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Golf Hatchback

Volkswagen Golf Hatchback 2.0 TDI 150 SE 5dr Review

For The Golf is brilliant to drive, and this strong, smooth 2.0 diesel engine makes it even better. SE models have loads of kit, including adaptive cruise control and a DAB radio,

Against The interior doesn't quite have the wow factor of an Audi A3's, and cheaper versions of the Golf make more financial sense to both private and company buyers.

What Car? says

5 out of 5 stars

If you need a diesel engine and want plenty of power, this is the Golf for you.

What Car? readers say

4.25

Key facts

0–60mph: 8.6 secs
Top speed: 134 mph
Average mpg: 68.9
Tank range: miles

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Features

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Size

View the whole Volkswagen Golf Hatchback range

Cheaper

More expensive

Read in full

The full Volkswagen Golf review

Performance
4 out of 5 stars
The versions we’ve tried perform well
Ride & Handling
5 out of 5 stars
Great with the more sophisticated suspension
Refinement
5 out of 5 stars
One of the Golf’s biggest strengths
Buying & Owning
4 out of 5 stars
Not cheap, but holds its value well
Quality & Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Classier than most rivals and should be reliable
Safety & Security
4 out of 5 stars
Scores very well in both areas
Behind The Wheel
5 out of 5 stars
Excellent visibility and a simple dash layout
Space & Practicality
3 out of 5 stars
Space for four adults, but boot nothing special
Equipment
4 out of 5 stars
Well kitted if you go for the mid-level SE trim

Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

The Golf is a superb all-rounder that offers everything most families will ever need. However, you still need to choose reasonably carefully.

Most versions are sensational to drive, blending an extremely comfortable ride with good body control. However, the cheaper versions (both 1.2 petrols and the 1.6 diesel) come with a less sophisticated suspension, and they don’t ride quite as serenely. They’re still more comfortable than many rivals, though.

Of the three trims, we reckon SE strikes the best balance between equipment and affordability. This brings alloy wheels, automatic lights and wipers, smarter interior trim, adaptive cruise control and a City Emergency Braking system.

Later, the range will expand to include a GTI hot hatch, which uses a 217bhp 2.0-litre turbo engine.

There will also be a Bluemotion model that averages 88.3mpg and emits 85g/km of CO2. Hybrid and fully electric models follow some time after.