Volkswagen Golf On the road

VW has a similar driving experience to Audi – no big surprise as they share platforms. But despite offering lots of grip and fast steering, Golf feels less sporty. Still, XDS electronic diff lock gives sense of stability

AS with its competitors here, the seventhgeneration Volkswagen Golf was introduced in 2012. It’s been a strong contender in the class since launch, with regular adjustments to the range keeping it competitive. Here we test the R-line Edition, with the Edition suffix denoting that it has additional equipment. We try the 2.0 TDI diesel with a six-speed manual transmission, although the car in our pictures features VW’S six-ratio DSG twin-clutch automatic gearbox. whose lower edge is picked out by a flash of silver trim. There’s additional silver detailing on the grille between the headlights, while the Golf’s nose wears a subtle R-line badge.

Overall, however, the VW looks rather ordinary sat next to its rivals here. Its upright lines aren’t helped by the reserved colour choices, with the car only really standing out if you go for optional red, white or silver. There’s no faulting either the quality of the paint finish or the tight panel gaps, though.

It’s a similar story inside, where R-line trim adds a touch of sporty style but not a lot else. There’s two-tone black and grey cloth upholstery, while R-line branding adorns the steering wheel and sports seats. Aside from that, it’s standard Golf all the way, with plenty of soft-touch plastics and a straightforward dashboard layout.

The Edition part of the model name refers to extra equipment, which comprises a different alloy wheel design and panoramic sunroof. These elements total £1,730 individually, but the upgrade to Edition trim costs only £250 over the R-line model. Other standard kit includes adaptive cruise and satellite navigation, although climate control and xenon lights are extra. At least VW’S options are slightly better value than they are for the A3.

“R-line trim is more of a cosmetic upgrade than anything else, and you could save cash by going for a GT Edition instead. You get similar kit, and upgrades add new wheels and a sunroof – and you save £995, too.”

Senior road tester