2019 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen

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: The front-wheel-drive version of the 2019 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen swaps it 170-horsepower turbocharged 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine for a turbo 147-hp, 1.4-liter four. All-wheel-drive models retain the turbo 1.8-liter engine, although horsepower drops slightly to 168 and the manual transmission is upgraded from a 5-speed to a 6-speed. Otherwise, SportWagen sees only some minor shuffling of standard and optional equipment. The Golf SportWagen is a 4-door wagon version of the Volkswagen Golf, and shares its powertrains and basic design. SportWagen also shares its design with VW’s Alltrack that adds a raised ride height and SUV styling cues. The front-wheel-drive SportWagen’s turbo 1.4-liter is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission or 8-speed automatic. The all-wheel-drive SportWagen turbocharged 1.8-liter engine is mated to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automated-manual transmission. All-wheel drive is available on the base S model, otherwise SportWagens are front-wheel drive. SportWagen available features include forward-collision warning with emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitor, panoramic sunroof, keyless entry and starting, and park assist. 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.