Volkswagen Golf Hatchback (09 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 12 April 2012
As the old adage goes, 'if it isn't broke, don't fix it,' and that's certainly the path Volkswagen has followed with the Golf. This, the sixth-generation Volkswagen Golf, is technically an all-new car but shares much with the previous model - that's no bad thing as the previous generation model was a superb all-rounder. The latest car is even better with a more upmarket interior, impressive refinement and a great range of efficient engines that also offer good performance. In terms of styling the Golf is hardly revolutionary, but on the move it feels even more solid and well built than before thanks to excellent noise insulation. It's not quite as enjoyable to drive as a Ford Focus but leads the way for sophistication among small hatchbacks. There have been quite a few notable advancements on this model including a sizeable reduction in wind noise thanks to a new door design, revised window seal as well as a new, thicker windscreen. New engine mounts have also been fitted to make the car more refined. Also, buyers can opt for Volkswagen’s new Adaptive Chassis Control that allows the driver to select from normal, comfort or sport modes to change suspension, steering and accelerator response settings. The Golf is now available with Park Assist that steers the car automatically when parallel parking and it also gets a driver’s knee airbag, bringing the total number of airbags fitted as standard to seven. A new head restraint system designed to reduce whiplash injuries and optional rear seatbelt detection sensors are included along with stability control. There are three specifications: S, Match and GT, but buyers can also opt for BlueMotion Technology models for better fuel economy and reduced carbon dioxide emissions. The Mk VI Golf is slightly shorter and lower than its predecessor, but it is wider offering more room for five adults. Headroom and loadspace remains the same as before, however. It is available in three- and five-door hatchback bodystyles and for the full Volkwagen Golf review read on…
4.5 out of 5

Other Volkswagen reviews

3 out of 5

Running costs

Prices for the entry level 1.4 S model are competitive with alternatives, plus it's fairly well equipped, but you need to upgrade to an SE to get extras such as climate control and electric rear windows. All the engines are economical - even the 1.4 TSI with 160bhp, while insurance groups are in line with similar-sized cars. However, Volkswagen servicing and parts tend to be on the pricey side. Overall Volkswagen Golf running costs are affordable particularly if you opt for the diesels, which will have better resale values.

* based on most recent data

Estimated fuel cost for 10,000 miles per year

Unleaded

£1,203 - £1,574 *

Diesel

£866 - £1,233 *

The estimated fuel cost figure is a guide to how much this model will cost to fuel each year, so you can compare between cars. It's calculated by using the model's average mpg (calculated from both town centre and motorway driving) and the average fuel price. It's based on the following cost-per-litre: petrol 135p and diesel 141p. Prices are updated daily.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

Variable servicing (up to approximately 18,000 miles or two years) or fixed servicing (at every 10,000 miles or 12 months) can be chosen when new. It is possible to change from one to another during the vehicle’s life, but it can only be done when a full inspection service is due.

Warranty

Three years/60,000 miles.

Road tax (12 months)

£0.00 - £195.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

5 out of 5

Green credentials

  • A
    99
  • B
  • C
  • D
  • E
  • F
  • G
  • H
    166
  • I
  • J
  • K
  • L
  • M

CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

The Volkswagen Golf emissions levels vary according to the engine but the German car maker has focused on engine efficiency and this certainly shows when it comes to fuel economy. The BlueMotion Technology (originally known as the BlueMotion) model emits just 107g/km of CO2 and can average 69mpg while the newer BlueMotion model (introduced in October 2009) emits just 99g/km of CO2 and averages an incredible 74mpg.

Find the exact engine and CO2