The Volkswagen Golf Alltrack is one of the better-hidden secrets out there for those desiring a crossover alternative. A station wagon, such as the Golf SportWagen, may not accommodate one's outdoor lifestyle. And because the Subaru Outback and Crosstrek are so popular, sometimes it's cool to drive something a bit more unique, and that's where the Golf Alltrack comes into the picture.
We've been fans of this outdoorsy wagon since we first drove it a couple of years back, and as VWVortex has pointed out, the 2019 Alltrack is receiving one particular new feature many of us here will greatly appreciate – a six-speed manual.
VW previously, but quietly, provided an update for the 2019 and many simply failed to notice that a six-speed manual will now be offered on every trim level. Pricing begins at $26,895 for the manual-equipped Alltrack while the optional six-speed dual-clutch transmission tacks on another $1,100. VW's 4Motion all-wheel drive is standard.
Once again, three trim levels will be on offer – S, SE, and SEL. The base S now receives standard forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking, blind spot monitor, and rear traffic alert.
The mid-range SE now offers the Driver Assistance and Appearance package, which includes a host of safety features like lane keep assist and park distance control, and visual upgrades like adaptive LED headlights and 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.
Unlike last year, the top trim SEL can now be ordered with a manual. Regardless of trim, a turbocharged 1.8-liter inline-four with 168 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque is under the hood. Compared to the Golf SportWagen, the Alltrack has an additional 0.6 inches of ride height and a more rugged overall look. The interior offers a total of 94.3 cubic feet of passenger volume and 30.4 cubic feet of cargo room.
To compare, the Subaru Crosstrek has 97.5 cubic feet of interior space for passengers and 22.3 cubic feet of cargo with all of the seats in place. This increases to 51.9 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded flat. However, the Crosstrek can be had with a manual for the lower two trims only; the 2.0i Limited has a CVT only.
For anyone looking for a top trim premium-ish wagon that's not quite a crossover and has a six-speed manual, well, the answer is pretty clear.