The 2015 Golf has been redesigned from the ground up, and thanks to its earlier release in Europe, has already received many accolades including the “2013 World Car of the Year” award.
The VW Golf is the world’s second best-selling model in history with about 30 million of them sold over 40 years. The original was made in 1974 and was designed as a front-wheel drive, front-engine replacement to VW’s air-cooled, rear-engine, rear-wheel drive Beetle.
Building on the Beetle’s core philosophy, the Golf Mk1 was simple, good looking, and had an affordable price — and was a hatchback.
It seemed like a good idea at the time, and it continues to prove the concept still holds value, as each new generation sticks with the same recipe.
James May, host of BBC’s Top Gearrecently said, “Golfs are like potatoes. You wouldn’t want to do without them, even though they’re not really that exciting.” That is until you consider the sporty GTI version.
Design
The all-new Golf is based on Volkswagen’s corporate “MQB Platform” and shares it with the Audi A3.
Through engineering advances, this Golf is the safest, best handling and roomiest of all time.
Despite all of the sheet metal being new, the 2015 Golf is still instantly recognizable. The two-box profile remains, but the hood is steeper and the narrow grille is flanked by sharper headlights.
The new architecture makes the new Golf close to two inches longer, about the same width, and roughly an inch lower than the outgoing model.
Wheelbase is increased 2.3 inches and allows for a more spacious cabin and better space utilization.
Using high-strength steel, VW has increased the rigidity of the Golf without adding weight. This results in improved fuel efficiency and performance.
The 2015 Golf is available in both three-door and five-door hatchback models; there are three trim lines to choose from as well.
Performance
Initially, the Golf will be available with three different four-cylinder engines. The base, and likely most common, will be the 1.8-litre gasoline engine in TSI models. This motor is rated at 170 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque.
The optional engine is the TDI’s 2.0-litre turbodiesel. The Golf TDI produces 150 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. Both powertrains are more efficient but still feel peppy and refined.
The base transmission for TSI Golfs is a five-speed manual, which is good yet unexciting in some ways. The six-speed automatic provides smooth and linear power delivery. TDI models have the choice of either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic DSG with Tiptronic – this latter selection is truly world-class.
Both the TSI and TDI have the same suspension set up, and therefore driving characteristics are similar. The TDI’s additional torque makes it quicker off the line, but they offer a solid, comfortable ride with crisp handling.
Those seeking more performance can opt for VW’s iconic GTI. The GTI’s 2.0-litre turbo produces 210 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, and it comes standard with the six-speed manual while the six-speed auto DSG is available as an option. Trimmed either way, the GTI adequately harnesses the extra horsepower and gives the Golf GTI a sporty attitude that is surprisingly refined and smooth. The only disappointment about the new GTI is its light steering – it just doesn’t provide sufficient road feel and makes this model feel bit too “normal” in comparison to its predecessor.
All Golf models benefit from VW’s Cross Differential System (XDS). Previously only available on the GTI, this system monitors the suspension load and will brake the inside wheel to relieve understeer.
Environment
The 2015 Golf’s interior boasts high-grade materials and a level of fit and finish that looks like they came from Audi’s (which isn’t surprising considering that VW and Audi share many suppliers which provide the interior trims). The cabin is very accommodating and offers ample passenger space.
Thanks to its innovative “MQB Platform,” the new Golf offers more shoulder room in both rows. Rear seat legroom has also been increased.
VW has raised the level of quality, and the result is the Golf is incredibly comfortable to travel in. The suspension is nice and supple, allowing it to glide over bumps and the sound-proofing makes the cabin serenely quiet.
The Golf comes with a massive standard features list. All trim levels feature a 5.8-inch colour touchscreen, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, and Satellite radio.
Cargo volume below the parcel shelf is measured at 17.4 cubic feet and 23.7 cubic feet up to the ceiling. Max capacity is 53.7 cubic feet and loading is made easier by the flat floor.
The only thing marring its otherwise great quality is an unnecessarily loud clicking noise that can be heard every time the car was shifted in reverse.
Features
Pricing for the 2015 Golf starts at $18,995 and ranges up to $34,295
Standard equipment includes keyless entry, heated exterior mirrors, power windows with key closing feature, automatic post-collision braking, Intelligent Crash Response System, and speed-sensitive power steering.
Additional features, available as options or on higher trims, include cruise control, heated front seats, heated windshield washer nozzles, rain-sensing wipers, a rearview camera, and a panoramic sunroof.
Fuel efficiency numbers (L/100km) for the 1.8-litre TSI are 9.3 city and 6.4 highway. TDI models return 7.7 city and 5.2 highway. The GTI’s 2.0-litre is rated at 9.4 city and 6.9 highway.
Thumbs Up
The VW Golf offers a cabin with a luxurious level of refinement. The new electronic differential improves performance and safety. A great looking car all around.
Thumbs Down
While the VW Golf has been billed as the only car anyone will ever need, it’s not the most exciting car on the market, nor is it the cheapest or most efficient.
The Bottom Line
It is impressive that VW is able to build the 2015 Golf with this level of refinement yet still offer it at this price point.
