The Volkswagen Golf Mk7 is one of the most complete and well-rounded hatchbacks ever built.
German engineering precision and classy design has earned its reputation as a benchmark in the compact car segment and a solid choice for a family car.
Overview
Introduced in 2013, the Golf Mk7 was a revolution for Volkswagen. It was built on the MQB platform and offered a more efficient and comfortable ride than its predecessor. The model later received a facelift in 2017 that refreshed the styling and introduced new infotainment systems.
Competing with cars such as the Ford Focus, Vauxhall Astra, Honda Civic, and Toyota Corolla, the Golf stands its ground thanks to its premium feel and excellent build quality.
Golf Mk7 Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Golf Mk7 sets a high standard for comfort and quality. Every surface feels solid and premium with soft-touch materials throughout. The controls are clearly laid out on the dash, and convenient steering wheel buttons make it ergonomically sound.
• Front seats are comfortable, particularly the ErgoComfort and sports seat options.
• Available Adaptive Chassis Control (DCC) lets you easily tailor ride comfort between Comfort, Normal, and Sport modes. Ideal if you need to swap between motorway cruising and city driving.
• Optional 9.2-inch Discover Pro infotainment system (introduced in 2017) features gesture control and a sleek glass display.
• Noise insulation is top-tier which makes driving pleasant.
Golf Mk7 Trim Levels
Here’s a quick guide to the main trim levels offered during the Golf Mk7’s production:
Trim | Key Features |
S | Air conditioning, electric windows, composition media system |
SE/Match | 16" alloys, adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, leather steering wheel |
GT | 17" alloys, sports suspension, upgraded infotainment, dual-zone climate control |
R-Line | R-style exterior styling, sports seats, performance-inspired interior |
GTD | 2.0 TDI 184hp engine, GTI looks with diesel economy |
GTI | 2.0 TSI 220–245hp, performance chassis, red trim accents |
GTE | Plug-in hybrid with 1.4 TSI + electric motor, 0–62mph in 7.6s |
R | 2.0 TSI 300–310hp, 4MOTION all-wheel drive, 0–62mph in under 5 seconds |
Golf Mk7 Engine Line-up
The Golf Mk7 offered a broad range of petrol, diesel, and hybrid powertrains.
Petrol Engines
Engine | Power (hp) | 0–62 mph | Top Speed | Notes |
1.0 TSI | 85 / 110 | 11.9s/9.9s | 112/122 mph | Efficient and punchy 3-cylinder |
1.4 TSI | 125 | 9.1s | 127 mph | Smooth performer |
1.5 TSI Evo | 130/150 | 8.3s | 134 mph | Cylinder deactivation for efficiency |
2.0 TSI (GTI) | 220–245 | 6.4s | 154 mph | True hot hatch performance |
2.0 TSI (R) | 300–310 | 4.9s | 155 mph (limited) | 4MOTION AWD system |
Diesel Engines
Engine | Power (hp) | 0–62 mph | Top Speed | Economy |
1.6 TDI | 90–115 | 10.5s | 123 mph | Up to 83.1 mpg (BlueMotion) |
2.0 TDI | 150 | 8.6s | 134 mph | Excellent torque and efficiency |
2.0 TDI (GTD) | 184 | 7.4s | 144 mph | Sports diesel with strong performance |
Hybrid and Electric
Model | Powertrain | Performance | Range/Economy |
GTE | 1.4 TSI + electric motor | 0–62 mph in 7.6s | Up to 188 mpg (combined) |
e-Golf | 100% electric | 134 hp | Up to 144 miles (WLTP) |
What’s the Golf Mk7 Like to Drive?
The Golf Mk7 is a really comfortable and agile car to drive. It takes twisty country roads easily at a moderate pace and is quiet and smooth on motorways.
• XDS system improves cornering grip by sending power to the outer wheel.
• Variable-ratio steering makes city driving effortless.
• Suspension setup offers a superb blend of control and smoothness.
• Even sportier variants like the GTI, GTD, and R make daily drives exciting.
Golf Mk7 Practicality
The Golf’s clever design maximises interior space and flexibility:
Specification | Value |
Boot capacity (seats up) | 380 litres |
Boot capacity (seats folded) | 1,270 litres |
Seating | 5 |
Doors | 3 or 5 |
Fuel tank | 50 litres (approx.) |
Rear seats split 60:40 and fold nearly flat, whilst the adjustable boot floor allows a level load area. Cabin storage is excellent, with multiple USB and 12V outlets.
Golf Mk7 Technology and Safety
The Golf Mk7 achieved a five-star Euro NCAP rating.
Key Safety Features
Seven airbags (including driver’s knee airbag)
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Automatic Post-Collision Braking
Pre-Crash preventive protection
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Autonomous Emergency Braking (with pedestrian detection post-2017)
Road sign recognition and Light Assist
Infotainment & Connectivity
8.0-inch or optional 9.2-inch touchscreen
Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Navigation Pro system (on higher trims)
Bluetooth, USB, and DAB radio standard
Golf Mk7 Running Costs and Ownership
With engines designed for efficiency, the Golf Mk7 is economical to run. The BlueMotion diesel models achieve remarkable fuel figures, while TSI Evo engines offer smart cylinder shutoff for reduced consumption.
Volkswagen’s excellent reliability record and widespread service network make ownership simple and reassuring.
Visiting a dedicated Volkswagen Servicing Provider can help prolong the life of the Golf Mk7 with genuine parts and manufacturer-approved technicians.
Vertu’s Verdict
The Volkswagen Golf Mk7 remains a class leader in comfort and technology. Whether you choose the diesel, petrol, or electrified GTE, every version offers the same hallmark traits of quality and style.
For buyers seeking a versatile, premium hatchback that excels in every area, a used Golf Mk7 remains one of the finest choices available.
- Used Cars
- Volkswagen