2021 Volkswagen Golf review
Volkswagen Golf highlights
Customer rating
Pros
- Large hatch adds practicality
- Comfortable ride and quiet cabin
- Two years of free scheduled maintenance
Cons
- Missing some driver-assist and convenience features
- Tires limit performance
- Merely adequate power
Mileage (EPA estimate)
28 city, 36 highway, 31 combined
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
The Volkswagen Golf marks the end of the line in 2021
When the Volkswagen Golf debuted as the Rabbit in the U.S. in the 1970s, in some ways it represented the second coming of the iconic VW Beetle. A rousing success, it delivered affordable and convenient transportation to the masses. Sadly, 2021 marks the end of the line for the Golf in the U.S. (The high-performance GTI and Golf R will continue and both were fully redesigned in 2022.) As such, there were few changes for the 2021 Volkswagen Golf. Keyless entry and ignition are standard, along with synthetic leather upholstery and a panoramic sunroof.
Otherwise, the Golf is the same as it was the previous year, with the same advantages and drawbacks. For example, we like the versatility that comes with a hatchback, as well as the Golf's pleasant ride and quiet interior, but it lacks some tech features and upgrades that rivals offer. We suggest shoppers check out the top choices in the class alongside the Golf, including hatchback versions of the Honda Civic, Mazda3, and Toyota Corolla.
All Volkswagen Golf years
What is new for the 2021 Volkswagen Golf?
- The S trim has been discontinued for 2021.
- Rear Spoiler and CD Audio features are now available as options on select trims.
- The TSI trim now comes with Parking Sensors as standard equipment.
2021 Volkswagen Golf trims
TSI:
- 147-hp, 184-lb-ft of torque 1.4L
- Sunroofs
- Power Seats
- Leatherette Seats
- Smart Key
- Rear View Camera
- Power Mirrors
- Rear Defroster
- Side Airbags
- View our Volkswagen Golf TSI inventory
Volkswagen Golf photos
5 reasons to buy the 2021 Volkswagen Golf
What We Like
Hatchback versatility: With up to 22.8 cubic feet of cargo space, the Volkswagen Golf can hold more than the Mazda3 or Toyota Corolla hatchbacks. Only the Honda Civic hatchback can carry more, and only by a few cubic feet. The rear seats fold flat into the floor and also offer a convenient center pass-through for longer objects, giving you more flexibility for cargo and passengers.
Smooth ride and quiet cabin: The Golf's ride quality is notable for its ability to smooth over road imperfections with ease. At the same time, it has a composed and confident demeanor on the highway and is not overly soft or floaty. Helping to further reduce driver fatigue, the cabin remains pleasantly silent, with barely detectable levels of road or wind noise.
Interior layout: The Golf’s uncluttered dash and easy-to-reach controls are welcome nods to the car’s Germanic heritage. Previous Volkswagen owners will be immediately familiar with the steering wheel controls, and the learning curve isn’t so steep that newcomers won’t get the hang of it quickly. The upright and boxy styling results in excellent visibility.
What Needs Improvement
Lacks some features: The Golf's outdated 6.5-inch infotainment screen is small when compared to rivals' and, unfortunately, there's no way to upgrade to the larger displays found in other Volkswagen vehicles. Compounding matters is that there's only one USB port for the entire car, leaving passengers without a way to charge phones. The Golf is also missing a few driver-assist features such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assistance.
Shop with your budget in mind
Ratings & reliability
RepairPal gave the Volkswagen Golf an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Volkswagen Golf 26th out of 46 among Compact Cars.
View RepairPal's full rating of the Volkswagen GolfVolkswagen Golf features and specs
TSI 2WD 4D Hatchback
Standard Features
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Android Auto
- Apple CarPlay
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Bluetooth Technology
- Cruise Control
- Front Seat Heaters
- Leatherette Seats
- Manual Transmission
- Overhead Airbags
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Parking Sensors
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Defroster
- Rear View Camera
- Side Airbags
- Smart Key
- Traction Control
- Turbo Charged Engine
- CD Audio
- Full Roof Rack
- Rear Spoiler
- Satellite Radio Ready
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive (2WD)
Engine size
1.4L
Horsepower
147
Torque (ft-lbs)
184
Engine type
Turbo Gas
Fuel capacity
13.2
Wheelbase
103.8"
Overall length
167.6"
Width
70.8"
Height
58.2"
Leg room
F 41.2"/R 35.6"
Head room
F 38.4"/R 38.1"
Front tires
P205/55HR16
Rear tires
P205/55HR16
Seating capacity
5
Transmission
Manual 6
2021 Volkswagen Golf FAQ
The 2021 Volkswagen Golf offers a TSI : 29 MPG City and 36 MPG Highway It is important to remember factors such as driving style, weather conditions, and the use of features such as Eco mode can impact fuel efficiency.
The Volkswagen Golf received a rating of 4 out of 5 stars from RepairPal, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks the Volkswagen Golf as 25 out of 46 among Compact Car
The 2021 Volkswagen Golf has received an average 5.0 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2021 Volkswagen Golf, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2021 Volkswagen Golf Reviews.
Here is what's new for the 2021 Volkswagen Golf:
- Rear Spoiler
- CD Audio
- Parking Sensors
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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
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