Positive Review
As owners of a much beloved 2012 Jetta Sportwagen TDI, we thought long and hard about purchasing another VW. After evaluating many options, we decided on a new 2016 Golf Sportwagen TSI as our second vehicle, and as an eventual replacement of the TDI when VW buys it back in the months to come. So, we're in the unusual position of driving both right now in a real apples-to-apples comparison. We LOVED our TDI, but this new Golf Sportwagen simply slays it. A more responsive engine, superior transmission, smoother and quieter ride, more controlled handling and braking (didn't think we could get better than the TDI), better interior and exterior fit and finish, and a slightly higher seat position and more interior and storage space have already convinced us we made the right decision. I'm back to driving the TDI the past week as my wife is driving the new car, and it feels like a tank in comparison. It didn't hurt that we got an incredible deal on a 2016 year-end close-out. Seating provides good support with an adjustable lumbar, and is comfortable on longer trips. Head, leg, and hip/shoulder room are all better than the previous model. Cargo space is fantastic, matched only by the Honda CRV and Subaru Outback in our comparisons, and far superior to most small crossover SUV's. Technology, sound system, and creature comforts are all quite good, though a bit more basic than on competitive vehicles - that's VW for you. On the con side, the TSI has significantly less torque than the TDI, so it feels less speedy off the blocks. However, we've been surprised that the TSI actually has better 0-60 acceleration than the TDI - it's just far more civilized in its acceleration profile. There's also no way to match the TDI's great fuel mileage, and the range is significantly lower both because of mileage and the TSI's smaller tank. We didn't think we could replace our beloved TDI, but we like this car even more. All-in-all, I think you'll be pleased with this new version of the Sportwagen compared to other options out there. I don't think you can go wrong here, particularly if you don't want to drive a small SUV or crossover.
Critical Review
Fell in love with this car -- beautiful and a joy to drive. Panoramic sunroof leaked immediately after purchase though, soaking the interior when it rains. After three unsuccesful repair attempts, and weeks in the shop, I am pursuing a buyback with VW. The leaking sunroof is a known issue with this car. This car may well be wonderful otherwise, but if you are considering purchasing one with a sunroof, at least inspect the headliner to make sure you're not getting a leaky one.
Showing 8 of 37 reviews.
I have never made a smarter purchase, absolutely love this car! It has been driving smooth for years and stays classic looking year after year.
The 2015 VW Golf sports wagon can just do anything. Average around 40mpg consistently on high way, amazing!
My car is now 8 years old. It has been impeccably maintained and has offered not a moment’s trouble. It still has the same ride as when it was new. The engine gives the feel of a much bigger car, due to the snappy turbo. It handles curves and mountains like a sports car. The interior and the paint have held up beautifully. The interior offers so much more than an suv. I’m reluctantly considering selling. I hope my next ride is as good as this one has been. Hard to find a wagon anymore.
Value, flexibility, fun to drive, safe, roomy
Weird rear exhaust design
The title says it all... A roomy but compact AWD station wagon with a manual transmission, powerful 1.8L turbo engine, heated cloth seats, a great stereo - I can't think of a better vehicle at the price point - or even at twice it's price point. My absolute favorite car I've ever owned.
This is such a great car. Lots of cargo room and great driveability with excellent power and handling. Looks great, drives great, lots of cargo room. And all for a reasonable price. I have a 2018 and at 80,000 miles I've had zero reliability issues with very low maintenance cost
For real, the vehicle tells you exactly what your average mpg is. The sunroof is almost the length of the roof. Back seats down and you can fit a twin mattress and sleep under the stairs. I love this car.
For real, the vehicle tells you exactly what your average mpg is. The sunroof is almost the length of the roof. Back seats down and you can fit a twin mattress and sleep under the stairs. I love this car.
I've had this car for three years, and absolutely love driving it. Very sporty feel. I use it for hauling all kinds of things including my drum set, furniture, and so forth. Gas mileage is much better than estimates - 38 mpg overall, 44 on the highway and it is NOT a hybrid or diesel. Absolutely no problems with the car for three years (with 3 years remaining on a 6 year bumper to bumper warranty that I believe is transferable). Great feel of the road, even in snowy, icy conditions. Grab one if you can!