Introduction Now in its seventh generation the all-new VW Golf doesn't look a whole lot different from the current Golf but Volkswagen claims it is completely new. How do you improve on perfection? You don't, you make minor tweaks and keep to the original formula. Well if it ain't broke why bother fixing? The company line is that familiar looks are deliberate. VW claims the evolution of the Golf design, with the company continually refining, tweaking and enhancing the car over the years, makes the design timeless. Performance 3.0/5 We had the entry-level Golf S powered by the 84bhp 1.2-litre on test. Performance figures are not going to wow you but are average when comparing to rivals with similar outputs. This version of the Golf will get from a standing start to 62mph in 11.9 seconds and will go on to a top speed of 111mph. When at the national limit on the motorway, the Golf feels comfortable and is fairly relaxing to drive. Switch to single lane carriageways and you will have to work a bit harder. This engine is not going to be the choice for enthusiasts and when overtaking slower traffic you will have to work the smooth and direct five-speed manual gearbox. Ride & Handling 4.5/5 Shedding 100kg has improved the handling characteristics when comparing to the sixth generation. This iteration has a wider track at the front (13mm) and rides lower (28mm) as well. It may not sound like much but it has made a noticeable difference making the golf a lot more to drive. The VW Golf has plenty of front-end grip while there is a minimal amount of bodyroll. All models also come with XDS - this technology was once reserved for the halo GTI model. When cornering enthusiastically the XDS system can detect slip at the front wheels. The ESP hydraulics kick in and compensates for understeer making handling more precise and neutral. The steering is direct although it feels a tad artificial. Ford's Focus and the BMW 1 Series still have the upper hand when it comes to driver feedback Practicality 4.5/5 VW has always made good cabins and the seventh generation of the Golf is no different. Wind, road and tyre roar are minimal while the ride is excellent especially if you stick to the standard 15-inch wheels. Up front the driver and passenger are well catered for. There is a good level of support for your back and the sides are of ample height keeping you in place when cornering. You can fit three adults of average size in the rear of the latest Golf. VW has lengthened the car by 56mm longer over the previous model making the rear more spacious than ever before. The additional length means that load space has been boosted by 30 litres when comparing to the previous generation to stand at 380 litres with the seats in place. This gives the Golf an advantage over its rivals when it comes to the space race. Ford's Focus may pip the Golf when it comes to driver feedback, however, the Golf I more practical as the Focus has a smaller load space (316 litres with the seats in place). Fold the rear bench flat and the load space in the Golf expands to 1,270 - that should be more than enough for most loads. Running Costs 4.0/5 On test we drove the Golf S powered by the 84bhp 1.2-litre and it was priced from £16,495. Normally you need to select at least a mid-level trim to get a decent level of kit, however, the Golf in entry-level S trim boasts a good level of standard equipment. Highlights include Climatic semi-auto aircon, front electric windows, gear change indicator, Bluetooth, 5.8-inch touchscreen with DAB radio, Multi Device interface with iPod connection, seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag, five three-point seatbelts, ABS with ESP, XDS electronic differential lock and Isofix preparation for two rear child seats Volkswagen claims that this version of the golf will return 57.6mpg on average - in real world driving expect to achieve around the 50mpg mark. This engine is attractive to those concerned about the environment. It emits 113g/km of CO2 making it an attractive proposition for company car drivers. Motortorque Verdict 4.0/5 The seventh generation VW Golf may not have broke the mould when it comes to design, however, as an all-round package the Golf is one of the best cars in the sector. Even in entry-level S trim the kit level is incredibly high (for a Golf). Enthusiastic drivers will want more power but if you only need to get from A to B and content on pootling around town then this is the ideal package.
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