2013 Volkswagen Golf: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The 2013 Volkswagen Golf is mostly a carryover, with a minor trim-level equipment shuffle as the only meaningful update. Its body, engines, transmissions, and core safety equipment remain unchanged.
About the 2013 Volkswagen Golf
Sixth-generation Golf (Mk6/A6), late-cycle year before the U.S. model range wound down ahead of the redesigned 2015 Golf.
For 2013, Volkswagen positioned the Golf as a compact hatchback for drivers who wanted more than basic transportation. Its core appeal was the mix of a solid, upscale-feeling cabin, useful cargo space, and a choice between regular gas power, long-range diesel efficiency, or serious Golf R performance. Against other small hatchbacks, the Golf’s advantage was its more substantial feel, tidy road manners, and flexible hatchback layout.
The 2.5L is the everyday all-rounder, combining hatchback usefulness with a 170-hp five-cylinder engine. The TDI is the distance-focused version, with strong low-speed pull from its diesel engine, heated front seats, and touchscreen audio. At the top, the Golf R is the understated performance model, with 256 hp, a six-speed manual, all-wheel drive, headlights that turn with the road, and leather sport seats.
What changed, by category
2013 Volkswagen Golf specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 2.0 Liter | 5-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter / 5-Cyl, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Manual, 6-Spd | Manual, 6-Spd | Auto, 6-Spd DSG Tptrnc SM / Automatic, 6-Spd DSG / Manual, 5-Spd |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Diesel | Gas |
| MPG City | 19 mpg | 30 mpg | 23–24 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 27 mpg | 42 mpg | 31–33 mpg |
| Horsepower | 256 hp | 140 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 243 lb-ft | 236 lb-ft | 177 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 14.6–14.8 cu-ft | ||
| Rear Legroom | 35.5 in | 35.5 in | 35.5 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 2–4 | 2–4 | 2–4 |
| Adaptive Headlights | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| HID Headlights | |||
| LED Daytime Running Lights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| SD Card Slot | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Touch Screen Monitor | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2013 Volkswagen Golf a redesign?
No. The 2013 Golf keeps the same sixth-generation hatchback body and underlying structure as the 2012 model, with only minor equipment changes.
What changed on the 2013 Volkswagen Golf compared with the 2012 model?
Only a few equipment details changed. The 2.5L gained a standard front center armrest, the TDI gained standard fog lights, and push-button start on the Golf R changed from standard to optional.
Did the 2013 Volkswagen Golf get different engines?
No. The 170-hp 2.5-liter gas engine, 140-hp 2.0-liter TDI diesel, and 256-hp turbocharged Golf R engine all carried over unchanged for 2013.
What changed on the 2013 Volkswagen Golf R?
The 2013 Golf R’s main year-over-year equipment difference is that push-button start changed from standard to optional. Its 256-hp turbo engine, six-speed manual transmission, and all-wheel drive carried over.
Is the 2013 Volkswagen Golf meaningfully different from the 2012 model?
No, the differences are minor. The 2013 model is most notable for its small equipment shuffle, while the design, engine lineup, safety equipment, and chassis remain essentially the same.