Volkswagen Golf SportWagen 2015

The 2015 Golf SportWagen is treated to the same sharpened lines and updated proportions as the other seventh-generation Golf models. That's because the SportWagen was always intended to be an integral member of the A7 family from the moment the first sketches were drawn at the Volkswagen design studio—led by Walter de Silva (Volkswagen Group Design) and Klaus Bischoff (VW Brand Design).

Volkswagen Golf SportWagen 2015

The SportWagen is wrapped in sheetmetal that is totally modern yet unmistakably part of the Volkswagen Golf DNA. The shape and design elements remain as defined and recognizable as ever, although distinctive elements such as the D-pillar, the roof rails and the unique rear design differentiate the SportWagen from the Golf hatchback. The front end features a hood that slopes down into the front fenders and sports angular horizontal design cues and a slender radiator grille. At the back, the wide rear window, geometric two-part taillights and a wide, low tailgate that integrates the license plate area pay homage to the outgoing Jetta SportWagen and solidify the new car's place in the Golf family. With a load height of just 24.8 inches and a wide aperture of 40.6 inches, the new Golf SportWagen is even more practical than its predecessor.

Volkswagen Golf SportWagen 2015

he upscale environment of the SportWagen cabin is largely shared with the Golf models upon which it is based, but interior volume is increased because of the wagon bodystyle. Occupants are treated to 94.3 cu ft of passenger area volume, up from 91.7 cubic feet for the Jetta SportWagen.

As a result, key interior dimensions have been optimized. Rear-seat leg- and shoulder room are excellent, at 35.6 and 53.9 inches, respectively. Front seat passengers also benefit from the SportWagen's spacious interior, with 41.2 inches of legroom and 55.9 inches across the shoulders. Although the new wagon's overall height has been decreased by 1.1 inches, both front and rear headroom have been improved to 38.6 inches.

The SportWagen has a cavernous trunk that's in line with those of compact SUVs. With the rear seats up, the SportWagen boasts 30.4 cu ft of space: when the 60:40 split rear seat is fully folded, that figure rises to an enormous 66.5 cu ft of storage. The split folding rear seats are now accessed by release levers in the cargo area, maximizing convenience.