Adding extra cargo space via a wagon body style to VW's iconic hatchback, the 2019 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen offers three trims, two engines, and three different transmissions.
What's New for 2019
A 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine replaces the 1.8-liter motor in front-wheel-drive models. The SE trim gets a lot of new standard equipment, including 17-inch wheels, LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, and lane keeping assist, while a package with other active safety features is available on S and S 4Motion models.
Choosing Your Volkswagen Golf SportWagen
The VW Golf SportWagen is offered with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. FWD models house the 1.4-liter turbo engine that's also found in the all-new Jetta. It produces 147 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque and can be paired with a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission ($1,100 extra on the S and standard on the SE).
The one AWD trim, the S 4Motion, still uses the 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder motor. This larger engine makes 168 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque, and can be mated to either the standard six-speed manual or a six-speed DSG automatic gearbox for $1,100.
With the 1.4-liter motor and manual transmission, the Golf SportWagen achieves an EPA-estimated 29 miles per gallon city, 37 mpg highway, and 32 combined. These figures drop to 27/36/31 mpg (city/highway/combined) with the eight-speed automatic. The SportWagen with the 1.8-liter engine gets 22/31/25 mpg with the manual or 22/29/24 with the DSG automatic.
Standard equipment across the SportWagen range includes LED daytime running lights and taillights, black roof rails, heated and power adjustable side mirrors, a rearview camera, cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a post-collision braking system to reduce the risk of secondary accidents.
Three trims are available:
Of the 2019 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen lineup, the additional traction and performance offered by the more powerful 4Motion model will appeal to many buyers. The Driver Assistance Package is also well worth specifying, as it combines several important safety upgrades for just $450.