Driving

From behind the wheel, the only giveaway that you are driving the eco-orientated Golf is a tiny gearshift indicator at the bottom of the trip computer screen. The rest of the tweaks have been hidden away. The 1.9-litre TDI carries longer gear ratios, a revised turbo and remapped electronics – though changes haven’t affected the Golf’s performance. That isn't such a good thing as the VW is sluggish alongside newer rivals and the ageing powerplant is breathless, strained, and unrefined. Luckily, the Golf’s safe, reassuring handling hasn’t been compromised, despite sports suspension that lowers the ride height. It’s smooth around town and soaks up bumps well, though it isn’t the sharpest through the corners.

Marketplace

The Bluemotion is Volkswagen’s answer to the Toyota Prius, with a headline-grabbing low CO2 figure of 119g/km and the promise of 62.8mpg. But, unlike the Toyota, it doesn’t resort to hybrid drive. Instead, it refines the already-accomplished Golf TDI hatch. Only the eagle-eyed will spot subtle badges front and rear and the lower ride height. A reprofiled grille and underbody cladding help reduce the drag factor, but it’s the 1.9-litre TDI engine that has been changed the most. Other than the Prius, rivals include the Ford Focus Econetic, BMW 118d, SEAT Leon Ecomotive and Skoda Octavia Greenline.

Owning

Improvements to economy and emissions don’t come at the expense of comfort and safety, as the cabin is unaltered. There are no flimsy plastics here, while the air con remains in place. Material quality is first-rate, and the dash design is straightforward and easy to live with. Thanks to a wide range of steering wheel and seat adjustment, the driving position is perfect, too. The Golf is also roomy in the rear, with a very accommodating boot. It’s a great, compromise-free family motor. Retained values are extremely impressive – better, in fact, than a BMW 1-Series – and promised economy is strong; after all, it’s what the car is all about! However, we were a little disappointed to return only 42mpg during our tests, which is some way off the official figure. The Golf looks competitively priced alongside models such as the Prius, particularly when specified in high-value Match trim.