Volkswagen Golf

Although the 1.9-litre engine is showing its age, the Sport makes great sense financially. The seats and suspension give some welcome firmness over the standard model without being uncomfortable. And in terms of practicality, the Golf is up there with the best.

The GTI may be grabbing all the headlines, but further down the range another new Golf is also offering a slice of performance. Slotting in above the SE and below the hotter GT and GTI is the £16,400 Sport - and it aims to offer a dynamic version of the hatch at an affordable price.

This VW features bigger alloys and body-coloured rubbing strips to set it apart in the line-up. And although the chunkiness of the car's shape makes the wheels look small within its arches, overall the newcomer benefits from the additions, especially in three-door guise.

Inside, the fresh trim is even more of a boost. The standard sports seats are comfortable and supportive, while their cloth covering helps hold you firmly during cornering. Leather on the steering wheel, gearknob and handbrake also improves the contact surfaces and, combined with the excellent driving position, makes the car feel like a hot hatch.

Under the bonnet, the Sport comes with either the 1.6-litre FSI petrol engine or the 1.9-litre TDI in the model driven here - the entry-level diesel. Despite its lowly status in the range, the oil-burner offers 105bhp and 250Nm of torque.

Although willing, this unit now lags behind newer rivals in terms of refinement, but for a low-output powerplant it is economical and provides acceptable pace. Also, as part of the package, the suspension has been lowered for a firmer ride and reduced body roll.

Driven hard, the Golf Sport feels composed and secure, while still providing a good ride. As a model to slot between the SE and GT, it brings welcome extra kit at a competitive price. It's worth choosing over the SE for the standard six-speed box alone.