Volkswagen Golf Wagon 2021: more safety and tech, priced from $33,550

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The 2021 Volkswagen Golf Wagon has returned to Australia for its eighth generation with a slimmer range but a significantly bolstered list of standard features and a starting price of $33,550 (before on-roads).

While the regular Golf hatch is currently on sale in Australia, buyers will have to wait just a bit longer for the wagon version that will go on sale with a choice of two grades in July.

Mirroring the feature list of the Golf hatch range, the wagon’s key and obvious benefit is the increased space with an extra 66mm in length over the hatch giving it 611L of space compared to 381L in the hatch – which is already quite respectable for the class.

Put the rear seats down and that space opens up to 1642L which just a bit smaller than the Volkswagen Tiguan midsize SUV – plus a 27mm increase in height over the hatch should make it easier for tall people.

Replacing the Golf Trendline, the entry-level Wagon is now known simply as the Golf and starts at $33,550 (before on-road costs), commanding a $1,600 premium over the hatch.

The eighth-generation Golf Wagon arrives standard with cloth seats and Volkswagen’s new 8.25-inch infotainment system equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The system works with the 10.25-inch digital driver’s display with other features such as three-zone climate control, black roof rails and LED headlights and taillights helping it stand out amongst its competitors. 

For the eight generation Volkswagen has placed a large emphasis on safety, with the Golf Wagon fitted with eight airbags that have helped it achieve a five-star ANCAP safety rating.

Additionally, the Golf Wagon has AEB with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control and parking sensors at the front and rear.

Stepping up to the Golf Life Wagon (replacing the Comfortline) costs slightly more at $36,250 (before on-roads) but adds a navigation function to the 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, keyless entry, a power tailgate, and ‘comfort’ front seats made with a microfleece cloth material and have a lumbar adjustment function.

It also safer with the fitment of Volkswagen’s Emergency Assist, which attempts to prevent an accident if the driver stops reacting and Exit Warning Assist that sounds an alarm if occupants are about to open their door into the path of a moving car or bike.

Volkswagen has also spruced up the inside with chrome roof rails, larger 17-inch alloy wheels to replace the standard 16-inch wheels and power folding mirrors.

Sadly the Golf Wagon misses out the top-grade known as the R-Line, which replaces the Highline on the seventh generation. This means those who want the sportier body kit,  18-inch alloy wheels and sportier steering wheel will have to go for the hatch.

But if Golf Life buyers still want more features they can opt for the Sound and Vision package as a $1,500 option, which adds a head up display and a nine-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system.

Additionally, the Comfort & Style package for $2,000 adds a microfleece-cloth upholstery with sportier comfort front seats, ambient lighting and a panoramic roof. 

Powering both grades is Volkswagen’s faithful 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 110kW of power and 250Nm of torque, while using a claimed 5.9L of fuel.

The Golf Wagon is only offered with an automatic transmission in the form of an eight-speed torque converter automatic that sends power to the front wheels.

Buyers wanting a bit more grunt should wait for the Golf R Wagon that is slated to make its way to Australia earlier next year.

Volkswagen Golf Wagon 2021: prices in Australia

All prices listed are before on-road costs.

• Golf Wagon: $33,550
• Golf Life Wagon: $36,250
• Golf R Wagon: TBA