2017 VW Golf Alltrack Debuts In US Guise, Gets Manual Gearbox Option

First seen two years ago in Paris, the most rugged version of the Golf SportWagen series is getting ready to launch in the USA.

Based on the regular estate version of the Golf, it’s powered by the EA888 1.8-liter, four-cylinder TSI gasoline engine, capable of sending 170 HP (172 PS) and 199 lb-ft (270 Nm) of torque to the 4Motion all-wheel drive system that uses the newest Haldex-5 coupling, activated via an electro-hydraulic oil pump.

For improved fuel economy, the Golf Alltrack acts like a FWD car in normal driving mode, but when wheel slip is detected, up to 50 percent of the drive torque can be transferred to the rear axle. At the time of launch, Volkswagen will offer it with a six-speed dual-clutch DSG automatic transmission, but a six-speed manual will become available too, at a later date.

Volkswagen offers a Drive Mode selector, which includes “Off-Road Mode”, adding hill descent control and claiming to optimize traction control for off-road terrain. The Off-Road HMI displays steering angle, compass and altitude.

Visually, the increased ride height, plastic body cladding, unique bumper inserts, different honeycomb grille and wheel wells help it differentiate from the regular Golf wagon. On the S and SE trims, VW offers 17-inch alloy wheels, while on the range-topper, 18-inch rims become available. As a premium touch, the Golf Alltrack also gets silver detailing on the roof rails, mirror caps and diffuser.

Inside, the compact estate provides leatherette seating surfaces at no extra cost or unique brown leatherette option in addition to aluminum pedal covers, door sills with Alltrack branding and ambient lighting. The infotainment system, working together with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, is standard and it comes with a proximity sensor, rearview camera and VW Car-New App-Connect connectivity.

The Golf Alltrack packs, just like the rest of the Golf lineup, a combination of passive and active safety systems that include ESC, Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, Intelligent Crash Response, Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Brake Assist, Lane Assist, Park Distance Control and Park Assist.

Volkswagen will launch the 2017 Golf Alltrack this fall at an as of yet, undisclosed price.