Volkswagen Golf

The fun to drive compact German hatchback returned to the North American market in 2010 to replace the Rabbit, a name that was revived in North America back in 2006 for the then new MkV hatchback version of the Jetta.

The MkVI Golf is available in two-door and four-door bodystyles and can be powered by either a 170-hp 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder gas engine, or a new 140-hp 2.0-liter TDI clean-diesel engine. Buyers that go with the gas engine can choose between either a five-speed manual transmission or six-speed Tiptronic automatic; while TDI buyers select from either a six-speed manual transmission, or a six-speed DSG auto with Tiptronic. Standard safety features on all models include, anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, tire pressure monitoring and six airbags. TDI models are extra equipped with features such as sport suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels/tires, leather steering wheel and shift knob, touch-screen 6-disc audio system with SIRIUS and floor mats.

For 2012, fog lights and a rear pass-through armrest are now standard on the 2.5 models. Bluetooth and heated washer jets are now standard on the TDI models.