2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack Review

2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack - Alltrack fills niche between wagon and compact crossover.

By: Mark Bilek

The Volkswagen Alltrack is essentially a high-built Golf SportWagon equipped with all-wheel drive. Most consider it a compact crossover that competes with vehicles like the Honda HR-V, Subaru Crosstrek and Outback and new Toyota C-HR. Size wise the Alltrack is slightly larger than the Crosstrek but smaller than the Outback.

In addition to the standard all-wheel-drive system, Alltrack exclusives include raised suspension, wheel-arch flares and exterior body cladding. Three models are offered: S, SE and SEL. All come with a 170-horsepower turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that mates to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The S is priced at $25,850, the SE at $29,430 and the SEL at $32,890.

Most will find Alltrack acceleration to be adequate and on par with competitors. With a smallish turbocharged engine, the Alltrack doesn't exactly jump off the line but does offer good passing punch. The six-speed automatic is of the dual-clutch variety, so shifts are quick and nearly imperceptible. One downside is a lethargic feel off the line in light throttle applications.

Alltrack's all-wheel-drive system does not have a low range and is not intended for severe off-road use. However, the vehicle does offer a slightly raised ride height that affords it more capability than a typical all-wheel drive wagon.

EPA Fuel economy numbers are 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. Those numbers are slightly lower than direct competitors, but still appropriate for a vehicle of this size with all-wheel drive. In routine suburban driving, the Alltrack will return about 27 mpg overall. If you spend a lot of time on the highway, you'll likely net about 30 mpg.

Dynamically, Alltrack offers a nice blend of Euro-sport and American comfort. The suspension is firm to a point but has enough compliance to soak up the big imperfections. Alltrack feels more slightly nimble and composed than a Subaru Crosstrek or Outback and considerably more athletic than a typical compact crossover. Steering is somewhat numb is accurate but tracks true on the highway. Brakes have a firm feel and good stopping power. Interior noise levels are class appropriate, but the engine can growl in hard acceleration.

Alltrack's interior is spartan but functional. Materials are upscale and there are a few dashes of brightwork. The layout is functional and provides easy access to the center stack and a good view of the large gauges. While the available touch-screen infotainment system seems a tad slow, it does offer support for Android Auto and Apple Car Play.

Front seats are firm but do offer good support on long trips. Front-seat head and leg room are generous. Rear-seat passengers will want more knee room, but that's typical for the class. Outward visibility is great and getting in and out is easy.

Cargo space, and Alltrack asset, is generous. With all seats folded, cargo capacity is rated at 66.5 cubic feet. Even with the rear seats in use there are more than 30 cubic feet of space. Interior storage is above average with lots of open and covered bins throughout. Once nice touch is the covered cell phone compartment in the center console.

Alltrack tries very hard to be a compact crossover, but really comes across as a high-built wagon -- and that's not necessarily a bad thing. It offers many positive attributes including all-wheel drive, great outward visibility and good passenger and cargo space. Acceleration and fuel economy numbers are nothing to write home about, but they certainly aren't a negative. The biggest hurdle might be the $3000 premium over the Golf SportWagen.

Mark Bilek

Mark Bilek is the Senior Director of Communications and Technology for the Chicago Auto Trade Association and the General Manager for DriveChicago.com. He is also responsible for developing and maintaining the Chicago Auto Show Web site.

Mark has been reviewing vehicles for more than two decades. Previously, he was associate publisher at Consumer Guide, where he oversaw publication of Consumer Guide Car & Truck Test, Consumer Guide's Used Car Book, and ConsumerGuide.com. He was also responsible for publication of "Collectible Automobile" and various hardcover automotive titles. In 2001 and 2002 he served as president of a Midwest Automotive Media Association. Mark has appeared on NBC TV, ABC TV, Fox News, WGN and MotorTrend TV as an automotive consultant. He hosts the Drive Chicago radio show on WLS 890 AM and was a regular guest on WGN Radio's Steve & Johnnie show. Mark lives in the northwest suburbs with his wife and three sons.

2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack Review

2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack - Alltrack fills niche between wagon and compact crossover.

Mark Bilek

Find Used Cars in Chicago or Chicago Car Dealers at DriveChicago.com

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