VW's best-selling Golf has gotten a bit of an update for the 2018 model year, with most of these improvements being under the hood or relating to the revamped infotainment system. Priced in the low-midlevel market, the Golf is often considered pricey for a compact car and sometimes overlooked because of this. The Golf is available in a few formats, a wagon, hatchback back and the smaller "hot hatches" that offer a sportier profile. The only exterior enhancement is the addition of LED backlights. There are fewer trim options available, but powertrains and a number of different models on offer. This is a great car for people looking for a moderately priced car and still want to enjoy a top-level driving experience.
The new features in the 2018 Golf are mainly on the inside as this model year is heavy on new tech enhancements. Outside you may notice the standard LED rear brake lights, but once you get into the car, you'll notice a lot! The stand-ut feature for most is the improved infotainment that is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
There are three trim packages available with the 2018 Golf: Automaticbahn, S, and SE. Not all trims are available with all engine sizes, and not all features are compatible with all of the trims- it is confusing! Due to the great interior features that mostly come standard, the trim packages focus on such exterior features as wheels, luggage racks, and splash guards.
Some potential drivers are surprised that the average mpg for the VW Golf is not as high as those of other popular compact cars. Granted, you will gain more in the performance column for what is lost in fuel efficiency, but it is something to consider. Average levels are in the low 20s for city driving and mid-30s for the open road.
The 4-door S is the basic model, and it comes with a manual transmission, starts at $26,415 with the top-of-the-range R coming in at over $40,000. The nice thing about the Golf, that for many people the standard/basic model meets all of their needs.
At the current time, the latest IIHS ratings are unavailable, although they are not expected to vary too much from the 2017 range of Golfs. Cars equipped with the optional safety features receive a top "Advanced" rating, with all others at the still impressive "Good" rank.
The cargo space in the Golf wagons is truly impressive, clocking in even higher than most crossovers and some SUVs at 66.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. Even in the non-wagon Golf models there's still a fair bit of room: 53 cubic feet when you've got the seats folded down, 23 when they're up.
A lot of people are excited about the addition of the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but that is just the beginning. The display screen starts out at 6.5 inches and increases from there, depending on the package. High resolution screens in the R model create a digital cockpit that most drivers find exciting.
1.8-liter turbo-four with 170 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque represent the standard model powertrain for the hatchback and wagons. A five-speed manual is standard with a 6-speed available as an option.