Comparison: Boot space VW Golf vs. competitors 2025

Now, let's take a nostalgic journey through the boot space evolution of the Golf. The very first generation (Golf I 1974-1978) offered a modest 320 litres, and while that number remained consistent through its first couple of facelifts, the Golf II (1983-1987) gave us a mild improvement - 345 litres. Fast forward a few generations, the numbers fluctuate but generally hover around the 330 to 350-litre mark until the launch of the Golf VII (2012-2017), which offered 341 litres. The current Golf VIII stands out not only because it packs a punchy 381 litres but also because it leads over its predecessor in terms of overall volume with seats down. The Golf has continually grown up, getting better and better at hauling your odds and ends.

Within the Volkswagen family, the Golf’s boot space sits comfortably in the middle. Smaller siblings like the VW up! cap at a snug 251 litres, while more high-performance versions like the VW Golf GTE offer a tiny bit more at 273 litres. Models like the VW ID.3 and heavy hitters like the VW Tiguan skyrocket past the Golf with 385 litres and 615 litres, respectively. Beating the Golf VIII in terms of sheer litre count are the SUVs and estates, but considering the Golf’s compact nature and spacious efficacy, it holds its own mightily well.

But compared to its nearest rivals, how does the Golf stack up? Take the Audi A3 for instance, with a boot space of 350 litres, the Golf VIII certainly edges ahead. The Renault Latitude‚ with a boot space of 477 litres, and the Ford Mondeo at a brawny 500 litres, beat it convincingly, but then they are notably longer and heftier vehicles. For the Golf VIII’s compact dimensions, its boot space is impressively competitive. And, let’s face it, few of us need to rival a delivery wagon like the Mondeo just to fit in a good day’s shopping or an extra suitcase for a weekend getaway. The Golf VIII strikes a satisfying balance between size and cargo capacity, holding its position efficiently, not just within the VW lineup, but in the broader market too.