“The Golf should include the ability to have a Sirius XM internet radio subscription; it is the only feature we miss.”
2020 Volkswagen Golf: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2020 Volkswagen Golf is a simplified regular-Golf lineup with one better-equipped TSI trim. It gains several standard comfort features, while the 1.4-liter turbo engine carries over.
About the 2020 Volkswagen Golf
7th generation Golf (U.S. 2015-2021), late-cycle model after the mid-cycle update; 2020 is the second-to-last U.S. year for the regular Golf hatchback.
Volkswagen positions the Golf as an iconic compact hatchback that blends easy-to-park size with more cabin usefulness than many small cars. The core pitch is sporty road manners, solid fuel economy, smart packaging, and a cabin that feels a little more grown-up than a basic economy hatch. For most buyers, the Golf is the practical everyday VW car: roomy for its size, comfortable on longer drives, and still enjoyable to drive.
The 2020 Golf TSI is a practical five-door hatchback focused on daily use rather than GTI-style performance. Its 1.4-liter turbo engine is paired with front-wheel drive, while a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto covers everyday connectivity. Heated front seats, synthetic leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and keyless access give the sole trim a more comfortable cabin.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The regular Golf becomes front-wheel-drive only for 2020 because the 2019 TSI S 4Motion all-wheel-drive trim is dropped. The 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine carries over.
Styling
The sole TSI trim gets standard V-Tex synthetic leather upholstery and a panoramic sunroof.
Tech
Keyless access and push-button start become standard on the regular Golf, along with heated front seats.
2020 Volkswagen Golf specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 1.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Tiptronic & Sport Mode |
| Drivetrain | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 28 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 36 mpg |
| Horsepower | 147 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 22.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.6 in |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |
| Blindspot Sensors | |
| Rear View Camera | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Rear Spoiler | |
| Smartphone Interface | |
| Touch Screen Monitor | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Push-Button Engine Start | |
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2020 Volkswagen Golf?
The biggest change is the move to one regular-Golf trim, the 1.4T TSI. It combines the entry Golf formula with standard keyless access, push-button start, synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
Is the 2020 Volkswagen Golf a redesign?
No, the 2020 Golf is not a redesign. It remains part of the seventh generation and receives a simplified trim lineup with added standard equipment.
Does the 2020 Volkswagen Golf have all-wheel drive?
No, the regular 2020 Golf is front-wheel drive. The TSI S 4Motion all-wheel-drive trim offered for 2019 is dropped for 2020.
What features became standard on the 2020 Volkswagen Golf?
The 2020 Golf makes keyless access, push-button start, V-Tex synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof standard on its sole TSI trim.
How does the 2020 Volkswagen Golf compare with the 2019 model?
The 2020 Golf has a much simpler lineup than the 2019 model. Several 2019 trims are dropped, the continuing 1.4T S is renamed 1.4T TSI, and the remaining Golf receives more standard comfort equipment.
2020 Volkswagen Golf Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 Volkswagen Golf.
4.3
2020 Volkswagen Golf
(180 reviews)
“You don't need an suv! A 4 door hatch is more fun to drive and still has room to get what you need done!!”
“No one will be disappointed with a new VW Golf. If you like a manual transmission as I do, this is the best car to buy.”