2011 Volkswagen Golf a powerful engines and a near luxury cab

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The 2011 Volkswagen Golf ranks 2 out of 33 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 17 published reviews and test drives of the Volkswagen Golf, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2011 VW Golf has a powerful engines and a near-luxury cabin that reviewers say is worth the Golf’s high price. The 2011 Golf also has a diesel option that gets great fuel economy.

The Volkswagen Golf has cruised American streets since 1974. Since then, the Golf has undergone a lot of changes. In 2007, VW launched a new generation of the Golf, the Rabbit, but in 2010, VW revisited its roots and started using the name Golf again. Along with the name change, VW gave the 2010 Golf a makeover. Those changes carry on for the 2011 model.

The Golf stands out within the class for its available diesel engine. Reviewers applaud the diesel option for its great fuel economy and torquey engine that make it a great city cruiser. Unfortunately, the diesel’s fuel economy -- a combined average of 34 miles per gallon -- comes at a high price tag: The 2010 Golf TDI started at $22,354, $4,734 more than the base model. There’s another drawback. The more affordable base hatchback can’t match the diesel’s outstanding fuel economy.

Although the Golf is one of the most expensive cars in the class, the 2010 Volkswagen Golf received abundant praise and awards from the auto press. The 2010 Golf was named the World Car of the Year, and Kiplinger named the 2010 Golf four-door Best-in-Class for cars under $20,000 and Best New Model under $20,000.

The 2011 Golf maintains the 2010’s award-winning reputation with its great performance on the road and upscale cabin that create a near-luxury feel. Buyers can also select features such as Bluetooth, an upgraded stereo with a touch screen interface and an iPod interface that add to the Golf's quality.

2011 vw golf