2023 Volkswagen Golf review
Volkswagen Golf highlights
Customer rating
(not yet rated)
Pros
- Thrilling performance
- Hatchback versatility
- High levels of comfort
Cons
- Frustrating capacitive touch controls
- Pricier than other hatchbacks
- Lacks the personality of some rivals
Mileage (EPA estimate)
20 city, 28 highway, 23 combined
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
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The 2023 Volkswagen Golf R continues to deliver hot hatchback performance
Although Volkswagen pulled the plug on its standard Golf hatchback, the Golf name lives on with the Golf R and GTI (reviewed separately). The Golf R has always been the top dog in the Golf lineup, building upon the GTI’s sporting potential with more power and all-wheel drive.
For 2023, the Golf R returns unchanged except for a 20th Anniversary Edition that celebrates VW’s R performance brand. That means you’ll get all of the thrills that we’ve come to expect from this pint-size powerhouse as it challenges a new crop of rivals. These include the Toyota GR Corolla and Honda Civic Type R. The Golf R is the most refined of the bunch, with the GR Corolla being the more raucous choice and the Civic Type R splitting the difference.
All Volkswagen Golf years
What is new for the 2023 Volkswagen Golf?
- New trim level added for enhanced customization options.
- All models now include advanced safety features as standard equipment.
- Updated infotainment system with larger touchscreen and improved connectivity.
- Enhanced fuel efficiency ratings across the lineup.
- Premium audio system option now available on select trims.
2023 Volkswagen Golf trims
Curious how Volkswagen Golf trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similaritiesR:
- 315-hp, 280-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
- Sunroofs
- Cruise Control
- Leather Seats
- Power Seats
- Memory Seats
- Power Mirrors
- Traction Control
- A/C Seats
- View our Volkswagen Golf R inventory
What We Like
Exhilarating performance: With 315 horsepower coming from its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the Volkswagen Golf R is a rocket among hatchbacks. Standard all-wheel drive gives it the traction needed to launch from a standstill to 60 mph in only 4.3 seconds and also delivers an abundance of grip when cornering. If you’re seeking performance, this is a great place to start.
Hatchback practicality: Despite their rather small footprint, hatchbacks have always over-delivered when it comes to utility and convenience, and the Golf R is no different. The cargo area can hold up to 19.9 cubic feet (or about 25 grocery bags) behind the rear seats. Those seats fold almost flat to the wide cargo floor to expand capacity to 34.5 cubic feet, which rivals some subcompact SUVs.
Comfortable ride and cabin: Sporty handling typically results in a firmer ride quality and that is certainly the case with the Golf R, but not so much as to be uncomfortable or intrusive. Credit the standard adaptive suspension dampers that allow the driver to select between a softer or stiffer ride. A relatively quiet cabin and supportive seats add to the overall effect.
What Needs Improvement
Unintuitive capacitive touch controls: Rather than traditional buttons and knobs, Volkswagen opted for capacitive touch controls for the Golf R. They’re much more distracting than traditional controls since you have to pay closer attention to hit the right button. They're also far too easily activated inadvertently if you happen to brush against them.
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Ratings & reliability
Customer ratings
The 2023 Volkswagen Golf is not yet rated. Help future customers learn about a car you've owned and write a review.
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
Curious how Volkswagen Golf trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities
R 4D Hatchback 4WD/AWD
Standard Features
- Power Locks
- Power Windows
- Sunroof(s)
- Air Conditioning
- Cruise Control
- ABS Brakes
- Leather Seats
- Power Seat(s)
- Memory Seat(s)
- Power Mirrors
- Traction Control
- A/C Seat(s)
- Overhead Airbags
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Head Up Display
- Rear View Camera
- Parking Sensors
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Smart Key
- Front Seat Heaters
- Rear Defroster
- Side Airbags
- Lane Departure Warning
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Heated Mirrors
- Alloy Wheels
- Rear Spoiler
- Manual Transmission
- 4WD/AWD
- Turbo Charged Engine
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- AM/FM Stereo
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Navigation System
- Harman Kardon Sound
- Apple CarPlay
- Android Auto
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive (4WD/AWD)
Engine size
2.0L
Horsepower
315
Torque (ft-lbs)
280
Engine type
Turbo Gas
Fuel capacity
14.5
Wheelbase
103.5"
Overall length
168.9"
Width
70.4"
Height
57.7"
Leg room
F 41.2"/R 35"
Head room
F 38.5"/R 38.1"
Front tires
P235/35YR19
Rear tires
P235/35YR19
Seating capacity
5
Transmission
Manual 6
2023 Volkswagen Golf FAQ
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 26 out of 46 among Compact Car
Here is what's new for the 2023 Volkswagen Golf:
- 20th Anniversary Edition
- Cruise Control
- Full Roof Rack
The 2023 Volkswagen Golf offers the following fuel efficiency options: • Gas: 20 city / 28 highway MPG (20th Anniversary Edition trim) • Gas: 23 city / 30 highway MPG (R trim) Actual mileage may vary based on driving conditions, vehicle condition, and driving habits.
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