The Volkswagen Golf is a compact hatchback that has long been recognized for its blend of practicality, premium feel, and fun-to-drive dynamics. Introduced to the Saudi Arabian market in 1999 and discontinued in 2014, the Golf offered a refined driving experience with high build quality and versatile performance. Known for its balance between comfort and sportiness, the Golf appealed to a wide range of drivers, from daily commuters to enthusiasts.
The Volkswagen Golf was commonly offered with a 1.2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 105 horsepower and 175 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. The higher-performance engine featured a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 140 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque, offering significantly quicker acceleration and sporty handling. All engines were front-wheel drive, delivering precise steering, nimble handling, and stable highway performance. The Golf was well-regarded for offering both a smooth ride and engaging driving dynamics.
The Volkswagen Golf boasted a clean and timeless exterior design, characterised by understated elegance. The front fascia included sleek headlights, a horizontal grille with the VW logo, and a simple yet refined bumper. The side profile displayed a compact yet solid stance, with crisp lines and alloy wheels that enhanced its sporty appeal. Wide taillights, a subtle roof spoiler, and a practical hatch for cargo access defined the rear. GTI models featured sportier details, including red grille accents, larger alloy wheels, and dual exhaust outlets.
Inside, the Volkswagen Golf offered one of the most premium cabins in the compact hatchback segment. High-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and excellent fit and finish gave it an upscale feel. The driver-focused dashboard featured a digital instrument cluster in newer models and a touchscreen infotainment system with intuitive controls.
The front seats were supportive and adjustable, providing excellent comfort for long drives, while rear passengers enjoyed decent headroom and legroom for a compact car. The cargo space was practical, with rear seats that could fold flat to expand storage for larger items.
The Volkswagen Golf delivered impressive fuel efficiency for its class. Both turbocharged variants averaged around 20.8 to 20 km/l. This made the Golf both economical and fun to drive.
The Golf came equipped with advanced technology for convenience, entertainment, and safety. Standard features included ABS, electronic stability control, multiple airbags, and rear parking sensors. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera. The infotainment system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, navigation, and a premium sound system in upper trims.
In KSA, the Volkswagen Golf was available in a range of colors such as white, silver, black, grey, red, and blue. Sportier models, such as the GTI, often featured signature red or deep metallic shades that complemented their dynamic styling.
In the KSA's compact car market, the Volkswagen Golf competes with models such as the Audi A3, BMW 1 Series, Honda Civic, and Mazda 3. The Golf stands out for its refined interior, solid build quality, balanced driving dynamics, and a premium feel uncommon in the compact hatchback segment. It remains a top choice for buyers looking for a practical yet enjoyable car with European flair.
| Price | - |
| Body Type | - |
| Dimensions (Length x Width x Height) | 4258 x 1799 x 1514 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 145 mm |
| Displacement | 999 - 1984 cc |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Horse Power | 105 - 296 hp |
| Torque | 175 - 380 Nm |
| Boot Space | 380 L |
| Kerb Weight | 1205 - 1500 KG |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Mileage | - |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 - 60 L |
| Seating Capacity | 5 - persons |
| Top Speed | 190 - 250 KM/H |
| Tyre Size | 195/65/R15 |
The overall rating of Volkswagen Golf is 2.0/5.0 based on:
Fuel average is better than advertised, which shocked me. Seats are comfy, and the AC cools in seconds. Only wish the touchscreen was less laggy.
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