How to spec a new VW Golf
27 December 2012
- Our guide to the best Volkswagen Golf models
- Engines, trims and options assessed
- What price you should pay
The Volkswagen Golf has dominated the small family car class for years, and the new, Mk7 version is the best yet.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you find the pick of the range.
Which engine should you choose?
There are currently six engines to choose from: four petrols and two diesels.
Our favourite is the turbocharged 121bhp 1.4-litre petrol, because this is smooth and punchy, yet has an average economy of more than 40mpg.
That said, if you’re a company car driver, you should probably consider going for the 103bhp 1.6-litre diesel, instead; it emits less than 100g/km of CO2, so you’ll be taxed on just 13% of its value.
The 148bhp 2.0-litre diesel and the 138bhp 1.4-litre turbo petrol with cylinder shut-off technology are also impressive, but they’re much pricier.
Which trim should you choose?
There are three options: S, SE and GT.
Even entry-level S cars come with air-conditioning, a DAB radio, Bluetooth and seven airbags.
We reckon it’s worth upgrading to SE, though, because this adds alloy wheels, automatic lights and wipers, and adaptive cruise control with city emergency braking assist.
Range-topping GT cars also get satellite-navigation and sportier styling and suspension, but they’re quite pricey.
Which options should you choose?
If you go for SE trim, the only cost options we’d recommend are metallic paint (£495) and parking sensors (£445).
Three- or five-door?
A five-door Golf will cost you £655 more than an equivalent three-door, but we reckon the extra practicality makes this money well spent.
We recommend…
VW Golf 1.4 TSI 122 SE 5dr - £19,645
Options:
Metallic paint - £495
Front and rear parking sensors - £445
Total price:
£20,585
What should you pay?
The latest Golf has only just gone on sale, but Volkswagen dealers are already willing to cut almost £1000 off the price of our favourite model.
Even bigger discounts are available online; the best we found was at Drivethedeal.co.uk, which offered a discount of around £2000.
Read the full What Car? VW Golf review
Read the full Volkswagen Golf review >>
By Steve Huntingford
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