Volkswagen Golf review (2004-2008)

Driving:
The Golf doesn't relish being hurried. It has a laid-back character, and is at its best when traveling at high speed. On motorways, very little wind noise penetrates the cabin. On smooth surfaces, the cruising ability is superb. But on bumpy roads, the softer suspension of regular models means there's a fair amount of roll and wallow. In short, the VW isn't as well controlled as exemplars such as the Ford Focus, and feel slightly lethargic. It turns in accurately enough, and the speed-sensitive steering is well weighted, but compared to the Focus, it's not a particularly engaging car to drive. Sport models, with stiffer, lower suspension, are better in this respect, with a small penalty in terms of ride quality. As for engines, the 1.6-litre FSI is the most popular petrol choice, but it isn't the last word in smoothness. It's quite at idle but is intrusive once on the move, and becomes coarse and boomy toward the upper reaches of its rev range. Yet it provides reasonable mid-range power. More impressive is the costlier 1.4-litre TSI unit, which combines supercharger and turbocharger to provide meaningful low-rev pull coupled with sprightly high-rev manners. It's a superb engine, with the performance of a larger unit yet the economy of a regular 1.6. There's also a 2.0-litre FSI that's likely to be phased out soon, plus a 1.4-litre entry-level engine that struggles with the Golf's weight. Brakes aren't class-leading due to the high kerbweight, too.

Marketplace:
Want to build an upmarket hatch? This is the benchmark by which all others are judged. The Golf is a byword for quality and comfort, and so is one of the class's most desirable cars. It certainly appears a quality item; panels gaps are thin, black plastic inserts are well executed and details such as the jewel-like light clusters and rounded door handles are unbeatable. Better still, tap a body panel and the metal sounds thick; slam a door and there's a satisfying thunk. The range of S, Match, Sport and GT models stands out alongside rivals such as the Ford Focus, Vauxhall Astra, Toyota Auris and Honda Civic. Don't forget, there are also sporty GTI and R32 variants as well.

Owning:
In terms of design, the VW is unspectacular. It's well laid out, very user-friendly and tasteful, but ultimately rather unimaginative. What saves it is its sheer depth of quality - and not only in obvious areas. Everything in the cockpit has clearly been subjected to the same rigorous checks and controls. Whether it's the beautifully damped cubby lids, the leather on the steering wheel, the blue-backlit dials or the near-silent electric mirror motors, all features have been carefully honed. We also love the wide door pockets that will hold 1-litre water bottles. Comfort is another strong suit, with masses of seat and steering adjustment, and ample space around the driver. Four adults will fit in with ease and the light, bright environment also features a high roof and classy trim. This upmarket air clearly impresses the used sector - the Golf has a superb retained value of over 50 per cent. Most models are economical too, and a large 55-litre fuel tank gives ample miles between fills. But price may be a stumbling block. This is a premium product and VW charges so. It's therefore disappointing to see only average equipment levels and expensive options.