Volkswagen Golf Estate (09 on) - Review

There are three trim levels - S, SE and Sportline and all levels are available with BlueMotion Technology. The Volkswagen Golf Estate equipment list on the S trim starts with anti-lock brakes with HBA (Hydraulic Brake Assist), ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme) including EDL (Electronic Differential Lock) and traction control; driver and front, side and curtain airbags, anti-whiplash head restraints, immobiliser, central locking, air con with glovebox cooler, front and rear electric windows, electrically adjustable and heated body-coloured door mirrors with integrated indicators, body-coloured bumpers, door handles and roof spoiler, black roof rails, driver’s seat height adjustment, height and reach adjustable steering wheel, 60:40 split-fold rear seats, four load lashing points in luggage compartment plus removable load cover, multifunction computer, MP3-compatible radio/CD audio system with four speakers and 16-inch steel wheels. The SE adds 16-inch alloys, chrome window trim, carpet mats, cruise control, automatic headlights, rain sensitive wipers, an alarm, an uprated audio system with eight speakers, an auxiliary socket for MP3/iPod players, a front centre armrest with storage, driver’s and front passenger’s under-seat drawer, front seats with height and lumbar adjustment, a rear centre armrest, front seat back storage pockets, a ski flap, 12-volt socket in luggage area and carpet mats for the front and rear. The Sportline gets 17-inch alloy wheels, rear tinted windows, leather trimmed steering wheel and gear lever, part-Alcantara seat upholstery, tyre pressure indicator, front fog lights, sports seats, steering-wheel mounted stereo controls and lowered sports suspension. The BlueMotion Technology version is available with all three trims and options include parallel-parking aid Park Assist. BlueMotion Technology comprises a package of measures designed to enhance economy and reduce emissions that include brake energy recuperation, hill hold, low rolling resistance tyres, a multifunction computer with visual gear-change recommendation for optimum fuel consumption on the manuals only and stop/start. Volkswagen Golf Estate accessories are varied and options include an electric glass panoramic sunroof, a net partition that can be used with the rear seats up or folded down, metallic roof rails, a DVD touchscreen satellite navigation system, Park Assist, rear-view camera as well as air conditioning and leather upholstery upgrades. We recommend the SE model since it offers the best balance of value and equipment and, with the sat nav, should be best for resale values.