The Golf Alltrack comes in three trim levels: S, SE, and SEL. I am going to focus on the SEL which was my drive vehicle at the launch in Seattle.
The Alltrack has a powerful, yet fuel-efficient 1.8 L TSI turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This engine delivers 170 hp at 4,500 rpm and 199 lb-ft of torque at 1,600 rpm.
The TSI engine will be coupled to a 6-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. A 6-speed manual will be offered later in the year.
The Alltrack utilizes turbo forced induction with direct fuel injection to help achieve excellent efficiency, while still delivering impressive power. The EPA estimated fuel economy is 30 mpg highway and 22 mpg city. The Alltrack comes with a 14.5 gallon fuel tank.
Personally, the most attractive features can be found in the spacious interior. There is 94.3 cubic feet of passenger volume, as well as 30.4 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rear seat, which expands to 66.5 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down.
There is 38.6 inches of head room, front and rear shoulder room of 55.9 inches and 53.9 inches respectively, plus a leg room of 41.2 inches front and 35.6 inches in the rear.
The spacious cabin is upscale in appearance. The V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces are standard, including a unique “Marrakesh” brown color option. Also standard across the line are heated front seats.
The SEL trim has a standard 12-way power driver’s seat. It is equipped with black headliners, 4Motion AWD branded chrome strip on the console, stainless steel door kick plates with Alltrack logo, and custom aluminum pedal.
Driver controls are positioned to help optimize both ergonomics and visibility. Seating comfort is improved by seat positions, height of the shifter, and space between pedals.
The driver-oriented design is emphasized by the center stack, which is angled towards the driver. Meanwhile ambient lighting further highlights the upscale quality of the vehicle.
Materials such as soft-touch plastic, and leather on the hand brake, shift knob, and the multifunction steering wheel gives the car a luxury character.
Golf Alltrack has much to offer on comfort, convenience, and entertainment features throughout the line. Items like power windows, locks, mirrors, rearview camera, Bluetooth, and push button start are standard.
My SEL model had Discover Media Voice and a 6.5-inch 800 X 480 capacitive color touchscreen with proximity sensor.
Alltrack SEL also had a 2.5D Navigation with voice destination entry, and it can predict possible destinations based on frequently used routes.
There is body cladding on the side sills and around the wheel arches that carry over to the lower area of the redesigned bumpers. There are also unique accents with silver roof rails, Reflex Silver side mirrors, and lower windows chrome molding. A panoramic sun roof is standard in the SE and SEL.
The Golf Alltrack has a length of 179.6 inches and a height of 59.7 inches —a proportion of the traditional wagon which is rare in the era of SUVs and CUVs.
Seen from the rear, Alltrack sports dark-red taillights and a new bumper that mates with chrome exhaust outlets on either side.
LED Daytime Running Lights are standard on all trims, and automatic headlight activation on the SE and SEL. The SEL can be optioned with Driver Assist & Lighting Package which adds automatic headlight adjustments and bi-xenon headlights.
MSRP ranges from $26,950 for the S trim to $32,870 for the top-of-line SEL trim.
Alltrack held the road well, was quiet in the drive, and remained dependable in all kinds of weather.
This car is ideal for trips to the high country or camping locations at isolated lakes. Whether you are going shopping, biking, or just a night out for dinner and a movie, Golf Alltrack is definitely a consideration for your choice in a travelling companion.
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or at [email protected]
