Volkswagen Golf Estate (Mk8) review

Overall the Golf Estate is as grown-up and refined as it has ever been. The base 1.0-litre 3cyl is no more, meaning your entry point is now the 1.5-litre 4cyl. It’s a willing engine that still manages to be quiet and refined, especially at motorway speeds.

There’s only 113bhp and 148lb ft of torque being sent to the front wheels so it does struggle when fully loaded, but it’s a novelty to have three pedals and the 6spd manual gearbox is as precise as it needs to be.

In fact, the main problem isn’t to do with the drivetrain itself – it manages a respectable 0-62mph time of 10.2 seconds and tops out at 126mph – the issue is that the more powerful 148bhp four-cylinder is only just over a grand more.

Both are available as mild hybrids, which also brings with it a seven-speed DSG gearbox. The added electric tech helps smooth out any turbo lag, and appease your eco conscience. No plug-in hybrids available here, mind.

What about the diesels?

Volkswagen says the most popular car in the range is the 113bhp 2.0 diesel, perhaps an indication of the sort of cheapo fleet buyers who like VW Golf Estates. It hits 62mph in 10.5 seconds.

The more powerful diesel manages 0-62mph in 8.4 seconds and (like you care) hits 139mph at the top end. It pulls well enough, has even better motorway manners than the petrol and would be the best choice if you’re planning to tow.

Quick word on fuel economy: all petrol Golf Estates are rated in the low- to mid-50s for miles per gallon, while the both diesel Golf Estates are rated in the high-50s to mid-60s. Of course, it entirely depends on how/where you drive them.

What’s the ride like?

Lower spec cars get a simple torsion beam rear suspension setup that doesn’t lend itself to a particularly engaging drive, but means the ride is slightly softer than you’ll find in something like a Ford Focus Estate. The Octavia Estate is spongier still, though.

The larger engines are combined with more advanced multi-link rear suspension that improves handling and feel, while R-Line models get firmer sporty set-ups. There’s even optional Dynamic Chassis Control that offers Sport, Comfort and Normal modes if you’re willing to get the wallet out. But we’d suggest that £720 would be better spent elsewhere.