The VW Golf really is the perfect car for most people. It’s a small, fun to drive hatchback that can accommodate 95% of driving needs. It looks good, it’s reliable and it’s affordable. It also offers two different variants that offer an increasing amount of power and fun for those looking for more.
However, taste tends to run toward larger vehicles. Jack up the suspension and add some plastic cladding and the Golf would probably find more buyers (it would also make it a T-Roc, so we’ll get to see how that sells.)
In the meantime, the Golf remains the perfect choice for those who know. And, starting with the 2019 model year, it will get better fuel economy, too (presumably: final numbers have yet to be confirmed.)
Currently available with a 1.8L turbocharged inline-four, good for 170hp and 184lb-ft of torque, the newer model will be getting the 1.4L currently available in the Jetta. Also a turbo four, this engine produces 147hp while keeping the same torque levels. Presumably, it’s smaller size will help wring out more from each tank of gas. This can be coupled with either a manual six-speed (right) or an eight-speed automatic (wrong.)
Only the front-wheel models will get the smaller engine. All-wheel variants, like the Sportwagen Alltrack, keep the larger 1.8L. The GTI and R, of course, keep their more powerful offerings.
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