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Volkswagen Golf

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Volkswagen Golf Review, For Sale, Colours, Interior & Models in Australia

Few cars have had the impact of the Volkswagen Golf. With worldwide sales in excess of 30 million, it's fair to say that VW's small-sized hatch is a pretty big deal.

Introduced in Australia in 1976 as a replacement for the classic Beetle, the Golf has undergone a series of growth spurts and facelifts to stay up-to-date and remain a viable option for Australian families. The Golf pulls off a neat trick – it's big enough to seat four in comfort, but small enough to park with ease. It's reserved enough to not draw attention, but classy enough that you don't feel short-changed at traffic lights. It's quiet enough to sit all day at freeway speeds, and interesting enough when you turn onto a back road. The Golf 110TSI Life starts at $39,190 up to $77,490 for the Golf R 4Motion 20 Years and is available as everything from a city-bound hatchback to snarling GTI and R performance versions.

This vehicle is also known as Volkswagen Rabbit, Volkswagen Caribe.

Volkswagen Golf News

Guess which country buys more Tesla Model Ys than any other car? Here's the No.1 best selling cars around the world, from the Suzuki Swift and Toyota Yaris to the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Ranger

Guess which country buys more Tesla Model Ys than any other car? Here's the No.1 best selling cars around the world, from the Suzuki Swift and Toyota Yaris to the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Ranger

By L.aura Berry - 8 Sep 2024
Every new Volkswagen electric car, SUV and passenger car: VW kicks off new model offensive with ID.4, ID.5, ID.Buzz, Golf facelift, next-gen Tiguan and Multivan

Every new Volkswagen electric car, SUV and passenger car: VW kicks off new model offensive with ID.4, ID.5, ID.Buzz, Golf facelift, next-gen Tiguan and Multivan

By L.aura Berry - 22 Aug 2024
New 2025 Volkswagen Golf R scores more power and a tech update to fend off rivals like the Mercedes-AMG A35, Mini JCW and Honda Civic Type R

New 2025 Volkswagen Golf R scores more power and a tech update to fend off rivals like the Mercedes-AMG A35, Mini JCW and Honda Civic Type R

By C.hris Thompson - 26 Jun 2024
Hardcore hero debuts at Nurburgring: Mark 8.5 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport track-ready hot hatch unveiled with Hyundai i30 N and Honda Civic Type R toppling intentions

Hardcore hero debuts at Nurburgring: Mark 8.5 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport track-ready hot hatch unveiled with Hyundai i30 N and Honda Civic Type R toppling intentions

By J.ohn Law - 3 Jun 2024
Iconic hot hatch now $8000 cheaper: 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI gains equipment and a lower price to fight off the Hyundai i30 N and Honda Civic Type R

Iconic hot hatch now $8000 cheaper: 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI gains equipment and a lower price to fight off the Hyundai i30 N and Honda Civic Type R

By D.om Tripolone - 30 May 2024
Hot hatches are still popular! More stock of MY24 Hyundai i30 N hatch on the way as demand remains high for VW Golf GTI and Honda Civic Type R rival

Hot hatches are still popular! More stock of MY24 Hyundai i30 N hatch on the way as demand remains high for VW Golf GTI and Honda Civic Type R rival

By J.ohn Law - 2 May 2024
2024 Volkswagen Golf 8.5 facelift revealed, confirmed for Australia: Tweaked styling, an updated hybrid system, and upgraded software highlight changes for the brand's key Toyota Corolla and Hyundai i30 rival

2024 Volkswagen Golf 8.5 facelift revealed, confirmed for Australia: Tweaked styling, an updated hybrid system, and upgraded software highlight changes for the brand's key Toyota Corolla and Hyundai i30 rival

By T.om White - 24 Jan 2024
VW's new electric GTI can simulate the driving feel of Golf GTIs of the past

VW's new electric GTI can simulate the driving feel of Golf GTIs of the past

By T.ung Nguyen - 4 Sep 2023
Don't put that deposit down for a Ford Ranger or Toyota Prado just yet! A small hatchback might be a better fit | Opinion

Don't put that deposit down for a Ford Ranger or Toyota Prado just yet! A small hatchback might be a better fit | Opinion

By T.im Nicholson - 26 Aug 2023
See All Volkswagen Golf News

Volkswagen Golf Models Price and Specs

The price range for the Volkswagen Golf varies based on the trim level you choose. Starting at $39,190 and going to $77,490 for the latest year the model was manufactured. The model range is available in the following body types starting from the engine/transmission specs shown below.

Year Body Type Specs Price from Price to
2024 Hatchback 1.4L, —, 8 SP AUTO $39,190 $77,490
2023 Hatchback 1.4L, —, 8 SP AUTO $31,460 $82,610
2023 Wagon 1.4L, —, 8 SP AUTO $33,330 $76,780
2022 Hatchback 1.4L, PULP, 8 SP AUTO $28,710 $72,820
2022 Wagon 1.4L, PULP, 8 SP AUTO $30,140 $76,010
2021 Hatchback 1.4L, PULP, 6 SP MAN $21,010 $69,520
2021 Wagon 1.4L, PULP, 7 SP AUTO $25,080 $72,710
2021 SUV 1.8L, PULP, 6 SP $31,790 $42,900
2020 Hatchback 1.4L, PULP, 6 SP MAN $20,460 $60,170
2020 Wagon 1.4L, PULP, 7 SP AUTO $24,640 $60,170
2020 SUV 1.8L, PULP, 6 SP $30,030 $40,480
See All Volkswagen Golf Pricing and Specs

Volkswagen Golf Colours

The eighth-generation Golf is available in eight colour choices, with the standard range available in white, black, silver, grey, blue, and yellow. The R-Line is available in a unique shade of grey, while the GTI is available with its own signature shade of red.

  • Moonstone Grey Premium
  • Pure White
  • Atlantic Blue Metallic
  • Dolphin Grey Metallic
  • Pomelo Yellow Premium Metallic
  • Deep Black Pearl Effect
  • Kings Red Premium Metallic
To confirm current colour availability, please check the manufacturer's website. Shown above are the colours for the Volkswagen Golf 2021.

Volkswagen Golf Q&As

Check out real-world situations relating to the Volkswagen Golf here, particularly what our experts have to say about them.

  • Should I service my 2019 VW Golf GTI before trading it in?

    The answer to this question depends entirely on one thing: Are you trading the vehicle in on a new car or selling it privately?

    If it’s the former, then the trade-in value won’t be too much different regardless of whether it’s had its 100,000km service or not. Dealerships can service a car for a lot less money than they charge you to do it. But if you’re selling privately, the car will be a lot more attractive to a private buyer if the cost of this major service has already been taken care of.

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  • What engine oil should I use in a 2014 Volkswagen Golf VII wagon?

    The trade recommends a fully synthetic oil for either the diesel or petrol engines of the Golf Mk 7. The correct grade and specification is 5W30 which will give you maximum engine protection and performance.

    The other engine-oil recommendation for this car is to not skimp on checking the oil level with the dipstick. These engines – in particular the 2.0-litre petrol unit – are designed to sip a little oil between changes, so don't be caught out with too little oil in the sump as that can cause catastrophic damage to the engine. The engine does this because it's a low-friction design, but the small amount of oil you'll use will be more than offset by the fuel savings engines designs like this can deliver.

    Make it a habit to check the oil level every Saturday morning; it's a simple thing to do and something that we all once had to do in the old days when most engines burned a little oil.

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  • What is the ideal fuel type and tyre pressure for a Golf 118TSI Comfortline

    Your recommended tyre pressures can vary a bit depending on what size wheel and tyre combination is fitted to your car. But broadly speaking, you should be looking at something like 30 or 32 psi front and rear as a good starting point. If you're moving heavy loads or driving at freeway speeds in mid-summer, a little more inflation pressure might be a good idea.

    As for recommended fuel, the best advice would be to stop using ethanol-blended (E10) fuel right away. That's because there's a fair bit of confusion on the subject as it relates to Volkswagen models. The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries tells us that all post-1986 VWs with fuel-injected engines are fine with E10. The NSW government website, however, says that E10 should not be used in VWs. Some VW owners have also been told by VW head office that E10 fuel is not suitable for their cars.

    So it's confusing, but if in doubt, stick with the safe option which, for your car, would be non-ethanol fuel with an octane rating of 95 or more.

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  • Can you increase the tow-ball capacity of a car by uprating the rear springs or dampers?

    No, the tow-ball capacity is determined by the manufacturer and is not affected by what rear suspension you have in the vehicle. Theoretically, upgrading the rear springs would mean the car would sag less when you put a load on the tow-bar, but that doesn’t alter the tow-bar’s ability to cope with extra weight.

    Towing is an area where there’s a lot of misinformation doing the rounds. Make sure you know the limits dictated by the car’s manufacturer, the trailer’s manufacturer and the law.

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See All Volkswagen Golf Q&As
Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.

Volkswagen Golf Accessories

The TCR builds on the regular GTI, adding things like a dynamic cornering function to the LED headlights, a revised (louder) exhaust, black mirror covers, 19-inch alloys, TCR decals on the vehicle’s flanks, a gloss-black roof and very cool TCR puddle lights that illuminate the footpaths when you open the front doors.

Inside, you’ll find a sportier material on the seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with a red marker at the top, more red trim on the seat belts and floor mats, and Alcantara on the gearshift and and door trims.

All of which joins the regular GTI’s equipment list - think an 8.0-inch touchscreen with in-built nav and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital driver display, keyless entry and push-button start, and all the safety equipment you can shake a traffic cone at - and you’re left with a vehicle in which you want for little. 

Shown above are the accessory details for the Volkswagen Golf 2021.

Volkswagen Golf Interior

The VW Golf GTI TCR interior is similar in most ways to that of the regular GTI, though this special edition vehicle adds a sportier material on the seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with a red marker at the top, more red trim on the seat belts and floor mats, and Alcantara on the gearshift and and door trims.

Shown above are interior details for the Volkswagen Golf 2021.

Volkswagen Golf Dimensions

The dimensions of the Volkswagen Golf Hatchback, Wagon and SUV vary according to year of manufacture and spec level.

Year Body Type Height x Width x Length Ground Clearance
2024 Hatchback 1456x1789x4284 mm 134 mm
2023 Hatchback 1456x1789x4284 mm 134 mm
2023 Wagon 1483x1789x4633 mm 134 mm
2022 Wagon 1483x1789x4633 mm 134 mm
2022 Hatchback 1456x1789x4284 mm 134 mm
2021 SUV 1496x1799x4578 mm 175 mm
2021 Hatchback 1452x1799x4258 mm 142 mm
2021 Wagon 1461x1799x4567 mm 140 mm
2020 Hatchback 1452x1799x4258 mm 142 mm
2020 Wagon 1461x1799x4567 mm 140 mm
2020 SUV 1496x1799x4578 mm 175 mm
The dimensions shown above are for the base model. See All Volkswagen Golf Dimensions

Volkswagen Golf Fuel Consumption

The Volkswagen Golf is available in a number of variants and body types that are powered by — and PULP fuel type(s). It has an estimated fuel consumption starting from 5.8L/100km for Hatchback /— for the latest year the model was manufactured.

Year Body Type Fuel Consumption* Engine Fuel Type Transmission
2024 Hatchback 5.8L/100km 1.4L 8 SP AUTO
2023 Hatchback 5.8L/100km 1.4L 8 SP AUTO
2023 Hatchback 5.8L/100km 1.4L PULP 8 SP AUTO
2023 Wagon 5.9L/100km 1.4L 8 SP AUTO
2023 Wagon 5.9L/100km 1.4L PULP 8 SP AUTO
2022 Hatchback 5.8L/100km 1.4L 8 SP AUTO
2022 Hatchback 5.8L/100km 1.4L PULP 8 SP AUTO
2022 Wagon 5.9L/100km 1.4L 8 SP AUTO
2022 Wagon 5.9L/100km 1.4L PULP 8 SP AUTO
2021 Hatchback 5.7L/100km 1.4L PULP 6 SP MAN
2021 SUV 6.8L/100km 1.8L PULP 6 SP
2021 Wagon 5.6L/100km 1.4L PULP 7 SP AUTO
2020 Hatchback 5.7L/100km 1.4L PULP 6 SP MAN
2020 SUV 6.8L/100km 1.8L PULP 6 SP
2020 Wagon 5.6L/100km 1.4L PULP 7 SP AUTO
* Combined fuel consumption See All Volkswagen Golf Pricing and Specs for 2024

Volkswagen Golf Wheel Size

The Volkswagen Golf has a number of different wheel and tyre options. When it comes to tyres, these range from 225x45 R17 for Hatchback in 2024.

Year Body Type Front Tyre Size Front Rim Rear Tyre Size Rear Rim
2024 Hatchback 225x45 R17 225x45 R17
2023 Hatchback 205x55 R16 205x55 R16
2023 Wagon 205x55 R16 205x55 R16
2022 Hatchback 205x55 R16 205x55 R16
2022 Wagon 205x55 R16 205x55 R16
2021 Hatchback 205x55 R16 205x55 R16
2021 Wagon 205x55 R16 205x55 R16
2021 SUV 205x55 R17 205x55 R17
2020 Hatchback 205x55 R16 16x6.5 inches 205x55 R16 16x6.5 inches
2020 Wagon 205x55 R16 16x6.5 inches 205x55 R16 16x6.5 inches
2020 SUV 205x55 R17 17x7 inches 205x55 R17 17x7 inches
The dimensions shown above are for the base model. See All Volkswagen Golf Wheel Sizes

Volkswagen Golf Boot Space

The Golf has a 374-litre (VDA) luggage capacity, above average for the mid-size hatchback segment. It leaves room for a space-saver spare under the boot floor.

Shown above are boot space details for the Volkswagen Golf 2021.

Volkswagen Golf Towing Capacity

The Volkswagen Golf has maximum towing capacity of 1600kg for the latest model available.

Year Body Type Braked Capacity from Braked Capacity to
2024 Hatchback 0kg 1600kg
2023 Hatchback 0kg 1600kg
2023 Wagon 1500kg 1500kg
2022 Wagon 1500kg 1500kg
2022 Hatchback 1500kg 1600kg
2021 Wagon 0kg 1500kg
2021 Hatchback 0kg 1600kg
2021 SUV 1500kg 1500kg
2020 Hatchback 0kg 1500kg
2020 Wagon 0kg 1500kg
2020 SUV 1500kg 1500kg
See All Towing Capacity for Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf Seats

The VW Golf GTI is a five-seat hatchback, with two spacious chairs up front, and a bench across the rear that includes ISOFIX attachment points in each of the window seats at the back. 

Shown above are seat details for the Volkswagen Golf 2021.

Volkswagen Golf Speed

The VW Golf GTI will accelerate from 0-100km/h in 5.7 seconds.

Shown above are speed details for the Volkswagen Golf 2021.