The 2016 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen S is a fantastic option for anyone needing a practical and versatile vehicle that's also fun to drive. It perfectly blends the functionality of a wagon with the sporty feel of a Golf, making it a compelling choice in the compact car segment. Let's dive into what makes this car so appealing.

Performance and Handling: A Zippy and Engaging Ride

When we talk about performance in the 2016 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen S, we're not talking about raw, neck-snapping acceleration. Instead, the focus is on providing a zippy and engaging driving experience that makes everyday commutes and weekend road trips enjoyable. The standard 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers a respectable 170 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for most driving situations, allowing for confident merging onto highways and easy maneuvering in city traffic.

The turbocharger is key to the engine's responsiveness. It provides a boost of power at lower RPMs, meaning you don't have to rev the engine hard to get moving. This makes the car feel peppy and eager to accelerate, even when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. The engine is also relatively fuel-efficient, achieving an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Transmission options include a five-speed manual and a six-speed automatic. The manual transmission is a joy to use, offering precise shifts and a direct connection to the engine. The automatic transmission is smooth and responsive, providing quick and seamless gear changes. It also features a sport mode that holds gears longer for more spirited driving.

Handling is another area where the 2016 Golf SportWagen S shines. The car feels planted and stable on the road, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and precise steering. It corners confidently, with minimal body roll, and the steering provides good feedback, allowing you to feel connected to the road. This makes the car fun to drive on winding roads, while also providing a comfortable and composed ride on the highway. The Golf SportWagen S strikes a great balance between sporty handling and everyday comfort, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of drivers. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or embarking on a long road trip, the Golf SportWagen S provides a driving experience that is both engaging and enjoyable.

Interior and Features: Practicality Meets Comfort

The interior of the 2016 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen S is a testament to Volkswagen's commitment to practicality and comfort. It's not the flashiest or most luxurious interior in its class, but it's well-designed, functional, and built with high-quality materials. The focus is on providing a comfortable and user-friendly environment for both the driver and passengers.

The first thing you'll notice is the spaciousness of the cabin. There's ample headroom and legroom in both the front and rear seats, making it comfortable for adults of all sizes. The rear seats can also be folded down to create a large cargo area, perfect for hauling groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. With the rear seats up, there's still a generous 30.4 cubic feet of cargo space. Folding the seats down expands that to an impressive 66.5 cubic feet, rivaling some small SUVs.

The seats themselves are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives. The driver's seat is height-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. The dashboard is clean and uncluttered, with all the controls logically placed and easy to reach. The standard infotainment system features a 6.5-inch touchscreen display, which is responsive and easy to use. It includes features like Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, and a rearview camera.

While the base S trim is relatively basic, it still comes with a decent amount of standard equipment, including air conditioning, cruise control, power windows and locks, and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Optional features, available on higher trims, include a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, a navigation system, and a premium audio system. The interior design prioritizes functionality and ease of use, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for both the driver and passengers. The spaciousness and versatility of the cargo area make it a practical choice for families, adventurers, and anyone who needs to haul a lot of stuff.

Fuel Economy: Efficient for Daily Driving

Fuel economy is a significant factor for many car buyers, and the 2016 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen S delivers respectable numbers in this area. Its efficient engine and lightweight design contribute to its ability to save you money at the pump, making it a practical choice for daily commuting and long road trips.

The EPA estimates the 2016 Golf SportWagen S at 25 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway when equipped with the automatic transmission. The manual transmission version gets slightly better highway mileage, at 36 mpg. These figures are competitive with other compact cars and wagons in its class. Real-world fuel economy may vary depending on driving conditions and habits, but most owners report achieving numbers close to the EPA estimates.

Several factors contribute to the Golf SportWagen S's fuel efficiency. The 1.8-liter turbocharged engine is designed to deliver a good balance of power and efficiency. The turbocharger helps to improve fuel economy by allowing the engine to produce more power at lower RPMs, reducing the need to rev the engine hard. The car's relatively light weight also helps to improve fuel economy, as it takes less energy to accelerate and maintain speed.

Volkswagen also incorporates several fuel-saving technologies into the Golf SportWagen S, such as start-stop system (available on some trims) that automatically shuts off the engine when the car is stopped, further reducing fuel consumption. The Golf SportWagen S provides a good balance of performance and fuel economy, making it a practical and affordable choice for drivers who want a versatile and fun-to-drive car without sacrificing efficiency. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or embarking on a long road trip, the Golf SportWagen S will help you save money on gas.

Reliability and Safety: Peace of Mind on the Road

When considering a vehicle purchase, reliability and safety are paramount. The 2016 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen S aims to provide peace of mind to its owners through a combination of solid engineering, comprehensive safety features, and a decent reliability record.

Historically, the Golf lineup has generally enjoyed a good reputation for reliability, and the 2016 SportWagen S is no exception. While individual experiences can vary, the Golf SportWagen S tends to be fairly reliable, with owners reporting fewer major mechanical issues compared to some other cars in its class. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, is crucial to keeping any car running smoothly, and the Golf SportWagen S is no different.

On the safety front, the 2016 Golf SportWagen S comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. It also earned good crash-test scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), indicating a high level of protection for occupants in the event of a collision.

Optional safety features, available on higher trims, include advanced driver-assistance systems such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These systems can help to prevent accidents by alerting the driver to potential hazards and even taking corrective action if necessary. By prioritizing safety and incorporating a range of safety technologies, the 2016 Golf SportWagen S strives to provide a secure and reassuring driving experience for both the driver and passengers. With its solid reliability record and comprehensive safety features, the Golf SportWagen S is a dependable and safe choice for families and individuals alike.

Conclusion: A Versatile and Appealing Wagon

The 2016 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen S presents a compelling package for those seeking a versatile, practical, and enjoyable vehicle. It successfully combines the functionality of a wagon with the driving dynamics of a Golf, creating a unique and appealing option in the compact car market.

From its zippy performance and engaging handling to its spacious interior and commendable fuel economy, the Golf SportWagen S offers a well-rounded driving experience. Its reliability record and comprehensive safety features further enhance its appeal, providing owners with peace of mind on the road. While the base S trim is relatively basic in terms of features, it still offers a solid foundation of value and practicality.

If you're in the market for a wagon that's both fun to drive and practical for everyday use, the 2016 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen S is definitely worth considering. It's a car that can handle everything from daily commutes to weekend adventures, all while providing a comfortable and enjoyable ride. Its combination of versatility, performance, and value makes it a standout choice in its class.