2014 Volkswagen Golf Review - The 2014 Volkswagen Golf ranks 12 out of 40 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of published reviews and test drives of the Volkswagen Golf, as well as reliability and safety data.
Test drivers praise the 2014 Volkswagen Golf for its refined interior, snappy handling and fuel-efficient diesel engine, but they point out that rival cars have lower base prices.
Test drivers say the Volkswagen Golf’s base five-cylinder engine has plenty of power, but they love the extra torque of the turbodiesel four-cylinder engine in the TDI model, saying it’s peppier from a stop. The standard six-speed automatic shifts quickly and the Golf TDI’s six-speed manual offers an easy-to-use shifter with short throws, reviewers note. The base Golf gets an EPA-estimated 23/30 mpg city/highway, which is low for the class, and the Golf TDI gets 30/42 mpg, which is excellent for the class. The Golf has snappy handling and reviewers say it’s fun to drive, with sharp steering, strong brakes and a controlled ride that absorbs most bumps. The TDI model has a firmer, sportier ride, but all models are comfortable as daily drivers, reviewers say.
Reviewers think the VW Golf has a surprisingly upscale interior for a compact car. They especially love the seats, which they say rival the comfort and support found in some luxury cars’ seats. Standard features include an eight-speaker CD sound system and an auxiliary audio jack. Optional features include Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, satellite radio, iPod connectivity, navigation and an audio system with a touch-screen display. Test drivers say the gauges are clear, the climate controls are easily accessed and the touch-screen audio system easily integrates with a compatible smartphone.
