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The Volkswagen Golf is older than Ryan Reynolds. I’ll let that sink in for those of us clinging to youth. That said, the Golf is no less charming than everyone’s favorite snarky A-list actor. However, not every Volkswagen Golf is equal. Still, car buyers looking for the most reliable Golf to eat up the miles have a few dependable options to love.

The best Volkswagen Golf years marry dependability and hatchback hooliganism

Car enthusiasts conjure one name when they ponder hatchbacks with fun functionality: the Volkswagen Golf. However, not every Golf is the headache-free hatch of your dreams. Fret not, though. These three models are some of the best Volkswagen Golf years for a reliable ride. 

  • 2014 VW Golf
  • 2018 VW Golf
  • 2021 VW Golf

2014 Volkswagen Golf

The 2014 VW Golf turns 10 this year, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less reliable than a newer model. In fact, the 2014 model earned a “Seal of Awesome” from CarComplaints for its drama-free ownership. 

There are just two complaints with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) citing engine problems. Now, as the final year of the Mk6 lineup, the 2014 model enjoys the lessons learned and bugs squashed during its generation. Case in point, the 2015 model which kicked off the Mk7 lineup, is CarComplaint’s No. 1 “Worst Model Year” for the Golf. 

2018 Volkswagen Golf

The 2018 VW Golf ushered in the first facelift of the Mk7 model. However, it also represents one of the more dependable of the modern Golf lineup. While the NHTSA cites six complaints of fuel system issues, it’s a rare issue that impacts very few vehicles with no fires on record. Better yet, with an average purchase price of around $15,000, the Golf is a cheap alternative to a newer car. 

Better yet, RepairPal gives the modern Golf a 4.0 out of 5.0 for overall reliability. That puts the little hatchback in the “Above Average” category for dependability. And frankly, when that luck runs out, the $630 average annual repair cost is squarely typical for the industry. 

2021 Volkswagen Golf

The 2021 VW Golf marked a bit of a milestone for the nameplate. Most notably, it was the final non-performance-oriented model for the Golf. After 2021, American buyers could opt for the hallowed GTI or the razor-sharp R model.

Still, the 2021 model is an example of one of the best Volkswagen Golf years for reliability, with very few owner complaints and an average annual repair cost. However, as a 2021 model, don’t expect an active basic mechanical warranty.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).