Toyota GR86 vs. Volkswagen Golf

iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the Toyota GR86 and Volkswagen Golf contrasts the two cars across a broad spectrum of vehicle specifications to determine which car is better. In addition to comparing pricing and specs, iSeeCars uses all the ratings, rankings, and insights from its comprehensive analyses of each vehicle model, including calculations of reliability, safety, depreciation, value retention, and the vehicle's projected lifetime recalls (based on analyzing over 25 billion data points). This in-depth evaluation is used to identify which vehicle represents a better overall choice for shoppers who are considering both the Toyota GR86 and the Volkswagen Golf.

In comparing the Toyota GR86's and the Volkswagen Golf's specifications and ratings, the Toyota GR86 has the advantage in the areas of resale value and base engine power. The Volkswagen Golf has the advantage in the areas of typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars, and fuel efficiency and interior volume. Based on this comparison of the Toyota GR86's and the Volkswagen Golf's specifications and ratings, the Volkswagen Golf is a better car than the Toyota GR86.

Pricing: A used 2025 Toyota GR86 ranges from $30,996 to $39,993 while a used 2021 Volkswagen Golf is priced between $14,517 to $22,997.

Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the Toyota GR86 loses 24.9 percent of its value and the Volkswagen Golf loses 41.7 percent of its value. This means the Toyota GR86 retains 16.8 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the Volkswagen Golf.

Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the Toyota GR86’s base engine makes 228 horsepower, and the Volkswagen Golf base engine makes 147 horsepower. The GR86 is rated to deliver an average of 22 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 343 miles. The Golf is rated to deliver an average of 33 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 515 miles. This gives the Volkswagen Golf the fuel efficiency and maximum range advantage over the Toyota GR86. The GR86 uses premium unleaded, and the Golf uses regular unleaded.

Passenger Space Comparison: The Volkswagen Golf, a compact car, has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front head room, front shoulder room, rear head room, rear shoulder room, rear leg room, and cargo space. The Toyota GR86, a sports car, has the advantage in the area of front leg room.

Safety Ratings: The Volkswagen Golf has an average safety rating of 5 out of 5 Stars based on NHTSA's crash test ratings.