VW Winners Circle: The Volkswagen Vehicles That Made Car and Driver’s Editors’ Choice List This Year

Check Out the Best VW Vehicles That Drivers and Reviewers Love

As one of the main dealerships in Utah that specializes in Volkswagen vehicles, we take every opportunity to talk them up. Whenever the VW brand invents a new feature or breaks an industry record, our team takes pride in that. We might even brag a little bit.

However, savvy consumers know that objective opinions are what matter in this game. Although we might be a little biased about the quality and performance of the VW brand of cars and SUVs, the folks over at Car and Driver are not.

For those who missed it, Car and Driver selected six Volkswagen vehicles for their annual Editors’ Choice list. After providing a breakdown of each vehicle and the publication’s feedback, we’ll tell you how you can check them out at a VW dealership near you in Utah.

Sport Compact Car Category: Volkswagen Golf GTI

The first of our six critically acclaimed Volkswagen vehicles is the VW Golf GTI, one our resident slick and speedy hatchbacks. Now in its eighth generation, the Golf GTI has more than 40 years of history under its belt. The newest iteration continues the legacy of high-octane performance in compact packaging, delivering 241 horsepower and 273 pound feet of torque.

What the critics had to say: It’s always nice when a vehicle lives up to its own hype. Reviewers love the Golf GTI’s impressive handling, speedy demeanor, and hatchback versatility. Not only is the vehicle compact and practical, but it’s also a pure delight to drive.

Sport Compact Car Category: Volkswagen Golf R

The VW Golf GTI sets the bar relatively high in the hot hatchback category. However, the Volkswagen brand has always had a penchant for one-upping itself. Case in point: the VW Golf R. It’s the highest-performing hatchback in the VW lineup, delivering 315 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. It can also go from zero to sixty in a mere 4.3 seconds, which makes the Golf R one of the most powerful vehicles in its class.

What the critics had to say: The VW Golf R serves up a healthy dose of torque and horsepower, and the critics can’t get enough. The power of the Golf R combined with the agile handling make it a top pick for those who love a good joyride.

Subcompact SUV Category: Volkswagen Taos

The VW Taos is a relative newcomer, but it’s already making a name for itself as the SUV that delivers all the best qualities of a sedan. This Volkswagen vehicle’s subcompact build and light curb weight facilitate a nimble driving style, which is perfect for bobbing and weaving through traffic. It’s also phenomenal in the fuel economy department, delivering an estimated 28 miles per gallon in the city and 36 miles per gallon on the highway.

What the critics had to say: In addition to calling out the SUV’s impressive gas mileage, critics loved the roomy cabin experience and attractive price point. Currently, the base trim level of the VW Taos has a starting MSRP of just $24,155.

Compact SUV Category: Volkswagen Tiguan

In terms of SUVs, the VW Tiguan has always had a Goldilocks effect on consumers. It’s not too bulky nor is it too small. Its pricing, size, storage, and performance have always been just right. The newest iteration of the Tiguan continues to apply the winning formula, delivering a reliable and affordable SUV that doesn’t skimp on substance or style.

What the critics had to say: This isn’t the first time the Tiguan has appeared on the Editors’ Choice list, and we suspect it won’t be the last. Critics noted the roomy interior, ample cargo space, crisp handling, and European design aesthetics.

Sport Compact Car Category: Volkswagen Jetta GLI

The VW Jetta has a well-earned reputation for prioritizing cost of ownership while delivering an elevated sedan experience. The VW Jetta GLI is yet another example of the German automaker one-upping itself. It is intensely speedy, devilishly stylish, and so intuitive you’ll think it’s reading your mind. Drivers who appreciate thrilling drives need look no further than the Jetta GLI.

What the critics had to say: No surprises here. Critics loved the confident handling and powerful performance the Jetta GLI delivers. They also favorably remarked on its impressive package of safety, infotainment, and comfort features.

Electric SUV Category: Volkswagen ID.4

When the VW ID.4 originally debuted in 2020, it won the World Car of the Year Award and was recognized as one of the best VW vehicles among drivers and reviewers. The 2023 edition keeps the winning streak alive, delivering up to 275 miles on a single charge and one of the most comprehensive feature packages ever installed in a VW. It also delivers big-time perks for first-time EV owners. When drivers purchase this new Volkswagen vehicle for sale, they get three years of unlimited DC fast charging at Electrify America charging stations.

What the critics had to say: What’s not to love about the ID.4? It delivers plenty of range and a spacious, quiet interior experience. To quote Car and Driver directly, “The ID.4 is an electric car for the people.”

Check Out the Latest Volkswagen Vehicles at VW SouthTowne

Now that you’re up to speed on the best VW vehicles, the next step is to check them out in person to see if they live up to the hype. As the leading VW dealership near you in Utah, we carry the most popular Volkswagen vehicles and regularly run new car specials. We can also help you secure financing on a new auto loan.

The best way to kick things off is to visit our dealership, conveniently located at 11000 Frontage Rd in South Jordan. Our team of VW professionals are happy to help you find the best VW vehicles for your budget and driving style.

For questions or to arrange an appointment, call (801) 988-5825 or email us using the contact form on our website.

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