VW Golf 1.6 TDI
Does Golf's eco technology boost the appeal of our reigning class champion?
Can any car loosen the Volkswagen Golf’s grip on the family car crown? Ever since it hit showrooms in late 2008, the German machine has been the model to beat. Beautifully built, practical and great to drive, it still sets the standard in this class.
But it’s clear the five-door hasn’t achieved this success based on its looks. The sixth-generation hatch’s conservative styling lacks the visual impact of the bold Peugeot, striking Ford and sleek Renault. Still, Match trim does bring standard 16-inch alloys, which give extra kerb appeal.
Inside, the car majors on function rather than flair once again. The upright dashboard is logically laid out, while the VW’s boxy exterior dimensions ensure plenty of head and legroom for occupants. There’s also ample storage space, including the large door bins, which are flock-lined to stop their contents rattling around.
Opening the tailgate reveals a 350-litre load bay, which is the second largest here. And if you fold the rear bench flat, this increases to a useful 1,305 litres. The VW doesn’t match the generous kit lists of its rivals in this test, but it has everything you’ll need.
Air-conditioning, Bluetooth, an iPod connection and a DAB radio all feature. There’s also an attractive, tactile and user-friendly multifunction steering wheel.
Where the Golf really scores is with its interior quality. All the materials have a premium appearance and feel, while first-rate construction helps to increase the upmarket atmosphere. Better still, the switchgear operates with slick precision and the driving position is spot-on.
The Golf’s 1.6-litre TDI engine also comes in for praise – it’s quiet and refined both at idle and when accelerating. And despite being the least powerful here, the 104bhp common-rail unit put in a strong display at the test track. The Match covered 0-60mph in 10.8 seconds – only two-tenths slower than the Ford.
Sadly, the five-speed gearbox’s tall ratios blunt our BlueMotion Technology model’s mid-range pace, meaning you have to work harder to keep up with the punchier Renault and Ford. Opt for the standard 1.6 TDI, and you get a six-speeder, although this model emits 119g/km of CO2 rather than 107g/km.
Turn into a corner, and you’ll discover a composed and agile chassis. And while it doesn’t match the Focus for ultimate driving thrills, the Golf is a more capable all-rounder, with its well weighted controls, composed ride and excellent motorway refinement. But it plays its trump card when you start to check through your bank balance.
Look beyond its high £20,105 list price, and the Match makes the most financial sense of the models in this test. Excellent predicted residuals of 47 per cent, a pre-paid servicing package (£299),which includes three years of maintenance, and a strong 49.1mpg fuel return mean the Golf will cost the least to run in the long term.
On this evidence, it’s going to take something truly special to knock the VW off its perch at the top of the family hatch tree.
Details
Chart position: 1
WHY: The evergreen Golf is our reigning class champ, thanks to its blend of quality, practicality and desirability. BlueMotion Tech cuts CO2 and boosts economy.
