Overview & Reviews

The Volkswagen Golf is one of the world's most successful and beloved compact cars. Here in the United States, the two- and four-door hatchback's enticing combination of practicality, comfort, refined road manners and an upscale, roomy cabin make it an appealing choice for new and used car shoppers. The last three generations (including one in which it was known as the Rabbit again) have been fairly similar, representing a constant evolution in terms of design, engineering improvements and feature availability. Anyone searching for a more practical and/or upscale alternative to a traditional compact sedan would be wise to check it out.

Current Volkswagen Golf
Redesigned for 2015, the current Volkswagen Golf is, in keeping with tradition, a subtle evolution. Modest changes to styling and dimensions disguise a significant overhaul under the skin, where VW's engineers have lightened and modernized the Golf. It gets improved engines and a redesigned interior with even better materials quality and a more eye-pleasing design.

The Golf is available in two- and four-door hatchback body styles and there are four major trim levels: Launch Edition, S, SE and SEL.

A new 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder serves as the Golf's base engine. It produces 170 horsepower and 200 pound-feet of torque. The Launch Edition is only available with a five-speed manual transmission, while the S can be optioned with a six-speed automatic. The SE and SEL are only offered with the automatic. You can also get a diesel-powered four-cylinder engine for the Golf (TDI). This turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel makes 150 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and a six-speed automated manual transmission known as DSG is optional. Expect the TDI's fuel economy to be in the high 30-mpg range in combined driving.

The Launch Edition (two-door only) only comes with a manual transmission. Standard features include air-conditioning, hill-hold assist, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a 5.8-inch touchscreen audio interface and iPod connectivity. The S is available in either body style and features alloy wheels, cruise control, premium vinyl upholstery and VW's Car-Net emergency telematics system. The SE trim is only available as a four-door with the automatic transmission and comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic wipers, a sunroof, heated front seats, a rearview camera and a premium audio system. The SEL features 18-inch wheels, keyless ignition and entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, sport front seats, a power driver seat and a navigation system.

The TDI models are four-door only. The Golf TDI S includes all of the Golf SE features but substitutes 16-inch alloy wheels. The Golf TDI SE adds 17-inch wheels, while the TDI SEL is appointed identically to its gasoline SEL counterpart.

Option highlights include bi-xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, ambient interior lights, front and rear parking sensors and a forward collision warning system.

In reviews, we've found that the front seats are very comfortable but although the rear ones are roomy, they're somewhat low, making them best for smaller passengers. As expected, the cabin is trimmed with class-leading materials, and most controls are easy to use. On the road, the 1.8-liter turbo four-cylinder engine provides brisk acceleration, while the TDI continues to offer an impressive combination of performance and high fuel economy. The Golf rides comfortably over ruts and potholes and feels secure when going around turns. Still, more demanding enthusiasts will notice an abundance of body roll and likely feel that the steering is too light and not as communicative as some more sporting rivals. For them, there is always the high-performance Golf GTI.

Used Volkswagen Golf Models
For 2010, the Volkswagen Golf name returned, marking the first year for the redesigned sixth-generation model. It was produced until 2014. The compact hatchback was again available in a two- or four-door body style. Changes were limited to minor equipment shuffling until 2014, this generation's final year, when that two-door body style was dropped and the 2.5L model could no longer be had with a manual transmission.

Base Golfs were powered by a 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine with 170 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual was standard (until its final year) and a six-speed automatic was optional. Standard equipment included air-conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and an auxiliary audio jack. The Golf TDI model featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel with 140 hp and a robust 236 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual was standard and VW's six-speed dual-clutch automated manual (DSG) was optional. EPA-estimated combined fuel economy was an impressive 34 mpg. The TDI trim also featured a sport-tuned suspension, Bluetooth connectivity, an upgraded stereo and an iPod interface. A navigation system and xenon headlamps were optional.

In reviews, this Golf stood apart from other entries in the compact class thanks to its higher overall level of refinement, upscale interior, composed ride quality and subdued yet classy styling. Should you be shopping for a Golf from this generation, we strongly recommend the TDI model because of its higher level of equipment, better performance and superior fuel economy. The 2.5-liter engine is powerful for the class, but fuel economy suffers for it.

Previous to this, there was the fifth-generation model, which VW named the Rabbit. Should you be interested in a used Golf, it's important to keep this in mind.

Introduced midway through the 1999 model year and sold up until mid-2006, the fourth-generation Golf sported clean lines, an impressive standard features roster and the availability of turbodiesel power -- a rarity in any segment, let alone the economy car sector. In keeping with tradition, three body styles were available: a two-door hatchback, a four-door hatchback and a convertible (sold as a separate model under the Cabrio name).

Enjoyable to drive thanks to its responsive chassis, this Golf also offered a variety of engines. The GTI could be had with a 2.8-liter six-cylinder "VR6" engine (a compact, narrow-angle V6, which made up to 200 hp) or a 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. The turbo-4, or 1.8T, as it was called, made either 150 or 180 hp, depending on the year; the 150-horse version was available on the standard four-door Golf in 2000 and 2001.

Known as the TDI, the Golf's diesel offering consisted of a 1.9-liter turbodiesel inline-4, initially rated for 90 hp and capable of returning nearly 50 mpg on the highway. Golf TDI models sold from 2004-'06 had an updated version of the 1.9-liter that delivered 100 hp. Late in the model run, the limited-edition high-performance R32 was offered, sporting a 3.2-liter 240-hp VR6, all-wheel drive and tasteful body accents; it was sold only as a 2004 model.

Most folks shopping the used Volkswagen Golf market within these years, however, will probably be looking at the volume-seller Golfs (the GL and GLS trim levels), most of which were powered by an outdated two-valves-per-cylinder 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. With just 115 hp -- compared to the 125-150-hp ratings of most peers -- and below-average fuel mileage, this power plant offered the worst of both worlds. Buyers looking at '99 models should note that both third- and fourth-generation Golfs were sold that year. Horsepower is the same, but the engines in the new Golfs had an upgraded cylinder head design for better low-end response.

If possible, we suggest looking for a fourth-gen Golf with either the 1.9-liter TDI or the 1.8-liter turbo instead. Note that Golf TDIs are relatively easy to find on the used car market, while four-door Golf 1.8T models may be hard to come by because of their short, two-year run. If you want the turbocharged 1.8-liter engine, you're more likely to find it in the two-door GTI.

Generally, our editors found this Golf to be a likable vehicle to drive. Compared to other economy cars or hatchbacks of the time, the VW Golf stood out because of its long list of standard features, high-quality cabin materials and generally fun-to-drive nature. Downsides included a high price when new (now largely negated by depreciation), the aforementioned 2.0-liter engine and mediocre reliability.

The third generation of the VW Golf ran from 1993 to mid-1999 and sported a more cohesive design than past models, with monochromatic bumpers that blended into the body and a strong character line chiseled into the profile. The 115-hp 2.0-liter inline-4 was the volume engine, while the GTI offered the VR6, a narrow-angle 2.8-liter V6 that provided a thrilling 172 hp. Golf TDI models were offered intermittently during this generation, as VW had difficulty getting its 90-hp turbodiesel four-cylinder to meet U.S. emissions regulations. Although fun to drive, this generation of the Volkswagen Golf was notorious for spotty electrical problems. Notably, '93 Golfs can be hard to find, as a strike at the assembly plant limited sales to California and the New England states.

Spanning the years 1985-'92, the second generation of Volkswagen's Beetle replacement had a busier version of the previous Golf/Rabbit's basic styling. Power ranged from a 1.6-liter, 52-hp diesel to a 2.0-liter, 131-hp 16-valve inline-4 as seen in the GTI. Most Golfs from this era had a 1.8-liter four-cylinder. Initially, the 1.8-liter was listed at 85 hp, but it was later re-rated for 100. As this generation generally wasn't known for ultimate longevity, chances are slim of finding a choice example in the used car market.

User Reviews:

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  What a great little car! - 2011 Volkswagen Golf
  By mbloof - February 24 - 11:29 pm

  I was shopping Mini Coopers and other small economical hatch backs when I decided to try out the Golf TDI. It handles like a go-cart, feels like a mid-size, nice and quiet inside, rarely sounds like a diesel, plenty of power - you REALLY have to watch as its easy to speed in this car. Mine came with: DSG Auto, HID headlights and touch screen sound. I really was not looking for flappers on the steering or 3 way shifting tranny (auto, sport auto and manual/auto) however Im very pleased with the DSG even leaving it in "D" %99 of the time. It shifts smoothly without jerkyness. The TDI is a bit surprising - most of the time feels like a gas engine - other times some turbo lag.

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  i am not sure now - 2000 Volkswagen Golf
  By aqueen - February 6 - 2:00 am

  Having been driving it for 2.5 years, love to drive it as much as hate to repair it. I havent had the window broken problem but something even worse.. the "check engine light" just keep coming on again and again. It was ok before the mfg warranty expired but beyond 2 years, i have to pay $75 everytime just to have the dealership to diagnose it, not mention the repair ocst. it is all about the poor sensors which can often give false alarm only because it snows or rains too much (humidity).

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  good car - 2004 Volkswagen Golf
  By hvy - January 28 - 2:06 am

  Over 24000 in 8 months, no problems to date. Live in wisconsin, cold starting not a problem. Do recommend using fuel additive. 45-51 mpg so far. Im 6-3, 255 and I find the car very comfortable to drive ,seats very supportive. Looking to buy 06 Passat TDI for wife next year.

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  VW isnt what it used to be!!! - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
  By 2002 TDI - FL - January 20 - 10:00 am

  I dont know if consumer reports and all the people complaining of problems are cryn wolf...??? My car has had multiple problems since day one! I am pretty sure VW-DE is at fault, whether the car comes from Germany or South America. My trani and motor came from Germany and both have had serious problems. My trani was replaced (main bearing and 5th gear syncron shot), my fuel injection pump was replaced, and not to mention all the other lil things that were replaced. Two thumbs down for the Golf. Hope the R32 and the MKV will be better. Message for the Germans: "stop sending us crap, were catchn on to you!"

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  Golf Diesel - 2002 Volkswagen Golf
  By Walter Remy - January 20 - 3:46 am

  This is a really fun car to drive. It gets great fuel economy and it extremely reliable. This car now has over 50,000 miles with no problems whatsoever. The paint finish and interior stll look like almost new.

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  GOLF - Gorgeous-Outstanding-Lovable-Fun - 2004 Volkswagen Golf
  By viyes - January 14 - 2:40 pm

  My 2004.5 Golf, white-4D, 2L 17"- 235R45 Pirelli-ZR, gets 28 mpg! It is GORGEOUS! It has a class looking exterior and interior finish. It is OUTSTANDING! It has great performance rain on shine and great road handling. It is LOVABLE. It has stereo precision, adjustable front seats, and freezing A/C. It is FUN. Its a great workhorse. It is my performance commuter car!

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  Golf GL - 2002 Volkswagen Golf
  By DVCJ - January 12 - 10:00 am

  Great interior, solid feel, ABS standard, side air-bags standard. Costs a bit more than a Focus but what a difference in feel and overall quality.

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  LOVE this Car!!! - 2015 Volkswagen Golf
  By jiteng - December 27 - 2:22 am

  I was looking for an economy hatch (around $25K) that was extremely comfortable for long trips, quiet at hwy speeds, gave great hwy mpgs and had decent tech. The choice came down to 3 cars- Mazda3 2.5GT, Kia Forte5 and the 2015 Golf TSI SE. The Kia has the best technology and creature comforts including heated and cooled driver seat, heated steering wheel etc... But I did not enjoy how it drove and the interior felt sort of lower tier. The Mazda3 was extremely impressive in just about every area but a lack of storage around the driver and no option for a lighter blue had me look toward the Golf. When I finally test drove it I felt like I was home. Just perfect in every area. Quieter (cont..)

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  Adios VW - 2000 Volkswagen Golf
  By Pdodge77 - December 8 - 10:00 am

  I bought the Golf because my wife had an 89 Jetta that was built like a tank. The problems didnt start until just before the warranty expired. At 22,000 miles we had to have the engine computer and various sensors replaced. Oil just "disappears" and mileage is about 20mpg. Brakes and water pump went at 40,000, alternator ($600) at 42,000. The plastic parts and glue have been getting worse and worse all summer. I walked out one morning to find the passenger side trim just hanging (thank god for crazy glue). Were taking a loss and trading it in for a Toyota Matrix. Dont know if Ill trust the Germans ever again...

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  My VW Lemon... - 2001 Volkswagen Golf
  By thiscarstinks - December 8 - 10:00 am

  This car is handsdown the single worst investment of my life. I have had SEVERAL headlight replaced before finding out (after the warranty expired) that the housing was bad. I have had my mass airflow sensor replaced (in hopes that it would end the shaking and stalling that occurred at least twice a day), and I have recently encountered transmission problems, that my dealer isnt helping with. Bottom line: I have pumped thousands of dollars into this car and I am selling it so as to avoid sinking any more of my hard-earned cash into this demon spawn.