Skip advert
Advertisement

VW Golf 1.6S

Our verdict on new petrol version of hatch.

Overall Auto Express rating

4.0

How we review cars
Find your Volkswagen Golf
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

It’s one of the cheapest models in the range, but anyone who buys a Golf 1.6 S shouldn’t feel short-changed. It packs all of the quality of more expensive models, and the result is a very classy car. High-mileage motorway drivers might be better off with a diesel, but for those who spend most of their time in town, it’s well worth considering.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Is there a weak link in the new Golf range? We’ve yet to find it! Auto Express has tested a number of models from the line-up, and all have impressed. But with a mix of hi-tech diesels and advanced TSI petrol units on offer, is there a reason to consider this humble 1.6-litre petrol model? Well, with 101bhp and 148Nm of torque, it’s not very rapid, but if you’re prepared to make the most of the five gears on offer, progress can be swift.

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the VW Golf

[[{"type":"media","view_mode":"content_narrow","fid":"69241","attributes":{"alt":"","class":"media-image"}}]]

Emissions of 166g/km and combined economy of 39.8mpg are good. However, it’s no match for a diesel Golf, although a price tag of £14,372 means the 1.6 S 5dr is £1,683 cheaper than the entry-level 2.0 TDI. But best of all, you never feel like you’re driving an entry-level car. Build quality is beyond reproach, with sturdy materials throughout and a touchscreen display on the dashboard.

Engine noise is well insulated, so the lack of sixth gear doesn’t detract from the Golf’s motorway ability. The suspension absorbs bumps brilliantly, yet the springs and dampers are still taut enough to restrict body roll, resulting in strong grip when cornering. Equipment is rather basic in S trim, but you do get air-con and a trip computer. It all adds to up to another excellent Golf.

Rival: Ford Focus 1.6 Edge
If it’s sharp handling you’re after, the Focus is the car for you. However, in every other respect the Golf is as good or better than the Ford.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £19,690Avg. savings £4,794 off RRP*Used from £15,850
Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

RRP £27,415Avg. savings £5,924 off RRP*Used from £12,300
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £15,255Avg. savings £1,864 off RRP*Used from £7,995
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £38,140Avg. savings £3,019 off RRP*Used from £10,195
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Car Deal of the Day: Bag a desirable plug-in hybrid BMW X3 M Sport for less than £380 a month
BMW X3 - full width, front

Car Deal of the Day: Bag a desirable plug-in hybrid BMW X3 M Sport for less than £380 a month

The new BMW X3 is fresh out of the blocks, but you can already lease a well-specced one for an eye-opening £378 a month. It’s our Car Deal of the Day …
News
17 Aug 2025
New Suzuki Swift Allgrip 2025 review: why bother with an SUV?
New Suzuki Swift Allgrip - front tracking

New Suzuki Swift Allgrip 2025 review: why bother with an SUV?

The Swift Allgrip’s all-wheel-drive system makes this a niche option in the supermini class, but one that some customers will definitely appreciate
Road tests
19 Aug 2025
Three car garage: Skoda Superb Estate, BMW i3 and a Ford Mustang GT Convertible for £75k
3-car garage for 75k

Three car garage: Skoda Superb Estate, BMW i3 and a Ford Mustang GT Convertible for £75k

The 75-plate is coming but what if you spent £75k on used cars instead? This three-car garage covers all the bases
Features
18 Aug 2025