Rolling over to the next generation Golf is like slipping into a new pair of soft pyjamas. I’ve just bought myself some new winter PJs, and the feel of new, warm material, a fresh look and a familiar feeling of comfort is always enjoyable, and this is a way you could describe the new Volkswagen Golf 7. Even the outgoing Golf was very good across the board, so the attraction of seeing how the latest Volkswagen Golf 7 rates will be a point of interest for a number of car enthusiasts.

First of all, the range of new VW Golfs are cheaper than ever. Along with sharp pricing, VW promise us that the Golf 7 is more economical, roomier and brimming with technology that is well advanced.

Proof of whether a car is as good as they say is always found in a drive. Slipping into the Volkswagen Golf 7 is an easy task, as the upright design allows front and rear doors to open wide for easy access. A lovely solid thud is evident in the closing of the doors – a hint of the strong design culminating in five-star safety ANCAP results. Underway, the new Golf 7 is very refined. Impressive road and wind noise control make for a relaxed ride. A supple suspension is well sorted for coping with the worst Australian tarmac, while tautness in the chassis is retained for an exciting drive home from work. VW suggest that the Volkswagen Golf 90TSI is the Golf for everyone, and this is the base model which offers everything from ride comfort to class leading road holding. Certainly, this Golf 7 model surprises with its high level of refinement and handling prowess.

Performance is always an area that commands discussion. So I reckon the Golf 90TSI is a good place for gauging how well the Golf 7 is going to impress across the range. Let’s face it; the 90TSI will be one of the models with the highest sales. Six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG transmissions are the options for utilising 90 kW of petrol propulsion. Remarkable levels of torque, 200Nm from between 1400-4000 rpm, are where this engine shines. Everyday travel in the new Golf 90TSI is masterful. Sparkling engine response across the entire rev range is enjoyable, and the 1.4 TSI engine with BlueMotion technology provides great economy.

The VW Golf 103 TSI Highline steps up the performance levels, while the big petrol entertainers are the GTI (155 kW) and R (188 kW) Golf 7 models.

Let’s consider the new Volkswagen Golf 7 diesel alternatives. I’m guessing that the VW Golf 110 TDI Highline will sell in high numbers, too. This model is exceptionally quiet for a diesel, and the economy and engine response is outstanding. Performance is usually associated with petrol engines, however, today, modern diesel engine technology excels. The high level of torque and smooth response from the VW Golf GTD astounds. This 2.0-litre turbo-diesel is a gem.

Nice subtle design tweaks have created the new Golf 7 with all the unmistakable Golf lines and characteristics. A more aggressive, determined new Golf appearance boils down to the deeper spoiler with chiselled air intakes, headlights that are sleeker and taper towards the bold VW logo in the centre of the Golf’s face, and a neater, trimmer rear-end. Though roomier than the outgoing model, the new Volkswagen Golf 7 looks as though it has lost weight and trimmed down. Actually, the wheelbase has increased 59 mm.

Now for the interior… and I love Volkswagen’s commitment to a quality design and finish. Even in the more popular models like the Golf, Up and Polo, quality is superior in its class. A Golf 7 boasts beautiful cabin materials that exude a high quality feel – be it plastic or leather. Occupants in the rear seats are very well catered for leg space and seat comfort. Base Volkswagen Golf 7 models still get features like height and reach adjustment for the leather trimmed steering wheel. Air-conditioning is still available on the 90TSI, while other models in the Golf 7 range come equipped with climate control. The base runner also gets some top equipment in the form of Bluetooth phone connectivity (with phonebook display and audio streaming), cruise control, seven airbags, a Multi-collision Brake system, daytime driving lights, ASR, EDL, ESP, XDL, ABS, Brake Assist, EBD and even a Driver Fatigue Detection system. Not bad, eh?

Competent rivals like the Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus and Mazda 3 will be ducking for cover as the new Volkswagen Golf 7 arrives and struts its stuff.

The current Volkswagen Golf 7 models include:

• Golf 90TSI
• Golf 90TSI Comfortline
• Golf 103TSI Highline
• Golf 110TDI Highline
• Golf GTD
• Golf GTI
• Golf R

For any more information on VW Golf 7 or, for that matter, any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 303 181. If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quote requests out to our national network of Volkswagen dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours. Private Fleet – car buying made easy!

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