If there’s one company that struggled with some negative press in the recent past, it’s Volkswagen. Moving on from their corporate mistake, they are still making excellent vehicles.
The reluctance by some people to purchase a VW because of the exhaust issues of the past means that there are often some great deals to be had.
Volkswagen continues to make vehicles that are excellently engineered. Aside from specific Golf versions, there’s not a lot of excitement and sport feel, but they do refined really well. The 2019 lineup continues this trend. All statistics are for the 2019 model year, unless not available, in which case 2018 was used.
Volkswagen Arteon
Specifications: $TBD+ - TBD mpg - 268 hp
Review: Sadly, the Arteon had been pushed back for release in the United States until 2019. Thankfully, it’s going to be here now! The Arteon is a beautifully designed modern sedan. On the inside, VW is removing the entire dash in favor of a completely digital cockpit design. This is customizable and should please any driver. Huge 18/19 inch wheels on the front/back, show off some of the pavement eating prowess that is sure to come from the Arteon.
Volkswagen Atlas
Specifications: $31,745+ - 22-26 mpg - 276 hp
Review: It’s rare for a vehicle to have the room and comfort that the Atlas does for the price. Unlike many competitors, actual adult humans can fit comfortably in the third row. While the base 235 horsepower engine is a little weak, the V6 option will provide the power this vehicle deserves. It’s also the only way to get all wheel drive on the Atlas.
Volkswagen Beetle
Specifications: $21,115+ - 26-34 mpg - 174 hp
Review: The most recognizable looking VW continues rolling along in its modern iteration. The fun of the Beetle is most recognized in its convertible form. However the coupe is also a good option. The downside to the Beetle is that the interior is a little bit dated. Some may say retro, but it’s not quite there. Tech like touchscreens or blind spot monitoring do not come standard, but are available as options.
Volkswagen Golf
Specifications: $21,805+ - 25-34 mpg - 124 hp
Review: If there’s one vehicle that Volkswagen is proud of, it’s the Golf. Consistently one of the best cars in the world, the 2019 gold is no different and features a huge number of different trims. The base golf is a perfect small to medium sized hatch for most people. The Alltrack version raises and stretches the Golf into an excellent station wagon. The SportWagen ignores the raising portion, and simply makes the golf a little larger for families. The e-Golf shows 125 mile range and allows drivers to choose electric. Finally, for excitement purposes, the Golf GTI and the Golf R are the modern evolution of the hot hatch. Driving a Golf R in particular is like succeeding at harnessing the wind and riding it around during hurricane season. It’s dizzying and absolutely brilliant. Then again, what else would you expect from a 292 hp Golf? Prices range for base models from around $22,000 to a starting price of $40,680 for the R.
Volkswagen Jetta
Specifications: $19,440+ - 30/40 mpg - 147 hp
Review: The Jetta has been redesigned for the 2019 model year and it looks great. In addition to the exterior look, the interior is now filled with all the tech and options that everyone wants in their car. While the Jetta is the cousin of the Golf (same chassis), it’s not as sporty. It does make up for this by being a well rounded and practical vehicle with a dose of panache. If the 2019 version just isn’t strong enough, it’s expected that a GLI is going to be released in 2020, providing more zip.
Volkswagen Passat
Specifications: $23,890+ - 25-36 mpg - 280 hp
Review: The Passat looks like a vehicle that could have rolled off the line at any of the Big 3 factories. Two powertrains are available starting at 174 hp and rising up to 280. The Passat does have a lot of room inside, and it does feel quiet as it’s moving. The downside to the Passat is that not a lot is standard. The price can start to risk quickly when options are added to it.
Volkswagen Tiguan
Specifications: $23,150+ - 22-27 mpg - 184 hp
Review: The Tiguan is Volkswagen’s smallest and most difficult to pronounce vehicle. That’s kind of interesting is that despite the relatively low price and the “small” size, there’s still the option of a third row in the Tiguan. It’s not exactly a sports SUV either. The power is adequate, but nothing to write home about. The Tiguan isn’t on the level of the Golf when it comes to Volkswagen quality, but it’s not a bad vehicle.