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Volkswagen Golf 2024 review

Hatchback Petrol

Volkswagen Golf 2024 — front three-quarter view

Photo: Dinkun Chen (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons

Overview

The Volkswagen Golf invented the hot hatch segment and defined the family hatchback, and the facelifted 2024 model (known as the Mk8.5) keeps it at the top of the class. Subtle styling tweaks, a much-improved infotainment system and an efficient range of mild-hybrid petrol engines make this the most complete Golf in years.

The pick of the range for most buyers is the 1.5 eTSI: a 150PS turbocharged petrol with 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance, paired with a smooth 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox. It delivers strong mid-range pull for effortless motorway cruising while sipping fuel in town, and refinement is excellent at all speeds.

Inside, the cabin feels a class above mainstream rivals, with soft-touch materials, supportive seats and the new 12.9-inch infotainment display that finally addresses the usability complaints of the pre-facelift car. Wireless smartphone mirroring, a configurable digital cockpit and generous rear space make the Golf as practical as it is polished.

It is not the cheapest family hatchback you can buy, but strong residual values, low running costs and that premium badge appeal mean the 2024 Golf remains the default choice for thousands of UK buyers.

UK price from: £27,995

Specifications

Engine	1.5L 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol (mild hybrid)
Power	150 PS (110 kW)
0-60 mph	8.7 seconds
Top speed	139 mph
Transmission	7-speed DSG automatic
Fuel type	Petrol (MHEV)
Fuel economy	47.9 mpg (WLTP combined)
CO2 emissions	131 g/km
Boot space	381 litres
Warranty	3 years / 60,000 miles

Features

12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro instrument display
IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights
Travel Assist semi-autonomous driving assistance
Three-zone automatic climate control
Heated front sports seats
18-inch alloy wheels (Style trim)
Front and rear parking sensors with rear-view camera

Common parts & prices

Part	Price (GBP)	Notes
Front brake pads (set)	£58.99	OEM quality; fits Mk8 and Mk8.5 Golf, front axle
Oil filter	£11.99	Cartridge type for 1.5 TSI eTSI engines
Engine air filter	£16.99	Panel filter; replace every 2 years or 20,000 miles
Wiper blades (pair)	£24.99	Flat aero blades, 650mm driver / 475mm passenger
12V car battery	£119.99	096 AGM type for start-stop models, 4-year guarantee
DSG gearbox service kit	£149.99	Oil and filter kit; DSG service due every 40,000 miles

Prices are typical UK aftermarket/OEM guide prices and may vary by supplier.

Pros

Refined, comfortable ride that suits long motorway journeys
Excellent residual values protect your investment
High-quality cabin that feels a class above rivals
Efficient mild-hybrid engine keeps fuel bills sensible

Cons

Touch-sensitive controls can still frustrate some drivers
Options list is expensive and pushes the price up quickly
Rear legroom is only average for the class
Servicing and parts cost more than mainstream rivals

Frequently asked questions

Is the Volkswagen Golf 2024 reliable?

The Golf has an average-to-good reliability record, with the 1.5 TSI engine well proven across the VW Group. The facelifted Mk8.5 addressed many of the early software glitches that affected the original Mk8. Regular servicing at a VW specialist or main dealer keeps running costs predictable.

Which 2024 Golf trim offers the best value?

For most buyers the mid-range Style trim hits the sweet spot, adding the larger infotainment screen, 18-inch wheels and upgraded lights without the GTI-style price premium. The entry Life trim is well equipped too if you want to keep the monthly payments down.

Is the Golf expensive to service?

Main dealer servicing is pricier than mainstream rivals — budget around £250 to £350 for a minor service and £350 to £500 for a major one. Using an independent VW specialist can cut those figures by a third. The DSG gearbox needs an oil service every 40,000 miles, which costs around £250.

Should I buy the petrol or wait for an electric Golf?

The 1.5 eTSI petrol remains the sensible choice today: it is efficient, refined and holds its value well. A fully electric Golf is expected in the coming years, but if you need a car now and cannot charge at home, the mild-hybrid petrol is the safer bet.