Volkswagen Golf: review

One of the engine choices you won’t have to make is whether to have a turbocharged unit or not. They all are. The range is wide, from the 1.2-litre petrol engine to the 2.0-litre diesel, and all are extremely refined in use.

The 1.4-litre petrol engine shuts off cylinders when freewheeling, which saves fuel, and it does it so smoothly you’re totally unaware of it.

Handling and ride are well up to that refined engine performance. In fact, generally, the handling is superb, blending excellent body control with comfort. Steering is well up to the mark and the only letdown is if you buy the cheaper 1.2-litre petrol or 1.6-litre diesel models, which have a rather less sophisticated suspension set-up. Mind you, they’re still better at handling and ride than many of their rivals.

The cabin is a place of peace and serenity, as there’s hardly any engine or any other noise intruding. The driver gets a comfy and adjustable seating position, and there’s room for four big adults or five for shorter journeys.

The boot isn’t that spacious but it’s easy to get at and has a flexible space with an adjustable floor.

There’s a reasonable amount of kit even on the basic trim, but we’d go for the SE spec which gives you all you need. The GT trim gives more sporty kit but you do pay for it. It’s a safe interior too, with the full NCAP five stars for safety and security.

VW Golfs have a solid reputation for reliability, and that’s reflected in solid residuals. However they’re not cheap cars to buy in any spec. They’re not really high end either, as that territory VW keeps for its Audi brand.

But you do get a solid, reliable, sweet-handling and practical hatchback that’s had many years of experience to illuminate every generation.

We’d probably go for the 1.4-litre petrol engine with 121bhp. It’s economical, quiet and really strong. Add in SE spec and you have the classic Golf, even after all these years.