View source for Volkswagen Golf Mk3

{{Short description|Third generation of Golf compact car}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2018}}
{{More citations needed|date=May 2018}}
{{Infobox automobile
| name = Volkswagen Golf Mk3 (1H/1E)
| manufacturer = [[Volkswagen]]
| platform = [[Volkswagen Group A platform#A3|Volkswagen Group A3 platform]]
| aka = 
| image = 1996-1998 Volkswagen Golf (1H) CL 5-door hatchback 03.jpg
| production = 1991–1998<br />1994–2002 (convertible)<br />4.8 million units<ref name=AutoMotoruSport2008>{{cite book |authorlink= |author=Christian Bangemann u. Beate Jeske |title= Auto Motor und Sport Heft 18 Seite 24|year= 2008 |publisher= |location= Stuttgart |id=}}</ref>
| class = [[Small family car]] ([[C-segment|C]])
| body_style = 3 / 5-door [[hatchback]]<br />5-door [[station wagon|estate]]<br />2-door [[convertible]]
| layout = [[Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout|Front engine]], [[front-wheel drive]] / [[4motion|Syncro]] [[four-wheel drive]]
| wheelbase = 1991-95: {{convert|2471|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<br />1996-99: {{convert|2474|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| length = {{convert|4074|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| width = {{convert|1694|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| height = 1991-95 & Cabrio: {{convert|1422|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<br />1996-99: {{convert|1428|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| assembly = {{ubl |Germany: [[Wolfsburg]] |Germany: [[Zwickau]] ([[Volkswagen Zwickau-Mosel Plant]])|Mexico: [[Puebla, Puebla|Puebla]] |Belgium: [[Audi Brussels|Brussels]] |Slovakia: [[Bratislava]] |South Africa: [[Uitenhage]]}}
| designer = {{ubl | [[J Mays]] | Herbert Schäfer }}
| transmission = 4-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]<br />4-speed / 5-speed [[Manual transmission|manual]]
| engine = {{ubl | '''Petrol:''' | 1.4&nbsp;L (''ABD/AEX/APQ'') [[Straight-four engine|I4]] | 1.6&nbsp;L (''ABU/AEA/AEE'') I4 | 1.6&nbsp;L (''AEK/AFT/AKS'') I4 | 1.8&nbsp;L (''AAM/ANN'') I4 | 1.8&nbsp;L (''ABS/ADZ/ACC/ANP'') I4 | 2.0&nbsp;L (''2E/ADY/AGG/AKR/ABA/AWG/AWF'') I4 | 2.0&nbsp;L (''ABF'') [[Multi-valve|16v]] I4 | 2.8&nbsp;L (''AAA'') [[VR6 engine|VR6]] | 2.9&nbsp;L (''ABV'') VR6 | '''Diesel:''' | 1.9&nbsp;L ''1Y'' I4 | 1.9&nbsp;L ''AEY'' [[Suction Diesel Injection|SDI]] I4 | 1.9&nbsp;L ''AAZ'' [[Turbodiesel|TD]] I4 | 1.9&nbsp;L ''1Z/ALE/AHU'' [[Turbocharged Direct Injection|TDI]] I4 | 1.9&nbsp;L ''AFN/AVG'' TDI I4 }}
| related = [[Volkswagen Vento (A3)|Volkswagen Jetta]]<br />[[Volkswagen Vento (A3)|Volkswagen Vento]]
| predecessor = [[Volkswagen Golf Mk2]]<br>[[Volkswagen Golf Mk1|Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet Mk1]] (Cabrio)
| successor = [[Volkswagen Golf Mk4]]<br>[[Volkswagen New Beetle]] convertible (Cabrio)
}}
The '''Volkswagen Golf Mk3''' is a medium-sized [[compact car|compact]] [[small family car|family car]]. It is the third generation of the [[Volkswagen Golf]] and the successor to the [[Volkswagen Golf Mk2]], which was produced by [[Volkswagen]] from August 1991 (for the 1992 model year) to 2002 (for Cabrio convertible).

The Golf Mk3 was launched in mainland [[Europe]] in August 1991,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.volkswagen.co.uk/about-us/news|title=News Articles|website=Volkswagen UK|access-date=24 January 2019|archive-date=4 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181204205005/https://www.volkswagen.co.uk/about-us/news|url-status=live}}</ref> in the [[United Kingdom]] in February 1992,<ref>{{citation | url = http://www.rac.co.uk/drive/car-reviews/volkswagen/golf/207884 | title = Volkswagen Golf MK 2 & MK 3 (1984 - 1998) used car review | publisher = RAC Motoring Services | last = Crouch | first = Jonathan | access-date = 13 May 2016 | archive-date = 20 May 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160520001108/http://www.rac.co.uk/drive/car-reviews/volkswagen/golf/207884 | url-status = live }}</ref> and in [[North America]] in the spring of 1994. The delay in North America was due to Volkswagen's decision to supply U.S. and Canadian dealerships with Mk3 Golfs (and A3 Jettas) from the VW plant in [[Puebla]], [[Mexico]]. [[Quality control]] problems led [[Volkswagen of America]] to reject Golfs and Jettas from [[Mexico]]. Thereafter, labor unrest at the plant delayed production. The third-generation Golf and Jetta first launched in [[North America]] as 1993 models in the [[San Diego, California]] area and in [[Canada]], then in the autumn in the rest of [[North America]] as 1994 models.

The Mk3 Cabrio replaced the [[Volkswagen Golf Mk1|Volkswagen Cabriolet]]. The Mk3 Cabrio continued until the 2002 model year, when Volkswagen replaced it with a convertible version of the [[Volkswagen New Beetle]].{{Citation needed|date=May 2024}}

Like the [[Volkswagen Golf Mk1|previous]] [[Volkswagen Golf Mk2|two]] generations, the Mk3 was supposed to be built at the TAS factory in [[Sarajevo]], [[Bosnia and Herzegovina]]. However, when the car was first released, the [[Yugoslav War]] broke out, leading to the destruction of the factory. Due to this, TAS went bankrupt in 1995, and the Mk3 was not able to be built in Bosnia and Herzegovina, although a single Mk3 managed to roll off the assembly line in [[Sarajevo]], its fate unknown.

The Mk3 Golf was sold in [[Japan]] alongside the [[Volkswagen Polo|Polo]], where both vehicles complied with the [[Vehicle size class#Japan|small size class regulations]] that encouraged sales.

The Volkswagen Golf Mk3 got replaced with the October 1997 (1998 model year) by the introduction of the [[Volkswagen Golf Mk4]]. In some markets, the Mk3 Golf continued to be available for the 1998 model year ([[Americas]], [[South Africa]]), and even as early 1999 model year vehicles ([[Canada]], [[Mexico]], [[United States|US]]).

==Body styles ==
[[File:Blue Volkswagen Golf Variant 1995 back.jpg|thumb|left|Golf Variant]]
As for previous generations, the Golf was available as a three- or five-door hatchback. For the first time an estate was produced, being launched in early 1993, and bringing it into line with key competitors such as the [[Ford Escort (Europe)|Ford Escort]] and [[Vauxhall Astra|Vauxhall]]/[[Opel Astra]], which had all long been available as estates. The name of three-box sedan (now only with four doors) changed to [[Volkswagen Vento|Vento]], in an attempt to improve the Jetta's stodgy image in Europe. In North America, where the Jetta had no such problems, the old nameplate remained.<ref>{{cite news|last=Plumb|first=Steven E.|title=VW Jetta replacement coming next fall|publisher=Ward's Auto World|date=March 1992}}</ref>

In some markets, where the tax structure suited such a model, Volkswagen also offered a light commercial Van version of the three-door hatchback. Typically fitted with a flat [[plywood]] floor in the rear and often with blanked rear side windows, precise specifications varied for different markets to meet various local requirements for being classified as a commercial vehicle. In the [[United Kingdom]], the Van was available only with the ''Umwelt'' ("Environment") [[engine]], blanked rear windows, fabric interior, power steering, and a five-speed manual transmission. A petrol unit was available to special order.<ref name=CMvan>{{cite magazine |title= Vans on Test: Volkswagen Golf Van | ref = DC92 | page = 19 | first = Danny | last = Coughlan | url=https://archive.commercialmotor.com/article/22nd-october-1992/19/awd-survival-in-civvies |magazine=Commercial Motor | volume = 176 | number = 4495 | date = 1992-10-22 }}</ref> The Umwelt diesel was Volkswagen's then-new 1.9-liter turbodiesel ([[List of discontinued Volkswagen Group diesel engines#AAZ|AAZ]]), fitted with a [[catalytic converter]] and producing {{cvt|75|PS|kW|0}}. Payload is {{cvt|510|kg|lb|0}}.<ref>[[#DC92|Coughlan 1992]], p. 18.</ref>
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===Cabriolet===
The Volkswagen Golf Mk3 Cabrio (or ''Type 1E'') was introduced in 1994 for the 1995 model year, replacing the previous MK1 Rabbit based Cabriolet. It was [[facelift (automobile)|facelifted]] in 1998 (mid-1999 for non-euro markets) with the front, rear, and [[steering wheel]] styling inspired by the [[Volkswagen Golf Mk4|Golf Mk4]] while still maintaining the body from the Mk3 Cabrio. These Cabrios are often referred to as the [[Volkswagen Golf Mk4#Cabriolet|Mk3.5 Cabrios]]. The Volkswagen Golf Cabrio was discontinued in 2002 with a special edition called "Last Edition".
<gallery widths="200" heights="140">
File:1998 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet 1.8 Front.jpg|Golf Mk3 Cabrio
File:2001 Volkswagen Golf (1E) GL 2.0 convertible (2011-01-13) 01.jpg|Golf Mk3.5 (Mk4) Cabrio
</gallery>

==Performance models==
[[File:Golf III GTD.jpg|thumb|left|Rear view]]

===GTD===
The Golf GTD is the diesel-powered variant of the high-performance GTI version.
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===A59===
[[File:Volkswagen Golf A59.jpg|thumb|left|The Golf A59 prototype in the Volkswagen Museum]]
The cancelled Golf A59 was intended to be a 4WD model with a {{cvt|275|HP|kW}} turbocharged 1998cc engine, carbon fiber and Kevlar shell, and a full roll cage, and have the highest performance of the Mk3 Golf models.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a41835307/vw-obscure-golf-rally-a59-prototype-sema/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230720174613/https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a41835307/vw-obscure-golf-rally-a59-prototype-sema/|url-status=dead|title=VW Brought This Obscure Golf Rally Prototype to SEMA, and It's Awesome|date=1 November 2022|archive-date=20 July 2023|website=Car and Driver}}</ref> The A59 was also supposed to be able to win the [[World Rally Championship]] [[1994 World Rally Championship|in 1994]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.carscoops.com/2022/11/1993-vw-golf-rallye-prototype-is-a-wrc-homologation-special-that-never-reached-production/|title=1993 VW Golf "Rallye" Prototype Is A WRC Homologation Special That Never Reached Production|first=Thanos|last=Pappas|date=4 November 2022|website=Carscoops|access-date=12 July 2023|archive-date=5 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221105165057/https://www.carscoops.com/2022/11/1993-vw-golf-rallye-prototype-is-a-wrc-homologation-special-that-never-reached-production/|url-status=live}}</ref> The prototype can be seen at the [[AutoMuseum Volkswagen|Volkswagen Museum]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.motortrend.com/events/one-one-golf-1993-volkswagen-golf-a59-2022-sema-show/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230720174612/https://www.motortrend.com/events/one-one-golf-1993-volkswagen-golf-a59-2022-sema-show/|url-status=dead|title=One-Off VW Golf A59 Rally Prototype Wows at SEMA|date=4 November 2022|archive-date=20 July 2023|website=MotorTrend}}</ref>
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==Overview==
[[File:1995-1996 Volkswagen Golf (1H) CL 3-door hatchback 02.jpg|thumb|left|1995–1996 Golf CL 3-door hatchback (Australia)]]
[[File:1993 Volkswagen Golf III Atlanta, Dieppe, Seine-Maritime - France (17213127143) (cropped).jpg|thumb|left|1993 Golf 5-door hatchback]]
A [[Multi-valve|16-valve]] version of the third-generation [[Golf GTI]] was introduced in 1993. The engine was enlarged to 2.0L, with power now reaching {{cvt|150|PS|kW hp|0}}. While lower powered than the [[VR6 engine|VR6]], it was still relatively popular with driving enthusiasts in Europe, because it offered ample power without the thirst or tax burden of the six-cylinder. As with previous versions, the Golf Driver acted as the official GTI-look-alike in the United Kingdom.<ref name=TAM94>{{Cite book | title = Quattroruote: Tutte le Auto del Mondo 1994 | publisher = Editoriale Domus S.p.A | year = 1994 | ref = TAM94 | language = it | page = 591 | location = Milano }}</ref> Similar to the continental market Golf GT, it looked sporting but was fitted with a single-point injected 1.8L engine.
[[File:Volkswagen Golf Cabrio (16546432678).jpg|thumb|right|Volkswagen Cabrio]]
The Golf Mk3 was also the predecessor of the "diesel craze" that swept through Europe in the late 1990s and early 2000s, when Volkswagen introduced the [[Direct injection diesel|direct-injection system]] with the {{cvt|90|PS|kW hp|0}} Golf TDI in 1993.

From its launch, all versions of the Golf came with [[fuel injection]], to meet [[European Economic Community|EEC]] requirements that all new cars sold in member countries from January 1993 must come with [[fuel injection]] or a [[catalytic converter]]. Non-catalyzed models were also built for those markets where there was no interest in them; power outputs were the same as for the catalyzed models.<ref name="AR92">{{cite book | ref = AR92 | title = Automobil Revue 1992 | editor-last = Büschi | editor-first = Hans-Ulrich | publisher = Hallwag AG | location = Berne, Switzerland | language = de, fr | page = 574 | volume = 87 | date = 5 March 1992 | isbn = 3-444-00539-3 }}</ref> An all-new 1.4 [[petrol engine]] was the entry-level model in the MK3 Golf range.

Also offered was a naturally aspirated version of the 1.9-liter [[diesel engine]], the [[Suction Diesel Injection|SDI]], offering {{convert|47|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}}.

Airbags were first offered on the Golf in 1992, and from 1996 [[anti-lock brakes]] were standard across the range.

The Golf Mk3 was also available in "Ecomatic" form. It was powered with a diesel engine and a clutch-less [[manual transmission]]. The vehicle would freewheel by opening of the clutch as soon as the accelerator is released, and the engine was switched off after a further 1.5 seconds of inactivity, whether by stopping or coasting. Restarting the engine simply required depressing the accelerator pedal.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://deylan.co.uk/golf/ecomatic/index.htm |title=The Golf Ecomatic Page |publisher=Deylan.co.uk |access-date=25 July 2009 |archive-date=3 September 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090903194239/http://www.deylan.co.uk/golf/ecomatic/index.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> VW had previously pioneered similar technology in the [[VW Polo]] "Formel E" in the 1980s.
[[File:1995 Volkswagen Golf Driver 1.6 Interior.jpg|thumb|left|Golf Mk3 Driver interior]]

As had happened with the [[Volkswagen Golf Mk1|Mk1]] and [[Volkswagen Golf Mk2|Mk2]], the Mk3 remained available in US for a year after it was discontinued in Europe (1998). The Mk3 continued to be produced for the 1999 model year where it was sold in North and South America. These 1999 Mk3 cars were the last produced in the world and sold alongside the [[Volkswagen Golf Mk4|Mk4]] in showrooms.
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===Golf CitySTROMer===
[[File:VW Golf CityStromer ( 1070608-HDR).jpg|thumb|Battery pack under the hood of the electric Golf CitySTROMer.]]
There was also a limited production run of around 250 "CitySTROMer" vehicles, mainly sold to the German market, which were fully electric vehicles, incorporating six lead-acid batteries in the engine bay, and a further 10 underneath the luggage area. It had a range of approximately {{cvt|50|km|mi}}. The vehicle could be filled with a small amount of diesel to provide heat for the cabin.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.evalbum.com/800 |title=Per Magnar Skånøy's 1995 Volkswagen Golf CityStromer |publisher=Evalbum.com |date=22 July 2008 |access-date=25 July 2009 |archive-date=10 July 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090710035852/http://evalbum.com/800 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.volkswagen.co.uk/electric-hybrid/electric-heritage|title=Electric Heritage|website=Volkswagen UK|access-date=24 January 2019|archive-date=24 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190124203329/https://www.volkswagen.co.uk/electric-hybrid/electric-heritage|url-status=live}}</ref>
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==Awards==
* 1997 ''[[Which?]]'' Magazine Best Buys: Best Family Car
* [[European Car of the Year]]: 1992
* 1992 ''[[What Car?]]'': Car of the Year

==Special editions==
{{multiple issues|section=yes|
{{More citations needed section|date=April 2008}}
{{tone|section|date=September 2021}}
}}

==={{anchor|20th Anniversary GTI}} 20th Anniversary GTI===
[[Volkswagen]] manufactured a limited run of 1,000 special-edition GTI Anniversary models, available in both 3-door and 5-door configurations, to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the GTI model.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.autoevolution.com/news/25-year-ban-on-this-special-edition-vw-golf-gti-is-over-still-reasonably-priced-156038.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230720171610/https://www.autoevolution.com/news/25-year-ban-on-this-special-edition-vw-golf-gti-is-over-still-reasonably-priced-156038.html|url-status=dead|title=25-Year Ban on This Special Edition VW Golf GTI Is Over, Still Reasonably Priced|first=Dragos|last=Chitulescu|date=13 February 2021|archive-date=20 July 2023|website=autoevolution}}</ref>

The models in question featured the standard GTI specifications but included distinctive elements such as checkered Recaro front sport seats and matching rear seats adorned with the GTI logo. Notable interior details comprised red seat belts for both front and rear seats, a half-chromed and leather golf ball gear knob, and a steering wheel and handbrake gaiter crafted from red-stitched leather. The handbrake's release knob was also finished in red, while the instrument dials were rendered in silver. Floor mats were designed with red piping along their edges.

Externally, the red theme was further emphasized with red striping on the bumpers and red brake calipers. The vehicles were equipped with 16" x 7" split rim [[BBS Kraftfahrzeugtechnik AG|BBS]] RS 722 alloy wheels, which bore a resemblance to the 15" wheels found on the VR6 model.<ref>{{Cite web |date=31 Jan 2003 |title=Volkswagen 20th Anniversary GTI |url=https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a15135913/volkswagen-20th-anniversary-gti-news/ |access-date=2024-03-28 |website=Car and Driver}}</ref> The exhaust system featured brushed [[stainless steel]] rear twin tailpipes, and the front fog and indicator lamps were smoked to harmonize with the rear lamps.

Three optional extras were available: an electric sunroof, air conditioning, and metallic black paintwork. Insurance premiums were set based on the standard GTI, contributing to the desirability of this model. Production was limited to six color schemes, with a total output of 1,000 units, comprising 600 8-valve models, 150 16-valve models, and 250 TDI models. The diesel variant was exclusively produced for the European market and was not available in the UK.

Many of these models found their way into the UK company car and lease market before entering the second-hand market, and it is estimated that only a few hundred remain today. The rarity of the Mark 3 Golfs can be attributed in part to quality issues associated with the steel used by Volkswagen, which has been reported to lead to significant corrosion in components such as the floor pan, door sills, and rear hatch. Independent mechanics and MOT testers recommend thorough inspections for rust, holes, and patches in the floor pan for prospective buyers.

===Otmar Alt===
The Gold Otmar Alt was a limited edition model, with only 1,000 units produced. It showcased various artworks by the artist Otmar Alt and featured a fully customized interior adorned with matching graphics.

===Rabbit===
The Golf 3 Rabbit Edition was exclusive to Austria and featured a distinctive rabbit badge.

===Cool===
The Golf Cool was marked by a "Cool" sticker, similar to the Avenue edition, and included several minor design modifications.

===CitySTROMer===
[[File:VW Golf CityStromer ( 1070567-HDR).jpg|left|thumb|Golf CitySTROMer]]
The Golf CitySTROMer was an alternative electric powered version of the Golf 3, characterized by vibrant graphics displayed on its side panels.
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===Highline===
As its name implies, the Golf Highline represented the premium, high-end variant of the [[Mk3 Golf]]. This edition featured a full leather interior, wood accents, and prominently displayed a "Highline" sticker on the trunk.

===Coast===
[[File:VW Golf Cabrio Gen3 1H 1991-1997 special edition COAST 1994 frontdoor 2010-06-13 A.jpg|thumb|left|Badge]]
The Golf Coast was a limited edition exclusive to the Cabrio model, distinguished by the "Coast" graphic displayed on the trunk.
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===Sport===
[[File:VW Golf Cabrio Gen3 1H 1991-1997 special SPORT EDITION 1995 sidebackright 2009-04-15 A.jpg|thumb|left|Badge]]
The Sport edition, true to its name, represented the sporty variant of the Golf 3. It prominently featured a "Sport Edition" sticker, highlighting its performance-oriented character.
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===Classic===
The Golf Classic featured a distinctly retro design and included a "Classic Edition" silicone badge, enhancing its vintage appeal.

===Limited===
Similar to the "Edition" variant of the Golf 4 Variant, this model was equipped with a range of special features and included a "Limited Edition" graphic on the interior step, presented in a matching font.

===GTI / VR6 Edition===
[[File:Volkswagen Golf GTI III.jpg|left|thumb|Golf GTI]]
[[File:1995 Volkswagen Golf (1H) VR6 5-door hatchback (27426958161) (cropped).jpg|thumb|right|Golf VR6]]
The GTI/VR6 Edition models were distinguished by their respective body kits and featured "GTI/VR6 Edition" badges on the sides. The GTI Edition additionally showcased a sticker on the rear quarter panel, designed to match the font used on the interior seats.
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===Kamei===
The "Kamei Edition" was a limited edition model produced in collaboration with Kamei, an aftermarket body parts manufacturer based in [[Wolfsburg]]. This edition featured the complete Kamei body kit and included a distinctive "Kamei Edition" badge, positioned on the right side of the grille.

===Ryder===
The Ryder edition included several minor design modifications; however, it did not come equipped with a [[sunroof]].

===Driver's Edition GTI VR6 (North America)===
The 1997 model year introduced the GTI Driver's Edition, available in two colors: Ginster Yellow and Jazz Blue. Distinctive features included red stitching on the steering wheel, a special shift knob designed with half aluminum and half leather, adorned with the GTI logo, and silver gauge faces. The vehicle was equipped with 15" seven-spoke alloy wheels manufactured by Speedline, complemented by red-painted brake calipers.<ref>Volkswagen Driver's Edition GTI-VR6 brochure, VWDI7008-001_US/CE/97, 1997</ref>

Many of the features offered as extras in the Driver's Edition became standard on the 1998 GTI VR6, leading to some confusion regarding the distinctions between the two models. To verify whether a vehicle is a Driver's Edition, one can consult the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

===Henri Leconte===
The Henri Leconte edition featured a leather interior with signed seats and included a distinctive sticker depicting a 3D ball breaking through the glass on the rear window.

===Henri Lloyd Yachting===
The Henri Lloyd Yachting edition, based on the GT model, included a special front lip, rear bumper extension, and a unique grille, along with a distinctive rear badge.

=== Driver ===
The Driver edition of the Golf 3, which was essentially a Golf 3, featuring the GTI body kit, complemented by "Orlando" alloy rims and a small trunk spoiler.

===SE===
[[File:1996 Volkswagen Golf SE.jpg|thumb|Golf SE, sold only in the United Kingdom]]
Produced from 1996 to 1997 for the UK market, the SE featured a GTI body-kit, all round tinted glass, clear front indicator covers, twin headlamp lenses and GTI taillights, silver instrument cluster and Sport Räder alloy wheels.

===Match===
The Match edition was equipped with a [[Sony]] [[CD player]], [[power steering]], and six-spoke rims. It also featured distinctive "Match" graphics, including "///Match" written on the sides near the front wheel arch and above the guard rail, along with three colored lines—blue, red, and green—below the right taillight.

===Match II===
The Match II edition retained the "Match" theme, featuring "Match II" graphics represented by a metallic badge positioned beneath the "Golf" and "TDI" logos. Additionally, it included a custom interior with a distinctive fabric design.

===Colour Concept===
[[File:VW Golf Cabrio Gen3 1H 1991-1997 special edition COLUR CONCEPT 1995-1997 sidebackleft 2009-04-19 A.jpg|thumb|right|Badge]]
The Colour Concept edition was a highly limited release, produced in only five colors: Flash Red, Salsa Green, Yellow, Jazz Blue Pearl Effect, and Black Magic Pearl Effect, with only a few units of each color made. This edition featured a leather interior that matched the exterior color, complete with "Colour Concept" embossed on the front seats and a distinctive Colour Concept badge. It was equipped with 15-inch BBS Solitude alloy wheels, electric windows, central locking, and front seat heating. The Colour Concept was also available for the Cabriolet and Estate (Variant) versions of the Golf.
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===Family===
The Family edition was essentially the standard Golf MK3, featuring only a custom sticker and a few minor differences.

==={{anchor|Harlequin}} Harlequin===
[[File:VWGolfHarlequin (cropped).JPG|thumb|Golf Harlequin, Ginster Yellow (after its 'base' color)|right]]
The Golf Harlequin model began with a group of four cars, each carrying a ''Design Series'' emblem, created by Volkswagen to display on the 1995 international auto show circuit.

Basing the design on an earlier Volkswagen ''Polo Harlequin'' special edition, the Golf Harlequins were created in four variations, by taking four solid color models and interchanging the easily detachable doors, hood, hatch, grill, fenders and bumper facias &mdash; after final production at the Puebla, Mexico assembly plant where all the Harlequins were manufactured.

The interchangement of colors &mdash; Tornado Red, Ginster Yellow, Chagall Blue, and Pistachio Green &mdash; was not random, but followed four defined assignments, with each pattern avoiding adjacent major panels sharing the same paint color.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2013/03/volkswagen-golf-harlequin-vws-strangest-idea/|title=Volkswagen Golf Harlequin: VW's Strangest Idea?|date=13 March 2013|access-date=24 January 2019|archive-date=24 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190124204228/https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2013/03/volkswagen-golf-harlequin-vws-strangest-idea/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Chagall Blue, and Pistachio Green were otherwise unavailable as a Golf paint color choice in North America.

The resulting Harlequins were designated by their "base" color, the paint color of the welded panels comprising the core body &mdash; including the substructure, roof and C-pillar.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.motorbiscuit.com/what-is-volkswagens-harlequin-car/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230720171610/https://www.motorbiscuit.com/what-is-volkswagens-harlequin-car/|url-status=dead|title=What Is Volkswagen's Harlequin Car, and How Did It Start?|first=Taylor|last=Martin|date=18 September 2021|archive-date=20 July 2023}}</ref>

Following a positive response to the original four Harlequins, Volkswagen marketed an additional 60 &mdash; followed by another 200.

In a series of follow up letters to various entities at Volkswagen, the total number of Harlequins is reported variously from 275 to 264, all offered solely for model year 1996, in the United States, Canada,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.rossvw.com/harlequin/howmany.html |title=How many of these are there? |publisher=rossvw.com |access-date=5 October 2016 |archive-date=7 May 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170507161905/http://www.rossvw.com/harlequin/howmany.html |url-status=live }}</ref> and Mexico &mdash; with most marketed in the United States.

Each Harlequin Golf featured a gray/black interior highlighting the four body colors. The special edition was available for an additional $150 over their stock counterparts.

===TREK / K2 Editions===
In 1997, a marketing collaboration with TREK was expanded to include the Golf Mk3, resulting in the TREK edition. This variant featured a roof bike carrier, a 21-speed purple TREK-Volkswagen branded mountain bike, and a TREK "Limited Edition" badge.

Also introduced in 1997 was the K2 edition, which came equipped with a ski/snowboard roof carrier, a K2 "Limited Edition" badge, and the option of either a pair of K2 El Camino skis or a K2 Juju snowboard.

Both the TREK and K2 editions included special Recaro-manufactured seats, 14-inch alloy wheels, tinted taillights, unique "TREK" or "K2" shift knobs, an optional moonroof, a roof-mounted antenna, and fog lights.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Clemens|first1=Kevin|title=VW GTI, Golf, Jetta, MK III & IV|date=226|publisher=Motorbooks International|isbn=9781610592475|page=33|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=j5iTLWUUXIYC|access-date=26 October 2015}}</ref>

===Wolfsburg Edition===
The Wolfsburg Edition of the Golf Mk3 was produced alongside the Wolfsburg Edition Jetta in the United States. This variant featured an enhanced white/tan dual-tone interior, smoked tail lamps, premium alloy wheels, remote entry, power windows and mirrors, and a tilt/slide sunroof as standard. The Wolfsburg Edition was exclusively available with the VW 8-valve SOHC 2.0L engine.

==={{Visible anchor|European tour editions}}===
During the 1990s, Volkswagen sponsored three high-profile rock bands' European tours, and issued a special-edition Golf, with distinctive exterior markings, for each: the Golf [[Pink Floyd]] Edition (1994), the Golf [[Rolling Stones]] Edition (1995), and the Golf [[Bon Jovi]] Edition (1996).
<gallery>
File:VWGolfPinkFloydCloseup.jpg|Pink Floyd
File:GolfRollingStones.jpg|Rolling Stones
File:GolfBonJoviLogo.jpg|Bon Jovi
File:VWGolfNewOrleans.jpg|New Orleans
File:VWGolfEuropeEdition.jpg|Europe
File:GolfAvenueLogo.jpg|Avenue
File:Golf III, Movie.jpg|Movie
File:GolfJokerLogo.jpg|Joker
File:GolfSavoyLogo.jpg|Savoy
File:VWGolfSpecialEdition.jpg|Special
</gallery>

==European Car of the Year==
The Golf MK3 was voted [[European Car of the Year]] for 1992 - the first Volkswagen to win this award.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.caroftheyear.org/previous-winners/1992_1/coty |title=Previous winners |language=es |publisher=Car of the year |access-date=18 September 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111031044912/http://www.caroftheyear.org/previous-winners/1992_1/coty |archive-date=31 October 2011  }}</ref>

==Engine choices==
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;"
|- style="background:#dcdcdc; text-align:center; vertical-align:middle;"
! Name
! Volume
! Engine
! Fuel
! Power (max.)
! [[Torque#Machine torque|Torque (max.)]]
! Model
! [[0 to 60 mph|0-100 km/h]] (0-62&nbsp;mph) (s)
! Top speed
! Years
|-
|'''1.4'''||1391cc||[[Inline-four engine|I4]]||[[Petrol]]||{{convert|60|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 5200 rpm||{{convert|107|Nm|lbft|abbr=on}} at 2800−3200 rpm||ABD||16.3||{{convert|157|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}||1992−1995
|-
|'''1.4'''||1390cc||I4||Petrol||{{convert|60|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 4700 rpm||{{convert|116|Nm|lbft|abbr=on}} at 2800−3200 rpm||AEX/APQ||15.9||{{convert|158|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}||1995−1997
|-
|'''1.6'''||1598cc||I4||Petrol||{{convert|75|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 5200 rpm||{{convert|125|Nm|lbft|abbr=on}} at 3400 rpm||ABU|| ||{{convert|168|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}||1992−1994
|-
|'''1.6'''||1598cc||I4||Petrol||{{convert|75|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 5200 rpm||{{convert|126|Nm|lbft|abbr=on}} at 2600 rpm||AEA|| ||{{convert|168|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}||1994−1995
|-
|'''1.6'''||1598cc||I4||Petrol||{{convert|75|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 4800 rpm||{{convert|135|Nm|lbft|abbr=on}} at 2800−3600 rpm||AEE||13.4||{{convert|168|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}||1995−1997
|-
|'''1.6'''||1595cc||I4||Petrol||{{convert|101|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 5800 rpm||{{convert|135|Nm|lbft|abbr=on}} at 4400 rpm||AEK|| ||{{convert|188|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}||1994−1995
|-
|'''1.6'''||1595cc||I4||Petrol||{{convert|101|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 5800 rpm||{{convert|140|Nm|0|abbr=on}} at 3500 rpm||AFT/AKS||11.2||{{convert|188|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}||1995−1997
|-
|'''1.8'''||1781cc||I4||Petrol||{{convert|75|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 5000 rpm||{{convert|140|Nm|0|abbr=on}} at 2500 rpm||AAM/ANN||14.2||{{convert|168|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}||1992−1997
|-
|'''1.8'''||1781cc||I4||Petrol||{{convert|90|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 5500 rpm||{{convert|145|Nm|lbft|abbr=on}} at 2500 rpm||ABS/ADZ/ANP/ACC||12.1||{{convert|178|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}||1992−1997
|-
|'''2.0 GTI'''||1984cc||I4||Petrol||{{convert|118|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 5400 rpm||{{convert|166|Nm|lbft|abbr=on}} at 3200 rpm||2E/ABA/ADY/AGG||9.7||{{convert|210|km/h|0|abbr=on}}||1992−1997
|-
|'''2.0 GTI 16V'''||1984cc||I4||Petrol||{{convert|152|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 6000 rpm||{{convert|180|Nm|0|abbr=on}} at 4600 rpm||ABF||8.1||{{convert|225|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}||1993−1997
|-
|'''2.8 VR6'''||2792cc||[[VR6]]||Petrol||{{convert|176|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 5800 rpm||{{convert|235|Nm|lbft|abbr=on}} at 4200 rpm||AAA||7.5||{{convert|240|km/h|0|abbr=on}}||1992−1998
|-
|'''2.9 VR6'''||2861cc||VR6||Petrol||{{convert|190|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 5800 rpm||{{convert|245|Nm|lbft|abbr=on}} at 4200 rpm||ABV||6.7||{{convert|250|km/h|mph|abbr=on|sigfig=3}}||1994−1997
|-
|'''1.9 D'''||1896cc||I4||[[Diesel engine|Diesel]]||{{convert|64|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 4400 rpm||{{convert|124|Nm|lbft|abbr=on}} at 2000−3000&nbsp;rpm||1Y||17.6||{{convert|156|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}||1992−1997
|-
|'''1.9 [[Suction Diesel Injection|SDI]]'''||1896cc||I4||Diesel||{{convert|64|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 4200 rpm||{{convert|125|Nm|lbft|abbr=on}} at 2200−2800 rpm||AEY||17.6||{{convert|156|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}||1995−1997
|-
|'''1.9 [[turbodiesel|TD]]'''||1896cc||I4||Diesel||{{convert|75|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 4200 rpm||{{convert|150|Nm|0|abbr=on}} at 2400−3400 rpm||AAZ||15.1||{{convert|165|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}||1992−1997
|-
|'''1.9 [[Turbocharged Direct Injection|TDI]]'''||1896cc||I4||Diesel||{{convert|90|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 4000 rpm||{{convert|202|Nm|lbft|abbr=on}} at 1900 rpm||1Z||12.5||{{convert|178|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}||1993−1996
|-
|'''1.9 TDI'''||1896cc||I4||Diesel||{{convert|90|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 4000 rpm||{{convert|202|Nm|0|abbr=on}} at 1900 rpm||AHU||12.5||{{convert|178|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}||1996−1997
|-
|'''1.9 TD<span style="color:red">I</span>'''||1896cc||I4||Diesel||{{convert|110|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 4150 rpm||{{convert|235|Nm|lbft|abbr=on}} at 1900&nbsp;rpm||AFN||11.0||{{convert|193|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}||1996−1997
|}

==See also==
{{Commons category|Volkswagen Golf III}}
{{Commons category|Volkswagen Golf III GTI}}
*[[Volkswagen A platform]]
*[[Volkswagen Golf]]
*[[VDub]]
*[[List of discontinued Volkswagen Group petrol engines]]
*[[List of discontinued Volkswagen Group diesel engines]]
*[[Hot hatch]]
*[[Small family car]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
{{Commons category|Volkswagen Golf III}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20080304120015/http://www.volkswagen.com/vwcms_publish/vwcms/master_public/virtualmaster/en2/models/golf_start.html Golf at Volkswagen International]
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{{S-start}}
{{Succession box
| title = Volkswagen Golf Mk3
| years = 1992–2002
| before = [[Volkswagen Golf Mk2]]
| after = [[Volkswagen Golf Mk4]]
}}
{{S-end}}

{{VW}}
{{Volkswagen (Europe) timeline 1980 to date}}
{{Volkswagen (North America) timeline 1980 to date}}
{{Volkswagen (South America) timeline 1980 to date}}

{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Volkswagen vehicles|Golf 3]]
[[Category:Compact cars]]
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[[Category:Cars introduced in 1991]]
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