2019 Volkswagen Golf R Safety Report

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf R presents a strong overall safety profile, achieving a 5-star NHTSA Overall Safety Rating, with 5 stars in Side Crash and 4 stars in Frontal Crash and Rollover. This indicates excellent performance in controlled crash tests. However, the vehicle has a very low number of consumer complaints, with only 5 total complaints, and no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths. This low complaint volume makes it challenging to identify widespread safety issues from consumer reports alone. Despite the low complaint volume, some patterns emerge. One complaint specifically details an unexpected engagement of the Forward Collision Warning and Front Assist Emergency Braking system, aligning with the 'FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' component listed in the top complaints. Another complaint highlights a design flaw with the adaptive cruise control, where a dirty sensor renders it unusable without an option for traditional cruise control. A separate issue involved a bent wheel, leading to replacement, and a recurring problem with the 12V DC power fuse burning out when using the original air pump. The vehicle has been subject to two recalls. One recall addresses the 'TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS', where an undetected sudden loss of pressure in all four tires increases the risk of a crash. The second recall, categorized as 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER', pertains to vehicles that may not meet all regulatory requirements, potentially increasing the risk of injury, crash, or fire. While the low complaint count suggests these recalls may not have manifested in widespread consumer issues, they are important to note. Overall, the 2019 Golf R demonstrates robust crash test performance, but potential buyers should be aware of the specific issues highlighted in the few consumer complaints and ensure all recall remedies have been applied.

Our recommendation: The 2019 Volkswagen Golf R demonstrates excellent crash safety and a very low complaint volume; ensure all recall remedies have been applied and be aware of potential, albeit rare, issues with driver assistance systems and electrical components.