Fort Myers Florida Weekly

Volkswagen Golf offers the practicality of being different

BEHIND THE WHEEL



 

 

There are probably far fewer people who start with the Volkswagen Golf on their shopping list than those who go home with one. This isn’t a magical VW like Herbie from the movies, or the ultra-hot GTI sport model. So why is it compelling?

Without the diesel motor in the lineup anymore, the Golf is adding focus to fill a niche better than most others out there. It’s distinctive without being outlandish. It’s not a sports car nor is it sluggish. It’s affordable without being cheap.

While it may appear like the description of a good middleman, there’s more to this car’s story.

The Golf’s styling is unique. The compact hatchback field has been heating up in the U.S. recently with new additions like the Chevrolet Cruze, significantly redesigned cars like the Hyundai Elantra GT and returning old favorites like the Honda Civic. But these vehicles have a sloping rear end where the Golf’s posterior is almost upright — proudly declaring it’s a hatchback. Also, there’s something really nifty about how the rear VW emblem automatically lifts up every time reverse is engaged to reveal the standard backup camera.

 

 

That rear door is the key to its appeal. We traditionally like sedans in the U.S., and so owning a hatchback like the Golf is an instant way to stand out in the compact and midsize car crowds. Plus, any sedan owner who has ever tried to bring large items home — anything from 200-count toilet paper to an electric generator — instantly wishes for the versatility of the wide rear cargo opening.

But more than just carrying more stuff, the Golf’s interior has appeal because Volkswagen seems to understand how to make it feel more upscale. Soft materials, good design and crisp dials make the sensation from the driver’s seat a more premium experience than a Ford Focus or the Toyota iM. Also, the no-cost tan color option offers a far brighter atmosphere than some of the half-beige choices in cars like the Hyundai Elantra GT.

While the Golf feels premium within its field, it’s also a premium price within its own family. The base model starts at $20,715, which is $2,000 more than the larger, but related, Jetta sedan. The reason VW is making customers pay more for less space is because of the longer list of features in the Golf.

It comes standard with a 1.8-liter turbocharged engine producing 170 horsepower — 22 percent more than the base Jetta. The option lists for these two cars are similar enough that the hatchback and the sedan become comparably equipped (engine, interior features, etc.) once about $23K is spent on either.

Still, the Jetta cannot match the Golf’s handling. The hatchback’s slightly shorter wheelbase, and more importantly its fully independent suspension, make for a sharper feeling on the road. Volkswagen pays close attention to this area because the Golf is significantly more popular in Europe, where tighter handling is appreciated in a smaller package.

In fact, not all of the Golf’s direct competitors have an independent rear suspension as standard. This won’t be a deal breaker for every hatchback fan, but some drivers will feel the difference.

There is a limit to the Golf’s appeal. VW is good at not making people pay extra for stylish interior/exterior color combinations, but there are other ways to rack up the price quickly. Options like the Fender stereo system and keyless ignition might seem like small addons, but they are often part of larger packages that could quickly boost the cost above $25K. At that price point, a bevy of other vehicles come into play — everything from the sportier GTI hatchback to larger crossovers.

The Golf’s niche is not very broad. But this VW occupies a space at the crossroads of something distinctive, versatile, affordable and even a bit fun to drive. And there’s an undeniable charm in owning a car that’s different from but at the same time more practical than everybody else’s in the neighborhood.

So shop wisely, but don’t be too surprised if you bring home a Golf.

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