This post was created following a test drive opportunity provided by Volkswagen KOREA.
Hello, I'm Double Look, an automotive influencer.
Recently, I attended the launch event for the facelifted 8th generation Volkswagen Golf, where I shared my impressions.
I introduced the upgraded design and interior extensively,
and today, I’ll share my thoughts after a long-term test drive.
Before diving into the full review, please check my previous post for details on the newly unveiled facelift design of the 8th generation Golf and its changes.
The Volkswagen Golf has a rich heritage, selling over 37 million units globally and remaining the top-selling model in Europe for over 50 years.
With this recent update, the Golf has significantly improved its market appeal, drawing renewed interest.
The facelifted 8th generation Golf features a bold new style and has received praise for its intuitive MIB4 infotainment system, which enhances usability.
The newly introduced 18-inch alloy wheels catch the eye, and the distinct character lines and luxurious color options convey the quality of a premium hatchback.
The steering wheel has a comfortable thickness and good grip, with intuitive menu buttons on both sides for easy access while driving.
I frequently use the voice recognition feature, as it provides better stability than touching the menus while driving.
The most impressive feature is the large 12.9-inch screen that enhances usability.
In the past, compact hatchback models received criticism for their small display sizes, which limited their functionality, leading to customer dissatisfaction.
However, the Volkswagen Golf now features a 12.9-inch display, incorporating MIB4 infotainment and voice enhancer technologies, significantly improving the utilization of modern digital technology.
I connected Apple CarPlay wirelessly and enjoyed my drive, easily navigating through the city using the T map, which is well-suited for the Korean terrain.
The new Golf utilizes a lever-type gear knob, enhancing the space efficiency between the driver and passenger seats, along with buttons for auto hold and parking brake.
The black high-gloss material adds a touch of luxury to the compact hatchback's interior.
The model I tested featured a stylish Crystal Ice Blue exterior color.
In addition to this color, it is available in Pure White, Oyster Silver, Anemone Blue, Granadilla Black, King's Red, and Moonstone Gray, providing customers with a wide range of options.
The Crystal Ice Blue color offers a stylish charm different from existing colors, and with eight total options, you can choose according to your personal taste.
The Volkswagen Golf, with its low center of gravity, provides excellent stability during highway driving and cornering, ranking among the best in its class.
During my long-term test drive, I split my time evenly between city and highway driving, achieving a real-world fuel economy of around 19 km/L (approximately 44.7 mpg), which is over 2 km/L higher than the official figure of 17.3 km/L.
The Volkswagen Golf features a 2.0L inline 4-cylinder diesel engine that delivers a maximum output of 150 ps and a peak torque of 36.7 kg·m.
With a curb weight of 1,456 kg (approximately 3,215 lbs), the engine provides ample power for this hatchback model, especially excelling in high-speed driving stability.
The center display offers excellent visibility and usability, akin to using an iPhone, allowing me to detect potential blind spot dangers in advance through its clear screen.
My spouse and I frequently enjoy park golf in Yeouido these days.
Last weekend, we arrived at Yeouido Hangang Park in the Volkswagen Golf, parked, and then headed to the park golf course with our clubs and gear.
The Golf can easily accommodate park golf clubs horizontally, and to fit a golf bag, you can fold the second row of seats.
What are some practical uses for the Volkswagen Golf?
Today, I shared various insights about the popular Volkswagen Golf, often chosen as the first car for young professionals.
Driving the Golf allowed me to experience its trend-reflective design and driving performance that exceeded expectations, showcasing the various charms of this beloved compact hatchback, now in its 8.5 generation.
2025.05. Volkswagen Golf