Volkswagen Golf 1.5 TSI 150 Life 5dr Review
Category: Family car
Section: Version review

The model
Read full Volkswagen Golf reviewThe VW Golf is a highly recommendable option in the family car class, but there are cheaper rivals that are more spacious inside and better to drive, and premium rivals with better infotainment systems and higher-grade interiors. We think the best version is the 1.5 TSI 150 engine and the entry-level Life trim.
The trim
See full equipmentWe'd stick with this entry-level trim. It comes with pretty much all you really need, including single-zone climate control, 16in alloy wheels, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear knob, automatic lights and wipers, adaptive cruise control, LED headlights, a digital Active Info Display, 10-colour interior ambient lighting, wireless phone charging, front and rear parking sensors, traffic sign recognition, front and rear centre armrests, front-seat adjustable lumbar support, and a 10.0in infotainment touchscreen with sat-nav, Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto and a DAB radio.
The engine
See full engine specsThe 1.5 eTSI 150 petrol mild hybrid also has 148bhp, but with assistance from its electric motor it has a broader spread of shove than the 1.5 TSI 150. It's happier to lug harder in higher gears and feels pretty brisk flat out — enough to see you past a BMW 118i should you line up next to one at the lights — and its standard auto 'box is responsive when you kick it down. Should also manage to average well over 40mpg if you drive it sensibly, although the 1.5 TSI 150 with a manual gearbox is actually more fuel efficient.