Golf Plus moving up in the world

This is VW's all-new Dune version of the family hatchback, and it features off-roader looks, combined with a 20mm increase in ride height.

The newcomer's bodykit includes extended black wheelarch trims, a deep airdam framed by foglights at the front, a silver rear bumper guard and roof rails, plus durable plastic rubbing strips. A set of exclusive 17-inch eight-spoke alloy wheels, which run on larger 225/45 R17 tyres, has also been added.

Inside, a leather steering wheel, gearknob and handbrake, plus special interior trim and semi-automatic air-conditioning, also come as standard. The Golf Plus Dune is available in three colours; Ice Silver, Steel Grey metallic and Blue Graphite pearl effect. Under the bonnet is a 105bhp version of VW's tried-and-tested 1.9-litre TDI diesel. This takes the Dune from 0-60mph in 12.1 seconds and on to a 121mph top speed, yet the unit returns an average 50.4mpg and emits only 148g/km of CO2.

The model follows in the wheeltracks of the smaller Polo Dune, which also combined extra ground clearance with chunky off-roader styling and additional standard kit. As with the supermini model, the Golf Plus retains a front-wheel-drive transmission layout.

Buyers will have to hurry if they want to pick-up the new Golf Plus version, though, as only 400 are being brought to the UK. They are on sale now at £18,495.