2018 Volkswagen Golf review
Volkswagen Golf highlights
Customer rating
(not yet rated)
Pros
- Hatchback convenience
- Potent and efficient engine
- Nicer than average cabin materials
Cons
- Some features are not offered
- Automatic transmission is slow to react
- Brakes can be abrupt
Mileage (EPA estimate)
21 city, 29 highway, 24 combined
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
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The 2018 Volkswagen Golf packs a lot of fun and features
In many ways, hatchbacks can deliver a lot more than their small footprint suggests. The 2018 Volkswagen Golf is a prime example of this, as it's smaller than the typical family sedan but can hold as much cargo as some small SUVs. This smart packaging pays dividends for shoppers on a budget since hatchbacks are typically more affordable and have better fuel economy.
This year, the Golf receives the most significant refresh since it was redesigned in 2015. A minor styling update can be found in the exterior lights, and inside you get new features that include smartphone integration and an infotainment system that is available with an 8.5-inch touchscreen. The 2017 Wolfsburg trim has been renamed SE.
The 2018 Golf isn't the only game in town, though, and we recommend checking out its competitors. These include the Honda Civic hatchback, Mazda3, and Hyundai Elantra GT since they offer similar convenience and a peppy, fun-to-drive spirit too.
All Volkswagen Golf years
What is new for the 2018 Volkswagen Golf?
- The Wolfsburg Edition trim has been discontinued for 2018.
- Full Roof Rack and Rear Spoiler features are now available as options on select trims.
- The S trim now comes with Power Seat(s) as standard equipment.
- The SE trim now comes with Blind Spot Monitor, Manual Transmission, Automated Cruise Control, and Leather Seats as standard equipment.
- The SEL trim now comes with Leather Seats as standard equipment.
2018 Volkswagen Golf trims
Curious how Volkswagen Golf trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similaritiesS:
- 170-hp, 184-lb-ft of torque 1.8L
- 170-hp, 199-lb-ft of torque 1.8L
- Rear Defroster
- Cruise Control
- Cloth Seats
- Power Mirrors
- Traction Control
- Side Airbags
- Overhead Airbags
- Rear View Camera
- View our Volkswagen Golf S inventory
SE:
- Includes all features available on the S
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Leatherette Seats
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Smart Key
- Sunroofs
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Automated Cruise Control
- Leather Seats
- View our Volkswagen Golf SE inventory
SEL:
- Includes all features available on the SE
- Fender Audio
- Navigation System
- View our Volkswagen Golf SEL inventory
R:
- Includes all features available on the SEL
- 292-hp, 280-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
- Adjustable Suspension
- Parking Sensors
- Lane Departure Warning
- View our Volkswagen Golf R inventory
Volkswagen Golf photos
What We Like
Large cargo space: The Golf's cargo space can accommodate up to 22.8 cubic feet, which is slightly more than the Mazda3 and Toyota Corolla hatchbacks, as well as some compact SUVs. When the rear seats are folded down, the storage space increases to an impressive 53.7 cubic feet, one of the largest in its class.
Powerful engine: The Golf has a more powerful engine than some other hatchbacks, and once you're underway, acceleration is smooth and decisive. Right off the line, there is a slight delay from the transmission that tends to make the Golf feel slower than it is. As potent as this engine is, it's also relatively economical, with a 28 mpg EPA estimate in combined city and highway driving.
Well-built cabin: When compared to its class competitors, the Golf's interior features slightly nicer materials and less hard plastic. The sturdier construction and soft-touch surfaces give the Golf a more premium look and feel. There are still a few areas with hard plastic parts, but they're generally placed out of the way.
What Needs Improvement
Lacks some driver-assist and tech features: Nowadays, vehicles are coming with an impressive list of standard driver aids, but if you want them in a 2018 Golf, you'll have to step up to the SE trim. Even then, items such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assistance are not available. Nor is a native navigation system, but at least Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are included.
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Ratings & reliability
Customer ratings
The 2018 Volkswagen Golf is not yet rated. Help future customers learn about a car you've owned and write a review.
RepairPal gave the Volkswagen Golf an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Volkswagen Golf 26th out of 46 among Compact Cars.
View RepairPal's full rating of the Volkswagen GolfVolkswagen Golf features and specs
Curious how Volkswagen Golf trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities
S 2WD 4D Hatchback
Standard Features
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Android Auto
- Apple CarPlay
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Bluetooth Technology
- Cloth Seats
- Cruise Control
- Manual Transmission
- Overhead Airbags
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Defroster
- Rear View Camera
- Side Airbags
- Traction Control
- Turbo Charged Engine
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Cloth Seats
- Full Roof Rack
- Rear Spoiler
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive (2WD)
Engine size
1.8L
Horsepower
170
Torque (ft-lbs)
184
Engine type
Turbo Gas
Fuel capacity
13.2
Wheelbase
103.8"
Overall length
167.6"
Width
70.8"
Height
58.2"
Leg room
F 41.2"/R 35.6"
Head room
F 38.4"/R 38.1"
Front tires
P195/65HR15
Rear tires
P195/65HR15
Seating capacity
5
Transmission
Manual 5
2018 Volkswagen Golf FAQ
The 2018 Volkswagen Golf is available in multiple trims, each with its own estimated fuel economy, here are the EPA estimates for each trim:
- S: 25 MPG City and 34 MPG Highway
- SE: 25 MPG City and 34 MPG Highway
- R: 22 MPG City and 29 MPG Highway
- SEL: 24 MPG City and 33 MPG Highway
The Volkswagen Golf received a rating of 4 out of 5 stars from RepairPal, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks the Volkswagen Golf as 25 out of 46 among Compact Car
Here is what's new for the 2018 Volkswagen Golf:
- Full Roof Rack
- Power Seat(s)
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Heated Mirrors
- Manual Transmission
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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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