The 2021 Volkswagen Golf closes out the seventh generation of this subcompact model. This year, it’s available in one Golf TSI trim. Therefore, its equipment list includes 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, keyless entry with push-button start, imitation leather seats, heated front seats, heated washer nozzles, and a panoramic tilt-and-slid sunroof.

Volkswagen has recently confirmed that the Golf will be discontinued in the U.S. following the 2021 model year. Meanwhile, the GTI and Golf R will benefit from a complete redesign for the 2022 model year.

Volkswagen offers the 2021 Golf in one TSI trim. With the standard manual transmission, this model costs $24,190, including the destination charge. Opting for the automatic adds $800, bringing the price tag to $24,990.

A 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine motivates the 2021 Golf. This engine develops 147 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque.

Volkswagen pairs this engine with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or to an 8-speed automatic transmission. While this model doesn’t have a limited-slip front differential, it utilizes an XDS Cross Differential System to supply computer-adjusted inputs to maintain stability.

The Golf makes an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway for a combined 33 mpg when equipped with the manual transmission or a combined 32 mpg with the automatic.

The Volkswagen Golf seats up to five individuals. The rear seat is ideal for two adults with decent legroom and headroom available.

What’s especially impressive is the Golf’s storage space, which measures a standard 23 cubic feet or a whopping 57.3 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. These numbers are better than some small crossovers.

The 2021 Golf comes with a suite of driver-assist safety features. These include forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian monitoring, blind-spot monitoring, and rear traffic assist.

What’s not included is adaptive cruise control. It isn’t available with this model.

Volkswagen equips the Golf with a 6.5-inch touch-screen display, an SD card, Bluetooth compatibility, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and a pair of USB ports. A six-speaker audio system comes standard.

The 2021 Golf comes with automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights and LED taillights, heated windshield washer nozzles, alloy wheels, a power sunroof, and power-operated and heated side mirrors.

Inside, the seats are wrapped in imitation leather. The front seats are heated and power-controlled. The rear 60/40 bench seat includes a folding center armrest. Full power accessories are also included.

Compare Golf Specs