Volkswagen Golf

Overview: Is the Volkswagen Golf a good compact hatchback?

The Volkswagen Golf is a great choice for a compact hatchback that is well-rounded, combining German quality, performance, and practicality. But while not necessarily true, the Volkswagen Golf has been seen as more expensive to purchase and maintain than its rivals. Moreover, the Volkswagen Golf, particularly its base version, seemed to lack the visual appeal to appease American customers.

Volkswagen has discontinued the Golf in North America, ending the hatchback’s run with the 2021 model year. However, the German carmaker had the Golf family name carried with the Mk 8 Volkswagen Golf GTI and Volkswagen Golf R. Older models and versions – including the Volkswagen Alltrack and Volkswagen e-Golf are still being sold in the used vehicle market.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for a used Volkswagen Golf for sale.

Find a used Volkswagen Golf near me.

Related: The Best Year For The Volkswagen Golf

Key Features

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf offers:

• A practical hatchback in a one-package-fits-all experience
• A turbo four-cylinder engine as standard
• A standard six-speed manual transmission and an available eight-speed automatic
• A panoramic moonroof and heated front seats
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity
• An electric version called the e-Golf

Trims

Considering that it is the last installment, the 2021 Volkswagen Golf is only available in one trim in the United States – the TSI trim. However, customers were able to spice up their Volkswagen Golf with various options.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The Volkswagen Golf has been able to provide great ride quality on most road surfaces. The hatchback can absorb road imperfections, resulting in a more comfortable ride on most occasions. Its straightforward climate controls and adjustable vents can easily cool the interior, although seating might not be comfortable for all types of passengers.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf features a small 6.5-inch screen, yet complicated operations are needed to select certain menus. The Golf comes with various driving aids, although adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist are not available.

As a hatchback, the Volkswagen Golf is quite practical, with a considerable cargo room at 22.8 cubic feet. It offers more cargo space than some rivals. Interior storage is adequate.

How It Drives

The Volkswagen Golf has been known for its great handling and versatile nature. Most drivers find the Golf smooth to drive, especially when loaded with a quick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. The base model doesn’t seem to produce a dynamic drive at par with rivals; it even underperforms under full-throttle acceleration.

Safety

Both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety have crash-tested the Volkswagen Golf. The Golf earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, but failed to get Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ accolades from the IIHS due to low headlight ratings.

Reviews

Volkswagen Golf review from consumers at Edmunds gave the luxury sports car a very high rating of 4.4/5 stars. Around 77% and 6% of consumer reviews gave the Volkswagen Golf 5-star and 4-star ratings, respectively. They cited the Volkswagen Golf’s reliability, stability and comfort, as well as fuel economy.

Learn more: How Long Do Volkswagen Golfs Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

Volkswagen Golf FAQs

Why is Volkswagen discontinuing the Volkswagen Golf?

Volkswagen discontinued the Golf in the US due to dwindling demand and sales. Customers wanted a more potent version of the hatchback, though.

Is the VW Golf cheap?

A 2021 Volkswagen Golf with a standard six-speed manual transmission starts at $23,195. Depending on trim or equipment level, the Golf is relatively cheaper or more expensive than its rivals.

Is the Volkswagen Golf R or GTI better?

The Volkswagen Golf R is sportier and more potent than the Volkswagen Golf GTI. However, the Golf R is also more expensive.

Check out a used Volkswagen Golf for sale.