Volkswagen Golf

Why it won...

A whole year has passed since the Golf picked up its first Compact Family Car award, but its appeal is undimmed. With its classy looks, high-quality cabin and executive car refinement, the VW still sets the standard. Better still, it’s great to drive, excellent value and has a brilliant range of engines – including the innovative turbocharged TSI petrol units.

Adding to the Golf’s long list of credits is a solid gold image. Despite its humble hatchback origins, the desirable VW is as much at home on the school run as it is parked outside a high-class hotel. And don’t forget the depth of the line-up.

Take a look at the price lists and you will find three and five-door hatchbacks, practical estates, environmentally friendly BlueMotion models and scorching hot hatches. It’s going to take something special to topple the VW in 2011.

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Commended:

Skoda Octavia Once again, Skoda has shown that motorists can have their cake and eat it. With its family car-sized interior and compact hatch price tag, the versatile Octavia is a bit of a bargain. And don’t forget its great build quality and entertaining driving dynamics. This is a practical family holdall that deserves to be Czeched out!

Mazda 3 Buyers who want eye-catching family transport should look no further than the sleek 3, but the Japanese hatchback isn’t all style and no substance. It also features a sharp chassis, plenty of kit and top-notch build quality. The only black mark is its limited cabin and boot space compared to rivals.