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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  3rd Diesel/7th VW - 2003 Volkswagen Golf
  By TDIBabs - March 27 - 10:00 am

  This is the 3rd Diesel in our family (also had a Rabbit and currently an 18- year old Jetta that still runs fine). I picked up my TDI the other day and so far have been very impressed. It doesnt have the same zoom as my Subie, but since its mostly for city traffic, its perfect. It may be the best commuter/city driving car ever--maybe thats why its so popular in Europe. BTW, they seem to have revised the cupholder placement on the later 2003s, or maybe its because mine has Monsoon. Theyre down between the seats, and can even hold Big Gulps.

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  A subjective review by a tall driver - 2010 Volkswagen Golf
  By Chris - March 20 - 4:03 pm

  The GOLF is a very comfortable car. I say this as a 66" driver. As usual VW seems to offer the most room even if the mere numbers on the fact sheet would not suggest it. The range up/down range for the driver seat is huge. The steering wheel has great range both for up/down and telescope. The larger fwd windows of the 2 dr offer great visibility, although for the shoulder view the smaller rear windows can be an obstacle. Handling is tight, precise yet very smooth. The Sport Mode is aggressive and a joy to drive in. Gas mileage is better than advertised so far. The materials are seamlessly connected and the car feels upper scale. However, a few annoying interior noises have yet to subside.

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  67000+ and counting - 2002 Volkswagen Golf
  By applehead - March 13 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my 2000 Golf GL TDI 5 speed new in March, 2000. The odometer now shows 67k+ miles, 2/3 at 65+ mph. The only service has been routine oil changes every 10k, using fully synthetic oil. No problems of any sort, and I still average 50 mpg. This car does everything well; very good acceleration and handling, excellent cargo capacity, a plethora of safety features. The overall performance is so good, when I first test drove a TDI, I asked the salesman if he was sure it was a diesel! Farfignugen works!

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  Why did i buy one? - 2002 Volkswagen Golf
  By mstellaluna - March 7 - 10:00 am

  Once I saw the Golf, i fell in love with it. But the car has been brought at least 8 times back to VW for repairs. My car came with a broken light, a leak in the sealing around the rear window, and a busted alarm. The alarm took several visits to fix. Then the transmission as acting up. The car needed to red-line to change gear, the car felt as if it was forcing itself to move. The car is now has suspension issues. The suspension equalizer bar needed lubrification (why was it missing in the first place?),but still have the whistling sound coming from the front of the car after hitting some bumps. Please avoid.

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  Try it, youll like it - 2004 Volkswagen Golf
  By USPSORUM - March 4 - 10:00 am

  My friends told me I was crazy to buy a diesel. They were crazy not too. Its a tight, quiet car, very quick and fun to drive. Plus, it always gets over 40 mpg. Not for big families but can carry 5 adults if you have to. Went on a 2000 mile driving trip with 4 adults--we were fine. Great in the snow.

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  Lemon - 2004 Volkswagen Golf
  By t shirt man - February 26 - 10:00 am

  New car had to be jump started in showroom I should have known not to take it. They told me it was from the doors being left open. Ive had the car three weeks,I got to drive it for 8 days. They say its a short in the clock but the part has to be made in Germany. I guess I should have bought the magic beans that Jack bought because I would have believed that sooner. No Help from VW Hotline also. I asked for my money back or a new car, they said you bought the beans now you are stuck with them. As of my car they still do not know when it will be repaired. PLEASE DO NOT BUY VW.

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  Love - Hate Relationship - 2010 Volkswagen Golf
  By casper42 - February 22 - 5:56 am

  This is my very first love-hate relationship and its with my TDI Golf. VW clearly has design problems. The most dangerous issue is the engine can occasionally lose all power under hard acceleration for 3-5 seconds followed by engine roaring to life with a cloud of white smoke out the tailpipe. VW can not diagnose or replicate complaint, but NHTSA has many complaints of this for the 2009-2010 diesel. The seat fabric is inferior and frays, the clutch on the 6 speed manual is very easy to stall with long clutch travel but very short engagement. I also suspect inferior glass in windshield, as today I have a total of two rock chips and one huge crack...1st crack in 32 years of driving!

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  3K mi in - 2 months - 2013 Volkswagen Golf
  By j33ie - February 18 - 11:14 pm

  I did my homework to get my wife an economical car that would be an upgrade to her horrid corolla. Went with the TDI due to its track history. Fuel economy is better than EPA estimates. Driving it is smooth, fun and flawless. My wife loves to push its acceleration abilities. Handles brilliantly. Brakes are solid. The displays are great and intuitive. Bluetooth audio is pretty sweet as well -they dont advertise that feature. I like driving it more than my Saab 9-3 2.0T except for the fact that it is red. This car beats many Audis in price and comfort (same maker, I know). Overall, the best car I have owned and one of the few I would buy new due to its high resale value.

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  Best Fuel Economy - 2005 Volkswagen Golf
  By Keala Gonsalves - February 17 - 3:50 am

  All in all this has been the best purchase weve ever made. Its only been a couple of weeks & I havent filled up the tank yet! this is an incredible car, and fun to drive. We would recommend this vehicle to anyone wanting to skip the high price gas lines. If the extra room is what you need, look into the diesel Jetta!

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  12 TDI - 2012 Volkswagen Golf
  By ronsulli - February 14 - 1:45 am

  I got it my TDI new mid july . its at 29,000 miles , i love driving it , great car wouldnt trade it . 9.5 out of 10 . get one youll love it takes you every where , on a dime of diesel . from El Paso to Houston and back 150 bucks in diesel ! around 1500 miles .