VW Golf Plus

It's the Golf that likes to think that little bit bigger! This is the latest Plus version, designed to offer all the benefits of VW’s popular hatch, but with added flexibility and more space.

While it’s not an all-new model like the MkVI, it does get the same twin-bar grille along with softer styling giving a rounder, taller mini-MPV profile.

Greater leaps have been made inside, where MkVI Golf drivers will feel at home. The soft-touch dash, easy-to-read dials and top-quality switchgear are all carried over, giving an expensive and durable feel.

There’s a more airy ambience, too, and acres of headroom thanks to an extra 113mm in height. But bootspace isn’t much better – 395 litres compared to 350 litres with the rear seats up, while 1,450 litres plays 1,305 litres with them down in the Golf Plus and Golf respectively.

We drove the turbocharged 120bhp 1.4 TSI, the pick of the engines, mated to a six-speed manual – although a seven-speed DSG ’box can be added for an extra £1,325. It provides lively, lag-free acceleration and an enjoyable exhaust note, while returning a diesel-like 43.5mpg. However, the extra height and additional 184kg blunt the standard Golf’s normally sweet handling.

Buyers can choose a normally aspirated 1.4-litre engine with 79bhp, or a 2.0-litre TDI unit – producing either 108bhp or  138bhp – in S or SE trim. Prices start from £14,410 for the 1.4 S, £830 more than the entry-level Golf.

The model we tested weighs in at £1,345 more than the smaller variant. But, with a less engaging drive, frumpier looks and no real gains in practicality, it’s hard to justify shelling out the extra money.