2020 Volkswagen Golf VIII Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Volkswagen Golf VIII has a body width of 1789 mm (70.4 inches, approximately 5 feet 10.4 inches). When the side mirrors are opened, the width ranges between 2027 mm and 2073 mm (79.8 to 81.6 inches, approximately 6 feet 7.8 inches to 6 feet 9.6 inches). This wider stance with mirrors extended is important to know for practical considerations such as garage parking or navigating narrow streets. The width without mirrors is typical for the compact hatchback class, balancing interior space and aerodynamics.

The height of the Volkswagen Golf VIII varies between 1456 mm and 1491 mm (57.3 to 58.7 inches, roughly 4 feet 9.3 inches to 4 feet 10.7 inches). This moderate height offers sufficient headroom for most occupants while maintaining a sleek hatchback profile. The relatively low height aids aerodynamics and fuel efficiency and ensures the Golf VIII can easily fit into most standard residential garages with ample clearance above. This makes the Golf VIII practical for everyday use without concerns about vertical space limitations.

The Volkswagen Golf VIII has a curb weight ranging from 1180 kg to 1579 kg (2601 to 3483 lbs). This variation is influenced by different engine options, trims, and included features, such as hybrid or all-wheel-drive systems. Lighter configurations typically offer better fuel efficiency and agility, while heavier versions provide additional equipment and potentially more power. The balanced curb weight contributes to responsive handling, efficient braking, and solid safety performance for a compact hatchback.

The luggage capacity of the Volkswagen Golf VIII varies from 273 liters to 564 liters (approximately 9.6 to 19.9 cubic feet) with the rear seats in their upright position. When the rear seats are folded, the cargo space expands significantly to between 977 liters and 1237 liters (about 34.5 to 43.7 cubic feet). This flexibility allows the Golf VIII to accommodate daily shopping or small loads while also offering expanded space for larger items, making it a practical choice for families and individuals who need versatility in their hatchback.

Yes, the Volkswagen Golf VIII fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. With a length of up to 4295 mm (approximately 14 feet 1 inch), a width including mirrors up to 2073 mm (about 6 feet 9.6 inches), and a height maximum of 1491 mm (approximately 4 feet 10.7 inches), the Golf VIII is well within the size constraints of most garages. Standard single car garages typically have dimensions around 3.0 to 3.7 meters (10 to 12 feet) wide and 5.5 to 6.1 meters (18 to 20 feet) deep, providing ample space to park the Golf VIII with room to open doors and maneuver inside.

The Volkswagen Golf VIII has a ride height or ground clearance of 120 mm (approximately 4.7 inches). This relatively low clearance favors on-road stability, sporty handling, and efficient aerodynamics typical of compact hatchbacks. However, it limits off-road capability and requires the driver to be cautious on rough terrain or steep speed bumps. For urban and highway driving, this ground clearance ensures a low center of gravity, resulting in confident cornering and a comfortable ride balance.

Compared to the Volkswagen Golf VII, which had a length of about 4255 mm, the Golf VIII is slightly longer, ranging from 4284 mm to 4295 mm, providing subtly more interior space. The width has also increased modestly from around 1799 mm to 1789 mm (the new model is slightly narrower in body width but exact comparison depends on trims). Height remains similar. The Golf VIII introduces advancements in technology and infotainment while maintaining the practical hatchback size familiar to Golf owners. Overall, the Golf VIII offers improved efficiency, updated styling, and enhanced driver assistance features over the VII generation while retaining compact, urban-friendly dimensions.

In terms of size, the Volkswagen Golf VIII is quite competitive within the compact hatchback segment. The Golf's length of approximately 4.28 to 4.30 meters (168.7 to 169.0 inches) is similar to the Ford Focus, which typically measures around 4.37 meters (172 inches), and slightly shorter than the Honda Civic Hatchback, which is about 4.52 meters (178 inches). The Golf's width without mirrors at 1789 mm (70.4 inches) is comparable to these rivals, though the Focus tends to be similar or just a bit wider. Height is generally lower on the Golf, favoring a sportier profile. In cargo capacity, the Golf's 273 to 564 liters (9.6 to 19.9 cubic feet) expandable to 977-1237 liters (34.5 to 43.7 cu ft) offers excellent versatility, often matching or exceeding competitors. The Golf VIII balances practicality, performance, and premium feel against other well-regarded hatchbacks.

The Volkswagen Golf VIII offers a variety of wheel sizes ranging from 15 inches up to 19 inches in diameter. Rim sizes include 7.5 J x 18, 6 J x 15, 7 J x 16, 7.5 J x 17, 8 J x 18, 8 J x 19, and others depending on the trim and package. Tire sizes correspond accordingly, such as 195/65 R15, 205/55 R16, 225/40 R18, 235/35 R19, and so forth. Smaller wheels and tires typically provide a more comfortable ride with better absorption of road imperfections, while larger wheels with lower profile tires enhance handling precision and sportier aesthetics but can lead to a firmer ride. The wide tire options allow the Golf VIII to be customized for better efficiency or dynamic driving characteristics depending on owner preference.