Car Statistics: Volkswagen - Golf Series 09 (4 stars)

Styling (4 stars)

Volkswagen has been criticised for being too conservative with the new Golf which looks largely unchanged. Light clusters and the front grille benefit from Scirocco-esque styling which has sharpened up the looks slightly. But as the saying goes

Handling (4 stars)

The Golf is not the most dynamic car in its class, but it is still very competent. Sharp steering makes it fun as well as effortless to drive and the supple suspension gives the car good composure through corners.

Comfort (4 stars)

Tweaks to the car's suspension have given the Golf a more supple ride and it handles bumps with little drama. Volkswagen has also been working to improve soundproofing in the cabin which now makes it one of the quietest in its class. There's a little wind noise still at motorway speeds, but nothing the stereo won't mask.

Quality (5 stars)

Volkswagen has always set the benchmark with the Golf in terms of quality and this car simply raises the bar further. High quality materials and soft touch plastics all around the cabin not only look good but should stand the test of time. Creaks and rattles are very unlikely and reliability is not usually an issue with VW's.

Performance (4 stars)

There's a decent range of engines producing from 80bhp to 160bhp. Of the petrol units, the TSI 122 and TSI 160 both offer brisk and responsive performance with the TSI 160 capable of 0-60mph in 8 seconds. The 2.0-litre TDI is available in 110 and 140bhp, the latter having excellent low-down torque for quick overtaking and can hit 62mph in a pretty nippy 9.3 seconds.

Roominess (4 stars)

The size of the Golf remains unchanged from the previous model, and as a result there's no extra leg or headroom and boot space is also the same. However, there was never a complaint with the amount of space before and, although the rear lends itself better to two rather than three adults, it's possible to sit a couple of six-footers in the back with little difficulty.

Costs (4 stars)

The TSI units are surprisingly frugal, given their performance. Both offer 45mpg on the combined cycle whilst the diesel unit offers 57.6mpg (in both 110 and 140 versions). The maximum VED band across the range is H (under new VED bands from March 2009), although most models will fall into bands D, E and F costing £120-£125 per year.

Value (4 stars)

The Golf isn't short on equipment and the mid spec SE gets 16-inch alloys, cruise control, radio/MP3 with 8 speakers, aux port, rain sensor and auto headlights. GT spec adds Alcantara seats, leather trimmed steering wheel and gear knob and 17-inch alloys. There is a bit of a steep price curve as you go up the model range but it does feel like you're getting your money's worth.

Stereo (4 stars)

The standard radio/CD player is a competent bit of kit, particularly in SE specification which includes 8 speakers and an Aux port as standard. For the full beans though there's the optional DVD touch screen and navigation kit which really is state of the art in-car entertainment. A slightly cheaper option is the RCD 510, a touch screen radio system still, minus the sat nav.