Skip advert
Advertisement
In-depth reviews

Volkswagen Golf review

The Mk8 Golf offers cleaner engines, an updated interior and the latest on-board tech, but it can’t quite reach the top of the class

Overall Auto Express rating

4.0

How we review cars
Price
£27,420 - £45,145
  • Vastly improved in-car tech
  • Diverse powertrain range
  • Reassuring ride and handling
  • Some ergonomic niggles remain
  • Underwhelming cabin quality
  • Road noise on larger wheels
Find your Volkswagen Golf
Offers from our trusted partners on this car and its predecessors...
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car
Advertisement

Is the Volkswagen Golf a good car?

The eighth-generation Volkswagen Golf scored well in plenty of areas when it was first launched in 2020, but some shortcomings meant it wasn’t quite as convincing as previous generations. VW’s family car motoring icon has long reigned supreme, combining classy looks and practicality while also being good to drive, but some of the decisions made about the car’s ergonomics meant it wasn’t quite as user-friendly as the VW Golf Mk7. However, the facelifted VW Golf Mk8.5 aims to address most of these quibbles, and the car remains a comfortable and pleasant place to be for the most part. The ride quality is still rather compromised, though, particularly over poorer surfaces, and there’s intrusive road noise at speed, especially on larger diameter wheels. 

Advertisement - Article continues below

When you buy a Volkswagen Golf, you expect quality throughout, but the Mk8 model doesn’t feel head-and-shoulders above its rivals, even in its updated guise. The focus on technology was far from perfect at launch, but this is where the Golf Mk8.5 has made the most progress, with more intuitive touchscreen controls and improved ergonomics. However, compared with the competition, the VW Golf isn’t the class benchmark it once was.

Key specs

Fuel type

Petrol, diesel, PHEV

Body style

Five-door hatchback

Powertrain

1.5-litre 4cyl turbocharged petrol, front-wheel drive
1.5-litre 4cyl turbocharged petrol PHEV, front-wheel drive
2.0-litre 4cyl turbocharged petrol, front-wheel drive
2.0-litre 4cyl turbocharged diesel, front-wheel drive
2.0-litre 4cyl turbocharged petrol, four-wheel drive

Safety

5-star Euro NCAP (2022)

Warranty

3yrs/60,000 miles

How much does the Volkswagen Golf cost?

The Golf name is second only to the Beetle in the history of Volkswagen. The Golf celebrated its 50th birthday in 2024, and in the five decades it has been in production, more than 37 million Golfs have been sold. The hatchback’s biggest strength has traditionally been its few weaknesses; that all-round ability, plus the lure of a German badge, has made it irresistible to buyers for decades.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

Over time, Volkswagen has adopted the ‘if it ain't broke, don’t fix it’ approach for the Golf. Evolutionary styling updates, an increasingly high-quality feel to the cabin, and a succession of capable engines have secured millions of customers, and the German manufacturer has broadly followed this strategy with the eighth-generation model.

Under the skin, the Golf Mk8 is based on the Mk7’s MQB Evo platform, which is used across various VW Group cars, including the SEAT Leon and Skoda Octavia - direct rivals in the family hatchback class. The Mk8.5 Volkswagen Golf is available in five-door hatchback and estate body styles (the three-door hatch was dropped with the Golf Mk7).

Advertisement - Article continues below

Volkswagen’s trim structure for the Golf is almost bewilderingly large. At the entry point sits the Life trim, above which are Match, Style, R-Line and Black Edition variants, plus the sportier GTE, GTI, GTI Clubsport, R and R Black Edition. 

Entry-level Life trim offers a generous amount of kit and tech, including a digital instrument display, wireless smartphone charging and a 13-inch colour touchscreen. The latter is standard on every model and means that the climate controls are now permanently displayed across the bottom of the screen. The Match is the best value; it’s the same as Life trim, but adds a reversing camera, keyless entry, bigger wheels and tinted glass for less than £200 extra.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

The Style model should prove to be popular, adding items such as larger 17-inch alloy wheels and sports seats with upgraded upholstery, while the dynamic R-Line spec includes lowered, stiffer suspension and an exterior styling pack giving a more muscular stance. The Black Edition is around £1,000 more than an R-Line and adds larger wheels, matrix LED headlights, heated front seats and more.

One of the main updates for the VW Golf Mk8.5 is with the engine line-up. The 109bhp 1.0-litre has been replaced by a low-output version of the 1.5-litre unit used elsewhere in the range, and is available with either 114bhp or 148bhp. Both versions come with a six-speed manual transmission, while adding the slick seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox to the latter introduces VW’s eTSI mild-hybrid system.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The more powerful GTI delivers 261bhp from its 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine, while the Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport and R models offer 296bhp and 328bhp, respectively. All of these models come with a standard DSG twin-clutch auto, while the R is also equipped with 4MOTION four-wheel drive.

For those prioritising fuel economy, the updated Mk8 Golf is still available with a 2.0-litre diesel engine with 113bhp or 148bhp, the latter being auto only. Buyers can also opt for the 268bhp GTE petrol plug-in hybrid or the 201bhp eHybrid, which both now come with a 1.5-litre engine to replace the older 1.4 TSI unit. They offer exceptional fuel economy and low CO2 emissions, while a larger 19.7kWh drive battery means they can travel further in zero-emissions all-electric mode.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

Many of the Golf’s immediate competitors are offered with the option of pure-electric power (like the Vauxhall Astra Electric and Peugeot E-308), but if you want a Volkswagen-badged Golf-sized EV, then you’ll have to look at the Volkswagen ID.3.  

Volkswagen continues to charge premium prices for what it considers to be the class-leading family hatchback currently on sale. Entry-level cars start from more than £27,000, and the range tops out at around £43,000 for the Golf R.

Engines, performance & drive

There is a wide range of engines available in the Volkswagen Golf that cover all bases. Most versions come with a DSG twin-clutch gearbox, with only the base models featuring manual control. As ever, the Golf strikes a fair balance between comfort and performance, with a well-judged ride that can smooth out rough surfaces (although bigger wheels will tend to negate this), and enough body control so that the Golf will be enjoyable in corners. Read more about the Volkswagen Golf's engines, performance and drive…

MPG, emissions & running costs

For ultimate efficiency, the eHybrid and GTE models are the best performers in the revised Golf line-up. A larger battery means that they can travel even further on electric power alone, while low emissions are to the benefit of company car tax. Elsewhere, there’s mild-hybrid tech for the petrol auto, but manual cars and diesels only come with stop-start. The high-performance models can be surprisingly efficient when taking things easy, too. Read more about the Volkswagen Golf’s MPG, emissions and running costs...

Interior, design & technology

When the VW Golf Mk8 was launched, there was criticism of the car’s on-board technology, because some basic ergonomic flaws were introduced when compared with the outgoing Mk7. These flaws have now largely been rectified, with the touch-sensitive controls on the multifunction steering wheel replaced by push buttons, while the temperature and volume sliders beneath the touchscreen are now illuminated, as they should have been from launch. Read more about the Volkswagen Golf’s interior, design and technology...

Boot space, comfort & practicality

As is typical with a mid-life update, the Volkswagen Golf Mk8 doesn’t gain any additional space with the upgrade to Mk8.5 specification, but then it was a pretty comfortable and usable five-door hatchback in the first place. There’s plenty of room for four inside, while the up to 381-litre boot isn’t the biggest in the compact hatchback sector, but is competitive. Read more about the Volkswagen Golf’s boot space, comfort and practicality...

Reliability & safety

Volkswagen’s reputation for building reliable and dependable cars was largely gained by the first-generation Beetle and earlier examples of Golf. However, according to respondents to the Driver Power ownership survey, VW might be trading on its past achievements in that regard, and there’s room for improvement. Read more about the Volkswagen Golf’s reliability and safety...

Volkswagen Golf alternatives

As mentioned above, the VW Golf faces competition not only from rival manufacturers, but also from the SEAT Leon and Skoda Octavia within its own stable. Other challengers include the Kia CeedHyundai i30Ford FocusHonda CivicPeugeot 308, and Vauxhall Astra, while for those looking towards the premium end of the market, there’s the Audi A3 Sportback (another car based upon the Golf platform), Mercedes A-Class and BMW 1 Series.

Advertisement - Article continues below
Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

Anyone interested in a hybrid car but doesn’t fancy plugging in should consider either the excellent Honda Civic, or the frugal Toyota Corolla.

Used and nearly new

The iconic Golf hatchback has offered a near-perfect blend of style, driving fun and practicality for over 50 years. You'll struggle to find a classier used buy, with the Golf Mk5 providing a much-needed return to form as a great driver's car in GTI trim, and later Golf Mk7 models offering improved on-board tech and a range of efficient engines. There is plenty of choice when it comes to power options, with an array of petrol, diesel and hybrid units available, although be sure to check the usual service history details, particularly on older-gen cars, as time is catching up and you may find bills more expensive.

Volkswagen Golf history

VW Golf Mk7.5 - front

Volkswagen Golf Mk7: 2013-2019

The Mk7 Volkswagen Golf brought together all of the German manufacturer's technical know-how in what is, arguably, the best overall package in the iconic hatch's history. Already undeniably classy and good to drive, the model received a Mk7.5 facelift in 2017, introducing styling tweaks and useful new onboard technology. Read our full Mk7 Volkswagen Golf buyer’s guide here…

Volkswagen Golf Mk6 (used) - front

Volkswagen Golf Mk6: 2009-2013

The Mk6 Golf is based on the same platform as its predecessor, although Volkswagen raised the interior quality over the Mk5 car. The cabin included plenty of soft-touch materials and comfortable seats, while it had a quiet, executive air out on the road. Prices remain strong, even after a number of years post-production, so you'll need to spend some time finding the best bang for your buck. Read our full Mk6 Volkswagen Golf buyer’s guide here…

Volkswagen Golf Mk5 (used) - front

Volkswagen Golf Mk5: 2003-2009

Keen drivers often speak about the Mk5 Golf GTI as being one of the best hot hatches Volkswagen produced. More mainstream models were also highly praised for their solid build quality, while strong engines and the extra practicality of the high-roofed Volkswagen Golf Plus and roomier estate models meant the Golf's appeal reached out to a variety of buyers. Read our full Mk5 Volkswagen Golf buyer’s guide here…

Older VW Golf models

Buyers on the hunt for fourth-generation or earlier examples of Volkswagen Golf will probably be best served by scouring specialists or even the classified ads. 

VW launched the Mk1 Golf in 1974, followed by the slightly bigger Golf Mk2 nine years later. The Mk3 arrived in 1991, growing in size again, and was named European Car of the Year in 1992, while the Mk4 Golf went on to be the best-selling car in Europe. Older Golf models are still popular with enthusiasts, which means there are still decent, well-cared for examples to be found, but remember to still take extra care when looking to buy.

Frequently Asked Questions

For some buyers there’s an element of buying a Golf because it’s a Golf. There’s nothing wrong with that, because it’s still a decent hatchback, but it doesn’t excel in any particular area these days.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Which Is Best

Cheapest

  • Name
    1.5 TSI Life 5dr
  • Gearbox type
    Manual
  • Price
    £27,420

Most Economical

  • Name
    1.5 TSI Life 5dr
  • Gearbox type
    Manual
  • Price
    £27,420

Fastest

  • Name
    2.0 TSI 333 R 4Motion 5dr DSG
  • Gearbox type
    Semi-auto
  • Price
    £43,895
Chief reviewer

Alex joined Auto Express as staff writer in early 2018, helping out with news, drives, features, and the occasional sports report. His current role of Chief reviewer sees him head up our road test team, which gives readers the full lowdown on our comparison tests.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Have you considered?

Vauxhall Astra review
Vauxhall Astra UK - front

Vauxhall Astra review

In-depth reviews
19 Jul 2024
Vauxhall Astra GSe PHEV long-term test: family hatch has its fair share of flaws
Auto Express products editor Kim Adams standing behind the Vauxhall Astra GSe

Vauxhall Astra GSe PHEV long-term test: family hatch has its fair share of flaws

Long-term tests
15 Jul 2024

More on Golf

​Best-selling cars 2024: the UK’s top 10 most popular models
Header image of the best-selling cars for August 2024

​Best-selling cars 2024: the UK’s top 10 most popular models

These are the country’s most popular cars of the year so far, but which is in pole position?
Best cars & vans
4 Oct 2024
Volkswagen Golf GTI review
Volkswagen Golf GTI - main image

Volkswagen Golf GTI review

The eighth-generation Volkswagen Golf GTI remains an impressive hot hatch all-rounder
In-depth reviews
1 Oct 2024
Best diesel cars 2024
Best diesel cars - header image

Best diesel cars 2024

Diesel power strikes a balance between performance and fuel economy, and these are the best diesel cars you can buy
Best cars & vans
24 Sep 2024
Best tow cars to buy 2025
Best tow cars to buy 2025 - header

Best tow cars to buy 2025

There’s more to towing a car than just hitching up a caravan. Check out these tow car stars to pick what’s right for you
Best cars & vans
20 Sep 2024
Volkswagen Golf vs Skoda Octavia: a battle for family hatchback supremacy
Volkswagen Golf vs Skoda Octavia - front

Volkswagen Golf vs Skoda Octavia: a battle for family hatchback supremacy

The Volkswagen Golf has had a makeover for its 50th birthday, and we put it to the test against the refreshed Skoda Octavia hatch
Car group tests
5 Sep 2024
Car Deal of the Day: refreshed Volkswagen Golf GTI is a bargain at this price!
New Volkswagen Golf GTI - front static

Car Deal of the Day: refreshed Volkswagen Golf GTI is a bargain at this price!

Our Day of the Day for 30 August is on the segment-defining Golf GTI hot hatch
News
30 Aug 2024
Best low emission green cars in the UK
Best low emissions green cars - header image

Best low emission green cars in the UK

Low emissions and good fuel economy go hand-in-hand, and these cars deliver the best of both
Best cars & vans
22 Aug 2024
New Volkswagen Golf Estate facelift 2024 review: better but still not perfect
Volkswagen Golf Estate Life - front

New Volkswagen Golf Estate facelift 2024 review: better but still not perfect

The updated Volkswagen Golf Estate is an improvement but still lags behind rivals when it comes to practicality
Road tests
12 Aug 2024
New Volkswagen Golf R and Golf GTI Clubsport hit showrooms this week
Golf GTI Clubsport - front tracking

New Volkswagen Golf R and Golf GTI Clubsport hit showrooms this week

The new VW Golf R is among the most powerful Volkswagens ever produced, and there’s still an estate version
News
6 Aug 2024
Car Deal of the Day: new VW Golf in well-equipped Match trim for £186 per month
Volkswagen Golf facelift 2024 UK - front

Car Deal of the Day: new VW Golf in well-equipped Match trim for £186 per month

Our Deal of the Day for 2 August is the facelifted version of Volkswagen’s iconic family hatchback
News
2 Aug 2024
Top 10 best hot hatchbacks to buy 2024
Best hot hatchbacks - header image

Top 10 best hot hatchbacks to buy 2024

The very best hot hatchbacks offer giant-killing performance and an engaging drive, all wrapped up in a family-friendly package
Best cars & vans
23 Jul 2024
Skip advert
Advertisement
New Volkswagen Golf 2024 facelift review: updates are a step in the right direction
Volkswagen Golf facelift 2024 UK - front

New Volkswagen Golf 2024 facelift review: updates are a step in the right direction

The Volkswagen Golf has been updated to keep it competitive against the likes of the Skoda Octavia and Honda Civic
Road tests
19 Jul 2024
Used Volkswagen Golf (Mk8, 2020-date) buyer's guide: a family car with no real weakness
Used Volkswagen Golf Mk8 - front static

Used Volkswagen Golf (Mk8, 2020-date) buyer's guide: a family car with no real weakness

A full used buyer’s guide on the Volkswagen Golf, covering the Golf Mk8 that has been on sale since 2020
Used car tests
17 Jul 2024
Moody new Volkswagen Black Edition trim arrives on Golf, Polo, T-Roc and Taigo
Volkswagen Golf Black Edition - front

Moody new Volkswagen Black Edition trim arrives on Golf, Polo, T-Roc and Taigo

Black Edition sits above more familiar R-Line in Volkswagen’s trim structure, and adds up to £3,875 of extra kit
News
2 Jul 2024
New Volkswagen Golf R gets more power to help slay its hot hatch rivals
Volkswagen Golf R - front static

New Volkswagen Golf R gets more power to help slay its hot hatch rivals

The updated Volkswagen Golf R is here, with more power and an all-new Black Edition trim
News
25 Jun 2024
New Volkswagen Golf GTI gets cheaper, plug-in hybrid Golf GTE gets 82-mile electric range
New Volkswagen Golf GTI front 3/4

New Volkswagen Golf GTI gets cheaper, plug-in hybrid Golf GTE gets 82-mile electric range

The facelifted Golf GTI goes on sale on 20 June, while plug-in hybrid versions of VW’s family hatchback are available from 27 June
News
18 Jun 2024
New Volkswagen Golf R prototype review: promising signs for VW’s performance flagship
Volkswagen Golf R prototype - front

New Volkswagen Golf R prototype review: promising signs for VW’s performance flagship

We get behind the wheel of the new Volkswagen Golf R ahead of its official arrival
Road tests
11 Jun 2024
New 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport revealed on eve of 50th anniversary
Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport - front

New 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport revealed on eve of 50th anniversary

Volkswagen’s hottest front-wheel drive Golf gets an update, but no more power
News
31 May 2024
New Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport hot hatch reveal just days away
New Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport prototype

New Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport hot hatch reveal just days away

The updated GTI Clubsport be unveiled at the Nürburgring 24 Hours as part of 50th anniversary for the VW Golf
News
24 May 2024
Best cars to modify - our top options for DIY car mods
Best cars to modify - header image

Best cars to modify - our top options for DIY car mods

If you have the itch for aftermarket parts and making your ride unique, these are the best cars to go for
Best cars & vans
13 May 2024
Car Deal of the Day: brand-new facelifted Volkswagen Golf Match for a fantastic £215 a month
Volkswagen Golf facelift - front

Car Deal of the Day: brand-new facelifted Volkswagen Golf Match for a fantastic £215 a month

The newly updated VW Golf in Match trim is our Deal of the Day for 12 April
News
12 Apr 2024
New Volkswagen Golf 2024: facelifted hatchback icon on sale from 11 April
Facelifted Volkswagen Golf - front static

New Volkswagen Golf 2024: facelifted hatchback icon on sale from 11 April

The eighth-generation Golf has been given a mid-life refresh - just in time for the model’s 50th birthday
News
9 Apr 2024
Best cheap hot hatchbacks
Best cheap hot hatches - four way header image

Best cheap hot hatchbacks

Need an affordable car which delivers on both power and practicality? These cheap hot hatches fit the bill
Best cars & vans
2 Apr 2024