The Volkswagen Golf has long been a staple in the car industry, and its success shows no signs of waning. Despite facing tough competition, the Golf continues to dominate sales charts and maintain its status as one of Europe’s best-selling cars. In fact, it held the title of Europe’s biggest-selling new car for 15 consecutive years until 2022, when it was overtaken by the Peugeot 208.
When the eighth-generation Golf was introduced in 2019, it was seen as a bold reimagining of the iconic family hatchback. With its sleek exterior design, hybrid powertrain options, improved ride and handling, minimalist cabin, and advanced safety technology, Volkswagen aimed to revive the shrinking mid-sized hatchback segment. The Mk8 Golf was a clear statement from the automaker that it still valued combustion-engined cars amidst the rise of electric vehicles.
In 2024, the Golf received a facelift, marking the midpoint of its life cycle. This update highlighted Volkswagen’s commitment to the traditional Golf model, even as it expands its electric vehicle offerings. The refreshed Golf range includes turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engines with varying power outputs, ranging from 114bhp to 148bhp, and the option of mild-hybrid assistance. The lineup also features a reworked turbocharged 2.0-liter petrol engine, available in the upgraded 2.0 TSI and the hot Golf GTI.
The Golf’s exterior received some notable changes with redesigned headlights, new-look bumpers, and updated tail-light graphics. While some critics found the design to be a bit fussy and derivative, the Golf’s traditional classlessness and high build quality remained intact. Inside, the Golf continued to impress with its well-executed interior upgrades, including a reworked steering wheel with physical buttons and a larger central infotainment touchscreen. The updated infotainment system addressed previous concerns about slow responsiveness and complexity, offering a more intuitive and user-friendly experience.
When it comes to performance, the Golf offers a range of engines to suit different preferences. The tested 1.5 TSI model showcased a refined and responsive powertrain with mild-hybrid properties. It delivered good torque and flexibility, although some testers felt that the lower-powered engines lacked performance. The Golf’s handling received praise for its impressive body control and stability, while the ride quality was a mixed bag. Entry-level models without the Dynamic Chassis Control system exhibited more road noise and vibration, but opting for higher-end models with this feature improved ride smoothness and overall dynamics.
In terms of fuel economy and running costs, the Golf performed well. The tested eTSI model achieved a touring-test fuel economy of 60mpg, making it a creditable option for its performance level. The car’s plug-in hybrid powertrain also offered advantages in terms of emissions, with a WLTP result of 134g/km.
Overall, the Golf’s facelift demonstrated Volkswagen’s commitment to maintaining the model’s strong position in the market. Despite the growing popularity of SUVs, compact family hatchbacks like the Golf continue to be in demand. The Golf’s long-standing reputation for versatility, quality, and drivability remains unmatched, making it a top contender in its class. However, for those seeking more performance and value, higher-end models may be a better choice.