Now in its eighth generation, most people would think that it is a sure win for the Volkswagen Golf since this class was practically created by the model way back when. So, is it our choice for this year?

Now longer and taller than before, the new Golf now falls under the Cat B COE and we reckon from the outside, it sure looks expensive like any Cat B COE car should. With a very clean look inside and out, the car feels has lines that somehow make the car longer than it actually is.

Inside, the car is as spacious as its competition but that's not the first thing that strikes you. The first thing that strikes you is its much simpler dashboard design, with a new 8.25inch touchscreen and touch controls. Also, with the gear lever now replaced with a stumpy DSG gear selector, it gives the front occupants an increased sense of space.

Driving wise, it is business as usual here - good levels of refinement and pace with a fine balance between fun-to-drive and being comfortable for the daily commute. What is new here is its 1.5-litre powerplant that pushes out 148bhp and 250Nm of twisting force to the front wheels. The car will get to the 100km/h mark from nought in just 8.5 seconds,

Thanks to its 48V mild-hybrid system, the car is said to consumes 10% lesser fuel and it comes with a fuel consumption rating of 20.8km/L.

Looking at its other rivals in the same category, it is quite a bit more accomplished than them in most ways, allowing the win to be given to the Golf without much doubt.