2019 Volkswagen Golf

Front-wheel-drive versions have a new turbocharged 1.4-liter engine, as found in the fresh-for-2019 Jetta compact sedan. This brings the option of an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The previous range-topping SEL trim has been discontinued, prompting a redistribution of equipment among the remaining three trims.

The entry level S trim and its AWD counterpart -- S 4Motion -- are now eligible for a Driver Assistance package ($450) that includes forward-collision warning with autonomous emergency braking and pedestrian detection, plus blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

The new range-topping SE trim receives 17-in alloy wheels, adaptive LED headlights with automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, fog lights and a self-dimming rearview mirror .See the 2019 Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen models for sale near you

If AWD is a necessity, then there's only one SportWagen choice. At least the driver assistance package is priced reasonably. If the budget allows, though, the SE is the most attractive.Find a Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen for sale

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen comes in S, S 4Motion and SE trim levels. The SE comes with an automatic transmission as standard. Where it's optional, it costs an extra $1,100.

The base S ($22,790) has 15-in alloy wheels, black roof rails, LED daytime running lights/taillights, power accessories, air conditioning, heated side mirrors, cruise control, a rearview camera, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with a tilt-and-telescopic adjustment, height-adjustable front seats, hill-hold assist, cloth upholstery, Bluetooth connectivity, a 6.5-in touchscreen interface, a 6-speaker audio system, smartphone integration for Apple CarPlay/Android Auto/Mirror Link devices, USB port and a HD radio.

The S 4Motion version ($25,290) adds AWD, the 1.8-liter turbocharged engine, heated front seats, heated windshield washer nozzles and 16-in alloy wheels.

These two trims are eligible for the aforementioned Driver Assistance package.

The SE ($30,890) has the automatic transmission as standard and adds 17-in alloy wheels, adaptive LED headlights with automatic high beams, fog lights, a panoramic sunroof, leatherette seating surfaces, heated front seats, keyless entry/start, a heated windshield washer nozzles, a self-dimming rearview mirror, an 115-volt outlet in the cargo area, an 8-in touchscreen, a CD player, satellite radio, an auxiliary audio input, forward-collision warning with autonomous emergency braking and pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

We've already mentioned the generous 66.5 cu ft. of maximum cargo space. But even when the rear seats are in place, there's still a considerable 30.4 cu ft. to swallow the week's groceries.