Volkswagen Golf Hatchback Review

Design and Engineering

Design and Engineering

 Good

Yes, you could argue the current Golf looks like a facelift of the previous model, however don’t for one minute let this stop you considering this VW - not one body panel is the same as on the outgoing Golf; VW claim that over 1,000 parts have been improved upon! As usual with this model, we’d wager that this one will still look good (and definitely not outdated) if it’s still on your driveway in five years time. On the engine front Volkswagen are leading the trend towards smaller-sized Turbo and Supercharged engines = improved fuel economy but NOT at the expense of performance!
Not so good

The current Golf VI, which arrived Down Under in February 2009, shares much of its platform with the previous generation V and the styling is definitely an ‘evolution’ rather than a ‘revolution’. This model may have a slightly shorter life span than usual as there’s talk of the next model arriving sooner than expected (2013?). Some argue that the Golf is a bland design (yet just as the Porsche 911’s design also evolves slower than most, Volkswagen aren't trying to incorporate all the latest design trends into the iconic Golf).
Interior and Styling

Interior and Styling

 Good

Class-leading interior in quality with a premium ‘feel’ (when the door pockets are lined in carpet you know Volkswagen is conscious of the little things!) Excellent visibility up front, the driver’s seat is fantastic on every grade, offering true support and long range comfort. Rear air vents standard on all grades and good second row outwards visibility. Road noise is kept to a minimum from inside the cabin… Everything inside just feels so solid - giving you the feeling the Golf’s interior will age well.
Not so good

Whilst you can’t argue against the quality or premium look & feel to the interior, some may wish for a tad more styling ‘flashiness’ inside. Air conditioning feels more prepared for European summer rather than true Aussie heat. Storage space is only on par with the competition; the boot is by no means large, however fold the rear seats down and you’d be struggling to complain.
Performance

Performance

 Good

Excellent new Petrol engines are high-tech smaller displacement units using Turbochargers or Turbo/Supercharged combo’s and direct fuel injection to continue to offer the same amount of power as competitor’s larger (and thirstier) offerings. On the Diesel front, the more powerful 103TDI (over the entry level 77TDI) produces bucket-loads of torque for effortless acceleration. VW also offer the GTD which really is a sports diesel with the 2.0L turbo producing 125kW of power and a stomping 350Nm of torque.

The GTI Hot Hatch may be significantly more expensive than the entry level petrol grades but make no mistake, the 2.0L Turbocharged Petrol engine is utterly brilliant - offering 155kW of power that always feels smooth and responsive. The range topping Golf R goes one better with 184kW and AWD for extra traction. All grades can be had with manual or either a six or seven-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG). The DSG gearboxes are a step forward from the traditional automatic gearbox and are by no means a passing fad.
Not so good

Nothing really wrong with the 77TDI (entry level Turbo Diesel variant) however, compared with the cheaper Petrol-powered 90TSI, it’s just not as much fun to drive. Yes, the R is quicker again than the already swift GTi, but not by as much as you might imagine.
Ride and Handling

Ride and Handling

 Good

From the entry level grades which feature excellent steering and feel composed & light on their feet, to the GTI with its class-leading ride & handling (the ride is significantly more composed than the previous Mark V GTI). The effort Volkswagen have spent refining the ride further over the outgoing Mark V is commendable.
Not so good

An entry level Mazda 3 may be a touch more responsive than the competing Golf when pushed hard (however the Golf is definitely more refined).
Buying and Owning

Buying and Owning

 Good

Excellent safety credentials – even the entry level grade features seven airbags as standard. Unlike most competitors, the higher spec Golf’s never feel as if their just like a base model with more ‘glitz’ and ‘features’ thrown inside, as the engine’s keep getting better as you move further up the range. As of 2009, most Golf variants can now run on 95RON petrol rather than the more expensive 98RON.
Not so good

Tick too many tasty options and the price can also quickly spiral upwards.