VW Golf Plus
1.6 litre FSI 115 PS

This fits into the VW line up between the hatchback and the Touran. It's aimed at those without a family, but who require more flexibility that the traditional hatchback can offer. Obviously there are great similarities between Golf Plus and the Golf hatchback such as the same wheelbase and of course mechanical components and looks. This model is however higher, and has more interior space which gives greater flexibility due to more stowage areas, legroom and an intruiging rear seat. This can be shifted lenghtways and folded by using a new system. This gives an almost level luggage space. There is also a double height boot floor. I tried this out on a Heathrow run, and there were no problems with collecting my passenger and luggage.

Further differences arise in the rear lights which use LED technology and the doors, bonnet, bumpers, wings, roof, headlights are new, indeed the only items shared with the standard hatchback are the VW logo, door handles and the antenna.

I have always loved the Golf range, right from the very first model. This is no exception. The V shaped bonnet and grille show the family styling, yet are different as are the three large round headlights. Driving is, as always, a great pleasure with plenty of give in the engine department, firm grip on the road, and good economy. There are also a large number of standard features such as a radio/CD with four speakers, alloy wheels, climatic semi-automatic air conditioning and an automatic coming or leaving home light function as well as a rain sensor and an automatic dimming rear mirror.

Safety is represented by a plethora of letters in the form of ABS, ESP and EDL, even a HBA as well! When added to drivers and passengers front airbags as well as a curtain airbag scheme for both front and rear passengers, and front seat whiplash optimised head restraints, it totals a very useful set of features. Security comes in the form of remote central locking and an electronic engine immobiliser.

There are six engine variants available and we tested the 1.6 litre FSI which is a sixteen valve four cylinder unit and develops 115 PS. This direct injection unit has already seen action in the Golf hatchback and the Touran. This really does manage to combine performance and good fuel consumption. The power rating is 115 at 6000 revs, whilst torque is rated at 114 at 4000 revs. Top speed is 117mph, and the 0-62mph figures are 11.8 seconds, whilst consumption figures are 28.8, 47.1 and 38.2 for the urban, extra urban and combined cycles. CO2 emmissions are rated at 178.

With an insurance rating of 7E and an on the road price of £15,010, this adds another string to the bow of the Golf's versatility. There's one ou there perfect for you.