View Photos of the 2020 Volkswagen Golf
The eighth-generation of VW's Golf hatchback embraces an increasingly digital and advanced future yet remains an excellent driver's car.
The eighth-generation Volkswagen Golf continues to be one of VW's most important models, perhaps the most important one. While it likely will be a year or two before it reaches dealers in the United States, if the standard models make the trip at all, our drive in Germany revealed it to be a competent and high-tech evolution. Read the full story here.
The Mark VIII Volkswagen Golf features a unique face that stands out both in its segment and among other VW models.
In Europe, the Golf launches with gasoline and diesel engines that make up to 148 horsepower. More-powerful GTI and Golf R models follow later.
The Golf's turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four flexes its technology with a belt-driven 48-volt hybrid system and cylinder deactivation.
VW remains loyal to the manual transmission and developed a new six-speed 'box for the new Golf. A seven-speed dual-clutch automatic is optional.
The 266 lb-ft of smooth torque from the optional 2.0-liter TDI engine available in other markets makes us wish for a return of the Golf's diesel engine in the U.S.
For the U.S. market, only the sportier and more-powerful GTI and Golf R models are confirmed so far. We expect the Mark VIII Golf R to make around 330 horsepower.
As with the seventh-gen Golf, the new version's suspension, steering, and braking systems are finely tuned for precision and ease of use.
VW has made the switch to a mostly screen-based driver interface in the new Golf. Models equipped with automatic transmissions also feature a small stub of an electronic shift lever.
While the Mark VIII Golf's display screens give it a high-tech vibe, its interior materials in general don't look or feel as premium as we'd like.
Along with the GTI and Golf R models, the eighth-generation Golf also will be sold in Europe with both three- and four-cylinder gas engines, three versions of the 2.0-liter TDI diesel four, and two plug-in hybrid models.
2021 Volkswagen Golf
2021 Volkswagen Golf
2021 Volkswagen Golf
2021 Volkswagen Golf
2021 Volkswagen Golf
2021 Volkswagen Golf
2021 Volkswagen Golf
2021 Volkswagen Golf
2021 Volkswagen Golf
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