2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack

Edmunds' Expert Review byDan Frio Correspondent Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to Edmunds, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match. Pros It's a wagon with light-duty off-road capability Crossover-rivaling cargo bay User-friendly control layout Turbo four-cylinder engine is refined and reasonably capable Cons Automatic transmission sometimes slow to shift in low-speed driving Touchscreen's simple graphics feel behind the times Relatively snug backseat Whats new The 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack is an all-new model that's based on the pavement-oriented Golf SportWagen. Vehicle overview The 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack provides familiar Golf goodness along with all-wheel drive, rugged styling and a cavernous cargo area. It's a compelling alternative to similarly priced crossovers. If you like the idea of a Golf wagon but want more of an SUV vibe, this is your option. Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack TSI S 4dr Wagon AWD (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.23 per gallon for regular unleaded in Montana. Monthly estimates based on costs in Montana $152/mo for Golf Alltrack TSI S Golf Alltrack TSI S  vs $160/mo Avg. Compact Car Calculate my fuel costs The formula is simple: Take the regular Golf wagon (aka the SportWagen), give it all-wheel drive, a slightly raised suspension for extra ground clearance, and a few traction-enhancing features, and wrap it all up in some tough-looking body cladding. The result is an all-terrain wagon with 66.5 cubic feet of space to carry stuff with the rear seats folded. That's the kind of space usually afforded by compact crossover SUVs. Factor in the Alltrack's smooth turbocharged four-cylinder engine and ergonomically sound interior, and you're looking at an excellent choice for the crossover-averse or anyone who just prefers the sleeker wagon look. Edmunds' Expert Rating The 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack provides familiar Golf goodness along with all-wheel drive, rugged styling and a cavernous cargo area. It's a compelling alternative to similarly priced crossovers. If you like the idea of a Golf wagon but want more of an SUV vibe, this is your option. Driving The Alltrack's about 300 pounds heavier than a Golf SportWagen with front-wheel drive, so the turbo engine doesn't feel quite as punchy. Handling also suffers a bit with the slightly higher ride height. It's still a confidence-inspiring road car, though, and it's also decent in light off-road use. Comfort Though the crossover-inspired styling may imply a cushy ride, that's not the case. German cars tend to be tautly sprung, and the Alltrack is no exception, so it can feel somewhat stiff and out of sorts on broken pavement. Seats are a strong point, however, and overall refinement is excellent. Interior A large greenhouse with ample glass and a simple, sensible control layout make the Alltrack's cabin a pleasant, user-friendly environment. We'd ask only for roomier rear quarters with a higher bench, which you'll find in many similarly priced crossovers. Ease of use Seemingly every control is where you expect it to be, and if it's not, you quickly see the logic in where it ended up. Gauges are straightforward and highly legible. Nothing fancy, just strong fundamentals. Getting in/getting out Front passengers will have no complaints, but those in back might have something to carp about. The rear doors have a relatively narrow opening, and if the front seat is pushed back for lo