New for 2016
Changes for 2016 include a new MIB II infotainment system and a reshuffling of options and features on different trim levels.
Introduction
The Volkswagen Golf was one of the first modern compact cars, and it remains one of the best choices today. Redesigned for 2015, the 2016 Volkswagen Golf returns with an impressive combination of value, style, and performance. Built on Volkswagen’s modern MQB platform, the Golf offers the latest technology and an upscale feel that belies its low price.
Powertrains and Performance
On paper, the 2016 Volkswagen Golf looks like the quintessential compact economy car, but it doesn’t behave like one. The entire car feels more expensive than it is, thanks to a well-designed chassis and powertrain.
Under the hood is a perky 1.8-liter TSI four-cylinder engine with turbocharging and direct injection. It produces 170 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque, which is sent to the front wheels through either a five-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic. The EPA rates fuel economy at 30 mpg combined (25 mpg city, 37 mpg highway) with the manual transmission,* and 29 mpg combined (25 mpg city, 36 mpg highway) with the automatic.*
The current-generation Golf was also the first model to be built on Volkswagen’s MQB platform, a highly versatile architecture now used in many models across multiple brands, including the upscale Audi A3. The well-engineered MQB platform gives the Golf a feeling of solidity one would normally expect in a much more expensive car. MQB also incorporates 28-percent high-strength, hot-formed steel, which helps save weight.
The Golf uses a strut-type front suspension, with a multi-link arrangement in back. All Golf models also feature the XDS Cross Differential System, which uses the brakes to simulate a mechanical limited-slip differential. Applying brake pressure to the driven inside wheel, it helps reduce understeer by shunting more power to the outside wheel.
Features and Trims
The 2016 Volkswagen Golf is a compact hatchback offered in both three-door and five-door configurations. There are four available trim levels, with prices starting at $18,495.**
The base model has a high level of standard equipment, including 15-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth®, MIB II touchscreen infotainment system with USB and 5.0-inch display, daytime running lights, cloth seats, power windows and door locks, and climate control.
The Golf S builds on that level of standard equipment, incorporating all of the applicable features from the base model, and adding more of its own. That includes a rearview camera, 6.5-inch display screen, VW Car-Net connected vehicle services, SiriusXM® satellite radio, and a leather-wrapped handbrake, shifter, and multifunction steering wheel. A Golf S with Sunroof is also available, adding a power tilt and slide panoramic sunroof.
The penultimate Golf model is the SE, which incorporates all of the applicable standard features of the other models, and adds 17-inch alloy wheels, V-Tex leatherette upholstery, a cold weather package (heated front seats, heated washer nozzles), rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, fog lights, keyless access with pushbutton start, and a Fender® premium audio system. An optional Lighting Package adds bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights, ambient interior lighting, and an adaptive front lighting system.
Finally, the SEL tops the Golf range with the most standard equipment. In addition to the standard features from the other models, it includes 18-inch alloy wheels, navigation, Climatronic automatic air conditioning, sport seats (including a 12-way power driver’s seat), and standard ambient interior lighting.
Design
Volkswagen developed a handsome styling theme with previous generations of Golf, and that continues with the 2016 model. Returning after a complete overhaul in 2015, the Golf has a sophisticated look, with sharply creased lines, steeply sloped hood, and narrow grille. The updated design also gives the Golf a coefficient of drag of 0.29, compared to the previous 0.32.
VW also owns Audi and Porsche, and some of the influence of those upscale brands seems to have rubbed off on the interior. The cabin has an upscale feel, with a clean design and high-quality materials. All Golf models also come standard with an infotainment touchscreen, whether it’s the 5.0-inch screen that’s standard on base models, or the 6.5-inch screen offered on higher-level models.
There are also few packages more versatile than a compact hatchback. The 2016 Golf has a generous 93.5 cubic feet of interior space, including 22.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up. With the seats folded, cargo space grows to 52.7 cubic feet. A 60/40 split-folding rear bench helps make the most of the space.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2016 Volkswagen Golf includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, six standard airbags, and Volkswagen’s Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and Intelligent Crash Response System. The former automatically applies the brakes in the event of a collision, while the latter shuts off the fuel pump, unlocks the doors, and turns on the hazard lights.
There’s also an optional Driver Assistance Package, which adds adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, park distance control, and park assist.
Bottom Line
The 2016 Volkswagen Golf offers an impressive combination of practicality, style, and performance. That’s what has made the Golf a compact car mainstay for the past few decades, and continues to make it an excellent choice.
Be sure to contact us online or visit us at 3Birds Template to schedule a test drive.
*Where stated, TSI fuel economy values (mpg) are EPA estimates. See www.fueleconomy.gov for details. Actual mileage will vary and depends on several factors including driving habits and vehicle condition.
**All prices listed are the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price and exclude transportation, taxes, title, options, and dealer charges.
Image: Volkswagen
