The 2016 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen is a turbocharged Golf in the front and a wagon in the back. That means it’s got the fun driving experience of VW’s hot hatchback with all of the versatility of an SUV. If that sounds like the perfect combination for you, then you’ve got a tough decision to make. Which trim level gives you the best bang for the buck? We’ll lay it all out for you in this comparison of the 2016 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen S vs Golf SportWagen SE.
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2016 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen
What do all Golf SportWagen models have in common? Let’s start with the numbers: 170 hp, up to 36 mpg and a massive 66.5 cubic feet of cargo space. There are roof rails and power outlets back there too, so there’s no end of things you can carry in it. And every Golf SportWagen now comes with a rearview camera system and USB connectivity for your favorite smartphone apps.
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Golf SportWagen S features
The S trim is the most value-priced Golf SportWagen in the lineup, but there’s nothing basic about it. The technology package is what you’d expect from a much more expensive car: It’s got the VW Car-Net connected car suite, satellite radio and a USB port to plug in your smartphone for the Car-Net App-Connect features. Useful conveniences like the rearview camera system and heated side mirrors sweeten the deal. It’s a lot of car for the money.
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Golf SportWagen SE features
The SE trim is a significant investment over the price of the base model S. It adds the sunroof, foglights, bigger wheels, heated leatherette seats and keyless access with push-button start. Complicating things, however, is the newly introduced Golf SportWagen Limited Edition, which is priced between the S and SE. Why would someone walk past the S and LE trims and go for the SE? Our guess would be for the Fender Premium Audio System in the SE. If you can live without the awesome sound system, or are more interested in driver assistance features, go for the Golf SportWagen Limited Edition. Either way, you won’t be disappointed.
