as eye catching as the compact golf?
And it offers a surprisingly roomy interior along with a large cargo hold. The boxy Golf isn't as eye-catching or feature-laden as many compact rivals, but overall it's much more gratifying than meets the eye and an Editors' Choice winner.
Does the Golf have a turbocharger?
The Golf's turbocharged inline-four engine provides the right amount of power to adequately propel this small hatch and it's refined and reliable. Around town, the Golf never wants for power. Only when attempting high-speed passing maneuvers on the highway does the driver notice the engine runs out of breath.
What is the turbocharged golf?
The Golf's turbocharged inline-four engine provides the right amount of power to adequately propel this small hatch and it's refined and reliable. Around town, the Golf never wants for power. Only when attempting high-speed passing maneuvers on the highway does the driver notice the engine runs out of breath. Unlike its sportier fraternal twins, the zippy GTI and the burlier Golf R, the regular Golf boasts a compliant ride that won't grow tiresome during long drives or on rough pavement. This doesn't mean that it's a slouch around corners. It hugs the road tightly and imparts an athletic feel to the driver that encourages back-road antics. The Golf's steering is unerring and uncharacteristically quick for this class. This responsive helm is one of the features that makes this affordable, utilitarian car so enjoyable to drive.
How much MPG does a 2020 Golf get?
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG. The EPA estimates the 2020 Golf will earn 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway with the standard stick-shift transmission. With the optional automatic, it has ratings of 29 mpg city and 35 highway.
How long is VW warranty?
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage. VW has revised its warranty package for 2020. Although the updated warranty is shorter, the company now provides two years of complimentary maintenance. Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles. Powertrain warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles. Complimentary maintenance is covered for 2 years ...
What is the touchscreen on a Golf?
The Golf's infotainment system delivers lazy response times to your inputs, but standard features such as Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, and USB connectivity are strong counterpoints to that shortcoming. A 6.5-inch touchscreen is standard, and it boasts menu buttons running along the edges of the display as well as a physical volume knob.
Is the 2020 Volkswagen Golf a one size fits all?
Volkswagen has essentially turned the regular Golf into a one-size-fits-all shopping experience. The only tough decision buyers face is whether to stick with the standard manual transmission or spend an extra $800 on the optional eight-speed automatic. Those who don't know how to play the three-pedal shuffle will obviously choose the latter, but people who want maximum engagement will appreciate the manual. Other than that and a handful of dealer-installed accessories, the 2020 Golf is easy to outfit.
Does the 2020 Golf have adaptive cruise control?
While the VW hatch no longer offers adaptive cruise control, it does come with some common driver-assistance equipment.
Is the Golf R tiresome?
Unlike its sportier fraternal twins, the zippy GTI and the burlier Golf R, the regular Golf boasts a compliant ride that won't grow tiresome during long drives or on rough pavement. This doesn't mean that it's a slouch around corners.
The Golf Is Fun to Drive
The Golf is a driver’s car on a sub-$25,000 budget. It only has 147 horsepower. But it has a fluid-shifting manual transmission (or the decent eight-speed auto, if you’re into that sort of thing). It puts out 184 lb-ft of torque, which comes on strong enough to make it quick at low speeds.
The Golf Is Refined
The Golf is like the Honda Accord, in that Volkswagen started with a great car and has spent nearly years softening the edges and making gradual improvements.
The Golf Is Practical and Efficient
The Golf offers up to 53.7 cubic feet of cargo space. That's not CR-V level, but it’s on par with popular crossovers like the Jeep Cherokee, Audi Q5 and Porsche Macan. It’s also reasonably fuel-efficient without any fancy hybrid tech (just annoying eco-friendly reminders on the dash).
The Golf Has Not Been Outmoded
Buyers are still looking for fun, affordable small cars. It’s why every automaker wants a Hyundai Kona / Kia Seltos / Mazda CX-30 in the lineup. Those cars are — in function if not in form — small hatchbacks trying to fill the Golf’s niche. And the Golf drives better than any of them, probably at a cheaper price point.
Volkswagen Golf trim levels 2022
The ‘best’ trim level will of course depend on your individual preferences, but there are currently a plethora of options.
Volkswagen Golf Life
The Life model is the entry-level option of the Golf for both the hatchback and estate. But don’t let that put you off. It’s very well specified considering its position in the range, with 16in alloy wheels, a 10in infotainment system, 10.25in digital driver display and a raft of driver assistance technology coming as standard.
Volkswagen Golf Active
The next step up is the Active, which adds a variety of extra features for those that are a little more – you guessed it – active. For starters, the Winter pack is added, which gives you thye comfort of heated front seats and steering wheel.
Volkswagen Golf Style
Style can be considered the start of the mid-range models, with these cars receiving larger 17in Belmont alloy wheels, LED “Plus” headlights and a host of brushed dark metal trim pieces. There’s also a different interior that features a seat centre (arm rest). All in all, it adds a touch more luxury and refinement to the basic models.
Volkswagen Golf R-Line
If you want a sporty-looking Golf but aren’t necessarily bothered about a potent powerplant, the R-Line is a great choice. The 17in alloy wheels of the Style have been swapped out for a more aggressive looking set finished in Valencia Grey metallic.
Volkswagen Golf GTE
Designed to be the high performance plug-in hybrid of the range, the GTE doesn’t just add power. You’ll also get the brand’s clever IQ. LED matrix lighting package that includes LED headlights along with an illuminated grille and door handles.
Volkswagen Golf GTI
Let’s be honest – the GTI is more than a trim level; it’s the most iconic version of the Golf and the latest version offers all the performance you’d expect from a cutting-edge hot hatch. The most notable differences on the outside include large 18in Richmond alloy wheels and a sporty honeycomb grille design.
Simplify your drive with travel assist
Welcome to an easier commute. IQ.DRIVE has hands-on semi-autonomous driving capability that can help support you by steering, accelerating, and braking within your lane while you keep your hands on the steering wheel.
Reduce road-trip stress with preset speeds and distances between cars
IQ.DRIVE capabilities help the vehicle maintain a preset speed and distance from the car in front of you. When activated, if the car in front of you speeds up or slows down, the sensors can detect the change and your car follows suit up to the preset speed and/or preset distance.
Alerts and counter-steering for your blind spots
IQ.DRIVE technology can help sense what you might miss. If you attempt to change lanes, it can help alert you to other cars that may be in your blind spot. IQ.DRIVE features can also counter-steer within the limits of Lane Assist to help keep you in your lane if you attempt to change lanes when a vehicle is in your blind spot.
Alerts for vehicles crossing your path when reversing
IQ.DRIVE has alerts that come in handy when you’re backing up. It has sensors that can help alert you to detected vehicles crossing in your path when in reverse and can even help brake the vehicle if needed.
Keeping an eye on the road ahead to help keep you safe
IQ.DRIVE assistance can help monitor traffic and can alert you acoustically and visually to a potential rear-end collision with the vehicle in front of you.
Ready to safely take over and stop the vehicle if you lose the ability to drive
IQ.DRIVE technology can help determine if a driver is no longer able to operate their vehicle by monitoring steering wheel activity and, after numerous alerts, is designed to bring the vehicle to a controlled stop if driver is non-responsive.
Keeping you safely within the lanes
When moving above 37 mph, IQ.DRIVE features can help sense if you start to drift into another lane without using the turn signal. Using a camera mounted in the rearview mirror assembly that can recognize certain lane markings and warn you if you begin to move out of your lane.
Overview
What's New For 2021?
- With VW preparing to switch to a GTI-and-Golf R lineup, the 2021 model year marks the end of the regular version in the U.S. It glides out bringing a smattering of newly standard features. The list includes 16-inch wheels, passive hands-free entry and push-button start, leatherette upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
- Volkswagen has essentially turned the regular Golf into a one-size-fits-all shopping experience. The only tough decision buyers face is whether to stick with the standard manual transmission or spend an extra $800 on the optional eight-speed automatic. Those who don't know how to play the three-pedal shuffle will obviously choose the latter, but people who want maximum engage…
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
- The Golf's turbocharged inline-four engine provides the right amount of power to adequately propel this small hatch and it's refined and reliable. Around town, the Golf never wants for power. Only when attempting high-speed passing maneuvers on the highway does the driver notice the engine runs out of breath. Unlike its sportier fraternal twin—the zippy GTI—the regular Golf boast…
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
- The EPA estimates the 2021 Golf will earn 29 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway with the standard stick-shift transmission. With the optional automatic, it has ratings of 29 mpg city and 33 highway. The last version we ran on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, returned an impressive 43 mpg. Still, the Golf doesn't set the stan…
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
- Plain but comfortable and functional, the Golf's interior perfectly embodies VW's design ethos. You'll never feel pampered but you won't be subjected to any ill-conceived design themes, either. The Golf's interior employs clean, straight lines; a sedate color palette; and an emphasis on openness. Despite the airy atmosphere, some competitors tested here have slightly more space …
Infotainment and Connectivity
- The Golf's infotainment system delivers lazy response times to your inputs, but standard features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and USB connectivity are strong counterpoints to that shortcoming. A 6.5-inch touchscreen is standard, and it boasts menu buttons running along the edges of the display as well as a physical volume knob.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
- The 2021 Golf earned a five-star crash-test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), but the last version that was evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) wasn't named a Top Safety Pick. While the hatch no longer offers adaptive cruise control, it does come with some common driver-assistance equipment. Key safety featur…
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
- Volkswagen provides an above-average limited warranty, but its powertrain protective is below average compared with Honda and Toyota. VW does include two years of regularly scheduled maintenance, though. 1. Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles 2. Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles 3. Complimentary maintenance is covered for two ye…
Overview
What's New For 2020?
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Infotainment and Connectivity
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
- The 2020 Golf earned a five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), but it wasn't named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). While the VW hatch no longer offers adaptive cruise control, it does come with some common driver-assistance equipment. Key safety features include: 1. S...
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage