The new Golf Estate which launched in August last year is the third incarnation of Volkswagen’s popular load-carrier. The Golf Estate was designed to be stylish and incorporates many elements of Volkswagen’s new ‘face’, similar to that on the Eos and Jetta. With a large-capacity rear-end and a modestly powered engine line-up, the Estate version drives pleasantly enough in a safe, totally predictable manner. Light steering and gear change help make it easy to pilot and there's a feeling of security and solidity about its behaviour on the road.The 1.6-litre 102PS petrol engine is adequate for running about in, but heavy loads or long distance use will be better served by one of the diesel options. There's a 1.9-litre with 105PS, which should suit most needs, or a 2.0-litre with 140PS which has the performance to hold it's own in most situations. The 1.6 and 1.9 have a five-speed gearbox and the 2.0-litre has a six-speed, while a DSG automatic gearbox is available as an alternative on both the diesels.
The cabin provides plenty of room for those in the front, and there's easily room enough for two adults or three kids in the back. Drivers of all shapes and sizes should have no difficulty getting a good driving position thanks to fully adjustable driver's seat that includes height adjustment, and a height and reach adjustable steering wheel. The interior design is attractive with a quality that is on a par with the best rivals. The controls are all easy to find and use and the blue back-lit dials used by VW look great when the lights are on. The ride is reasonably smooth and wind and tyre noise levels are acceptable at normal speeds
This latest generation of Golf Estate brings additional versatility and load-carrying ability to the Golf range just lift the rear hatch and you'll find the largest boot. Load space is 505 litres with the seats in place, rising to 1,550 litres when the rear seats are folded flat into the boot floor. The Estate has further practical touches in the form of a bag hook in the luggage area, storage sections under the boot floor and in the side of the boot and roof rails. SE versions also have a load-through hatch in the centre arm rest. Although aimed squarely at the fleet market the Golf Estate will be a good alternative for growing families, offering plenty of space and all the usual reasons for buying a Volkswagen Golf.
