Volkswagen Golf 2012 Review

RETROSPECTIVE
Now in its sixth generation, the Volkswagen Golf was first introduced in
1974 and is often considered the spiritual successor to the Beetle. In
its time, more than 25 million examples have rolled off the production
line, making it the world’s third-bestselling car. Golf draws its name
not from the silly game with sticks, but rather the German wording for
the Gulf Stream. This is a warm current that transects the Atlantic, not
a wind as is the case with many other VW model names.

The steering is nicely weighted and provides good feedback. The car is a joy to drive fast, slow and everything in between. It was also the smoothest car on the speed-hump test and felt most athletic when loaded with four passengers. The stability control system is also one of the best in the group; unobtrusive but very effective at keeping the car planted.

The turbocharged 1.2-litre engine is uber zippy and the seven-speed DSG ensures the engine is always operating at its sweet spot. It's arguably the best transmission in the group from a performance sense.

From the outset, the Golf makes for a compelling value equation, and we really liked this car because, like most VW’s it does everything very efficiently. All the controls work well and it's also the most frugal car in this test -- by almost half a litre! However, the equation starts to fall apart when you factor in higher servicing costs and insurance costs, which could be expensive due to the turbo engine. Furthermore, P-plate drivers in some states cannot drive a Golf 77TSI (without a government-approved exemption) because of its turbocharger.

Boot space of 350 litres was middle of the road in this group, while cupholders and storage cubbies were adequate but not outstanding.

The seats left a little to be desired -- flat and firm, generally. However, the VW was the only car in the test with rear air vents: a plus for family buyers. Interior room was also very good, with generous space for front occupants in all directions, and the best rear-seat headroom of the pack. The Golf also had the equal best kneeroom and interior width was in the top three.

Other features missing include auto headlamps, cruise control, a full-size spare wheel and reversing sensors. Now we know how Volkswagen got the price of the Golf to match its Asian competitors…

Price: $21,990 ($24,490 as tested)

See how each of the 10 cars went in the Small Car mega test:

motoring.com.au's Small Car road-test comparison:

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