For The VW Golf 1.2 TSI 105 S is the cheapest model in the range and averages almost 50mpg. It even looks pretty well equipped, with air conditioning, electric front windows and the full safety kit.

Against The diesel-engined models have better economy and more grunt, while we also think SE trim is worth the extra it costs.

Volkswagen Golf Estate

What Car? says

4 out of 5 stars

We're yet to drive a VW Golf 1.2 TSI 105 S, so for now our favourite model remains the 1.4 TSI 122.

What Car? readers say

4.6


Key facts

0–60mph
11.3 secs
Top speed
111 mph
Average mpg
48.7
Tank range
589 miles
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Features

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Size

View the whole Volkswagen Golf Estate range

Cheaper

More expensive

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The full Volkswagen Golf review


Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

It may not be immediately obvious, but this VW Golf estate is based on the previous-generation Golf, so it doesn't have quite the same high levels of quality as the latest hatchback.

Likewise, although this isn't the largest estate in its class, what space you do get is well shaped and pretty practical, with extra space under the boot floor.

You also have a fine range of engines. Cheapest is the 1.2 TSI, but the pick for average-mileage drivers is the 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol. High-mileage motorists have a choice of three diesel engines. We’d avoid the weedy 89bhp 1.6 TDI, but the 113bhp version is a much better bet and decent value, too. The 2.0 TDI is a fine engine, but also the most expensive, leaving our favourite engine as the 1.4 TSI.

Whichever you choose, go for SE trim, which comes with all the kit most drivers will need, including air-conditioning, alloys, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, an alarm and a socket to plug your iPod into.

Reader test team says:

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