Volkswagen Golf review

If the Volkswagen Golf were a country, it’d be Turkey. Why? Well, it’s often said that Turkey is the bridge between two worlds: literally and metaphorically, with Istanbul’s bridges spanning the Bosporus River and linking Europe to Asia. And, as the epitome of the classless automobile, the Golf has always bridged two worlds: those of mainstream family cars and their pricier, premium alternatives.

It’s an amazing feat when you think about it. The Volkswagen Golf is a car that you would be happy to be seen dead in. Anywhere. Its rivals span the entire spectrum, from humbler offerings, such as the Ford Focus, Skoda Octavia and Vauxhall Astra, to the fancier alternatives, which include the Audi A3, BMW 1 Series and Mercedes A Class.

The Golf has been around for eight generations now and, as well as aiming to maintain its usual blend of impressive practicality and driving dynamics, this latest model adds a host of clever technologies into the mix. Some are designed to enhance your experience with the car, and others, such as the mild-hybrid assistance that’s offered with some of the Golf's engines, are there to boost efficiency and performance.

But here are the big questions: does the latest Volkswagen Golf still provide the perfect balance of ‘everyday posh’ to win your affections and maintain its position as the great all rounder? Does its clever tech really add anything to the ownership experience? And how does it compare with all the other family car rivals vying for your cash?

Keep reading our comprehensive review to find out the answers. We’ll tell you all about how the latest Volkswagen Golf stacks up against its key rivals, and which engine and trim combination makes the most sense. Plus, you can head to our New Car Buying pages to discover what great savings are available on all manner of family cars; it takes just a few clicks and it’s as easy as making toast.