There aren't many car names on Earth that are as revered as the Golf. We hear that a lot nowadays, but that is only because the motoring icon has just gotten more popular on local shores with the launch of the seventh generation.
Frankly speaking, prior to my acquaintance with the current Golf (and the previous model), it didn't quite appeal to me. The name itself is an irony - why would someone call it Golf when it barely fits a golf bag?
On hindsight, how wrong can the recipe be when it is already in its seventh incarnation?
Moreover, it has achieved iconic status in the automotive world - being one of the first names to pop up when you think of hunchback automobiles.
As luck has it, we take the base variant of the latest Golf for a spin to find out more about its root appeal.
Frankly speaking, prior to my acquaintance with the current Golf (and the previous model), it didn't quite appeal to me. The name itself is an irony - why would someone call it Golf when it barely fits a golf bag?
On hindsight, how wrong can the recipe be when it is already in its seventh incarnation?
Moreover, it has achieved iconic status in the automotive world - being one of the first names to pop up when you think of hunchback automobiles.
As luck has it, we take the base variant of the latest Golf for a spin to find out more about its root appeal.
Exterior
From pictures alone, it is hard to tell if the new Golf has changed at all. Discerning readers may have spotted the sharp, crisp folds running down its bonnet and the tapered lamps. One, however, will have better luck in telling them apart up close and personal.
For starters, the hatchback is now noticeably longer and wider. In fact, it has grown in all dimensions (except its height), and that gives it a better on-road stance compared to its fore-bearers.
Despite taking on extra inches on its sheet metal, the Golf remains instantly recognisable - the timeless styling and proportions which put a direct link to its age-old heritage.
Interior
The Golf's interior is a huge step forward from the previous. From the driver's position, the consoles and panels are more ergonomically sound. The controls flow around the driver, which makes operating a fuss-free affair.
It is no surprise that the new car took on more gadgetry niceties - touchscreen infotainment display, driving mode selection, etc. The steering wheel has also gained a couple more buttons - the downside being it feels slightly more complicated than before.
However, our short two days spent with the car showed that it was easy for you to be accustomed to the arrangement, and be able to operate them without taking your eyes off the road.
The Golf's interior is a huge step forward from the previous. From the driver's position, the consoles and panels are more ergonomically sound. The controls flow around the driver, which makes operating a fuss-free affair.
It is no surprise that the new car took on more gadgetry niceties - touchscreen infotainment display, driving mode selection, etc. The steering wheel has also gained a couple more buttons - the downside being it feels slightly more complicated than before.
However, our short two days spent with the car showed that it was easy for you to be accustomed to the arrangement, and be able to operate them without taking your eyes off the road.
Another noteworthy mention is the choice of material used in the trims and panels. The plastics are soft to touch and feel more premium. Likewise, the seats are supportive and comfortable - good for the commute home after a long day at work.
Credits to the longer wheelbase, the rear quarters are more adequately spaced - no trouble for fitting three adults abreast. Boot volume has also increased to 380 litres - 30 litres more than its predecessor.
Credits to the longer wheelbase, the rear quarters are more adequately spaced - no trouble for fitting three adults abreast. Boot volume has also increased to 380 litres - 30 litres more than its predecessor.
The Drive
Being the entry level variant in the family often means that there is nothing to shout about in the way it drives. That, however, isn't all true with the Golf.
The 1.4-litre now puts out 122bhp and 200Nm of torque - figures which do not seem short of at first glance. Similarly, the base Golf never felt lacking when put to the test. On the move, it still gets up to pace in a deciding manner.
However, should you decide to rev it to cloud nine and gun it down the straights, the powerplant will start to feel a little strained - as if it did not like to be driven hard.
Instead, putting your foot down in a gentler manner will be rewarding. This, especially at the pumps - the Golf achieved a fuel economy of 13km/L during our test run.
Being the entry level variant in the family often means that there is nothing to shout about in the way it drives. That, however, isn't all true with the Golf.
The 1.4-litre now puts out 122bhp and 200Nm of torque - figures which do not seem short of at first glance. Similarly, the base Golf never felt lacking when put to the test. On the move, it still gets up to pace in a deciding manner.
However, should you decide to rev it to cloud nine and gun it down the straights, the powerplant will start to feel a little strained - as if it did not like to be driven hard.
Instead, putting your foot down in a gentler manner will be rewarding. This, especially at the pumps - the Golf achieved a fuel economy of 13km/L during our test run.
Over bumps and humps, the smaller shoes (size 16) help to give a more serene ride, soaking up undulations with ease. And despite being the 'less sporty' model, the Golf will still make for a decisive and confident drive - especially when put in 'Sport' mode where the steering is more weighted.
Conclusion
The latest Golf is no doubt an accomplished player in the field of automotives. The good all rounder boasts greater refinement and is more efficient than before, which makes it a potent contender in its segment.
As of 20th June, the base Golf retails at $129,300, while the 'Sport' variant costs a $14,000 premium at $143,300. While the greater power is definitely more delectable, we reckon the base Golf is every bit as convincing as its costlier brother.
Conclusion
The latest Golf is no doubt an accomplished player in the field of automotives. The good all rounder boasts greater refinement and is more efficient than before, which makes it a potent contender in its segment.
As of 20th June, the base Golf retails at $129,300, while the 'Sport' variant costs a $14,000 premium at $143,300. While the greater power is definitely more delectable, we reckon the base Golf is every bit as convincing as its costlier brother.
