Skip advert
Advertisement
In-depth reviews

Volkswagen Golf review: the family favourite that caters for almost every need

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 out of 5

Price
£27,005 to £44,455
  • New mild-hybrid powertrain
  • Comfortable
  • Excellent safety levels
  • High list prices
  • Road noise and engine drone
  • Cabin doesn't feel as premium
Find your Volkswagen Golf
Offers from our trusted partners on this car and its predecessors...
Or are you looking to sell your car?
9/10 sellers got the price they expected
Advertisement

The new eighth-generation Golf scores well in plenty of areas, but it’s perhaps not as convincing as previous iterations. This family car motoring icon has long-reigned supreme, combining classy looks and practicality while also being good to drive. The Golf is still comfortable and a pleasant place to be, but chassis revisions have compromised the ride quality, particularly over poorer surfaces, and there’s intrusive road noise at speed. 

Advertisement - Article continues below

When you buy a Golf you expect quality throughout, but the latest model doesn’t feel head-and-shoulders above the rest and the renewed focus on technology is far from perfect. Time hasn’t necessarily caught up with the Mk8 Golf, but the competition certainly has. 

About the Volkswagen Golf

As one of Volkswagen’s most revered nameplates, the Golf has a rich history dating back to 1974. During almost 50 years of success, it’s typically beaten all-comers thanks to a fine blend of handling, practicality, great build quality and a classy image.

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.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

The new Golf is based on the Mk7’s MQB Evo platform, which is used across a variety of other VW Group cars including the SEAT Leon and Skoda Scala - direct rivals in the family hatchback class. Other mainstream competitors include the Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Vauxhall Astra, and Peugeot 308, while for those looking towards the premium end of the hatchback market, there’s the Audi A3, Mercedes A-Class and BMW 1 Series. In addition, buyers shouldn’t discount the much improved Kia Ceed and Hyundai i30.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The Mk8 Volkswagen Golf is available in five-door hatchback and estate body styles, which also includes a more rugged all-wheel-drive Alltrack variant.

Volkswagen has kept the Golf model range simple and easy to understand with three equipment levels covering the core of the range: Life, Style and R-Line. Entry-level Life trim offers generous amounts of kit and new on-board tech, including a digital instrument display, a 10-inch colour touchscreen and wireless smartphone charging as standard. Active specification no longer features on the Golf price list, although if you track down a used example you'll benefit from rear privacy glass, climate control and a heating function for the front seats and steering wheel.

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 brings lowered suspension and an exterior styling pack giving a more muscular stance.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

Petrol engine choices include a 109bhp 1.0-litre and a 1.5-litre unit with either 128bhp or 148bhp - all offered with a six-speed manual transmission. There's also a 148bhp 1.5-litre eTSI mild-hybrid version coupled with a seven-speed DSG auto ‘box.

The more powerful GTI delivers 242bhp from its 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine, while the GTI Clubsport and R models offer 296bhp and 316bhp, respectively. Volkswagen introduced the Golf R 20 Years edition in late 2022 with a power hike up to 328bhp.

Advertisement - Article continues below

For those prioritising fuel economy, the Mk8 Golf comes with a 2.0-litre diesel engine in three power outputs - the standard 113bhp variant is available with a six-speed manual gearbox, while the meatier 148bhp version and 197bhp GTD use the seven-speed DSG auto. Buyers can also opt for the 242bhp 1.4-litre GTE petrol plug-in hybrid or the 201bhp e-hybrid version - both of which offer exceptional fuel economy and low CO2 emissions.

Many of the Golf’s immediate competitors are now 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 ID.3.  

Volkswagen continues to charge premium prices for what it considers to be the class-leading family hatchback currently on sale. Entry-level 1.0-litre cars start from more than £26,000, and the range tops-out at almost £50,000 for the Golf R 20 Years.

Used and nearly new

The iconic Golf hatchback has offered a near-perfect blend of style, driving fun and practicality for over 45 years. You'll struggle to find a classier used buy, with the Mk5 Golf providing a much needed return to form as a great driver's car in GTI trim, and later Mk7 models offering improved onboard 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 knowhow 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 big facelift in 2017 which brought 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 upped 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 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 Volkswagen Golf models, and cars from even earlier in production, 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.

For an alternative review of the Volkswagen Golf, visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk...

Skip advert
Advertisement

Which Is Best

Cheapest

  • Name
    1.0 TSI Active 5dr
  • Gearbox type
    Manual
  • Price
    £24,995

Most Economical

  • Name
    1.0 TSI Active 5dr
  • Gearbox type
    Manual
  • Price
    £24,995

Fastest

  • Name
    2.0 TDI 150 Style 5dr DSG
  • Gearbox type
    Semi-auto
  • Price
    £32,175
Senior news reporter

A keen petrol-head, Alastair Crooks has a degree in journalism and worked as a car salesman for a variety of manufacturers before joining Auto Express in Spring 2019 as a Content Editor. Now, as our senior news reporter, his daily duties involve tracking down the latest news and writing reviews.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Have you considered?

Vauxhall Astra review
Vauxhall Astra UK - front
In-depth reviews
20 Feb 2024

Vauxhall Astra review

Vauxhall Astra GSe PHEV long-term test: a troublesome start to life on our fleet
Vauxhall Astra GSE PHEV long termer - first report header
Long-term tests
15 Feb 2024

Vauxhall Astra GSe PHEV long-term test: a troublesome start to life on our fleet

Peugeot 408 review
Peugeot 408 PHEV - front tracking
In-depth reviews
31 Jan 2024

Peugeot 408 review

More on Golf

Best-selling cars 2024: the UK’s top 10 most popular models
Best-selling cars 2024 - header image
Best cars & vans
5 Mar 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?
“The Volkswagen Golf is the greatest real-world car of the last 50 years”
Opinion - VW Golf
News
11 Feb 2024

“The Volkswagen Golf is the greatest real-world car of the last 50 years”

Mike Rutherford thinks the new or used VW Golfs that he either bought, leased or ran as company cars were the finest affordable cars on the market
New Volkswagen Golf 2024 facelift: design, interior, specs and 62-mile EV range
Volkswagen Golf facelift - front
News
2 Feb 2024

New Volkswagen Golf 2024 facelift: design, interior, specs and 62-mile EV range

The iconic family hatchback has received an interior rethink as part of its mid-life facelift, with the new Mk8.5 model expected to arrive in showroom…
Skip advert
Advertisement
Top 10 best fast family cars 2024
Best fast family cars - February update
Best cars & vans
1 Feb 2024

Top 10 best fast family cars 2024

Having a family shouldn't limit you to a boring hatchback or people carrier - here's our top 10 fast family cars
New Volkswagen Golf R facelift: four-wheel-drive hot hatch looks cool in the snow
Volkswagen Golf R facelift - front
News
29 Jan 2024

New Volkswagen Golf R facelift: four-wheel-drive hot hatch looks cool in the snow

The hottest Golf has been spotted trying to cool off
New Volkswagen Golf Estate facelift launched with mild-hybrid power and hot R version to follow
Volkswagen Golf Estate facelift - front
News
26 Jan 2024

New Volkswagen Golf Estate facelift launched with mild-hybrid power and hot R version to follow

The roomy estate version of the Golf majors on practicality but shuns GTI hot hatch fun
Top 10 best hot hatchbacks to buy 2024
Best hot hatchbacks - header image
Best cars & vans
25 Jan 2024

Top 10 best hot hatchbacks to buy 2024

The best hot hatches offer giant-killing performance and a gripping drive, all wrapped in a user-friendly package
New Volkswagen Golf GTI facelift is hotter than ever with 261bhp
Volkswagen Golf GTI facelift - front studio
News
23 Jan 2024

New Volkswagen Golf GTI facelift is hotter than ever with 261bhp

In a bid to trump rivals in the hot hatch market, the Volkswagen Golf GTI has been given more power to go with its new look
New 2024 Volkswagen Golf facelift arrives with updated styling and improved tech
Volkswagen Golf facelift - front
News
23 Jan 2024

New 2024 Volkswagen Golf facelift arrives with updated styling and improved tech

The Volkswagen Golf Mk8.5 gets a new look, plus updated engines and tech
Skip advert
Advertisement
Best used hot hatchbacks 2024
Best used hot hatchbacks - header image
Best cars & vans
12 Jan 2024

Best used hot hatchbacks 2024

Our picks for the best used hot hatchbacks in the UK
Volkswagen Golf 2024 facelift: iconic hatchback gains much-needed tech updates
Volkswagen Golf facelift CES - front
News
9 Jan 2024

Volkswagen Golf 2024 facelift: iconic hatchback gains much-needed tech updates

ChatGPT and an interior rethink set to make the Golf 8.5 better than ever
Skip advert
Advertisement
Best tow cars to buy 2024
Best tow cars to buy 2023 - header
Best cars & vans
3 Jan 2024

Best tow cars to buy 2024

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 used hatchbacks 2024
Best used hatchbacks - header image
Best cars & vans
6 Dec 2023

Best used hatchbacks 2024

Hatchbacks offer great practicality, low running costs and comfort – these are the best used hatchbacks currently on the UK market
Mk8.5 Volkswagen Golf R let loose on the Nurburgring
Volkswagen Golf R hatchback Mk8.5 test car - front cornering
News
14 Nov 2023

Mk8.5 Volkswagen Golf R let loose on the Nurburgring

VW’s hottest Golf hatchback is about to be updated with new tech and styling elements
Are EVs cheaper to run than petrol or diesel cars right now? We have the answers!
Porsche Taycan charging
News
20 Oct 2023

Are EVs cheaper to run than petrol or diesel cars right now? We have the answers!

We explore the Total Cost of Ownership for a range of comparable electric and petrol cars with telling results
Skip advert
Advertisement
Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk8.5 ready to ring the changes
2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI testing at the Nurburgring - front action
News
10 Oct 2023

Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk8.5 ready to ring the changes

VW is hoping to claw back ground against hot hatch rivals with a new and improved Mk8.5 GTI
Deal of the day: Stay classy with a VW Golf for under £190 per month
Volkswagen Golf mk8
News
6 Oct 2023

Deal of the day: Stay classy with a VW Golf for under £190 per month

VW’s do-it-all family hatch is keenly priced on the leasing market right now, and our deal of the day for October 6
New Volkswagen Golf to live on in the electric era with hot Golf R flagship
VW Golf R render - front
News
11 Sep 2023

New Volkswagen Golf to live on in the electric era with hot Golf R flagship

Volkswagen has no plans to axe the VW Golf name as its switch to electric power comes to fruition. If anything, it’s the future of the ID electric bra…
New Volkswagen Golf Black Edition on sale from £31,985
Volkswagen Golf Black Edition - front
News
7 Sep 2023

New Volkswagen Golf Black Edition on sale from £31,985

The VW Golf Black Edition comes with some bespoke design tweaks and the option of hybrid power
Volkswagen Golf vs Skoda Octavia: 2023 twin test review
Volkswagen Golf and Skoda Octavia - side tracking right
Car group tests
19 Jun 2023

Volkswagen Golf vs Skoda Octavia: 2023 twin test review

VW’s Golf is the family car benchmark, while the Octavia wins the space race. Which is the best, though?
New Volkswagen Golf R 333 teased as the next special edition R
Volkswagen Golf R 333 - front static
News
4 May 2023

New Volkswagen Golf R 333 teased as the next special edition R

Picking up from where the R 20 Years left off, the VW Golf R 333 dons a new hue but won’t be offered in the UK
Skip advert
Advertisement
New Volkswagen Golf Alltrack 2023 review
Volkswagen Golf Alltrack - front
Road tests
3 Apr 2023

New Volkswagen Golf Alltrack 2023 review

The Alltrack is a useful addition to the Golf range
Honda Civic Type R vs Volkswagen Golf R 20 Years: 2023 twin test review
Honda Civic Type R and Volkswagen Golf R 20 Years - front tracking
Car group tests
18 Mar 2023

Honda Civic Type R vs Volkswagen Golf R 20 Years: 2023 twin test review

New Honda Civic Type R locks horns with most powerful VW Golf R ever for bragging rights