Volkswagen Golf GTi

The Volkswagen Golf GTI – the car that invented a genre – is back on top form. Recent power boost only adds to the appeal. Not the lairiest hot hatch, but the most capable.

• Comfort

  OK the suspension is firm - though never harsh - but the superb seats, well-arranged driving position and excellent refinement mean you never step out of a GTI feeling pummelled.

  

• Performance

  The engine delivers like a big V8 - there's loads of torque from well down the rev range, and nothing you'd call lag but just a slight softness answering the accelerator pedal. The combination of turbo and direct-injection means superb manners. It revs happily too, and kicks out a muted but cheeky exhaust as it goes up to the redline.

  

• Cool

  An effortlessly cool charmer, the GTI causes no-one any offence and lots of people to swoon.

  

• Quality

  The Golf cabin is nicely made but businesslike, having little of the jewellery of an Audi. Maybe that simplicity suits the GTI's purpose, but we wouldn't mind a few more soft-touch surfaces. The Golf bodyshell feels super-solid and reassuring as ever, and well up to the turbo's pummelling.

  

• Handling

  It's lithe and fluent, with heaps of front-end grip, loads of warning that the purchase is running out, and an easy nature when it does. The steering is accurate and ever-helpful, too. The joy of a GTI is that you can push it because you know it's always on your side.

  

• Practicality

  Hot hatches are already practical, but the Golf beats most of them, thanks to the big boot and the way it can go from lairy to restful as you change driving style. The DSG box makes town driving a breeze too.

  

• Running costs

  Low depreciation is the GTI's trump, but of course insurance and fuel costs will give you a predicable beating.