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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  Disappointing Fuel Mileage - 2005 Volkswagen Golf
  By Juliet - October 13 - 10:40 am

  Im very happy with the Volkswagen Golf in every respect, except for the fuel mileage and the coating on the middle console is peeling off. I consistently get 38 mpg in town and on the freeway is about the same. I check my mileage religiously at every fill up so I dont know if my fuel is off because CA diesel is supposed to have additives or what. Why is everyone getting better gas mileage than me? I drive 60 mph on the freeways and never accelerate fast. The black coating on the armrests and middle console is peeling off also. I dont know why. Our 2000 Jetta had the same problem. Very wierd. Beside that, very happy. However, #1 reason I purchased was for the mileage and THAT is disappointing :(

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  Just read the Lemon Law!!! - 2002 Volkswagen Golf
  By happy - October 5 - 10:00 am

  If you have any recurrent problems with your car you should just read the Lemon Law in your state. Mainly it says if it had 4 unsuccessful repairs for a serious defect/safety defect or it spent more than 30 days in service, no matter if finally repaired or not, the law gives you the right to ask VW of America to repurchase or replace your car. Yeah, thats true, your money back minus some offset mileage and you can buy another one. Just stay away of VW next time. They are SOOOOO POOR at customer support. You dont want to get another car with problems from them. Just read the Lemon Law! Its that simple. And next time, dont buy a VW!

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  I love this car! - 2012 Volkswagen Golf
  By jerseypilot - October 2 - 3:36 am

  I purchased my Golf TDI in December of 2011. My previous car had died an unceremonious death and I needed a car now! This is not how I like to jump into a major purchase but I didnt have a choice. I decided to look in the 20k to 22k range so I drove the Mazda 3, Ford Focus, Impreza as well as few others. On the advice of a friend I drove the Golf. Initially I had bypassed the car due to to the increased cost, but the minute I sat in the car I understood the difference. The car is built like a tank, it is trully solid, the interior is wonderfully designed and feels very upscale. The seats are supremely comfortable and it felt bigger than the other cars I have driven, all before I drove.

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  A Great Little 4-Door Hatchback - 2010 Volkswagen Golf
  By Car Enthusiast - September 28 - 2:56 pm

  Bought it as a surprise BD present for wife to replace her 03 CR-V. Dealer gave me $3k off the msrp! I did some research before I bought. But took the car on the 1st test drive because the deal they offered me was too good to resist. The quality is the best in its class. Fronts seats are very huggy and supportive. We get about 23 city and 32 hwy. I am somewhat disappointed at the power from 170 hp motor. Test drove the new Camry with 2.5L motor seemed a lot more peppier. To take off from stop in D, there is a hesitation. I thought it starts in 2nd but when I put it to M it does show 1st. However, if you take off in S mode, the car seems to be much more peppier with better throttle response.

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  Awesome German Egineering - 2006 Volkswagen Golf
  By Anthony - September 23 - 3:13 pm

  This is my second Golf, my fourth VW, and my first TDI. I love it so much for its good fuel economy. My wife traded her Bettle Convertible for the new Jetta TDI (VW #5).

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  Just purchased in March 2016 - 2016 Volkswagen Golf
  By R Lynch - September 17 - 10:49 am

  Bought a loaded (except Nav) Golf 4door TSI SE in March and love it so far. I think the value of these cars exceeds the competition. The build quality seems like Audi which I have owned in the past. The dealership was also great to deal with. If you are looking for a hatchback you must include the VW Golf TSI in your test drive line-up.

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  2010 Golf - 2010 Volkswagen Golf
  By Ricky - September 9 - 2:43 pm

  The car is great. I picked it up for under 20,000 OTD and my dealership threw in rims, tint, and floor mats (couldnt drive off the lot with hubcaps). Bottom line is my car is getting around 27MPG with a lot of my driving being in the city. I have less than 1k miles so the car run as expected, perfectly. The new VW carefree maintenance program is great, covers all scheduled maintenance including oil changes until 3yrs/36k mi. Compared to other economy cars it is far beyond anything in its price range. All of the little things and build quality made the 2010 GOLF the clear choice for me, instrument panel, interior build, seats are great all & its half the price to insure (compared to civic)

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  so much fun - 2010 Volkswagen Golf
  By jtr750 - September 5 - 9:26 am

  Ive owned the vehicle for three weeks. Filled up for the first time at 525 miles at a little under 1/4 tank left and averaged 38mpg. I have a combination of in town and highway miles driven each day. Considering how I drive, I believe this is fantastic! I have owned a 2001 Dodge Diesel truck which I have kept due to reliability and the fact that it is paid for. I plan on keeping this vehicle for 10 years as well. I hope the reliability is as good as my truck. If so, they may be the last vehicles I own. Diesel is the way to go for reliability and fuel economy.

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  10,000 Update - 2010 Volkswagen Golf
  By deusexmaxima - September 3 - 8:03 pm

  After 10K miles in 7 months (drove from Atlanta, where I bought it, to Los Angeles), Im happy to say that my TDI has exceeded my expectations. Reliability has been excellent, other than the TPMS warning light that was fixed with a software update. My best mileage has been 52.5 mpg, and the solidity has held up pretty well, even over rough LA freeways. Acceleration is as spirited as ever, and I still marvel at the sport seats every time I sit in them (Im almost 63", and achieving this kind of comfort in a small car is no easy feat). Does anyone (who doesnt have ten kids or weigh more than 400 lbs) really need more than this car offers? In my opinion, no.

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  3300 mile Update - 2010 Volkswagen Golf
  By FCWarrior - August 23 - 2:50 pm

  I have the cloth standard seat which are very comfortable but several threads are ripping already after only 3300 miles. Incredible. Dont know how this compares to other vehicles but its a really bad start. I am only 190 lbs and am careful on how I get in and out since I saw this as a potential trouble spot early on. I have yet to take it to the Dealer for the 90 day checkup. If I go even very slowly over neighborhood speed bumps there is a loud metal-on-metal bang as the suspension tops out. The sunroof switch is very counter-intuitive with no obvious detent for closed. So far I get 55 mpg @ 45 mph 43 mpg @55 mph