Volkswagen Golf

The 2022 redesigned Volkswagen Golf is available in a single top performance R with a 315-hp, 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder and all-wheel drive. It comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic is optional. Volkswagen builds on the long-running tradition of elevating a mild hatchback into a fun-to-drive, yet sophisticated, practical alternative to sports coupes. The Golf R is once again a special model tailored to a Volkswagen enthusiast that craves power, refinement, and exclusivity. The Golf upgrades connectivity and infotainment to the latest from Volkswagen. The interior comes with a large 10-inch infotainment screen.

Redesigned for the 2015 model year, the coarse and antiquated five-cylinder powering the previous Golf is replaced by a smoother, more refined 170-hp, 1.8-liter four-cylinder turbo, which delivers 28 mpg overall. Soft-touch materials, quality components and comfortably supportive seats upgrade the passenger experience considerably. A wagon and a high-performance AWD Golf R were also added to the lineup. While choosing between models is largely a budget decision, we do recommend finding a car with the optional lighting package as the HID headlights perform much better than the standard halogens. You'll need to get at least an S w/Sunroof for this package. Note: Volkswagen suspended sales of 2016 TDI diesel versions of the Beetle, Golf, Golf SportWagen, Jetta, and Passat; as well as the Audi A3, due to the EPA notification of emissions violations. USB ports were finally added for 2016 as well as available keyless access and push-button start.