Volkswagen Golf Variant 1.4 TSI [Car Review]

 

The Volkswagen Golf Variant R-line is something that really caught me by surprise..

Despite being a lengthy stationwagon.. this car still roars when it comes to speed!

Let me show you around what this car can deliver for you..

 

 

 

The R-Line equipment package lends the Golf Variant a sportier look.

In fact, the R-line comes in standard for all Golf Variant in Singapore.

The standard R-Line exterior styling package includes R-Line bumpers in a striking, sporty look, a dedicated radiator grille with R-Line logo, side sill extensions, a roof edge spoiler, a black gloss diffuser and 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/40 R18 tyres as shown below.

 

 

 

I like the rims which are very unique to the style of the car.. havin' its own style and personality.

.. havin' the black and chrome distinguishment of the wheels.. it just looks really Great!

 

 

 

Exterior styling of the 4,562 mm long Golf Variant, which is 307 mm longer than hatchback model, reflects the same impressive lines up to the B pillars. From the rear doors back, special modifications give the Golf Variant its own identity. It was planned as a member of the series right from the outset and was developed in parallel to the hatchback.

Perfection in the details is evident in such prominent features as the D-pillars. Here, designers succeeded in transferring the taut form that is so typical of the Golf – like the chords of an arc with an inset arrow – from the C-pillars to the D-pillars.

 

If ya not sure what these B-C-D Pillars are.. the below illustration would show it all.

 

 

 

The Golf Variant’s styling with its precise lines creates a sporty and impressive look. The two-part rear lights emphasise its family affiliation to the model range and the brand.

 

 

 

In its interior, the Golf Variant also overcomes class boundaries in terms of its high-quality materials and the exclusive appearance of its design. When stepping into the car, the wide centre console is immediately apparent; it is more typical of a premium class car.

Centrally mounted on the centre console is the modern ‘Discover Pro’ infotainment system, with an 8-inch display and the latest App-Connect smartphone connectivity features. It works with the MirrorLink, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay services.

 

 

Speedometer of the Golf Variant is pretty standard on all Volkswagen models.

Neat and clean I would say..

 

 

With a simple LCD screen between the dials.

It displays all the different modes and information on it clearly..

You can also switch it to radio.. hence it will display the name of the radio station on it.

 

 

 

Over here its the DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) Gear.

Its pretty impressive I would say.. after test-driving for quite a number of Volkswagen.

The gear changes are really smooth and doesn't feel jerky at all. When I switch the gear to the S-mode (Sports Mode), playing with the rocker gearshifts on the steering wheel.. the gear changing was really very smooth and swift.

 

 

In the picture above, the car also sport a Park Assist feature which allows you to park your car hands-free. Its pretty amazing - feel free to do a test-drive at the showroom and experience it yourself.

 

And right below the Park Assist button, is a function that would alert you when any object is very near to the vehicle.

 

On the left side of the gear.. the button lighted up in orange is a mode which can select your driving style, e.g. normal or sport. (below shows a clearer picture of it)

 

 

The "MODE" is actually the Driving Profile Selection.

Personalised and practical: the Driving Profile Selection allows you to adapt the Golf Variant to your individual driving style. At the push of a button, elements such as the engine, steering and transmission characteristics, and even the air-conditioning and headlamp settings are tailored to your requirements.

 

Right below it is a Auto-Off Engine button.. which allows the engine to be OFF-ed automatically when the car is stopped at the traffic junction or when the car is just stationary. When the engine is offed, the air-con would not be that cold and strong also. This is proven to be more fuel efficient. This function can be activated or deactivated with the push of the button.

 

 

 

Here are two cup holders for the driver & passenger.

 

On the left side.. its the Electronic Parking Brake.

 

All at the push of a button instead of the pull of a lever: the electronic parking brake is operated with the greatest of ease. The brake is automatically released when the vehicle pulls away, for jolt-free starting. The Auto Hold function furthermore stops the vehicle from rolling forwards or backwards when halted.

 

 

The Golf Variant also has the Apple CarPlay! It is very useful and making life much easier!

With CarPlay™ from Apple, you can manage selected apps from your iPhone while on the move. The apps can be operated with all the ease that you’ll have come to expect from an iPhone. Phone, news, music – everything just at the touch of a button. And if you choose, you can even operate the system by voice control. For further information please visit the Apple website.

 

 

You can select these standard apps which are on your iPhone.

 

 

 

And it mirrors the map on your phone to the 8-inch display screen directly!

 

 

I can also play my favourite music from my iPhone directly and select it from the touch-screen.

 

Here are the controls above the driver.
Controls for the lights and opening/closing of the panoramic sunroof are all here.

 

Glove compartment in front of the front passenger seat.
It has an Infotainment player which you can insert your CD or SD Card.

 

What's more!?
You can even store things below the front seats as well. Not many cars would have this extra thoughtfulness. This is same for both driver's and front passenger's seat. :)

 

 

Spacious rear area and legroom!

In fact, I love the colour of the seats.. the colour is stylish and has the feel of luxury as well. It does not appear dirty easily too.

 

There's also armrest and cupholders for the rear passengers.
 

 

 

You can simply put EVERYTHING in!

 

 

 

There's a luggage cover as well.. and it is very easy to operate.

 

 

With just a tap at the end of the cover where my hand is.. the cover would retract inwards to variable lengths.

 

 

This is how it will be like after tapping it.

The entire cover can be removed to create even more space.

 

 

By pulling the flap on the right side, you're able to fold down the right seats and create more space for the boot.

 

 

There you go..

 

 

And for the left seats, the flap would be on the left side of the boot.

 

Behind the rear armrest.. the cover can be opened and create more space for the boot as well..

 

This is especially useful when you have long items like laundry poles to keep in your car.
 

 

 

So here's the Panoramic Sunroof.

Memorable moments at the push of a button: that's something you can experience with the electrically operated panoramic sliding/tilting sunroof. No matter whether you have the star-studded heavens or deep blue skies overhead, in the Golf Variant you are always assured of a breath-taking view.

 

 

When the sunroof is opened.. a slight shade is lifted up so as to block away the wind from coming in to the car while the car is moving. Hence.. perhaps wouldn't mess up your hair! :)

The fixed rails on the roof both add to the sporty looks of the Golf Variant and extend the transport options. They provide a sturdy base for carrying larger items of cargo. You also have the option of practical carrier bars, which come supplied with a carrier bag and include anti-theft protection for security.

 

 

A view from the top.

 

 

 

 

I truly enjoy the ride of this Golf Variant!
It is spacious, has alot of thoughtful storage space and it has the power to speed!
From 0-100 km/h.. it is just 9.5 seconds, with 125-hp. It has a 4-cylinder, TSI petrol engine with 16 valves, turbocharger. And wheels are front-driven. Even the rims are very nice.. If I have a family.. this is one of the car that will be on my list! The looks of the car is really sporty.. and I like the R-line tag on the front grille.. which makes it look even sportier!

Come on down to the showroom to have a look at this car and test-drive it yourself.

 

Click Here for More information on the Golf Variant!