We say
One of the best station wagons on the market; the Golf Estate is a solid investment if an unspectacular one.
Performance
While the engines are fairly focused on efficiency, the performance is as good as ever; even the smaller units pack a punch. If you’re worried about sluggish performance figures then go for the 2.0-litres 138bhp TDI. It clears 60mph in 9.4 seconds and hits a top speed of 130mph which is more than enough for a mid-sized estate.
Emissions
Starting off at an excellent 109g/km and progressing to a respectable 146g/km. 67mpg combined fuel economy is superb. It really depends on your engine choice which is an important one with the Golf estate. Flagship economy figures are available on the 105bhp 1.6-litre TDI with BlueMotion technology.
Driving
While the handling is nothing short of impressive, ride comfort isn’t quite up there. It’s not bad, by any means, but in a car as complete as this the firmness tends to stand out quite a bit. It’s similar in terms of drive and handling to the standard hatchback but fall just short of its class leading standards.
Feel
Engines aren’t silent, but quiet enough while road and wind noise is well shut out making it an excellent motorway cruiser. The ride is firm enough to help it round corners easily but it can feel a bit too firm and uncomfortable as a result around town.
Space
There’s ample space in the cabin and the boot is of a good size at 505-litres. There are much more practical alternatives on the market however but they’re unlikely to drive and handle as well either.
Equipment
Entry-level models get air conditioning and front/rear electric windows, but no alloys. They come in the next trim level, as do cruise control and automatic wipers.
Price
Competitively priced, relatively cheap to run and resale values are fantastic. The Golf estate is a great overall investment with prices starting at a touch under £18,000 and peaking at less than £25,000.
Quality
The interior is full of high quality materials and the fit and finish is excellent, as you’d expect of a Golf. The interior is well laid out with a simple and uncluttered centre stack but the only downsize is it looks a bit dull, being dominated by basic black and chrome-effect inserts.
Safety
Six airbags and stability control come as standard, and rear side airbags can be fitted as a cost option.
Pros
Refined, great value for money and an impressive engine line-up. It may not be quite as big as some of its mainstream competitors but its drive more than makes up for that, as do its efficient engine options.
Cons
Although not cramped, a tad more leg/head room wouldn’t go amiss in the rear. The interior could do with sprucing up a bit too because at the moment there’s a claustrophobic and dreary feel to it all.
Alternatives
Vauxhall Insignia Estate, Ford Focus Estate.