America Finally Gets the VW Golf Alltrack

2017 VW Golf Alltrack (Credit: © Volkswagen)

American buyers and dealers have been clamoring for Volkswagen to bring its Subaru Impreza-rivaling Golf Alltrack to the U.S. for some time now. Today, they finally get their wishes as the German automaker has revealed the details on the U.S.-spec version of this go-anywhere wagon.

As a whole, the Alltrack closely resembles the standard Golf Sportwagen, but closer examination reveals plenty of changes. On the body, buyers will immediately notice the black, plastic cladding along the bottom of the vehicle, unique fog lights, a new honeycomb grille, and silver detailing on the roof rails, mirror caps and rear diffusor. In addition to the stylistic differences, the Alltrack rides slightly higher than the Sportwagen.

The cabin, while strikingly similar to the Sportwagen, is slightly different in its fit and finish to give it a more premium look and feel. The primary feature the Alltrack gains standard leatherette upholstery. Buyers can also opt for a brown leatherette, aluminum pedal covers, Alltrack-branded doorsill plates, and ambient lighting.

Powering the Alltrack is the Golf’s 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 170 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque. Initially, the Alltrack will come only with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, but a six-cog manual will come at a later date. What sets the powertrain apart from the Sportwagen is its standard 4MOTION all-wheel drive, which ships up to 50 percent of the engine’s power to the rear wheels when it senses slippage. This system also sends power left and right, and brakes a single wheel as needed.

Also setting the Alltrack apart is its “Off-Road Mod,” which changes the display to show a compass, steering angle and altitude, plus it adds hill-descent control.

The 2017 Golf Alltrack will arrive in the fall of 2016.