VW Golf Estate SE BlueMotion10 | 08 | 2010Scotcars rating

    BlueMotion makes Golf estate turn green and become even more attractive

    Overview

    VW’s Golf is, and always has been, a cracking car — reliable, efficient and well built. But as a hatchback it has always had something of a drawback if you want to carry more than just a couple of overnight bags or suitcases. The Golf Estate is the answer and the latest version is the best yet. Comfort levels have been improved, it’s got a sleeker look and an increased amount of standard equipment. It comes with a choice of five engines – two petrol and three diesel.

    The test car had the 1.6-litre common rail diesel engine with 105PS, which is sufficient power for most jobs; but it also comes with the low emission and economical BlueMotion technology, which means a CO2 level of only 109g/km and average consumption of almost 70mpg. VW say they’ll sell around 3800 Golf estates in 2010 and more than 80% of them will have diesel engines. Interestingly, more than half will be sold to fleet buyers.

    It drives well in an unassuming way and feels surprisingly roomy

    On the road

    If it’s excitement you’re looking for then look somewhere else. What the Golf Estate gives is absolute practicality, economy, efficiency and reliability with very useful carrying capacity. It drives well in an unassuming way and feels surprisingly roomy, despite the fact it’s the middle of the range sitting between the Polo and the Passat. As part of the green credentials of the BlueMotion model – slightly confusing colour combinations – it comes with the start/stop function. With the engine cutting out and starting again automatically when at standstill such as traffic lights, it’s supposed to improve economy, but many drivers find it annoying and regularly switch off the system.

    Comfort & Safety

    Comfort has been significantly improved and the increased level of standard equipment is to be welcomed. It includes electronic stabilisation, electronic differential lock, traction control, automatic hill hold, and twin front and side and curtain airbags for all passengers. The test car also came with a £1445 DVD touch screen navigation system and a rear view camera which costs £160. It’s a bit of a toy but can come in useful when doing some cosy parking in the city streets.

    Should I buy one?

    For quality, reliability and practicality you’d struggle to do better.

    Alan Douglas

    Quick Stats
    Price OTR/As Tested £19,880
    Engine / Power: 1598cc / 105PS
    How fast?: 0-62mph 11.9secs  Max 118mph
    How big/heavy?: H1504mm  W1781mm L4534mm / 1445kg
    How thirsty/CO2?: Combined 62.8mpg / 109g CO2/km
    InsGP/Road tax: 18E / Band B, £35
    Alternatives: Ford Focus Estate; Vauxhall Astra Estate; Peugeot 308 Estate; Renault Megane Tourer

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