If I had to do an elevator speech on the 2017 Volkswagen Golf, my unabashed praise of this car would go something like this:
“Even though its cost is reasonable, its core competencies — a solid structure, an impeccably finished interior, and comfortable and capable suspension — would be welcome at any price. And while value is very important, the VW Golf also offers satisfying driving dynamics and unparalleled execution of purpose.”
Allow me to add that, while it tends to get expensive with options, my 2017 Golf TSI SE came in just under $26,300. This is good news.
The base price of the 2017 is effectively lower than last year’s price.
Its lighter price tag apparently has no effect at the test track. While most compact cars are sluggish getting up to speed, the Golf has no trouble moving quickly from a stop or on a highway on-ramp. The turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder still makes 170 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque, and the six-speed automatic transmission’s ratios are unchanged.
I also like the way the suspension soaks up road aberrations while keeping the body flat and controlled through corners. The impeccably assembled cabin, and the boxy hatchback body’s incredibly practical cargo-hauling ability is always a draw.
The 2017 Volkswagen Golf is a fine car, especially if you’re shopping for a hatchback that delivers a big car feel in a small package. The Golf’s light and airy cabin — which does a good job of keeping outside noises at bay — can accommodate five in reasonable comfort, while providing a very usable 22.8 cubic feet of cargo room (52.7 cubic feet with its rear seats folded). Not only is the cargo area vast, it also is easy to access thanks to a low, flat-load floor.
Its front seats are comfortable, even on long trips, and they provide excellent bolstering to keep you in place without causing discomfort.
The Golf’s interior fit and finish is excellent, highlighted by top-notch plastics, clean lines, and a generous serving of technology. There is even a cooled glove box.
I’m also happy to report that 2017 VW has addressed a few shortcomings in the 2016 model such as the new 6.5-inch touchscreen, which is much quicker to respond than last year’s 5.8-inch unit.
Just when you thought a good story couldn’t get better, take a look at these safety stats: the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gives the 2017 Golf four out of five stars in frontal and rollover crash tests, and five stars in the side crash test. These crash test ratings result in a five-star overall score. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also gives the Golf its top rating in all five crash test categories and names it a Top Safety Pick.
On the gas mileage front, the 2017 VW Golf earns average fuel economy for the compact car class with 25 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
The 2017 Volkswagen Golf is easily one of the top compact hatchbacks in the game. If you are looking for a well-rounded, sophisticated car in this segment, you should give the new Golf a go.
Grant Miller is the publisher of Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277 or via email at Grant@CommunityNewspapers.com.
