Volkswagen has achieved quite the recognition from Car and Driver magazine, with six of its 2024 models being selected for the prestigious Editors' Choice list. The 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI, Golf R, ID.4, Jetta GLI, Taos, and Tiguan have been distinguished among a competitive field for their exceptional qualities. Volkswagen of America's Senior Vice President, Petar Danilovic, expressed honor in the brand's achievement, highlighting the vehicles' blend of functionality, safety, driving dynamics, and value as key to their selection.
Car and Driver's Editors' Choice list for 2024 comprises 138 vehicles from a pool of over 500 models evaluated. The selection process involves comprehensive testing and analysis, focusing on how well each vehicle performs in its respective category, fulfills its intended mission, and the editorial team's subjective assessments. Only models from the 2024 lineup with direct testing experience by the Car and Driver staff were considered, ensuring an informed and hands-on basis for the selections.
The Golf GTI continues to epitomize the "hot hatch" concept, balancing excitement, practicality, and value. The 2024 model year introduces the Golf GTI 380, a special edition that celebrates the legacy of manual transmissions in Volkswagen's performance-oriented hatchbacks, marking the final year of three-pedal production for the Golf GTI.
The Golf R advances its performance legacy with the Mk8 edition, incorporating race-inspired features and premium enhancements. It remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a blend of power and practicality in a hatchback format.
Volkswagen's first all-electric SUV, the ID.4, is recognized for its spacious and comfortable interior. The 2024 model sees improvements in performance and range, particularly in the 82 kWh battery variants, underscoring Volkswagen's commitment to electric mobility.
The Jetta GLI stands out as a value-driven, fun-to-drive sedan, maintaining the Jetta's long-standing reputation for affordable German engineering. With significant updates in technology and style, the Jetta GLI remains a favourite for driving enthusiasts.
The Taos, Volkswagen's compact SUV, impresses with its spacious interior and practical design, offering an attractive package for those seeking a smaller footprint without sacrificing functionality.
Finally, the Tiguan is praised for bringing a European touch to the compact crossover segment, combining enjoyable driving dynamics with a versatile and refined interior.
Volkswagen's inclusion of six models on the Car and Driver 2024 Editors' Choice list demonstrates the brand's ability to meet diverse driver needs while maintaining a high standard of quality and value across its lineup.