ALTERNATIVES

FORD FOCUS ACTIVE $30,990

Euro DNA and probably the closest in character to the Golf. 134kw/240nm 1.5-litre turbo triple/eight-speed auto

MAZDA 3 G25 EVOLVE $31,190

Golf money gets you top-spec performance in the 3, with a 139kw/252nm 2.5-litre four and six-speed auto.

SKODA SCALA FROM $28,990 DRIVE AWAY

A mix of Golf VII and VIII hardware in a big, bespoke body. Less safety kit though.