Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TDI Life 5dr Review
Category: Family car
Section: Version review
The model
Read full Volkswagen Golf reviewThe Golf is a highly recommendable option in the family car class – thanks in part to its solid blend of ride and handling, and the frugality promised by its petrol engines – 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.
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 specsUnlike many rival’s similarly powerful diesels, this 113bhp is a whole 2.0-litres in capacity. It pulls strongly from lower revs than any of the regular petrol engines making for relaxed progress if you’re not in a hurry. When worked harder it isn’t as smooth or as quick as the 1.5-litre petrols yet it costs more than our preferred 1.5 TSI 150. We’d therefore only recommend it if you’re a high-mileage driver who’ll benefit from the very impressive fuel economy.
