Volkswagen Golf Hatchback Black

At launch there will be a relatively limited range of engine options for the new Golf but Volkswagen has already revealed ambitious plans for a much broader line-up, comprising regular petrol engines, more efficient ‘mild’ hybrid versions of the same branded eTSI with advanced stop-start functionality, plug-in hybrids and traditional diesels. From entry-level 90 horsepower petrols to a fire-breathing 300 horsepower GTI there will – in time – be a Golf to suit all tastes but for now the power differences are fairly discreet. We tested the mid-range 1.5-litre TSI petrol, which offered satisfactory, if ultimately modest, performance. Power begins to rise more sharply with the forthcoming plug-in hybrids, the most powerful of which offers 245 horsepower. Speed demons will have to wait a while for even quicker models, in the form of the GTI, GTI TCR and Golf R, to be released. As for handling, the Golf feels secure, inspires confidence and is occasionally fun to drive. The adaptive chassis control feature allows drivers to tailor the firmness of the car’s suspension, the sharpness of the steering and the responsiveness of the engine to their particular preference, though the default setting provides a good balance between comfort and engagement.