Volkswagen Golf wins 2022 Drive Car of the Year Best Small Car
The Volkswagen Golf sets new benchmarks for refinement, style, safety and driving enjoyment in the highly competitive small car market.
Volkswagen has always taken an evolutionary approach with its category-defining Golf hatchback. The all-new Golf 8, as it’s known, is testament to that approach. If it ain’t broke…
There are Golfs to suit every taste, from the entry-level $29,550 110TSI to the range-topping (until the Golf R arrives) GTI ($53,300), Volkswagen’s ‘people’s car’ continues to set the benchmark for the category.
Its blend of European styling and engineering add up to a comfortable and capable car. Volkswagen’s decision to ditch the Golf’s dual-clutch automatic transmission (DSG) in favour of a conventional eight-speed automatic has paid dividends with a driving experience that is far more forgiving. As one judge commented, “[the] new [eight-speed auto] makes a tremendous difference to low speed driving [and] manoeuvres”, something that wasn’t always the case with the slightly hesitant and lurchy DSG.
Inside, the Golf’s cabin is a class above, Volkswagen’s minimalist approach looking very contemporary. The second row is spacious, with plenty of room in all key areas for adult backseat passengers and its 374/1230L boot is up there for the segment.
With the Mark 8 Golf, Volkswagen eschews traditional dials and buttons for many key functions in favour of a more modern touchscreen interface for all primary cabin functions. As our judges found, this singular approach can take some getting used to, but owners will no doubt adapt.
One key area where the Golf excelled over its rivals was in braking distance. Our rigorous testing included a 100km/h to zero stop and the Golf’s 35.76 metres was almost two metres better than its nearest rival and a whopping seven metres better than another popular model. In critical situations, where every centimetre can make a difference, the Golf was a clear winner.
The new Volkswagen Golf sets the benchmark in a popular segment thanks to its refined driving experience, stylish exterior design and interior presentation, compelling safety features and strong value for money.
That’s why it’s our 2022 Drive Car of the Year Best Small Car.
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