Volkswagen Golf SportwagonTrendline

Base price: $24,195

Price as tested: $24,195 A blast to drive, responsive, nimble, light on its feet and ready to bond with drivers attuned to performance.

We like: All the plusses of an SUV without the bulk.

We’d like: A VW campaign to make the wagon “cool.” Engine: 1.8-litre 4-cylinder Power/torque: 170 hp/200 lb-ft

Fuel Consumption L/100 km: 9.3

city, 6.7 hwy.

What’s best: “Delight-to-drive”

factor could make wagons cool again.

What’s worst: Base interior on the

bland side.

Must-have option: Navigation is slick with the infotainment system.

Value for money: Fun to drive, practical design meets needs of a family.