2017 Volkswagen Golf VII Variant (facelift 2017) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Golf VII Variant facelift 2017 ranges from 1220 kg to 1580 kg (2689 to 3487 lbs), depending on the engine, trim level, and additional equipment. A lighter curb weight generally leads to improved fuel efficiency and more agile handling, while a heavier weight might indicate added safety features or luxury appointments but could slightly reduce fuel economy and acceleration. Volkswagen balanced this to optimize driving dynamics and efficiency, making the Golf Variant suitable for a variety of driving conditions.

The luggage capacity of the Golf VII Variant facelift 2017 is impressively spacious for its class. With rear seats up, it offers between 605 and 861 liters (21.3 to 30.4 cubic feet) of cargo space, depending on the configuration. When the rear seats are folded down, the capacity expands dramatically to between 1620 and 1883 liters (57.2 to 66.5 cubic feet). This makes it very versatile for carrying bulky items or luggage for longer trips, fitting well within the expectations for a compact station wagon designed to offer both passenger comfort and cargo flexibility.

Typically, a standard garage door opening is about 2.4 meters (7.9 feet) wide and 2 meters (6.6 feet) high. With a width of 1799 mm (70.8 inches) excluding mirrors and 2027 mm (79.7 inches) with mirrors open, the Golf VII Variant will fit comfortably in width if mirrors are folded. Its height ranges between 1472 and 1515 mm (57.9 to 59.6 inches), which is well below typical garage height clearances. Therefore, with mirrors folded in, the Volkswagen Golf VII Variant facelift 2017 easily fits into a standard garage, though caution is needed when mirrors are extended.

The ride height or ground clearance of the Golf VII Variant facelift 2017 ranges from 126 mm to 140 mm (4.96 to 5.51 inches). This relatively low ground clearance is typical of station wagons in the compact segment, offering improved aerodynamics and handling on paved roads. However, it limits off-road capabilities and requires care over rough terrain or speed bumps to avoid scraping. For everyday city and highway driving, this ground clearance provides a stable and sporty ride without compromising ease of entry and exit.

The Golf VII Variant facelift 2017 supports a variety of tire and rim sizes, including rims from 15 inches up to 19 inches with widths varying from 6.5J to 8J. Tire sizes range from 195/65 R15 to 235/35 R19. Smaller wheels with higher profile tires improve ride comfort and absorb more road imperfections, while larger rims with low-profile tires enhance handling precision and aesthetic appeal but can result in a firmer ride. This range allows buyers to tailor their car for either sporty performance or comfortable daily driving.

Compared to the Golf VI Variant, produced until 2013, the Golf VII Variant facelift 2017 generally offers similar length and width dimensions but tends to be slightly longer in some versions, measuring up to 4586 mm versus around 4570 mm for the Golf VI. Width remains close, though the VII has wider mirror span at 2027 mm, reflecting design changes for modern safety standards. Height is also similar but can vary slightly due to suspension tuning and trim levels. Overall, the VII improves interior space efficiency and cargo capacity while maintaining a compact footprint for maneuverability.

The Golf VII Variant facelift stands out among compact station wagons for its high-quality build, refined handling, and versatile interior space offering between 605 and 1883 liters of cargo capacity. Its moderate ground clearance and wide range of engine and trim options provide adaptability for different needs. Compared to rivals like the Ford Focus Wagon or Opel Astra Sports Tourer, the Golf Variant often provides a more premium feel and high-tech features. However, it may come at a slightly higher price point, and its lower ground clearance may limit utility in rougher driving conditions compared to some competitors with raised ride heights.

The roof load capacity of the Volkswagen Golf VII Variant facelift 2017 is rated at 75 kg (165 lbs). This means the car can safely handle additional cargo on its roof rack, such as luggage boxes, bicycles, or sports equipment, without compromising structural integrity or driving dynamics. It’s essential to distribute weight evenly and secure all items properly to avoid instability, especially at higher speeds or in windy conditions. This makes the Golf Variant a practical choice for families and active individuals needing extra external cargo space.

The 2017 facelift of the Golf VII Variant brought several refinements over the original 2012 launch model. These included updated front and rear bumpers for a refreshed appearance, new LED headlight and taillight designs enhancing both aesthetics and visibility, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and enhanced safety tech. Additionally, the facelift introduced improvements in infotainment options and interior materials for a more premium feel. Mechanically, engines were optimized for better efficiency and performance, helping the Golf Variant remain competitive in its segment between 2017-2020.