I just bought 2017 Golf. Most closely compares with Honda Civic Sport. The sport isn't that small anymore. Honda keeps making their cars bigger and bigger with each iteration. In fact, the new Civics are about the same size as Accords a few generations ago. I'm personally not a fan of the exterior design, I think the black squares on the rear and front corners look ridiculous. The Golf design is more true and honest, taking cues from the previous generation. In fact, Volkswagen kept the wheelbase length the same from the previous generation because they were keen to realize that it doesn't make sense to keep making them bigger with each generation. Honda just lost all clues how to design cars and the new Civics takes zero exterior cues from the 8th gen Civics. The Golf ride is surprisingly comfortable, build quality feels very tight and rigid. Car is very solidly put together.
Drew, great review. I like your willingness to view the entry level cars--even world (and motor trend) car of the year-- like the golf. If you would consider doing a careful shoot-out between the golf and it's closest competitor, I'd be stoked. I think that it competes with the base focus and civic. As a 16 golf R owner now, and having owned a sportwagen 15, I think that the golf is truly ahead of its time. Structural rigidity, visibility, ride, handling, the Ward's top 10 engine for 2016, great Seats, I cannot understand why more people aren't enthralled in vw golfs, as am I. They are reliable. They are safe. And the utility of these is tremendous. Ok. Thanks! Jon r
Nice review, Gold Pony! The Golf sure seems like a pretty good value for your money in its class! I have only reviewed one Compact Hatchback so far, and that was the Honda Civic Hatchback. Compared to that vehicle it seems pretty competitive. I really like the flat bottom steering wheel and the very clean, and classy interior design. Even though, some competitors offer larger infotainment screens, that screen is ahead of some of its competitors in some respects! Also, I love the exterior styling which while, a little on the conservative side, is still very attractive looking! Offering a very practical side profile, and a very sophisticated ambiance to it! Keep up the great work! 😉 -DriveAndBeDriven "The Quest To Record The Best!"
Wait if its the 2017 model, where are the new led lights front - rear, the new 1,5 tsi engine along with the rest gasoline and diesels. Also why 5 spd manual and 5 spd auto? In the EU is comes with a 6 spd manual of 7 spd dual clutch... Does the US get different versions than the EU?
Great review. But... PLEASE... get rid of that background music. Not needed because your description is accurate and interesting. And it is absolutely annoying when for those of us who wear headphones.
It needs a 6spd... the gears are too tall, I mean you can do 120KMS in 2nd gear....and you..cna't go uphill in 4th or 5th... even the slightest hill.. :P
