2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback
What’s new
- Turbocharged 1.4-liter engine replaces 1.8-liter
- New eight-speed automatic and six-speed manual transmission
- Some active safety features are now standard
- Part of the seventh Golf generation introduced for 2015
Pros & Cons
- Squared-off hatchback design provides lots of room for cargo
- Premium interior materials
- New engine and transmission significantly improve fuel economy
- Excellent handling abilities for a car in this price range
- Fewer luxury and convenience features offered than on rival hatchbacks
- Touchy brakes
- Less power than similarly priced hatchbacks
2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Which Golf does Edmunds recommend?
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
7.8 / 10There's a lot happening underneath the hood of the 2019 Volkswagen Golf. VW has replaced the previous turbocharged 1.8-liter engine in favor of a smaller turbocharged 1.4-liter engine. Also gone are the aging five-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmissions. In their place are six-speed and eight-speed units, respectively.
You rarely hear "smaller is better" in America. And true enough, the 2019 Golf is down on power: 147 horsepower, compared to 170 hp last year. Fortunately, the new engine, which is also used in the Jetta, makes a strong 184 pound-feet of torque almost from idle. The new eight-speed automatic shifts quicker and smoother, too. Then there's fuel economy. The EPA estimates you'll get 32 mpg in combined city/highway driving from a 2019 Golf with the automatic, which is a 4-mpg improvement.
Overall, we're optimistic about the change, and it keeps the Golf relevant. And if the horsepower loss really troubles you, you can always upgrade to the Golf GTI. But you might have a harder time deciding after you look at what else you can get for a similar price. The Honda Civic hatchback is an excellent car, especially with its punchy and efficient 1.5-liter engine, and the Kia Forte hatchback gives you a surprisingly long list of available features. There's also an all-new Mazda 3 hatchback on the way.
2019 Volkswagen Golf models
The 2019 Volkswagen Golf is available in two trim levels, S and SE. Both trims receive the same turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine (147 horsepower, 184 pound-feet of torque) and send power to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. An eight-speed automatic is available as an optional upgrade.
Standard equipment on the Golf S now includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. You also get 15-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights and taillights, automatic wipers, and heated side mirrors. Inside, you'll find a leather-wrapped steering wheel, manually adjustable seats with lumbar adjustment and power recline, cloth upholstery, cruise control and a rearview camera.
Infotainment is handled by a 6.5-inch touchscreen system with Bluetooth and USB connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an eight-speaker sound system.
Upgrading to the SE gets you heated washer nozzles, 16-inch alloy wheels and a sunroof. Inside, the SE upgrades to simulated-leather upholstery, heated front seats, and keyless entry with push-button start. The SE's infotainment system is upgraded to an 8-inch touchscreen that comes with a CD player and satellite radio, along with VW's Security & Service app.
The optional Driver Assistance package for the SE adds 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic high beams, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Trim tested
Scorecard
| Overall | 7.8 / 10 |
| Comfort | 7.5 |
| Interior | 8.5 |
| Utility | 8.5 |
| Technology | 8.0 |
Driving
Acceleration
Braking
5.5Steering
8.5Handling
9.0Comfort
7.5Seat comfort
8.0Ride comfort
8.5Noise & vibration
7.5Climate control
7.0Interior
8.5Ease of use
8.5Getting in/getting out
8.5Driving position
8.5Roominess
8.0Visibility
9.0Quality
7.0Utility
8.5Small-item storage
9.0Cargo space
8.5Child safety seat accommodation
8.0Technology
8.0Smartphone integration
8.5Driver aids
7.0Voice control
7.0Sponsored cars related to the Golf
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2019 Volkswagen Golf.
Trending topics in reviews
- comfort
- seats
- fuel efficiency
- interior
- spaciousness
- handling & steering
Most helpful consumer reviews
Tremendous handling, quick, responsive and GREAT on gas!! Plenty of leg room front and back. Seats 4 adults comfortably!
I love this car so much, compact but enough space for a single person.
Features & Specs
| 1.4T SE 4dr Hatchback 1.4L 4cyl Turbo 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $25,245 |
| MPG | 29 city / 37 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 147 hp @ 5000 rpm |
| 1.4T S 4dr Hatchback 1.4L 4cyl Turbo 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $22,945 |
| MPG | 29 city / 37 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 147 hp @ 5000 rpm |
| 1.4T S 4dr Hatchback 1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $21,845 |
| MPG | 29 city / 37 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Horsepower | 147 hp @ 5000 rpm |
| 1.4T SE 4dr Hatchback 1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $24,145 |
| MPG | 29 city / 37 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Horsepower | 147 hp @ 5000 rpm |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Golf safety features:
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Alerts the driver when a car enters a blind spot. Includes rear cross-traffic alert that warns about approaching cars when reversing.
- Forward Collision Warning
- Detects an impending front collision and warns the driver to take action.
- Autonomous Emergency Braking
- Applies the brakes automatically to avoid a front collision should the driver fail to act.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
| Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | 4 / 5 |
| Driver | 5 / 5 |
| Passenger | 4 / 5 |
| Side Crash Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Side Barrier Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Driver | 5 / 5 |
| Passenger | 5 / 5 |
| Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings | Rating |
| Front Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Back Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Rollover | Rating |
| Rollover | 4 / 5 |
| Dynamic Test Result | No Tip |
| Risk Of Rollover | 13.4% |
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
| Side Impact Test | Good |
|---|---|
| Roof Strength Test | Good |
| Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint | Good |
| IIHS Small Overlap Front Test | Not Tested |
| Moderate Overlap Front Test | Good |
Volkswagen Golf vs. the competition
Volkswagen Golf vs. Mazda 3
An all-new Mazda 3 is launching this year, and it promises to up the 3's near-luxury cred while improving on fuel economy. We've only had a brief shot at driving the new 3, but it impressed us. If you're looking for a lot of wow factor in an affordable small car, you should definitely check out the Mazda.
Volkswagen Golf vs. Honda Civic
Solidly built and smartly packaged, the Honda Civic is one of our favorite small cars. It's practical and surprisingly good to drive, especially with the optional 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, which also returns better gas mileage than the Golf. Thanks to some recent upgrades, the Civic's tech is also easier to live with. If you're shopping in this segment, the Honda Civic Hatchback is definitely worth a look.
Volkswagen Golf vs. Volkswagen Jetta
Now that the Golf has inherited the Jetta's powertrain, the difference is all about size and equipment. The Jetta is a slightly larger car and offers a roomy back seat, but it's a sedan, so there's some trade-off in cargo-hauling ability. But the Jetta's party piece is the cornucopia of tech features and creature comforts available on higher trims. It's not as refined as the Golf, but it still delivers a lot of bang for your buck.
FAQ
Is the Volkswagen Golf a good car?
What's new in the 2019 Volkswagen Golf?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2019 Volkswagen Golf:
- Turbocharged 1.4-liter engine replaces 1.8-liter
- New eight-speed automatic and six-speed manual transmission
- Some active safety features are now standard
- Part of the seventh Golf generation introduced for 2015
Is the Volkswagen Golf reliable?
Is the 2019 Volkswagen Golf a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2019 Volkswagen Golf?
The least-expensive 2019 Volkswagen Golf is the 2019 Volkswagen Golf 1.4T S 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $21,845.
Other versions include:
- 1.4T SE 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $25,245
- 1.4T S 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $22,945
- 1.4T S 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) which starts at $21,845
- 1.4T SE 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) which starts at $24,145
What are the different models of Volkswagen Golf?
More about the 2019 Volkswagen Golf
2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback Overview
The 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback is offered in the following styles: 1.4T SE 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 8A), 1.4T S 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 8A), 1.4T S 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M), and 1.4T SE 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M).
What do people think of the 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2019 Golf Hatchback 5.0 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2019 Golf Hatchback.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2019 Golf Hatchback featuring deep dives into trim levels including 1.4T SE, 1.4T S, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Read our full review of the 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback here.Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback?
2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback 1.4T S 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
The 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback 1.4T S 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $24,075. The average price paid for a new 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback 1.4T S 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 8A) is trending $3,624 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $3,624 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $20,451.
The average savings for the 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback 1.4T S 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 8A) is 15.1% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback 1.4T S 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 8A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback 1.4T S 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
The 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback 1.4T S 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $23,225. The average price paid for a new 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback 1.4T S 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) is trending $3,501 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $3,501 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $19,724.
The average savings for the 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback 1.4T S 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) is 15.1% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback 1.4T S 4dr Hatchback (1.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on new cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchbacks are available in my area?
2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback Listings and Inventory
There are currently 2 new 2019 [object Object] Golf Hatchbacks listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $23,225 and mileage as low as 11 miles. Simply research the type of used car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap used cars for sale near you. Once you have identified a vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $4,576 on a new, used or CPO 2019 [object Object] Golf Hatchback available from a dealership near you.
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2019 [object Object] Golf Hatchback for sale near you.
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Find a new Volkswagen Golf for sale - 8 great deals out of 23 listings starting at $25,365.
Find a new Volkswagen for sale - 2 great deals out of 20 listings starting at $7,722.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback and all available trim types: 1.4T S, 1.4T S, 1.4T SE, etc. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2019 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Volkswagen lease specials