Volkswagen Golf

The Volkswagen Golf has become a classic compact family car over its near 50-year history. Older models are still sought after by car enthusiasts today but those wanting the latest the Golf can offer, will be impressed by the modern engine technology, characterised by economy, high torque and power.

The latest models being manufactured are the Golf Match, GT, and R-Line Editions. The R-line Edition offers the sportiest styling of the three editions. 

While there is nothing ‘basic’ about the Golf S and Match models they are essentially the cheapest options offered by VW  starting at between £21,000 to £22,700 – at the other end of the scale the GTI TCR starts at just over £38,000. 

Engine options for the front-wheel-drive Golf includes TSI petrol and TDI diesel engines. The entry-level 1-litre three-cylinder petrol unit delivers 109bhp and goes from 0-62mph in 10.2s. The bigger 1.5-litre petrol engine offers a choice of 128bhp and 148bhp and offers increased acceleration on the 1-litre engine. 

Diesel power comes in the form of a 2.0-litre TDI engine, the higher powered diesel engines provide a top speed above 130mph. VW have recently unveiled the GTE plug-in hybrid uses a turbocharged 1.4-litre engine alongside a 85 kW electric motor.

When it comes to fuel consumption The VW Golf TDI Life 115PS comes out top, offering 82 miles to the gallon with CO2 emissions of 108.  In contrast, the much higher-powered VW Golf 2.0 TSI R 300PS 4Motion DSG offers 41 miles per gallon with CO2 emissions of 195

The VW Golf was awarded a five-star safety rating by Euro NCAP in 2019 – its safety score 

The Golf is also ranked 7th overall in the list of safest family cars. 

Insurance premiums on a Volkswagen Golf can vary widely – not just in relation to your age and driving history but also the model of car you choose. The Association of British Insurers and Lloyd’s of London set your car’s insurance group from 1 to 50. In theory, the higher the insurance group, the greater your insurance premium will be

The insurance group rating on a Golf can be anything from 7 all the way up to 39  for the quicker and higher-powered cars.