Are Volkswagens Good Cars: Fact or Just a Myth

Are Volkswagen good cars? That’s a question that has been on the minds of many car buyers, and the answer is a resounding yes! Volkswagens are known for their reliability, stylish design, and excellent value.

Here, we’ll take a look at 8 reasons why Volkswagens make an excellent choice for your next car.

From great fuel economy to their advanced safety features, there are plenty of reasons why a Volkswagen should be at the top of your list.

Read on to learn more about why these cars are so popular and why you should consider a Volkswagen for your next purchase.

Is Volkswagens Reliable?

Volkswagens have a long history of being reliable cars and are considered one of the best German car brands. Many people ask, “Are Volkswagens good cars?” The answer is absolutely yes! Volkswagens are very reliable cars, and their parts are well-made and built to last.

They are also not as expensive to maintain as some other European luxury cars.

Unlike many other German car brands, Volkswagens do not require as many frequent oil changes as you may think. Depending on the model of Volkswagen you buy, you may only need to get an oil change every 5,000 miles or so.

This helps keep repair and maintenance costs down for Volkswagen owners.

Are Volkswagens Safe?

are Volkswagen good cars

From its reinforced steel frame to its standard airbags, Volkswagen cars are designed to keep you safe in an accident.

The company also offers optional features such as Lane Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control, which can help you avoid potential collisions.

With a top rating in crash tests, Volkswagen vehicles are some of the safest on the road. Not only are they safe but they are also reliable, making them a great choice for those looking for a dependable car.

Used Volkswagens are also known to be good cars as they tend to be well-maintained and require minimal maintenance, including oil changes and other routine maintenance tasks.

Volkswagen’s affordable price makes them even more attractive, as they can provide the same luxury and performance as other European luxury cars without being too expensive to maintain.

Are Volkswagens Good on Gas?

are Volkswagens good cars

When it comes to saving money on fuel, Volkswagen cars are definitely a great choice. VWs have some of the most efficient engines in their class and are renowned for their fuel economy.

The German car brand has several vehicles that offer outstanding fuel efficiency, including the Passat, Golf, Jetta, Tiguan, and Touareg.

In terms of fuel economy, these vehicles can easily beat out other European luxury cars and are often more economical than many Japanese models.

Top 8 Reasons for Are Volkswagens Good Cars?

Volkswagen, commonly known as VW, is a German automaker that has been producing cars since the 1930s.

Known for their durability, fuel efficiency, and sleek designs, VW vehicles have become a popular choice among car buyers.

Here are the top 8 reasons why Volkswagen cars are considered to be good:

  1. Safety: Volkswagens are known for their safety features. They come standard with a variety of driver assistance systems and are equipped with some of the best braking technology in the industry. They also have an impressive selection of airbags and electronic stability control systems to keep drivers safe.
  2. Engine: Volkswagens have long been known for their quality engines. Whether it’s the classic diesel or the modern turbocharged engines, Volkswagens offer reliable, long-lasting performance.
  3. Rust and Body: Volkswagens are designed to last. Their frames are made from high-quality steel and they feature galvanized panels to protect against rust and corrosion. The paintwork on Volkswagens is also highly resistant to UV rays and other environmental factors.
  4. Features and Technology: Volkswagens are packed with a variety of features and technologies to make driving more enjoyable. From intuitive infotainment systems to advanced driver assistance systems, Volkswagens offer a great selection of features at an affordable price.
  5. Performance: Volkswagens are known for their reliable performance and great fuel economy. Whether you’re looking for a car that can handle daily commutes or something that can handle a track day, Volkswagens have you covered.
  6. Affordability: When it comes to buying a car, it’s important to get the best value for your money. Volkswagens are among the most affordable German car brands, so you won’t have to break the bank for a reliable car.
  7. Cost of Ownership: Volkswagens are known for being some of the least expensive cars to maintain and repair over time. They typically require fewer oil changes than other European luxury cars, so you won’t have to worry about unexpected expenses popping up.
  8. Repair & Maintenance Costs: Volkswagens are designed to be easy to repair and maintain, so you won’t have to worry about expensive repairs. The parts are also relatively inexpensive, so you won’t have to worry about spending too much when something needs replacing.

These are just some of the reasons why Volkswagen cars are considered to be good cars.

Additionally, VW has been constantly innovating and improving its vehicles over the years, making sure that they meet the needs and expectations of its customers.

Most Reliable Volkswagen Cars

The most reliable Volkswagen cars are typically those that have been on the market for a while and have had time to work out any initial kinks. Some of the most reliable Volkswagen models include:

1. Volkswagen Up

is volkswagen good cars

The Volkswagen Up is considered one of the most reliable Volkswagen cars, with a 94.8% reliability rating from WhatCar. It belongs to the smallest passenger car category, segment A, which is the main reason for its reliability.

Some issues such as water leaks and software glitches have been reported in pre-2016 models, but these are not common in newer models.

It’s a compact city commuter car with a humble yet classy cabin design.

2. Volkswagen Golf

are volkswagen golfs good cars

The Volkswagen Golf is considered one of the most reliable Volkswagen cars, it’s the third-best-selling car in the world due to its perfect balance between style, functionality, and reliability.

The eighth-generation Golf has had a few software issues such as faulty sign recognition and malfunctioning radio, but VW has issued a recall to fix these glitches.

Golf has always been a car for everything, traveling with friends, commuting to work, etc. It’s known as a safe choice, the ongoing eighth generation was launched in 2019, introducing new VW design trends with more crests and an airy interior.

It’s also the first Volkswagen Golf that isn’t available as a two-door hatchback, the base model starts at $23,195 and has LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, keyless entry, push-button ignition, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and other generous standard features.

3. Volkswagen T-Roc

are volkswagens good cars

The Volkswagen T-Roc is considered one of the most reliable Volkswagen cars, it was introduced in 2017 and has already established a reputation as one of the most reliable SUVs on the market, WhatCar gave this model a 96% reliability rating.

It has received 5 recalls since its launch, fixing faulty seat belt retractors, loose brake pedal plates and engine covers, weak headrests, and wrong rear spoiler adhesive.

It has a low percentage of damage records, making it less likely to buy an unsafe car in poor condition.

The Volkswagen T-Roc is a B-segment SUV, competing with the Audi Q2, Mercedes-Benz GLA, and BMW X2 models. Volkswagen has stepped out of its bland image with the Arteon and the T-Roc, hitting the market with sporty yet practical models.

The T-Roc features 2 diesel and 7 petrol powertrains, a few of which also come with an all-wheel-drive system. Volkswagen also offers a quirky two-door T-Roc Cabriolet version but it costs more than the Tiguan.

4. Volkswagen Tiguan

are volkswagen tiguan good cars

The Volkswagen Tiguan is considered one of the most reliable Volkswagen cars. It struggled in the early 2010s due to timing chain issues, resulting in engine failures and expensive repairs.

Engines in the second generation model have been revised and are free from these major problems but can still experience plastic intake manifold failure, premature water pump wear, and subframe clunk.

  • In a study by J.D. Power, the latest Volkswagen Tiguan scored 83 out of 100 in predicted reliability.

This compact crossover is one of the most desirable Volkswagen models.

The low starting price makes the Tiguan a dependable budget SUV with bold exterior styling and premium features like rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, remote control, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

The second-generation Volkswagen Tiguan is available with petrol, diesel, and hybrid powertrains, making it very popular in various markets.

5. Volkswagen Polo

are volkswagen polos good cars

The Volkswagen Polo is considered one of the most reliable Volkswagen cars, it’s one of the smallest cars in the manufacturer’s lineup, meaning fewer features and no plush materials.

Older Polo models often had problems with malfunctioning airbags and prematurely worn brake discs.

Volkswagen also issued airbag, seatbelt, and brake system recalls for the latest model, so it’s important to make sure these issues are solved if you’re buying a used Polo.

With that said, newer Polos have few reported issues and are by most accounts quite reliable. Volkswagen designers have enlarged the sixth-generation Polo and ditched the two-door versions.

Now more practical and classy, and more people choose it over Golf. The Polo now comes with front collision detection, emergency stop, and blind-spot assist systems. Additionally, it costs roughly $10,000 less than Golf.

6. Volkswagen Jetta

are volkswagen jettas good cars

The Volkswagen Jetta is considered a reliable car, it’s technically very similar to the Volkswagen Golf and it’s a decent choice if you’re looking for a safe and affordable German car.

  • However, data from Consumer Reports suggests that the 2010-2013 and 2019 models are prone to expensive transmission and body hardware issues.
  • These problems are not common in later models, resulting in a 79 out of 100 reliability score from J.D. Power for the 2022 Jetta.

Although the reliability score is promising, many Jettas arrive in Europe from the US damaged.

A shocking 63% of VW Jetta history reports have damage records, so be careful when looking for a used one.

Unlike in the previous model, the styling of the newer Jetta is modern, the buttons are sturdy, and the plastics don’t crack, leading owners to praise the interior quality. The base Jetta starts at $20,195.

It’s important to note that this is based on historical reputation and actual reliability may vary depending on the specific year, trim level, and individual vehicle.

It’s always recommended to check the car’s maintenance records, take a test drive and have a professional inspect the vehicle before purchasing.

What are the Common Volkswagen Problems?

Volkswagens are popular cars, but it is important to know the common Volkswagen problems before you decide if a VW is the right car for you.

are Volkswagen good cars

If you are asking yourself “Are Volkswagens Good Cars?” you need to know that most of the common issues are relatively easy and inexpensive to fix.

  • The Check Engine Light: This is probably the most common Volkswagen problem. It usually means there is a problem with the vehicle’s emissions system, which can be caused by something as simple as a loose gas cap or something more complicated such as a failing oxygen sensor.
  • Oil: Another common Volkswagen problem is oil leaks. Many VWs require frequent oil changes, and this can lead to oil leaks, especially on older models.
  • Airbag Light: This light typically indicates a malfunction in the airbag system, which can be caused by something as simple as a disconnected plug or something more complex like a defective airbag sensor.
  • Transmission: Most of the time, transmission problems with Volkswagens can be traced back to something as simple as low fluid levels or a bad shift solenoid.
  • Coolant: Overheating is another common problem with Volkswagens, and it is usually due to low coolant levels or a clogged radiator.
  • Power Windows: Power windows are one of the most common electrical problems in Volkswagens and can be caused by a defective switch or window motor.

While there are some common Volkswagen problems, they are usually easy and inexpensive to fix.

Do VW Cars Last Long?

Volkswagen cars are known for their longevity and durability, and with regular maintenance and proper care, they can last for many years.

However, the lifespan of a VW car will depend on factors such as the specific model, how it is driven and maintained, and the environment in which it is used.

In general, VW cars that are well-maintained and not driven excessively will last longer than those that are neglected or driven hard.

How Good Quality is Volkswagen?

Volkswagen is known for producing high-quality cars that offer a premium feel and solid performance. They are known for their durability and longevity, as well as their responsive handling and comfortable ride.

Volkswagen cars are also known for their high-quality fit and finish, with attention to detail in the design and construction of their vehicles.

Additionally, Volkswagen offers a wide range of models to suit different needs and preferences, including sporty and performance-oriented options like the GTI and Golf R.

Volkswagen is considered a reputable and reliable automaker with a strong reputation for quality and durability.

How Many Years Do Volkswagens Last?

The lifespan of a Volkswagen can vary depending on factors such as the specific model, how it is driven and maintained, and the environment in which it is used.

On average, Volkswagen cars can last for around 150,000 miles or around 10-15 years with proper maintenance and care.

However, with good care and regular maintenance, Volkswagen cars can last well beyond 150,000 miles and even up to 20 years.

It’s important to note that newer Volkswagen models are built with better technology and materials, which makes them more durable and longer-lasting than older models.

Summary: Are Volkswagen Good Cars

Volkswagen vehicles have been a popular choice for decades, due to their affordability, reliability, and German craftsmanship. They are considered to be good cars when it comes to quality, performance, and safety.

Volkswagen cars can be more expensive to maintain than other brands, but they are well worth the investment if you’re looking for a reliable German car brand.

While there are some common Volkswagen problems, such as the check engine light, oil, airbag light, transmission, coolant, and power windows, these issues are relatively easy to fix and can be avoided by proper maintenance such as regular oil changes and tune-ups.

Furthermore, Volkswagens are great value for the money compared to other European luxury cars.

Ultimately, when it comes to whether are Volkswagens good cars, the answer is yes. With their reliability, safety, and affordability, Volkswagens are a great option for those looking for an affordable yet reliable car.

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