The more we drove our long-term Volkswagen Golf test unit, the more we grew fond of it. At first, we were surprised to see the regular Golf return alongside the GTI variant. The Golf, in its initial Mk8.0 introduction, bowed out of the South African market since the T-Roc found favour, but since the Mk8.5 facelift, it returned.
Related: Long-Term Update 2: Volkswagen Golf 1.4TSI Life Plus (2025)
We've had our Golf for a few months now, and it became a case of sibling tussles to have it for a week at a time. We enjoyed it. With this in mind, here are a few pros and cons we found with this vehicle.
1. Pro - Powertrain
Providing the propulsion is a 1.4-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine making 110 kW / 250 Nm. That's all channelled to the front wheels via an 8-speed tiptronic automatic transmission. Remember, the Golf is a 1 226kg kerb-weight shell, and the powertrain matches this well. The Golf doesn't feel over-encumbered even with passengers and luggage. It's a spry vehicle.
2. Con - Slight engagement delay
At times, it feels like the Tiptronic transmission needs a moment or two to engage when a situation calls for urgency. Though it doesn't make or break this vehicle, it's just something you'll notice.
3. Pro - Chassis
The Golf's chassis embodies two things: comfort and dynamics. On an average commute, the Golf moves with elegance, but when you want to see it dance, it's happy to tango and show that Volkswagen wanted you to have an enjoyable drive.
4. Con - We miss your physical buttons
While the Mk8.0 received criticism for its emphasis on touch controls, particularly on the steering wheel, the Mk8.5 has revised this by adding some physical buttons. However, features like climate control and vehicle controls don't have their own panels and are relegated to the infotainment screen.
5. Pro - A welcome smile Styling
I'm quite fond of the direction that the Golf has taken in its design language. We have joked that the Golf has a cheeky smile on its front end, but it looks good from all angles, if we're being honest. The photos here have done it justice, I hope.
6. Con - It has to fight a battle
Hatchbacks on the more premium end are appreciated, but the general public at this price point, from what we've seen, has argued that an SUV would be a better decision. Remember, though, we're spoiled for choice when it comes to body styles.
If you're interested in a Golf after reading this, why not search AutoTrader for the latest offerings and sell your car too?
