2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack Adds Off-Road Style to the Golf SportWagen

Starting from the entry-level S trim, the 2017 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen can be specified with 4Motion, an all-wheel-drive system that uses the latest generation Haldex-5 coupling. Activated by an electro-hydraulic oil pump, 4Motion AWD is able to prevent wheel slip thanks to a proactive control system. If needed, the all-wheel-drive system can send up to 50 percent of the available torque to the rear axle.

The 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack, on the other hand, is like a Golf SportWagen with 4Motion and more attitude. The sole engine option this rugged wagon comes with is a 1.8-liter TSI that churns out 170 horsepower and 199 lb-ft (270 Nm). Across the pond, the Golf Alltrack is also available with TDI engines.

At launch, the Golf Alltrack will be exclusively available with a six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. At a later date, Volkswagen will also offer a manual. Compared to the Golf SportWagen, the Golf Alltrack gets an inch of extra ground clearance and unique styling cues. The honeycomb grille, bumpers, wheel wells, side sills, plastic cladding, these things are the distinctive visual cues of the car.

There are three trim lines to choose from. The S and SE come with 17-inch wheels made from aluminum alloy, while the range-topping SEL boasts 18-inch rollers. As standard, even the entry-level S model gets a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, parking camera, and Volkswagen Car-Net App-Connect. In addition to these, the front and rear seats are beautified by leatherette surfaces are also standard, as are the aluminum pedals, door sills with Alltrack lettering, unique dash pad trim, and the ambient lighting.

The most impressive aspect regarding the 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack, however, is the cargo capacity: 30.4 cuFT with the rear seats up and 66.5 cuFT if folded flat into the floor. For comparison’s sake, the Volkswagen Touareg offers up to 64 cuFT of cargo capacity despite the fact that it’s a crossover SUV.