As the product of a German automaker, you might expect a powerful engine from the VW Golf. But the compact hatchback segment doesn't need the 1.8-liter turbo it's currently equipped with. Like the Chevy Cruze, the 2019 Golf will have a small turbo unit geared towards fuel economy. Fortunately for Volkswagen, it already has such a thing developed to suit the U.S. Without citing any source, Autoblog claims that the 170 horsepower 1.8-liter from the 2018 Golf will be switched out in favor of a 1.4-liter making the same 147-hp as in the Jetta. Now, that is a 23 horsepower drop, but we're sure most customers won't care, especially when torque stays the same at 184 lb-ft (250 Nm). And if you still want the 1.8T, it's still available in the Golf Alltrack. Perhaps more interesting for some is VW's new gearbox choices. The base 5-speed manual that nobody buys will be replaced by a 6-speed manual while the DSG will be switched for an 8-speed automatic, just like you get in the Jetta.
I don't think there's been an automatic Golf for 15 years, but I might be wrong on that. Fuel economy is pretty much guaranteed to improve with the smaller engine because that's what it's been designed for. The Jetta returns up to 40mpg on the highway, and there's no reason the Golf can't come close. While they are giving us smaller engines, Volkswagen are unlikely to lower the price of the 2019 Golf. That's because both the Golf S and Alltrack S base models will now receive standard emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. The article claims that the SportWagen SEL grade will be discontinued due to slow sales and that LED headlights will be standard on the SE hatchback. While Europe is getting a new Golf next year, America will probably have to deal with this one for a couple more. And with production in Mexico ending, the future of the dorky 5-door is unclear.
The cabin is not only comfortable and convenient but quiet, too, only the faint rush of air at 80 mph intruding on the impressive calm at speed. There's no question that the Golf Mk7 makes an impressive long-distance device, especially with the turbodiesel's pulling power. It will be a long time before American drivers even get a chance to see what this new Golf is all about, as it's not scheduled to arrive until early 2014. Why? Mainly because Volkswagen is more concerned about Golf sales in Europe, where it's the company's bread-and-butter model. There's also the possibility that American Golfs will be built in one of Volkswagen's factories in Mexico to make it less expensive. A competitive price would go a long way toward making the Golf more acceptable to American consumers. The Golf may be the most refined hatchback in its class now, but it's a growing segment that includes plenty of competent contenders. By 2014 there could even be a few more with newer and better features. We'll have to wait and see. For now, the 2015 Volkswagen Golf feels much like the old Golf in terms of refinement, which is a good thing. It's solid on the highway and the diesel is as good as it's ever been. The extra space inside doesn't hurt either, so it's well positioned to grab even more buyers if the price is right. We'll find out in about 12 months.
Volkswagen will unveil the R-Line version of the CC at the Auto Mobil International show in Leipzig on June 1st. This CC model will be available in the U.S. 2012 with the 200-horsepower, 2.0-liter, turbocharged TSI engine, mated to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. With interior and exterior enhancements, the R-Line upgrades make the CC an even sportier vehicle. Compared with the Sport model, the R-Line gains a more aggressive front bumper design that incorporates a large lower air intake and projector-style foglights with a striking chrome motif. Side skirts and the R-Line logo on the grille further differentiate it from the Sport model, along with shaded taillights and unique and dramatic 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. Inside, there are stainless-steel R-Line scuff plates and the multifunction steering wheel for the DSG-equipped model has paddle shifters. The CC was refreshed for the 2013 Model Year, featuring new front and rear styling and an extended range of standard equipment. The 2013 CC went on sale in March and now has seating for five (previous models seated four). The new CC makes an even bolder move towards the automotive luxury class, offering a sleek, dramatic look at a highly attainable price.
What鈥檚 Best: The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta Execline offers great style and handling. What鈥檚 Worst: Like the Passat I had recently, be careful of the trunk falling on your head. What鈥檚 Interesting: The Jetta continues to look like it shouldn鈥檛 have as much room in the interior, but it does. At the end of 2017 those of us who write car reviews for Metroland Media were asked to list our favourite cars we had driven the previous year. My pick for favourite car last year was the Volkswagen Jetta. I noted the Jetta is a compact car that has more room on the inside than it should. There is plenty of room for five adults and the car offers a lot of technology and style for the money. I recently tested the 2019 Jetta and my opinion of the car hasn鈥檛 changed. It is still one of the best sedans on the market.
