Hatchback car comparison

Toyota AQUA vs Volkswagen GOLF

Both are hatchback vehicles on New Zealand roads. Based on NZTA fleet data.

Toyota AQUA 66,758 on NZ roads
VS
Volkswagen GOLF 46,669 on NZ roads
$31/week cheaper to fuel — Toyota AQUA at $22/wk vs $53/wk
Toyota AQUA 66,758 in NZ Wins 3 of 3
Volkswagen GOLF 46,669 in NZ
Registered in NZ
66,758
46,669
Fuel Economy
2.8 L/100km
6.7 L/100km
Power
117.4 kW
Weight
1,359.7 kg
1,714.1 kg
Fuel Type
Hybrid
Petrol
Body Type
Hatchback
Hatchback
Seats
5
5
Year Range
2010–2024
1963–2026
Imported New
0%
36%

NZ Registrations Over Time

Registration trend for Toyota AQUA vs Volkswagen GOLF: comparing annual new registrations in NZ from 2020 onwards. Toyota AQUA has more total registrations.

Regional Popularity

Region Toyota AQUA Volkswagen GOLF
AUCKLAND 34,189 18,731
CHRISTCHURCH CITY 5,660 4,537
WELLINGTON CITY 2,900 2,468
HAMILTON CITY 2,869 1,809
TAURANGA CITY 1,790 1,764
LOWER HUTT CITY 1,664 976
DUNEDIN CITY 1,429 1,195
PALMERSTON NORTH CITY 993 698

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more popular in NZ — the Toyota AQUA or Volkswagen GOLF?

The Toyota AQUA is more common with 66,758 registered in New Zealand compared to 46,669 for the Volkswagen GOLF. A larger fleet means more mechanics familiar with the car and easier access to parts.

Which is cheaper to run — Toyota AQUA or Volkswagen GOLF?

Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Toyota AQUA uses less fuel at 2.8 L/100km compared to 6.7 L/100km. At current fuel prices of approximately $2.80/L, that difference adds up over a year of typical driving.

Are Toyota AQUA and Volkswagen GOLF the same body type?

Both are classified as Hatchback vehicles in the NZTA fleet data. The Toyota AQUA is primarily a hybrid vehicle while the Volkswagen GOLF runs on petrol.

Are these cars typically imported new or used?

0% of Toyota AQUA models were imported new to NZ, while 99% came as used imports. For the Volkswagen GOLF, 36% were new and 63% were used imports.

Where does this data come from?

All figures are sourced from the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) Motor Vehicle Register, current as of 31 March 2026. This covers 3,678,722 registered passenger vehicles in New Zealand.

Data sourced from the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) Motor Vehicle Register, current as of 31 March 2026.