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The Volkswagen Golf is one of the best-known and best hatchbacks in the world. It single-handedly defined the family hatchback format back in the 1970s, and multiple generations since then have perfected the formula.
It’s the default choice for many, and this shouldn’t be seen as a negative. The Volkswagen Golf has long been one of the best cars in its class, and the latest version builds on a formidable reputation with more technology, ability and refinement than ever.
There are plenty of cars to rival the Volkswagen Golf but the best are the popular Ford Focus, the impressive Honda Civic and the BMW 1 Series.
The latest Volkswagen Golf has its critics, largely because of its tech-heavy interior. It takes time to learn how to use all the functions integrated into the touchscreen, and even physical heater buttons have been replaced by menus within the system. If you’re buying or leasing a new VW Golf, be sure to get a detailed handover from your local dealer.
When it was first introduced, some didn’t like the new styling either. We think it’s maturing nicely, though, and certainly gives the latest VW Golf more character than earlier, more evolutionary generations. Volkswagen offers some vibrant colours and, of course, panel fit and paint finish are exemplary. This is a very high-quality car indeed.
The model range is brilliantly diverse. There’s an amazing array of engines, from regular fuel-sipping petrol and diesels, to high-performance hot versions, to a plug-in hybrid that has a surprisingly useful pure electric range.
Add in the number of different models and trim lines, and you’re almost certain to find a VW Golf perfectly tailored for you. And while the sheer array of choice may be intimidating at first, we hope our guide to the latest Volkswagen Golf models will help you find the ideal model to buy or lease.
The Volkswagen Golf has a fine reputation as a premium-grade family hatchback that can do it all. It’s been constantly developed over eight generations, and honed into something that has few weaknesses and plenty of strengths.
The digital-first approach of the latest model can be off-putting at first, but stick with it and it does start to make more sense. It also allows Volkswagen to pack a premium-level of functionality into the latest VW Golf, making it easily the safest, most advanced and most connected generation yet.
The firm hasn’t overlooked hot hatch fans either, with the performance end of the range offering more choice than ever before. And for those who rate fuel economy higher than performance, the plug-in hybrid is an interesting addition. The petrol and diesel engines are also more economical than ever.
If you’re in the market for a family hatchback, you definitely need to have the Volkswagen Golf on your shortlist. It’s the standard by which all others are judged.
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The Volkswagen Golf is so well-equipped that most buyers won’t really need anything more than the most affordable Golf Life. It ticks all the boxes, really: a flashy infotainment system, the digital dash and bits of chrome trim to lift the cabin.
Having said that, Active and (particularly) Style models do bring some extra niceties that help make the Golf feel like a rival to more premium hatchbacks. R-Line trim is the most sporty-looking inside and out, but the sports suspension and bigger wheels does take away some of the Golf's impeccable comfort.
In terms of engines, the 1.5-litre petrol will suit the majority of buyers. It’s available with a variety of power outputs and manual or automatic gearboxes. There isn’t a bad choice, really - it comes down to personal preference. Even the 1.0-litre petrol is perfectly adequate, if not thrilling.
The diesels are fine if you cover lots of miles but don’t bother if most of your journeys are around town. It's worth considering the plug-in hybrid models, too, for silent and cheap about-town running, although they're not as frugal as the diesels once the battery is depleted, and you really need somewhere to charge them at home.
Volkswagen Golf 1.0 TSI 110: The smallest and most affordable Volkswagen Golf engine, the 1.0-litre TSI is a three-cylinder turbo motor producing 110PS. It’s paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, emits 123g/km CO2 and averages 52.3mpg. Zero to 62mph takes a reasonable 10.2 seconds.
Volkswagen Golf 1.0 eTSI 110 DSG: The 1.0 eTSI 110 is a mild hybrid version of the base engine. It comes as standard with a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG automatic gearbox and official fuel economy improves to 54.3mpg. CO2 emissions drop a little, to 117g/km.
Volkswagen Golf 1.5 TSI 130: The larger 1.5-litre TSI 130 is a four-cylinder turbocharged engine featuring clever Active Cylinder Technology. During light loads, such as when coasting, two cylinders are imperceptibly closed down to save fuel. It boasts CO2 emissions as low as 122g/km and can average up to 52.3mpg, while 0-62mph takes 9.2 seconds.
Volkswagen Golf 1.5 TSI 150: This more powerful 150PS version of the 1.5 TSI engine cuts the 0-62mph time to 8.5 seconds, yet it’s still fuel-efficient. Economy is as high as 51.4mpg, with CO2 emissions from 125g/km.
Volkswagen Golf 1.5 eTSI 150 DSG: This powertrain sees the 1.5 TSI engine combined with 48V mild hybrid technology and a standard seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox. Reckon on up to 49.6mpg, plus CO2 emissions from 130g/km
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI eHybrid 204 DSG: The first of two plug-in hybrid Golfs is the 1.4 TSI eHybrid 204. It has a pure electric range of around 40 miles and official economy of 246mpg, backed up by low CO2 emissions of 21g/km. This means a low 8 percent BIK tax rating for company car drivers. A DSG automatic ’box is standard.
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI PHEV 245 DSG: A more powerful plug-in hybrid is the sporty Golf GTE, which has a 245PS version of the 1.4 TSI engine and electric motor. It offers an electric range of 38 miles and a 12 percent BIK tax rating, courtesy of 27g/km CO2 emissions. Zero to 62mph takes just 6.7 seconds.
Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TDI 115: The entry-level diesel Golf is a 115PS version of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder motor. It averages a very impressive 67.3mpg and emits 110g/km CO2, while 0-62mph takes 10.2 seconds.
Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TDI 150 DSG: A higher-powered 150PS version of the 2.0-litre diesel is offered on Style and R-Line versions of the Golf. The sprint to 62mph takes 8.8 seconds, yet it’s still able to average up to 62.8mpg. It only comes with a DSG automatic gearbox.
Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TDI 200 DSG: The Golf GTD is another sporty alternative to the Golf GTI with a fuel-saving engine: this time, a 2.0-litre TDI with 200PS. Zero to 62mph takes a swift 7.1 seconds, which is good going for a car that can average 54mpg.
Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TSI 245: The classic Volkswagen Golf GTI uses a rorty 245PS 2.0-litre TSI engine, which is good for 0-62mph in 6.4 seconds. It averages around 38mpg and emits 168g/km. A six-speed manual is standard to keep traditionalists happy, while a seven-speed DSG auto is optional.
Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TSI 300 DSG: The Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport is a more focused take on the classic front-wheel-drive GTI formula, with a potent 300PS engine that is combined with a seven-speed DSG gearbox. The dash to 62mph takes a scant 5.6 seconds.
Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TSI 320 DSG 4Motion: The ultimate Volkswagen Golf is the R, which has a 320PS 2.0-litre engine combined with a DSG automatic transmission and 4Motion four-wheel drive. Standstill to 62mph takes just 4.7 seconds and it’s only an electronic limiter that stops it going beyond 155mph.
The latest Volkswagen Golf 8 is now available on the second-hand market in growing numbers. These days, the TSI and eTSI petrol engines prove most popular, while the high-performance GTE, GTI and R range-toppers also have a strong following. It’s also worth checking out the previous version of the Golf, dubbed Mk7.5, as it remains a great all-rounder. Prices are more affordable than for the latest model, too.
There is an exciting array of Volkswagen Golf models and trim lines, all offering comprehensive specs and an interesting choice of options.
The Volkswagen Golf Life is the entry-level VW Golf Mk8. Even this model has a good haul of onboard tech and connectivity features, though, while full body colour-coding and alloy wheels give it a premium appearance.
The Volkswagen Golf Style has bigger alloy wheels, crisp LED ‘Plus’ headlights and the indulgence of three-zone climate control that gives those in the rear their own air-con controls. We love the fancy ‘Art Velours’ upholstery, too.
The Volkswagen Golf R-Line is a VW Golf that combines mainstream engines (including mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid motors) with a Golf R-influenced appearance. It has R-Line bumpers, sports seats, rear tinted glass and cool 30-colour interior ambient lighting.
The Volkswagen Golf GTE is the first of five performance-focused VW Golf variants. ‘GTE’ signifies a plug-in hybrid drivetrain, with blue accents for the Jacara checked cloth upholstery.
The Volkswagen Golf GTD is the sporty diesel, and the GTD has a black theme to its Jacara cloth upholstery. Otherwise, it’s a similar spec to the GTE and, yes, the VW Golf GTI.
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is the eighth generation of the original hot hatch. Red is the theme here, as is a decidedly sporty makeover that’s much more outgoing than earlier VW Golf GTIs.
The Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport has a bit more power, a bit more focus, and is set apart from the normal GTI by its alternative alloy wheels, GTI Clubsport bumpers and distinctive side graphics.
The Volkswagen Golf R is the ultimate hot VW Golf, with a full R styling pack, black diamond-turned alloys, quad exhaust tailpipes and the option of exclusive (and highly desirable) Lapiz Blue paint.
The Volkswagen Golf’s exterior dimensions are:
Length: 4284mm
Width: 1789mm
Height: 1491mm
Ground clearance: 134mm
The Volkswagen Golf’s boot size is:
381 litres
1237 litres with rear seats folded
After the first year (which is dependent on CO2 emissions), you’ll pay a flat rate of £180 a year in car tax on the Volkswagen Golf. The mild-hybrid eTSI model, however, is classed as alternatively-fuelled, so you’ll say £10 a year in VED - bringing your annual bill down to £170.
The plug-in hybrid VW Golfs are free to tax for the first year, and £10 cheaper than conventional petrol and diesel models for the following years.
The cheapest Volkswagen Golf to insure is the regular 1.0 TSI Life, with a group 14 rating (out of 50). Moving up to the 1.5 TSI 130 Life sees it edge three groups higher, while Style and R-Line move to group 18. The 1.5 TSI 150 starts from group 19. Diesel models start from group 17, with the GTD in group 27: the same as the GTE, and one group lower than the GTI. Fancy a VW Golf R? You’ll be paying the highest insurance premium of all, due to its group 31 rating.
Read our full Volkswagen Golf review
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