What's it like to drive?

Engines include a fine, flexible 150bhp 2.0-litre direct-injection petrol and a 103bhp 1.9 turbodiesel with plenty of low- and mid-range clout. Most fun to drive is the punchy 138bhp 2.0 TDI, but our favourite is the 1.6 FSI petrol. For more performance still, there's the GTI. The car is sharp, stable at speed and controlled, even a little firm over urban potholes. It mostly rides well, though. Electric power steering gets weightier with speed but does not give enough feedback. Front-wheel-drive versions have good grip and traction, so it's not worth paying more for four-wheel drive. Modern VW diesels are not the sweetest-sounding things and the 1.9 and 2.0 always advertise what type of power unit they are. The 2.0 petrol is hushed, but the 1.6 can be boomy. Wind noise is not an issue at UK speeds and road noise is rarely present. Most of the controls are smooth, although the manual gearshift baulks a bit.

What's it like inside?

The last Golf set new standards for small-hatch build and trim quality. The new one preserves what we're used to. However, some surfaces are not as classy, and the doors don't shut with the same solid thunk. All cars come with six airbags, anti-lock brakes and stability control as standard (previously it was an option on some Golf's). There are also active front head restraints to minimise whiplash injuries. Every Golf has deadlocks, and SE models and above get an alarm. The bigger cabin translates into more head and shoulder room up-front. The ratchet seat-height adjustment and two-way adjustable steering remain, while more big-car driver aids, such as automatic lights and wipers, are available. The stout screen pillars create blind spots as before, however. Rear passengers benefit most from the larger overall proportions of the latest Golf. Access to the rear is better, and there's adequate space there for two large adults or three children. The three-door models have a tilt-and-slide mechanism on the front seat. There's a bigger boot, too.

Will it break the bank?

The Golf occupies a special place in UK buyers' hearts, and this helps to keep resale values among the highest in this class. The new range of small-capacity petrol and diesel engines promises superb fuel economy, and low tax groups make the Golf an attractive company car proposition. Servicing and insurance costs and contract hire rates are respectable, too.