2014 Volkswagen Golf: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The biggest change for the 2014 Volkswagen Golf is the loss of the Golf R performance trim. Otherwise, this final-year Mk6 is largely a carryover ahead of the redesigned 2015 Golf.
About the 2014 Volkswagen Golf
6th gen (U.S. Mk6 Golf), final year before the 7th-gen 2015 redesign
Volkswagen positioned the Golf as the original compact hatchback idea done in a more grown-up, more premium-feeling way. Its core appeal was simple: small outside, roomy inside, easy to park, comfortable on the highway, and flexible enough to handle daily commuting or weekend cargo duty. Compared with many compact rivals, the Golf sold itself on cabin quality, tidy road manners, and a hatchback layout that made it more useful than a typical small sedan.
The 2014 Golf is a practical four-door hatchback sold in 2.5L gas and TDI diesel forms. The 2.5L has a 170-hp five-cylinder engine and a flexible folding back seat, while the 140-hp TDI adds strong low-speed pull, heated front seats, Bluetooth, and a touchscreen audio system.
What changed, by category
2014 Volkswagen Golf specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 2.0 Liter | 5-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 6-Spd DSG Tptrnc SM | Auto, 6-Spd w/Tptrnc SM |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gas |
| MPG City | 30 mpg | 23 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 42 mpg | 30 mpg |
| Horsepower | 140 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 236 lb-ft | 177 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.2 cu-ft | 15.2 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.5 in | 35.5 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| SD Card Slot | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2014 Volkswagen Golf compared with the 2013 model?
The Golf R and two-door body style were dropped for 2014, and a rear spoiler became standard. The remaining 2.5L gas and TDI diesel models otherwise carry over without a major engine, safety, technology, or chassis update.
Was the Golf R offered for 2014?
No. The Golf R was dropped from the U.S. Golf lineup for 2014, leaving the 2.5L gas and TDI diesel models.
Did the 2014 Volkswagen Golf come as a two-door hatchback?
No. The 2014 Golf lineup is four-door-only; the two-door body style offered for 2013 was dropped.
Is the 2014 Volkswagen Golf the redesigned model?
No. The 2014 Golf is the final U.S. model year of the sixth-generation Mk6 design. The full seventh-generation redesign arrived for 2015.
Is the 2014 Golf substantially different from the 2013 Golf?
No. Aside from the smaller lineup, the loss of the two-door body style, and the standard rear spoiler, the 2014 Golf is largely the same vehicle as the 2013 model.
2014 Volkswagen Golf Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2014 Volkswagen Golf.