The Volkswagen Golf is a luxurious hatch that is ergonomic as well as smart. It is one of the longstanding models sold by the German automaker, Volkswagen, for years now. And over the period of time, the Golf has undergone changes in almost all aspects. From its dimensions to the exterior design, cabin layout, features, and powertrain, the Golf has evolved, making it best-fit to the auto industry's ever-changing demands and car buyers.

The latest iteration of the Golf was introduced in 2018. It is available in three trims for the Malaysian market - 1.4L TSI R-Line, 2.0L TSI GTI, and 2.0L TSI R. The entry-level trim of the Golf runs on 1.4-litre turbocharged 4-CYL engine that produces 159 PS of output at 5,000 to 6,000 rpm and 250 Nm of torque at 1,500 to 3,500 rpm. The mill is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG transmission along with an XDS extended differential lock. On the other hand, both the GTI and R variants are powered by the same 2.0-litre TSI mill, making different outputs for each. For example, in the Golf GTI, it makes 230 PS at 4,700 to 6,200 rpm and 350 Nm at 1,500 to 4,600 pm, while the R trim makes 290 PS and 380 Nm. Volkswagen Golf price are as follows:

Variants	Price
VW Golf 1.4L TSI R-Line	RM 168,505
VW Golf 2.0L TSI GTI	RM 238,857
VW Golf 2.0 TSI R	RM 294,905

With the continuous progression that Volkswagen is giving to Golf, the car still hit a few snags. Here are the things we like and what we think Volkswagen could still improve on the Golf.

Volkswagen Golf  Hits

Great fuel economy: The Volkswagen Golf, with its four-cylinder engines, offers excellent mileage without sacrificing power and performance. According to Volkswagen, the Golf 1.4L TSI can go for 15.63 kmpl in the city, 21.74 kmpl on the highway, and 19.23 kmpl combined on the city and highway driving. The GTI's mileage, on the other hand, reads 12.82 kmpl in urban, 18.18 kmpl in extra-urban, and 15.63 kmpl combined. Coming to the R trim, in the city, it records a mileage of 11.76 kmpl, on the highway, it is 16.95 kmpl and combined it is 14.49 kmpl.

Smooth driving experience: The fact of the matter is, Golf is a pleasure to drive. On long journeys, it is very dependable and comfortable. It is powerful enough to navigate uneven terrain without being jostled, thanks to its MacPherson Strut type suspension at the front and multi link suspension at the rear. So, the car can go from the highway to the rough roads with ease. A 4MOTION-All-Wheel Drive system provides the best possible traction at all road conditions, weather, and speeds.

Comfy interior: Once you enter the cabin, extraordinary comfort is what one should expect. The 12-way electric adjustable driver seat with memory feature, including lumbar support, 'Climatronic' air-con system with 2-zone temperature control adds to a comfortable ride.

Strong safety shield: The Golf scores high on safety thanks to its seven airbags— where most cars in the segment would only place two (driver and front passenger). Besides, it tags safety and driving assist features such as anti-lock brake system with brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution, automatic post-collision braking system, driver alert system, hill hold control, electronic stability control, proactive passenger protection system, cruise control with speed limiter, automatic post-collision braking system, tyre pressure loss indicator, and electronic differential lock.

Connectivity: All Golf variants come with touchscreen multifunction display—8.0 inch for the lower trims and 9.2-inch for the range-topping Golf R. Both infotainment systems, however, come standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The infotainment is partnered with an eight-speaker audio system. An SD card slot, AUX-IN, USB, and iPod/iPhone interface are part of the standard connectivity kit.

Volkswagen Golf  Misses

Costly compared to competitors: When compared to its arch-rivals, the Golf is a little expensive. For example, if you opt for the most luxurious variant, there is, you'll end up paying RM 294,905, which is even more than what Ford Ranger Raptor or Toyota Harrier costs.

Lack of sports-tuned suspension: VW Golf is a very comfortable car to drive in general, and it won't cause its passengers any discomfort. However, drivers with a taste for stiffer suspension will be a little disappointed with this hatch.

Bottom line

Despite its misses, the Volkswagen Golf remains a desired hatch. This German beauty oozes with luxury, comfort, and style with power and performance to boot!

Also Read: Volkswagon Golf - Top reasons to buy