Test Drive: 2018 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack

Inside, the Alltrack’s cabin is a pleasant surprise thanks to its layout and materials, with leather seating surfaces which, in the tester, were a Shetland Beige colour that elevated the whole thing to a classier level.

The beige, aided by the panoramic power sunroof, also gives the cabin an airy feel, even though it already has plenty of space and one imagines you wouldn’t feel cramped even if it were all black.

The steering wheel feels great in your hands and all the essential controls are neatly organized and clearly identified, making the ventilation and audio systems easy to use. It also features Climatronic dual-zone electronic climate control so you and your passenger will have one less thing to disagree about.

Heated front seats are also standard on the Alltrack, but don’t go looking for a heated steering wheel because it’s not even an available option.

Rear-seat passengers have a good amount of legroom and the 60/40 split-folding rear seats open up even more cargo space if needed.

The Alltrack’s infotainment features a 400-watt Fender audio system that comes with eight speakers and a subwoofer, so the cabin is an auditorium on wheels.

The interface is easy to understand and operate, and the graphics on the 8-inch touchscreen are nice and clear.
It is also compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so that’s a plus.

The Alltrack has several drive modes that allow you to modify the vehicle’s dynamics based on your needs. There’s an Eco and Sport mode, as well as an Off-road setting that also activates hill-descent-control.

That off-road setting makes full use of the additional 3.5-centimetres in ride height in the Alltrack when compared to the Golf SportWagen, so don’t be afraid to hit the dirt trails.

Behind the wheel, the Alltrack offer sharp steering control and a firm ride, and the handling is excellent.

When you add it all up, the Volkswgen Golf Alltrack is a pretty fun drive and definitely a worthy alternative to the many sport-utes that seem to be taking over just about every driveway in the neighbourhood.

The Alltrack offers similar cargo space, all-wheel drive capabilities and the ability to be a unique neighbour. Who’s in?

2018 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack
Price as tested: $39,785.00
Freight: $1,645.00
Configuration: Front engine/All-wheel drive
Engine/transmission:  1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder/ 6 speed automatic DSG with Tiptronic
Power/torque: 170 horsepower/ 199 ft-lb of torque
Fuel (capacity): Regular (50 L)
Combined fuel economy ratings (L/100 km): 9.4 L/100 km
Warranties: 4-years/80,000 km (basic)
Competitors: Subaru Crosstrek, Subaru Outback, Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, Kia Niro, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue, Ford C-Max

Related links:
Volkswagen Canada