2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack: A Capable Crossover Companion
The 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack carved a unique niche in the automotive landscape, offering the practicality and fun-to-drive nature of a Golf hatchback with the added capability of all-wheel drive and increased ground clearance. Designed for those who enjoy weekend adventures without sacrificing daily drivability, the Alltrack presented a compelling package for active lifestyles.
Highlights
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Engine & Performance: All 2017 Golf Alltrack models were powered by a robust 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a standard six-speed DSG automatic transmission (dual-clutch automatic), delivered brisk acceleration and confident highway passing. The 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system was also standard, providing excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions and on light off-road terrain. The Alltrack also boasted increased ground clearance (approximately 0.6 inches more than the standard Golf SportWagen) and unique body cladding for added protection and a more rugged appearance.
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Safety Features: Volkswagen equipped the 2017 Golf Alltrack with a comprehensive suite of standard and available safety features designed to protect occupants:
- Antilock Brakes (ABS): Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
- Traction Control: Helps reduce wheel slip during acceleration, especially on slippery surfaces.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Assists the driver in maintaining control during sudden maneuvers or skids by selectively braking individual wheels and reducing engine power.
- Driver-Side Knee Airbag: An additional airbag designed to protect the driver's legs in frontal collisions.
- Forward Collision Warning: Alerts the driver to a potential frontal collision.
- Autonomous Emergency Braking: Can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid a frontal collision when the driver doesn't react.
- Blind Spot Monitor: Detects vehicles in the driver's blind spots and provides a visual warning.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns the driver of approaching traffic when backing out of a parking space.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting to traffic flow.
- Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without the turn signal activated.
- Lane Keeping Assist: Can provide gentle steering input to keep the vehicle within its lane.
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Trims: The 2017 Golf Alltrack was offered in three distinct trims, each building upon the previous one:
- S: The entry-level trim provided a solid foundation with standard features like a touchscreen infotainment system, rearview camera, and the aforementioned safety technologies.
- SE: Stepping up to the SE trim added desirable amenities such as a panoramic sunroof, keyless entry with push-button start, fog lights, and an upgraded Fender premium audio system.
- SEL: The top-tier SEL trim boasted the most premium features, including leather upholstery, heated front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, front and rear parking sensors, and the majority of the advanced driver-assistance systems.
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Other Notable Aspects: The Golf Alltrack's interior offered a refined and well-built cabin with comfortable seating and ample cargo space, especially when the rear seats were folded down. Its driving dynamics were a significant strong suit, offering a balance of agility and comfort that was often missing in more traditional small SUVs. The hatchback body style provided excellent versatility for hauling everything from groceries to sporting equipment.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack is generally a positive experience, characterized by its blend of practicality, refinement, and capable performance. The turbocharged engine provides good fuel economy for its class, typically returning in the mid-20s MPG combined, though this can vary based on driving habits.
Maintenance: Like most German vehicles, the Golf Alltrack benefits from regular maintenance according to Volkswagen's recommended schedule. This typically includes oil changes, filter replacements, and periodic inspections. While routine maintenance is generally on par with other vehicles in its segment, some specialized repairs or parts might be slightly more expensive than those for Japanese or American brands. However, with proper care, the Alltrack is known for its reliability.
Insurance: Insurance premiums for the 2017 Golf Alltrack will vary depending on your location, driving record, age, and chosen coverage levels. However, it's generally considered to be in the mid-range for its class. The presence of advanced safety features might even contribute to slightly lower premiums with some insurance providers.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack is a well-rounded vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:
- DSG Transmission Behavior: The six-speed DSG automatic transmission, while efficient and quick-shifting, can sometimes exhibit a slight hesitation or jerkiness at very low speeds or during stop-and-go traffic. This is a characteristic of many dual-clutch transmissions and can be more noticeable for drivers accustomed to traditional torque-converter automatics.
- Infotainment System Responsiveness (Early Models): While improved over earlier VW models, some early 2017 infotainment systems could occasionally be less responsive than preferred, particularly when using navigation or making multiple inputs quickly. Later models or software updates may have addressed some of these concerns.
- Road Noise on Rough Surfaces: On certain rougher road surfaces, some road noise can penetrate the cabin. While generally well-insulated, it's not as silent as some larger, more premium SUVs.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack stands out as a highly competent and enjoyable vehicle for those seeking a versatile hatchback with all-weather and mild off-road capabilities. Its combination of a peppy turbocharged engine, standard all-wheel drive, a refined interior, and a strong suite of safety features makes it a compelling choice for active individuals and families. While the DSG transmission might require a slight adjustment for some drivers, and minor interior noise can be present on certain surfaces, these are generally outweighed by the Alltrack's overall practicality, driving pleasure, and unique positioning in the market. It's a practical and fun alternative to the typical crossover, offering a distinctly European driving experience.