Volkswagen Golf SE 2.0 TDI

Jul 12 2009 Mike Torpey

A CASUAL observer gazing at the latest Volkswagen Golf could be excused for wondering how it could become Europe's most successful car.

It doesn't possess the wow factor of some models, looks functional rather than daring inside and isn't even a giveaway price.

Yet a staggering 26 million have been sold since the car's launch 35 years ago and its popularity shows no signs of waning.

So what's the magic formula? The answer is more than just a balance of size, price and performance. It's the fact the Golf is a model that not only has a rock solid build but also one that retains its value - big time.

It's a car that buyers can rely on and the sixth generation, which went on sale earlier in the year, is no exception.

Evolution than revolution has consistently been the watchword and while the differences between the Mk6 and its predecessor are many - every part you can touch is actually new - the changes are also subtle.

Visually the car's lines are soft and angular with more than a hint of the Scirocco coupe in the design. Most noticeable though is the near elimination of noise.

It's achieved through a combination of sound-damped windscreen, new door and window seals and upgraded engine mounting system. The result is the quietest Golf yet produced.

And it is frugal too, with diesel engines capable of returning almost 60 miles per gallon while CO2 emissions from most of the 24 derivatives are below 140g/km.

A mix of powerplants on offer comprise four petrol and two common rail diesel units, the latter pair producing 110 and 140ps, while the arrival of BlueMotion and GTI models is imminent.

The tested model was the lower powered oil-burner which nonetheless has ample punch, is very quiet, averages more than 50mpg and is agile and reassuring to drive with its slick five-speed manual gearshift.

It's also safe. For the first time seven airbags, including a knee airbag for the driver, are fitted as standard and the Golf was recently also awarded a maximum five-star rating in the new EuroNCAP crash test programme.

Interior comfort remains adequate for four - loads of head and legroom, even with the front seats slid fully back - but things aren't ideal for a centre rear passenger, whose legs have to splay either side of the transmission tunnel.

If there's a criticism of the cabin it's that for all its accessibility and styling it all looks a bit dark and drab.

Kit is comprehensive, but extras are available like automatic cruise control, touchscreen satnav and Volkswagen's brilliant Park Assist system - a steal at £445 - which enables the car to park itself.

Which leaves the question that shouldn't really need asking - can you fit a golf bag and clubs in a VW Golf?

The answer of course is yes. Providing you place the driver separately.

FAST FACTS

Volkswagen Golf SE 2.0 TDI 5dr

Price: £17,465

Mechanical: 110ps, 1,968cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 5-speed manual gearbox.

Max speed: 120mph

0-62mph: 10.7 seconds

Combined mpg: 57.6

Insurance group: 6

CO2 emissions: 128g/km

BiK rating: 18%

Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles