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2020 Volkswagen Golf Lineup Reduced To Value Edition, GTI, e-Golf In the U.S.

Volkswagen Golf Alltrack 24 photos
Photo: Volkswagen
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As you’re already aware, the Golf isn’t doing great in the United States. Hatchbacks might be practical, but the crossover has taken a step forward in terms of demand. To this effect, Volkswagen decided to strip down the Golf lineup to three choices for the 2020 model year.  
First of all, the Value Edition replaces every other trim level of the Golf as we know it. Among the highlights, standard equipment includes Car-Net telematics, in-car Internet and Wi-Fi, keyless access, push-button start, leatherette seating surfaces, and heated front seats.

Other amenities worth mentioning are the tilt-and-slide panoramic sunroof, heated washer nozzles, and 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. The 1.4 TSI, a four-cylinder turbo that’s shared with the Jetta, develops 147 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque from the get-go. The six-speed manual, which is capable of returning 37 miles to the gallon on the highway, can be switched out for an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Moving on to the Golf GTI, the 2020 model year is available in S and SE trim levels with the same ol’ 2.0 TSI as ever. Front Assist, Blind Spot Monitor, and Rear Traffic Alert are now standard equipment, and the performance-oriented hatchback further boasts Car-Net. It should be mentioned, however, that a data plan is needed for the onboard Wi-Fi.

The engine achieves 228 horsepower and bundles of torque only on premium fuel, so keep that in mind if you’re planning to buy the Golf GTI as a weekend warrior or a fun daily. Music-loving customers should also consider the Fender premium audio system, boasting 400 watts from eight speakers and a subwoofer.

Last, but certainly not least, the e-Golf returns in SE and SEL Premium trim levels with the Driver Assistance Package as standard. Even though it’s not on par with the ever-popular Nissan Leaf, the German interloper is good for 125 miles as per the Environmental Protection Agency.

Volkswagen is so ashamed of the rating that the estimated range is hidden in the fine print on Volkswagen’s website. By comparison, Nissan offers 150 miles in the 40-kWh Leaf or 226 miles when equipped with the optional 62-kWh battery.
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About the author: Mircea Panait
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After a 1:43 scale model of a Ferrari 250 GTO sparked Mircea's interest for cars when he was a kid, an early internship at Top Gear sealed his career path. He's most interested in muscle cars and American trucks, but he takes a passing interest in quirky kei cars as well.
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