2014 Volkswagen Golf
Changes for the 2014 Volkswagen Golf:
Volkswagen is about to debut a completely redesigned Golf model, so for the abbreviated 2014 model year, the Golf is sold only as a 5-door hatchback model in 2.5 and TDI model series. The car's Carefree Maintenance plan is reduced for 2014, covering scheduled maintenance for two years/24,000 miles instead of three years/36,000 miles.
Model Lineup:
Highlights from the Golf 2.5 model’s standard equipment list include air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, power door locks, remote keyless entry, a trip computer, and cruise control. The driver’s seat offers a manual seat height adjuster, and the steering wheel provides tilt/telescopic adjustment to help provide a proper driving position. Upgrading to the 2014 VW Golf TDI adds a fuel-efficient turbo-diesel engine plus standard Bluetooth connectivity, a touchscreen infotainment system, HD Radio, heated front seats, fog lights, and 17-inch aluminum wheels.
Both Golf models include free schedule maintenance for the first 2 years or 24,000 miles of ownership. The Golf 2.5 can be equipped with an optional power sunroof, while Volkswagen reserves a navigation system, a premium sound system, and keyless passive entry with push-button starting for the Golf TDI variant.
Engines and Transmissions:
A 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter inline 5-cylinder engine is standard for the 2014 Golf 2.5, and it is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Upgrade to the Golf TDI, and the car gets a turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel engine developing 140 horsepower and 236 lb.-ft. of torque. The TDI models offer a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) automated manual transmission.
Fuel Economy Ratings:
The EPA gives the 2014 Golf 2.5 a fuel economy rating of 26 mpg in combined driving, while the Golf TDI is rated to get 34 mpg in combined driving, regardless of transmission choice.
Safety Ratings:
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has not performed crash tests for the 2014 Golf. Last year, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety called the car a “Top Safety Pick,” but had not assessed its performance in the tough new small overlap frontal-impact test.
Technology Highlights:
A touchscreen infotainment system and Bluetooth are optional for the Golf 2.5 and standard for the Golf TDI. The TDI can also be equipped with navigation, a premium audio system, and a keyless passive entry system with push-button starting.
