Pros: Comfortable ride; excellent passenger and cargo room; nicely finished cabin; simple control layout; base models are outstanding values
Cons: Leather upholstery not available; no optional engines; all-wheel drive only offered on base model
CG Says: For 2017, the Volkswagen Golf SportWagen offers all-wheel drive. However, AWD is only offered on the base S model. Forward-collision warning with emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitor are now standard on topline SEL. The Golf SportWagen is a 4-door wagon version of the Volkswagen Golf, and shares its powertrains and basic design. (A diesel engine was previously available in most VW Golfs, but it has been discontinued—at least temporarily—in the wake of VW’s diesel emissions cheating scandal.) SportWagen also shares its design with VW’s Alltrack that adds a raised ride height and SUV styling cues. SportWagen available features include a panoramic sunroof, keyless entry and starting, park assist, forward collision warning, and a post-collision braking system that automatically applies the brakes after a crash to prevent or mitigate possible secondary collisions. The Golf SportWagen stands out simply by virtue of being one of the only traditional compact station wagons on the market. Its fuel efficiency, passenger and cargo versatility, and all-around practicality make it a compelling choice in its class, as well as fine alternative to many compact SUVs.
| Class | Compact Car |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen |
| Nation of Manufacture | Mexico |
| Base Prices | S: $21,580 AWD S w/4motion: $24,930 SE: $27,030 SEL: $29,970 |
| Base Engine turbocharged 1.8-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 170 |
| Std. Transmission 5-speed manual |
| Avail. Transmission 6-speed automatic |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 22-25 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 30-35 |
