Volkswagen Golf

The Golf is a notch above other compacts in terms of sophistication, interior ambience, and driving experience, and it is priced accordingly. Performance from the smooth, strong 170-hp, 1.8-liter turbo four-cylinder engine feels effortless, and we got 28 mpg overall in our tests with the six-speed automatic transmission. Handling is very responsive, making the Golf fun to drive. The ride is comfortable, the rear seat is relatively roomy, and the quiet cabin contributes to the Golf's solid and upscale feel. A high-performance all-wheel-drive Golf R and an electric eGolf complete the line. Recent additions include blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

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. Any prior recommendations for TDI diesels, based on test results before this notification, have been suspended. We will retest affected vehicles once a fix is completed and sales resume.

After a brief stint during which it was once again known as the Rabbit, the Golf returned with an impressive 2010 redesign. We got 38 mpg overall from the diesel. (But it may not meet emissions regulations. Be cautious when purchasing a used TDI). Interior quality improved and the car had responsive handling, supportive front seats, and a good ride. Stability control, traction control, antilock brakes and brake assist are standard. A wagon and a high-performance AWD Golf R were added to the 2015 redesign.

The Golf was redesigned for 1999, and became quieter and more comfortable, with a higher-quality interior. A turbocharged four-cylinder engine was introduced a year later. A fuel-sipping turbodiesel four cylinder is also available. The R32, a V6-powered AWD model, arrived for 2004.