Volkswagen Golf 6

Our verdict

It’s a Golf MkV with a better interior. So why is so much more desirable than before?

Comfort

VW have made some serious changes to the MkV to make the MkVI, even if they share the same basic bits - and one of them has been attention to NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) issues. The new Golf is quieter, better built and simply nicer to drive than before. You'll fit the whole family in here and the whole deal is as classless as it comes. Boringly good.

Performance

The usual engine range is available in the MkVI, including a new version of the 2.0-litre EA888 motor that comes in the new GTI with 210bhp and an LSD on the front wheels. The most interesting are the ‘twincharged' (both turbo and supercharged) 1.4-litre petrols. They come in 120 and 160bhp guises and are, basically, brilliant. Fast, with a fun power delivery. The diesels also exist, and they're quieter than before, and possibly more frugal - we lost interest a bit. 

Cool

The GTI still has it. The rest are classless and good, but not cool.  

Quality

This is where the money was spent - and you really do notice it. The new interior is lovely, and the quality is up 20-percent. Everything is more damped, quieter, better finished. And all this while being cheaper to build than the mkV? Good going.

Handling

The MkVI is the MkV with some tinselly bits, so it basically feels the same - that's staid, well within the limits, but ultimately ok. Faint praise? A bit.  

Practicality

Big boot, hatchbackability, the usual stuff. Very practical. Probably THE most practical type and example of normal car world. 

Running costs

Everybody understands the Golf, so it's relatively cheap to insure if you avoid the GTI or GT variants. They also get nearly 50mpg in most guises.