2015 Volkswagen Golf TDI S: A North American Car of the Year Revisited

The 2015 Volkswagen Golf TDI S stands as a notable vehicle in automotive history, having earned the prestigious North American Car of the Year award. This diesel-powered variant of the iconic Golf offered a compelling blend of fuel efficiency, practicality and driving enjoyment. This article revisits the Golf TDI S, examining its features, accolades, and lasting impact.

Key Features and Specifications

The 2015 Volkswagen Golf TDI S was equipped with a 2.0-liter I4 TDI Diesel Turbocharged DOHC 16V ULEV II engine, producing 150 horsepower. It featured a front-wheel-drive system and an automatic transmission. Key mechanical components included a 60-Amp/Hr 480CCA Maintenance-Free Battery with Run Down Protection, a 140 Amp Alternator, gas-pressurized shock absorbers, and front and rear anti-roll bars. The vehicle boasted 4-Wheel Disc Brakes with 4-Wheel ABS, front vented discs, and brake assist.

Visually, the Golf TDI S included 16″ Toronto Alloy wheels with P205/55R16 AS tires, a clearcoat paint finish, and body-colored bumpers. Interior features included V-Tex Comfort Seats with manually adjustable front seats, a manual tilt/telescoping steering column, power rear windows, and a 5.8″ Touchscreen AM/FM Audio system with CD player, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Awards and Recognition

The 2015 Volkswagen Golf TDI S received significant recognition within the automotive industry. Notably, it was named the 2015 North American Car of the Year by the North American Car of the Year (NACTOY) jury. Additional accolades included being named a 2015 KBB.com Our 10 Favorite New-for-2015 Cars and a 2015 KBB.com Best Buy Awards Finalist, as well as being included in KBB.com’s 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000.

Dealer Experience at Alpine

Alpine, a dealership in Colorado Springs, CO, distinguished itself by offering an unconventional car-buying experience. They emphasized upfront pricing, a non-commissioned sales staff, and a customer-focused approach aimed at ensuring satisfaction, regardless of whether a vehicle was purchased. Alpine’s commitment to a “pain-free auto shopping experience” set it apart from traditional dealerships.

Technical Specifications

• Axle Ratio: 4.38
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 Gal.
• Engine Type: 2.0L I4 TDI Diesel Turbocharged DOHC 16V ULEV II
• Horsepower: 150hp

Safety Features

The 2015 Golf TDI S prioritized safety with features such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ABS and Driveline Traction Control, Side Impact Beams, Dual Stage Driver and Passenger Seat-Mounted Side Airbags, VW Car-Net Emergency SOS, Low Tire Pressure Warning, and Dual Stage Driver and Passenger Front Airbags. It also included Side Curtain Protection Curtain 1st and 2nd Row Airbags and a Perimeter Alarm with Immobilizer III Immobilizer.

Legacy and Market Position

The 2015 Volkswagen Golf TDI S represented a high point for diesel passenger cars in the North American market. Its combination of fuel efficiency, driving dynamics, and practicality resonated with consumers and critics alike. Whereas the diesel market has evolved since 2015, the Golf TDI S remains a fondly remembered and highly regarded vehicle.