The Golf, like the Jetta, gets high marks for the cockpit layout and overall ergonomics. The customary VW blue and orange instrument illumination is included, while levers, switches and buttons all work with subtle sophistication. The 5-speed manual also worked better than any manual transmission previously sampled in VW s assorted products. Front seat accommodations may be comforting, but the Golf s rear quarters are snug for adults. Foot and legroom is tight, if the front seats are set for comfort up front, plus the narrow rear doors require a certain amount of bending in order to enter and exit.
Redemption is provided by the versatile hatchback design.
The rear seats split and fold, to make a flat load for, although it isn t level from front to rear of this spacious cargo hold. Still, with the wide opening hatch, you can load more than 42 cubic feet of cargo into this four-door compact, or over three times the cargo that the Jetta s trunk can hold. Unfortunately, the rear window seems to be a magnet for road grime, as foul weather continuously covers this glass with soupy muck. The 1.8T engine adds more flavor to the Golf s already distinct personality. Versatile, spirited and a whole lot of fun to drive, the new Golf is a compact car that merits attention from anyone who enjoys driving.