The Good
The 2001 Golf offered a refined driving experience, a comfortable ride, and a stylish, timeless design appealing to emotional buyers. Practical buyers appreciated its fuel efficiency, versatility as a hatchback, and relatively affordable price point. The availability of a torquey TDI diesel engine further enhanced its appeal by providing excellent fuel economy and decent performance.
The Bad
Common weaknesses of the 2001 VW Golf include potential electrical issues, particularly with window regulators and the central locking system. Suspension components, such as control arm bushings, can wear out. Oil sludge in the 1.8T engine, if not properly maintained, is a significant concern. Be wary of automatic transmission problems as well. Corrosion can also be a factor, depending on the climate it lived in.
2001 Volkswagen Golf: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.0L Inline-4 (gasoline): 115 horsepower
- 1.8L Turbo Inline-4 (gasoline): 150 horsepower
- 1.9L TDI Diesel Inline-4: 90 horsepower
- Horsepower: Ranging from 90 hp (TDI) to 150 hp (1.8T)
- Fuel Economy:
- 2.0L Gas: Approximately 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
- 1.8T Gas: Approximately 22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
- 1.9L TDI Diesel: Approximately 38 mpg city / 45 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.0L Gas: Around 10-11 seconds
- 1.8T Gas: Around 7.5-8 seconds
- 1.9L TDI Diesel: Around 12-13 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.
- Trim Level Features:
- GL: Base model; included standard features like air conditioning, power windows/locks, and a basic audio system.
- GLS: Added features like alloy wheels, upgraded cloth upholstery, and cruise control.
- GTI: Sport-oriented model; featured the 1.8T engine, sport suspension, sport seats, and unique styling elements. Could have options like leather seats and sunroof.
2001 Volkswagen Golf Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2001 |
| Make | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | WOLFSBURG |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.8 L V-6 |
| Engine Size | 2.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2001 Volkswagen Golf Have?
Recalls for the 2001 Golf addressed issues like potential fuel leaks and airbag deployment problems. Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the aforementioned issues, plus the potential for corrosion, particularly in areas with harsh winters and road salt usage. Engine cooling systems, including water pumps and hoses, can also become problematic as the car ages. Proper maintenance is critical to mitigating these issues, but some are simply inherent to the design and age of the vehicle.
How long will the 2001 Volkswagen Golf last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included front airbags as standard equipment. Side airbags were available as an option. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) crash test ratings for the 2001 Golf were generally favorable, with good scores in frontal and side impact tests. However, it's important to remember that crash test standards have evolved significantly since 2001. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking available on this model. The focus was primarily on basic safety features rather than the advanced technologies found in newer cars. Optional features could include a sunroof, upgraded sound system, and leather upholstery, depending on the trim level and package selected.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2001 Volkswagen Golf Prices and Market Value
2001 Volkswagen Golf Cost of Ownership
2001 Volkswagen Golf Fuel Efficiency
2001 Volkswagen Golf Safety Rating
NHTSA
2001 Volkswagen Golf Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2001 Volkswagen Golf Compare to Other Hatchback?
In terms of performance, the Golf GTI (with the 1.8T engine) was a standout, offering a good balance of power and handling. However, the base 2.0L Golf was less exciting. Features were generally comparable across the segment, with slight variations depending on trim levels. If reliability is a top priority, the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla might be better choices. If budget is a major concern, the Ford Focus or Mazda Protege could be considered. However, if a blend of European driving feel and hatchback practicality is desired, the Golf remains a compelling option.
Ranks #2083 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 2083 | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2001 Volkswagen Golf a Good Hatchback?
Farmguy963 on September 25, 2020
BEST ECONOMY CAR EVER!!!!!!It has the best features for its price. Heated seats, built in car alarm, unbelivable economy , durable , more cost efective than toyota prius, best mpg and CHEAPEST CAR TO DRIVE.!!!!
Jolley80 on April 13, 2018
Best buy ever! Reliable.. and excellent on gas.Overall very happy with my VW Golf. Good on gas. Comfortable to drive and I feel very safe. Very pleased with the results. I recommend especially for beginners.
Dieseldude on March 22, 2018
Reliable n practicalGreat car! I bought mine ten years ago and and It?s been virtually trouble free. Great mileage...has 180k miles on it. It?s a manual trans ...been through two sets of tires and in ten years and 100k miles, my brakes are still good and I don?t downshift to slow down. My first battery for it lasted 8 years! It?s due for a timing belt...possibly an alternator and shocks n struts.
Tina on December 22, 2017
Love the golf!I really loved my two door golf. It was always fun and easy to drive and convenient for parking. This was the perfect car to get me to and from where I needed to be.
Jaydeeeeeeeeeeee on May 2, 2017
Most Bang for Your BuckGreat car to start learning stick shift. VERY RELIABLE and DIRT cheap to repair. As long as you don't do any types of modifications on the car it will serve you greatly.
lexxx123 on December 31, 2016
Decent features 3000$ in mechanic billsOkay car, Nice heating seats and aux cord are a plus but i cant even remember how many times it broke down and had expensive fixes.
vw forever on November 3, 2014
This is a great carThis is a great car, I have had mine from 65k to 140k in that time I have done the timing belt and regular oil changes along with basic maintenance wear and tear items, as with any car if you keep it up there is nothing to worry about, it has amazing head room and the seat height is adjustable so even real tall people will fit fine, it's really great on gas I average 30+ mpg, it has a wide range in mpg with a claim of up to 49 mpg on the highway which I haven't got, I think most the people who complain about this car in review probably complain in their daily lives about a lot as well...lol, if you get one you will be happy.
rolo68 on January 17, 2013
Far from groovin'I bought this car as a basic commuter car to and from work 30mi from my home. Overall, I think it's fun to drive, and I like that it's "zippy" - but thats really about it. The gas miledge is pretty low for a car of this size and weight in it's class- about 23mpg overall. electronics and controls are quirky, plastic knobs and dials are adequate, but second rate. and while parts are readily available and relitively cheap, it's a car that I have to continually monitor and work on to keep running.
German Car Fanatic on March 19, 2012
Solid German Car!I bought my 2001 Golf 2.0 liter 5 speed in 2010 from the original owner who was buying a 2010 Golf. The Golf had 103,000 miles. The maintenance was up to date with timing belt done at 80,000 miles as specified. Over the past two years (15,000 miles) I have replaced the drivers window regulator ($250), replaced an air flow sensor ($140), 5 oil changes, and a new set of tires. The car drives fantastic, sporty, and gets great gas mileage. The cloth interior is quality material with no rips or tears after 11 years. All of the electical components work including heated exterior mirrors. Overall, I highly rate the Volkwagen with 2.0 liter normally aspirated engine. Manual transmission is smooth shifting and fun, and most importantly reliable.
gibby363 on January 23, 2012
Great car!!I bought a TDI and I love it! 40+ mpg in the winter with an auto trans!! Can't wait till summer!!! Super reliable, even at 225000 miles!!
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.