Volkswagen Golf sportwagen problems
The Volkswagen Golf is a compact car/small family car (C-segment) produced by the German automotive manufacturer Volkswagen since 1974, marketed worldwide across eight generations, in various body configurations and under various nameplates – including as the Volkswagen Rabbit in the United States and Canada (Mk1 and Mk5), and as the Volkswagen Caribe in Mexico (Mk1).
The original Golf Mk1 was a front-engined, front-wheel drive replacement for the air-cooled, rear-engined, rear-wheel drive Volkswagen Beetle. Historically, the Golf is Volkswagen's best-selling model and is among the world's top three best-selling models, with more than 35 million units sold as of 2019.
Initially, most Golfs were 3-door hatchbacks. Other variants include a 5-door hatchback, estate (Variant, from 1993), convertible (Cabriolet and Cabrio, 1979–2002, Cabriolet, 2011–present), and a Golf-based saloon, called the Jetta, Vento (from 1992) or Bora (from 1999). The Golf covers economy to high-performance market segments.
The Golf has won awards, including the World Car of the Year in 2009, with the Mk6 and in 2013 with the Mk7. Along with the Renault Clio and the Vauxhall Astra, the Golf is one of only three cars to have won European Car of the Year twice, in 1992 and 2013. The Golf has made the annual Car and Driver 10Best list multiple times. The Mk7 won the Motor Trend Car of the Year award in 2015, and the Mk1 GTI also won the award in 1985. The Mk4 won for the best-selling car in Europe in 2001.
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Volkswagen Golf sportwagen model years
Common Volkswagen Golf sportwagen problems
The Volkswagen Golf SportWagen has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners, as detailed below:
- Rear Coil Springs Fracture: This recall affects certain 2017-2019 Golf SportWagen, 2019 Jetta, 2015-2019 Golf, and 2018-2019 Tiguan vehicles. The rear coil springs may prematurely fracture, leading to a safety risk. Volkswagen will replace the rear axle coil springs free of charge for affected vehicles.
- Shift Lever Micro Switch Contacts Build-Up: This recall affects certain 2015-2019 GTI, 2015-2016 and 2018-2019 Golf, 2012-2019 Beetle and Beetle Convertible, 2017-2019 Golf SportWagen and 2011-2018 Jetta vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, manual handbrake and keyless entry. A build-up of silicate on the shift lever micro switch contacts may enable the key to be removed from the ignition when the transmission shift lever is not in "Park," leading to a safety risk.
- Fuel System Gasoline Leak: This recall affects certain front-wheel drive 2015-2020 Audi A3 Sedan, 2015-2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2018 Golf Sportwagen GP, 2018-2019 Golf Sportwagen A7, 2015-2017 Golf Sportwagen, 2015-2020 Golf GTI, and 2015-2020 Golf A7 vehicles. Due to a problem with a suction jet pump seal inside the fuel tank, fuel may flow into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and possibly leak out of the charcoal canister. Dealers will replace the suction pump free of charge for affected vehicles.
- Steering Column Locking Anti-Theft Device: This recall affects certain 2015-2018 Volkswagen Golf and Golf Sportwagen vehicles. The build of silicate on the shift lever micro switch contacts may enable the key to be removed from the ignition while the vehicle shift lever is not in "Park," leading to a safety risk. Volkswagen will install an additional switch and circuit board free of charge for affected vehicles.
- Diesel Emissions Scandal: Volkswagen has admitted to using a defeat device on its supposedly 'clean diesel' vehicles to skirt around US emissions standards. This issue affects many Volkswagen models, including the Golf SportWagen.
- Noises and Leaks: Owners have reported issues with noises and leaks, including squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks. These issues have been reported for the 2017 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen, with problems such as seals/drains on the sunroof failing, resulting in rain water draining into the trunk of the car, and front driver side suspension making a slight banging sound on some bumps in the road.
Is the Volkswagen Golf SportWagen a reliable car?
The probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 11% for the Volkswagen Golf SportWagen, compared to an average of 11% for compact cars and 12% for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
What is the most common problem with the VW Golf?
VW Golf owners often search for information about the following problems.
- Fuel leaks. ...
- Blocked DPF. ...
- Stretched timing chain. ...
- DSG automatic gearbox issues. ...
- Foggy headlight lenses. ...
- Faulty handbrake. ...
- Electrical issues. ...
- Faulty crash sensors.
How long will a Golf SportWagen last?
Most Volkswagen vehicles will last between 100,000 and 200,000 miles, although well-kept models can last even longer than that. All VWs are remarkably reliable vehicles.
Why did VW discontinue the SportWagen?
Production of the VW SportWagen and Alltrack Comes to an End
After the 2019 model year, Volkswagen is discontinuing sales of the Golf SportWagen and the Golf Alltrack in the United States. The automaker has decided to place more of a focus on the new SUV models that will soon be hitting showrooms.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Volkswagen Golf sportwagen years
We have researched Volkswagen problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volkswagen Golf sportwagen cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volkswagen Golf sportwagen model years:
- Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2015
- Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2017
- Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2016
- Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2018
- Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2019
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volkswagen Golf sportwagen model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Volkswagen Golf sportwagen years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Volkswagen Golf sportwagen car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Volkswagen Golf sportwagen , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Unknown or other problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Volkswagen Golf sportwagen vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Golf sportwagen model years
A total of 15 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Golf sportwagen model years
There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Golf sportwagen model years
There were a total of 26 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 353 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volkswagen Golf sportwagen . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volkswagen Golf sportwagen vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 3VW217AUXFM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: When I turn on the ignition it says on the screen Starting system fault please service the vehicle.
Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 3VWU17AU4HM
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Left and Rear Coil Springs have snapped in half due to unreasonably dangerous defective manufacturing. This is consistent with the open recall for the exact condition: NHTSA's campaign number: 19V188000. However, VW North America refuses to consider my vehicle for the recall as my vin is not included. Although the snaps reflect a a dangerous manufacturing defect, VW incorrectly has determined the rear coil springs on my vehicle are not "in the batch" of defective coil springs.
Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 3VW717AU7JM
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The clutch master cylinder failed at less than 37,000 miles and is not covered under the manufacturer's standard (for 2018 models) 72,000 mile warranty. I had to spend $500+ to replace the part at an independent mechanic. Fluid levels were fine and there were no leaks. Just a faulty part. I have owned cars with a manual transmission for almost 40 years and never once had to replace any clutch components, including in cars with well over 100,000 miles on them. It was a potentially dangerous event. I depressed the clutch pedal to put it in gear and the pedal sank to the floor. I couldn't get the car in gear. I couldn't restart the car. Fortunately I was on a side street not too far from home. I was able to pull up the clutch pedal and pump some pressure back into the system and drive home. I can only imagine how scary and unsafe this would have been if I had been stopped on a highway.
Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-25
- VIN: 3VWCA7AU2FM
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: The emissions modification calibration by Volkswagen causes the coolant to be exposed to elevated temperatures due to higher exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) use to control emissions. These elevated higher temperatures degrade the coolant faster than designed and lead to precipitates falling out of solution in the factory filled G13 coolant. This causes buildup and deposits to form throughout the cooling system, particularly in the heater core which can block proper coolant flow & lead to coolant system failure, specifically of hoses associated with the heater core. When these fail the engine can over heat, and stop which causes loss of steering, propulsion and braking abilities. There is a similar problem on 2012 models with the TDI engine, which has been addressed but the 2015 models are being stranded on the roads creating a safety hazard to the drivers of the vehicles and other motorists on the road.
Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-23
- VIN: 3VWC17AU7GM
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: VW USA is offering no help in getting our recall work done. Their only suggestion is for us to work with our shipper. Our car is located in Italy because we are an active duty family stationed under orders at naval air station Sigonella. Our shipper has contacted VW Italy, and they refuse to help. The shipper also notes that they can’t ship the car anywhere anyways because the recall has to do with the fuel system. In effect, our car is now trapped in Italy, unable to be shipped off the continent. Perhaps NHTSA could persuade VW USA to perform our recall work here in Italy?
Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-22
- VIN: 3VWC17AU6GM
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-19
- VIN: 3VW917AU0FM
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: I was driving to my grandparents house and once i got to the house there was gasoline dripping from the back of car, from the area of the tank. "61821 SE VERIFICO UNIDAD CON LIQUEO DE GASOLINA , SE VERIFICO Y SE ENCONTRO CHARCOL CANISTER LLENO DE GASOLINA , SE HIZO TEST PLAN Y SE ENCONTRO VALVULA INTERNA DEL TANQUE DE LA GASOLINA TRANCADA Y ESTO OCASIONANDO LIQUEO DE GASOLINA , SE REMOVIO Y SE INSTALO TANQUE DE GASOLINA NUEVO Y CANISTER DE LOS GASES NUEVO Y VALVULA N80 NUEVA Y SE LIMPIARON TODAS LAS LINES DEL SISTEMA , SE HIZO TEST Y NO PRESENTO LIQUEO DE GASOLINA" - Mecanic
Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-07
- VIN: 3VWC17AU3HM
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: When fueling the car at the gas station, the gas pump would shut off, almost immediately and the little fuel would gush out of the tank. We are unable to fuel the car. Repeated several times, but unable to fuel the car. From reading various online forum posting of folks with a similar problem, it appears that the suspect is the suction pump. Called the dealer and the recommend getting a new gas tank. Estimate cost of repair-$4,000. Taking car to dealership to have the suction pump replaced under the recall and see what happens.
Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-25
- VIN: 3VW217AU9FM
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Vehicle had recall for "leaking fuel fire risk" Strong smell of fuel inside car. Manufacturer recall #20UF NHTSA recall 24V110 There has not been a fix yet available. Dealer (Team Volkswagen Merrillville IN) replaced the Jet fuel pump. Problem continued, VW engineering said bring the car back and replace the entire fuel tank. Completed. Problem returned 2 weeks later (XXX). While driving home from work noticed extremely strong fuel odor in car. Pulled off in a store parking lot, someone ran up and told me my car was leaking fuel. Gas was literally pouring out, I lost 1/4 tank of fuel on way home. The fuel was leaking under hood, under fuel tank area and under the rear passenger seat. I had the car towed to the dealer. Volkswagen does not have an actual fix for the problem. I should be given a replacement car due to Volkswagen being unable to correct this serious safety issue. What should I do, I am afraid to take the car back. I have videos and several pictures but unable to upload onto this website. Call [XXX] Crown Point Indiana INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-10
- VIN: 3VW217AU2FM
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Volkswagen Golf. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V110000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while refueling the vehicle, there was fuel leaking from the vehicle, making it impossible to fill the fuel tank. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 73,780. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-05
- VIN: 3VW2A7AUXFM
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The hood release doesn’t work and cannot access anything in the engine bay. No oil changes until the hood can be opened. Clear recall due to the danger of not being able to open. The handle inside the car broke by attempting to open the hood.
Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-29
- VIN: 3VWC17AUXHM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Passenger Occupancy Sensor (0152612) failed causing airbag and seatbelt warning lights to illuminate. Airbag was not functional while lights were on. Dealer diagnosed and repaired issue for $892.
Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-11
- VIN: 3VWC17AU6HM
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V110000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated while driving at approximately 60 MPH, the fuel tank was leaking. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed that the EVAP system had been filled with fuel, but the fix for the vehicle could not be determined. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-06
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Golf. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V110000(Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirm parts not available.
Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-22
- VIN: 3VWC17AU2HM
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: [XXX] loud clunking noise from right rear of car taken to VW KIngst on, NY, diagnosed with broken rear springs there is a recall but not for my VIN number, but my springs are broken, maybe VIN numbers need updating INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Latest 5 recalls Volkswagen Golf sportwagen
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 20 recalls for different components of the Volkswagen Golf sportwagen.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2019
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-14
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain front-wheel drive 2015-2020 Audi A3 Sedan, 2015-2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2018 Golf Sportwagen GP, 2018-2019 Golf Sportwagen A7, 2015-2017 Golf Sportwagen, 2015-2020 Golf GTI, and 2015-2020 Golf A7 vehicles. Due to a problem with a suction jet pump seal inside the fuel tank, fuel may flow into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and possibly leak out of the charcoal canister.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the suction pump, free of charge. Final owner notification letters for Audi owners were mailed on July 25, 2024. Final owner letters for VW owners were mailed on August 13, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are VW: 20UF/Audi: 20YF. Vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-647 will need to have the new remedy completed. This recall expands and replaces previous recall number 16V-647.
- Model: Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2017
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-14
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain front-wheel drive 2015-2020 Audi A3 Sedan, 2015-2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2018 Golf Sportwagen GP, 2018-2019 Golf Sportwagen A7, 2015-2017 Golf Sportwagen, 2015-2020 Golf GTI, and 2015-2020 Golf A7 vehicles. Due to a problem with a suction jet pump seal inside the fuel tank, fuel may flow into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and possibly leak out of the charcoal canister.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the suction pump, free of charge. Final owner notification letters for Audi owners were mailed on July 25, 2024. Final owner letters for VW owners were mailed on August 13, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are VW: 20UF/Audi: 20YF. Vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-647 will need to have the new remedy completed. This recall expands and replaces previous recall number 16V-647.
- Model: Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2018
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-14
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain front-wheel drive 2015-2020 Audi A3 Sedan, 2015-2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2018 Golf Sportwagen GP, 2018-2019 Golf Sportwagen A7, 2015-2017 Golf Sportwagen, 2015-2020 Golf GTI, and 2015-2020 Golf A7 vehicles. Due to a problem with a suction jet pump seal inside the fuel tank, fuel may flow into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and possibly leak out of the charcoal canister.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the suction pump, free of charge. Final owner notification letters for Audi owners were mailed on July 25, 2024. Final owner letters for VW owners were mailed on August 13, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are VW: 20UF/Audi: 20YF. Vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-647 will need to have the new remedy completed. This recall expands and replaces previous recall number 16V-647.
- Model: Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2016
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-14
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain front-wheel drive 2015-2020 Audi A3 Sedan, 2015-2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2018 Golf Sportwagen GP, 2018-2019 Golf Sportwagen A7, 2015-2017 Golf Sportwagen, 2015-2020 Golf GTI, and 2015-2020 Golf A7 vehicles. Due to a problem with a suction jet pump seal inside the fuel tank, fuel may flow into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and possibly leak out of the charcoal canister.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the suction pump, free of charge. Final owner notification letters for Audi owners were mailed on July 25, 2024. Final owner letters for VW owners were mailed on August 13, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are VW: 20UF/Audi: 20YF. Vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-647 will need to have the new remedy completed. This recall expands and replaces previous recall number 16V-647.
- Model: Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 2015
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-14
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain front-wheel drive 2015-2020 Audi A3 Sedan, 2015-2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2018 Golf Sportwagen GP, 2018-2019 Golf Sportwagen A7, 2015-2017 Golf Sportwagen, 2015-2020 Golf GTI, and 2015-2020 Golf A7 vehicles. Due to a problem with a suction jet pump seal inside the fuel tank, fuel may flow into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and possibly leak out of the charcoal canister.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the suction pump, free of charge. Final owner notification letters for Audi owners were mailed on July 25, 2024. Final owner letters for VW owners were mailed on August 13, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are VW: 20UF/Audi: 20YF. Vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-647 will need to have the new remedy completed. This recall expands and replaces previous recall number 16V-647.
Latest negative Volkswagen Golf sportwagen car reviews
Latest positive Volkswagen Golf sportwagen car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2018
Our 2017 VW Golf Sportwagen TSI (DSG, 4Motion, DAP) has been our only vehicle for 2 years now and I must say, it still brings me joy every time I drive it. While many fans describe it as 'fun' and 'sports car like', our criteria was comfort and reliability, which it delivers on perfectly. I've test driven several new models in my search for the 'perfect' all-around car, but none have come close to the Sportwagen. Even after driving 7 new cars, I have not found one that compares. The DSG transmission (dual clutch auto) took some getting used to, but with 4 driving modes to choose from (Normal, Sport, Comfort and ECO), it's easy to find the perfect setting for any drive. Plus, with standard Apple Carplay and Android phone compatibility, it's easy to stay connected on the go. I highly recommend the Sportwagen if you can find one. VW still manufactures it, but unfortunately, they no longer import them to NA. Don't be fooled by the rumors of high maintenance costs for VW's either. While engine oil changes cost $69, they are only required every 10,000 miles and the transmission service, the most expensive maintenance item, is only required every 40,000 miles at a cost of $350.00. We've only had one recall (an electronic switch in the shifter) and regular maintenance. In fact, after driving the new Buick Encore GX Essence and the top of the line Honda CR-V and HR-C, I was left disappointed by their cheesy interiors, loud road noise, and poor fit and finishes. The Sportwagen truly stands out as a reliable and comfortable option. UPDATE: @60,000k miles.This is an update on my 2017 GSW review that I posted in 2021. I'm happy to report that my car is still going strong with no rattles, break downs or significant repairs. I had the water pump cover replaced (under warranty), one set of new tires and two sets of wiper blades, but all maintenance has been performed on schedule. All in all, it's performed flawlessly and I still love the car.
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Vehicle year: 2016
I bought this car used a year ago with 28k miles and it now has 32k. Unfortunately, due to the coronavirus, I haven't been able to take it out as much as I would like. On the bright side, I have found that the car's fuel efficiency is better than the official MPG ratings. On highway drives through California's hilly terrain, I have often exceeded 40MPG, while in the city, it is more in line with EPA estimates (24-25). The engine is very responsive, although it struggles a bit during high-speed passing maneuvers on inclines where you may need to drop two gears to get a significant speed change. However, I love that the engine has enough torque to maintain 5th gear on any uphill at 60-75 mph. The car is also very quiet, making for a comfortable ride. Speaking of comfort, the seats are accommodating, although they could use more lumbar support. The engine heats up quickly, which is great for warming up the car. The rear seat is also quite comfortable. The entertainment system works well most of the time, but sometimes it refuses to start Android Auto, and you have to unplug and replug your phone. Additionally, it doesn't perform well in hot weather and may malfunction if the dashboard gets too hot. The AC is fine, but not the most powerful. The only real downside to this car is the manual transmission. As someone who was born in Europe and has only driven manuals before moving to the US, I have plenty of experience with them, but I find this one difficult to shift smoothly. The engine also stalls easily, and the 2nd gear often grabs in the rear lock when downshifting because the spring that prevents accidentally going into reverse is not strong enough. Overall, the only thing that really bothers me is the 3rd to 2nd gear shifting grab issue, which I feel I'll learn to adjust to, but it proves to be a surprisingly difficult task! Other than that, I like the car.
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Vehicle year: 2016
I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your 2016 TSI after 6 years! It sounds like it has a lot of great features, including comfortable seating and plenty of cargo space. I'm also happy to hear that you're having fun driving on twisty roads with the paddle shifters. It's great to have a car that can handle both the freeway and the mountains. Thanks for sharing your positive experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2019
I've driven 20,000 miles in just over a year with this car, using it for both my daily commute and long family trips. It has been a reliable and efficient choice, averaging over 33 mpg. The only issue I've encountered was a leaky panoramic sunroof, which was quickly resolved by the dealer who cleared the drain tubes and replaced the headliner. The air conditioning is not as strong as I would like, but I have noticed this to be a common trait among this model. Although the SE trim lacks dual zone auto climate control and auto dimming mirror, the rear seating is surprisingly spacious, although a bit too upright for my liking. Unfortunately, there is no adjustment available for this (unlike my Outback).
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Vehicle year: 2016
Best driving car for the money. The feel of the road, the smoothness, and the features are incredible!
Are you having problems with your Volkswagen Golf sportwagen?
Randal Schuster 2024-11-14
Vehicle year: 2019
It's understandable to feel skeptical about the Golf wagon, especially with some of the issues that have been reported. However, it's important to note that many of these problems are not unique to VW and are common among other manufacturers using similar technology. That being said, it's always a good idea to be prepared for any potential expenses, such as addressing Direct Injection carbon issues. It's also worth noting that some quality control issues have been reported, but these are not necessarily indicative of the overall quality of the car. If you're considering the 4 motion, keep in mind that the fuel economy may not be as good as you'd expect for a small car. Additionally, some drivers have reported discomfort with the seats on longer trips. If you're looking for a more affordable option, you may want to consider the older Golf or Jetta wagons with the 2.5 engines, which have been praised for their reliability and overall quality.
Santos Schuster 2024-10-18
Vehicle year: 2016
We experienced a disappointing ride due to the corrugated surface.
Paxton Douglas 2024-09-28
Vehicle year: 2018
The car is experiencing some issues, including the engine light turning on and worn tires. However, I am confident that these problems can be resolved with the right attention and maintenance.
Lawson Schneider 2024-09-06
Vehicle year: 2017
We experienced a disappointing ride due to the corrugated surface.
Travis Williamson 2024-09-04
Vehicle year: 2015
This car experienced some issues shortly after purchase. However, it is important to note that these issues are not indicative of the overall reliability of the vehicle. The car may feel sluggish due to turbo lag, but it still provides sufficient power for passing on the freeway or changing lanes.