The Volkswagen Golf has won the 2013-2014 Japan Car of the Year award, becoming he first ever non-Japanese car to win in the history of the Japan Car of the Year award which started in 1980. The Golf gained a total of 504 points, the highest ever for an import model. It also scored 131 points more than the second-placed car.

The Japan Car of the Year Committee explained the reasons behind the Golf's win, "Thanks to the new modular development tool kit called 'MQB', the new Golf realises both precise handling and high quality ride with its chassis. The newly adopted technologies enhance safety and environmental performance, solidifying its position as the segment benchmark. Also, the fun of driving is readily available for anybody at any time, from city commuting to long distance drives. The affordable prices are also appreciated. With all these attributes, the Golf has been chosen as the car most recommendable to Japanese users."

At the award ceremony, Shigeru Shoji, the President of Volkswagen Group Japan, commented, "We are very much pleased that the Golf becomes the first import car which gained the grand prize in 34 years of Japan Car of the Year history. This honour has been awarded to all the people who supported Volkswagen in Japan over the past 60 years."

Among numerous other awards, the new Golf has also won the European Car of the Year, World Car of the Year, and Golden Steering Wheel titles this year.