Volkswagen remains one of the most popular car manufacturers in the world. By revamping its lineup, the German automaker is hoping to appeal to even more drivers this year.
All of VW’s cars have the potential to be a top contender in their class. Let’s take a closer look at its new models.
2018 Volkswagen Golf
The 2018 Volkswagen Golf is among the best small cars you can buy. Its versatile hatchback design and attractive features should intrigue plenty of drivers. Yet again, Car and Driver magazine featured the Golf on its 10 Best Cars list.
While even the base Golf offers a fulfilling level of performance, the high-output GTI and R models are especially fun to drive. A spacious cabin gives the Golf a big advantage over rival hatchbacks like the Toyota Corolla iM and the Mazda3. Because the Golf offers such a good amount of legroom in the back, it proves to be a practical family vehicle. For 2018, subtle styling updates give the boxy-shaped Golf a more modern appearance than before.
You’ll be able to choose from a trio of turbocharged four-cylinder engines. The base 1.8-liter engine develops a competitive 170 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque. According to the EPA, fuel economy stands at a combined 29 mpg.
If you desire more inspiration under the hood, step up to the Golf GTI. Its larger 2.0-liter engine pushes out 220 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A performance package now comes standard on the latest Golf GTI.
Atop the lineup sits the exhilarating Golf R. Although it comes equipped with the same engine as the GTI model, VW tweaked it to produce a more exciting 292 horsepower. Like the racy Ford Focus RS, the Golf R benefits from a standard AWD system.
Even the least expensive version of the Golf comes loaded with ample equipment. Some of the notable standard features include smartphone integration, a 6.5-inch touchscreen, and an eight-speaker sound system come standard. Featuring a 12.3-inch display, VW’s customizable Digital Cockpit gauge cluster gives you access to a lot of information. One of the Golf’s other highlights is its five-star overall safety rating. Pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist are just a few of the available driving aids.
2018 Volkswagen Passat
When shopping for a new family sedan, some people tend to forget about the midsize Volkswagen Passat. Although the Passat may not be a top seller like the Honda Accord and the Toyota Camry, it’s just as impressive. Spacious seating and a quiet cabin make the Passat a great choice. Boasting a sports-calibrated suspension and a specially tuned exhaust, the all-new GT trim is designed to offer you more driving excitement.
Most buyers will stick with the standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which develops 174 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. An automatic transmission is found throughout the lineup. In terms of fuel economy, you can anticipate getting an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in town and 36 mpg on the highway.
The available V6 engine obviously packs a stronger punch. It pumps out 280 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. However, the extra muscle lowers fuel efficiency to 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the open road. While the Passat is a smooth-riding sedan, the GT model’s stiffer suspension greatly enhances handling. Unfortunately for drivers living in cold-weather states, all-wheel drive isn’t available.
Many automotive critics consider the 2018 Volkswagen Passat to be a strong value. Drivers will certainly appreciate the touchscreen infotainment system’s easy-to-use design. Bluetooth connectivity, a backup camera, and a USB port also underline its list of standard equipment. In order to obtain Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you must climb the trim ladder. Featuring a high-powered Fender sound system, the SEL Premium model feels especially luxurious.
To help the Passat keep pace with the competition, Volkswagen has added standard automatic emergency braking. Some of the upgraded safety innovations consist of lane departure mitigation, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.
2019 Volkswagen Jetta
The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta benefits from a well-needed redesign. Although the previous-generation Jetta was a solid vehicle, it was losing ground to compact sedans like the Kia Forte and the Honda Civic. Several improvements were made to the 2019 model. In comparison to the outgoing Jetta, the new model looks sleeker and more athletic. Families will also be thankful for the sedan’s roomier cabin.
Volkswagen decided not to install a new engine in the 2019 Jetta. It comes equipped with the same power source as before. The peppy 1.8-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder develops 150 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. While a six-speed manual gearbox continues to be offered, the new eight-speed automatic transmission has gotten the most attention. It effectively aids performance and boosts fuel efficiency. All automatic-equipped Jettas have stop-start technology, which shuts off the engine at stop lights. Regardless of which transmission you prefer, you can look forward to getting a combined 34 mpg. The good news is that the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta retains its fun-to-drive character. A lowered ride height helps you to experience better handling on twisty roads.
Unsurprisingly, the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta welcomes you to a nicer interior. It has the feel of a more expensive model. Available heated and ventilated seats promote an even more relaxing ride. You’ll be surrounded by plenty of high-tech goodies. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink integration allow you to quickly connect your smartphone. Meanwhile, an optional ambient lighting system enables drivers to choose from 10 different colors. Higher trim levels come with VW’s Digital Cockpit, which replaces the traditional gauge cluster. Powered by a 400-watt amplifier, the available Beats Audio sound system packs a lot of bass.
Although the Jetta’s official safety rating has yet to be revealed, Volkswagen promises it will provide top-notch impact protection. An array of safety innovations is offered as well. When maneuvering on an everyday basis, the automatic emergency braking system will help prevent dangerous collisions. Some of the other key driving aids include lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot detection.