Comments on: 2010 Volkswagen Golf Review – Utility and performance fitted into an economical package

By: Table of Contents – Expert Reviews - suzuki 125

Table of Contents – Expert Reviews - suzuki 125 — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 10:53:03 +0000

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By: Derek

Derek — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 05:42:36 +0000

If the cheap factory stereo in the Golf was the only issue, than I would suggest getting the Golf and just replace the stereo with an aftermarket setup. If you really want something with a manual gearbox and a more lively engine, than maybe the Golf isn’t the right fit for you. But don’t let the weak stereo sway your decision because that is something easily rectified. Engines and transmissions are not.

By: Steve

Steve — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 05:27:11 +0000

I just drove a 3-door Golf manual, I’m comparing cars to buy for myself. First, the Golf in no way competes with the Fit. I drove that car and really WANTED to like the Fit. The packaging is amazing for such a small car, but the Fit is a city car and feels really maxed out at even 65 mph on the freeway. The Golf is a better competitor for the Civic LX which is more similar in size, equipment, and power. MSRPs are within spitting distance as well.

The Golf was impressive for its build quality and I love that the standard seats are so sporty and comfortable. However, I found the engine pretty lifeless… it indeed is powerful enough but it just moans… no joyous engine sounds like a Civic. Also, the standard stereo sounds promising on paper (8 speakers!), but I haven’t heard a radio this bad since GM/Delco units from the 1980s. Seriously, I’m no audio nut but I’m seriously considering another car for this reason alone. The TDI comes with a much improved stereo but it’s not available as an option on the Golf 2.5. The base radio can barely make NPR listenable at 65 mph. Did they put the eight speakers under the seats or something?

On a positive note, the back seats are surprisingly roomy and comfortable. The storage under the hatch is huge, and while fuel economy is nothing spectacular, it is improved for 2010.

Oh, and one real gripe… why no manual transmission option in a 4-door Golf?

By: francois

francois — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 22:34:18 +0000

I drove the GTI version for the last week. What a delight of a car. Same platform but more of everything.

Next up is the TDI which I actually want to buy and own! It has the same suspension and seats as the GTI but 40 mpg diesel!