Volkswagen Golf 2009-2012

Lambasted for being too bland at launch, the Golf is scheduled for an extensive redesign by the summer of 2008. Its main problem areas are a too-long front overhang and a blobby and featureless rear-end, especially in three-door models. Nice wheels on new models help, but it’s no future classic.

The 1.4 is too slow, but the majority of the range can reach 100km/h in 11-12 seconds, making it a peppy car overall. The R32 can reach 100km/h in 6.2 seconds, but the GTi is only 0.7 seconds behind it, while even the low-power 1.4 TSi can hit 60 in 8.8 seconds.

The Golf might have a sophisticated rear suspension set-up, but it can’t match the Focus for driver involvement. There’s less steering feel and more body-roll, but the trade-off is a smooth and cossetting ride. It’s just a little too mature for its own good, though sport models are serious fun.

The Mk V may not have raised the bar like the Mk IV did, but it still shames rivals with its superb quality, flawless ergonmic layout and superb driving position. Some plastics are a little hard, though, and the red illumination is an aquired taste.

The upshot of the relaxed handling is a plush and cossetting ride that isolates occupants from most road imperfections. The quiet cabin is also well finished and feels indestructible, even if some of the plastics are a little hard.

Every Golf comes with a simplified version of traction control, side and curtain airbags, three 3-point seat belts and headrests in the back, and ISOFIX seat mounts. Only the lack of ESP counts against this 5-Star car.

Despite its small family-car status, the Golf is actually rather massive inside. Rear seat accommodation is particulalry impressive, while the boot is also vast and easily accessed. There are even adequate storage nooks in the dashboard!

Golfs are not the cheapest cars to buy or run, but they will reward you with strong residuals. They also offer most features as standard now, but air conditioning is an expensive €1,500 option on many models. Diesels are the best buy, but colour and spec matter for resale.

Because of the lukewarm response to the car when it was first launched, VW added a lot of features as standard. Air conditioning and ESP are expensive options, but otherwise the Golf wants for nothing and even has some nice features like remote control windows and a six-speaker stereo.

The Golf's massive engine range includes four 1.4s, two 1.6s, two 1.9 TDis, two 2.0 TDis and two 2.0-litre engines, as well a stonking 3.2 V6. The turbo-charged and supercharged 1.4 TSis are the pick of the range, offering decent performance and low running costs (especially new 122hp version).