Volkswagen Golf Road Test

Volkswagen Golf

Safety plays a big part in the Volkswagen Golf and even at entry level, the car comes fitted with front and side airbags together with curtain airbags for front and rear passengers and one for the driver's knees. ABS with Hydraulic Brakes Assist (HBA), ESP with Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) and ASR traction control are all standard, too.

In terms of comfort, the driver of the S has the benefit of a height-adjustable seat, a rake and reach-adjustable steering column, easy entry seats for three-door versions, electric front windows, Climatic, semi automatic air conditioning - which also cools the glovebox - and a radio/CD player with MP3 compatibility.

The SE model adds some chrome trims automatic lights and wipers, comfort seats, 16-inch alloys, cruise control, a front centre armrest, four extra-speakers and an Auxiliary socket for the audio system.

The GT model brings in sports suspension, front foglights, Cherry red rear light clusters, tinted windows, sports seats with an Alcantara panel, 17-inch alloys and a multifunctional steering wheel.

There are a great many optional extras including DVD navigation, Park Assist and Automatic Distance Control, but for the most part, they can be considered luxuries as the Golf isn't lacking in creature comforts.

There have been some improvements to the interior too, and it's not simply that it is a quieter environment than before. Still an example of Teutonic efficiency, we are treated to a range of soft-touch materials, highlighted by chrome trim strips, a complete redesign of the instrument nacelle with white backlight dials replacing the blue glow of previous models.

The Volkswagen Golf's seating is very comfortable without being too soft and there is adequate legroom for those in the back. Shoulder room has increased a little and when the seats aren't in use they can be folded in a 60:40 ratio, to extend the luggage capacity from 350- to a maximum of 1,305-litres but unfortunately the isn't flat.

The new Volkswagen Golf is set to be as popular as the MkV; it is much more refined and quieter but still bears the all traditional VolksWagen hallmarks of safety and drivability with an element of fun and a good range of engines. That said, I'm looking forward to the GTI version.

Volkswagen Golf