golf1By: Veeno Dewan

The Volkswagen Golf has always been a favorite with Canadian buyers and for good reason: It has a great heritage, decent build quality, fine engineering and has always been a practical, fun to drive car. It is also available in a number of permutations to suit different buyers and driver needs. Not forgetting there is a choice of gas engines and the excellent TDI diesel models that offers amazing fuel economy. The new MK7 Golf looks upmarket and smoothly refined with just   a few well-placed nips and tucks to keep it looking modern and desirable.

Our tester was a well-optioned 5-door Highline edition with a four cylinder 1.8TSI engine. Note the 1.8L mill produces a creditable 170 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include: 5-speed manual or as on our tester, a 6-speed automatic. The Highline added such niceties as 17” inch Geneva allow wheels and all-season tires, 12 way power driver seat, Chrome front grille, KESSY keyless access and a panorama tilt and slide power sunroof. Also added was a Fender premium audio sound system and LED signature daylight running lights amongst other goodies.

Novo-Golf-2017The cabin is still sublimely efficient and neat as a pin, with a choice of trim and sporty, meticulous detailing. Standard equipment includes a dash mounted 5.8-inch entertainment touchscreen unit featuring satellite radio, Bluetooth and navigation.  Our Tungsten sliver metallic tester rang in at a base price of $29,895 with the optional multimedia package adding another $2,195 to the cost.

Handling is the best part of the Golf offer excellent handling, steering and braking. Fuel economy is not bad either:  For the price it hard to find a car of this pedigree   Fuel efficient, comfortable and eminently refined the Golf   is still amongst the best in its segment.

2015 Volkswagen Golf 1.8T Highline priced from $29,895.

Price as tested with all option freight and taxes $32,090