The Volkswagen Golf received very few and very minor upgrades for 1992. It was still available in three versions -- the two- or four-door GL hatchback, the GTI sports package, and the GTI 16V sports package with a more powerful engine. About the only noticeable upgrade was the fact that the radio on all models turned off with the ignition key, so drivers no longer had to turn it off using a control knob on the radio itself.

The GL hatchbacks came with a 1.8-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that generated 100 hp, while the GTI's 4-cylinder engine was goosed to 105 hp. The GTI 16V came with a 2.0-liter, 134-hp 4-cylinder engine. A five-speed manual transmission was standard across the line, while a three-speed automatic was available as on option on all packages except the GTI 16V.

Standard features were minimal and included power brakes, bucket seats, and a rear-window defroster. The GTI added power door locks, while tilt steering was available on both the GTI and the GTI 16V. Options included air conditioning, a manually operated sunroof, and a cassette player.

Driver satisfaction with the Volkswagen Golf was high, with drivers citing the car's handling, reliability, and acceleration as positive points. Negatives included the sound system and a lack of cupholders.