Golf

Few compact hatchbacks are better than the 2021 Volkswagen Golf, but one that is happens to share the same showroom: the sporty GTI (reviewed separately). Apart from the standard Golf's lower asking price and higher fuel efficiency, it isn't as desirable as its more powerful, better-equipped sibling. While that's partly why VW will only offer the next-generation GTI and high-performance Golf R on our shores, it doesn't diminish that the regular version remains a terrific value in its final year. Despite a small and underpowered turbo-four engine, it boasts an excellent six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. It has a great chassis that provides athletic handling and a composed ride. And it offers a surprisingly roomy interior along with a large cargo hold. The boxy Golf isn't as eye-catching or feature-laden as many compact rivals, but overall it's much more gratifying than meets the eye and an Editors' Choice winner.