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By first impressions of the fifth generation bestseller it is obvious that a Golf, because of its very broad customer range, has to look very sensible, which it really does. But in particular the two-litre diesel version also has quite a whiff of mad fun about it, that jumps at you the very moment you take a seat behind the steering wheel: a compact diesel that displays 260 km/h on the dashboard? That makes you want to hit the road for a quicky.
To put it in a nutshell: this engine accelerates like hell! And, combined with the standard six speed manual gearbox you could almost cruise through town shifting through idle revs smoothly without touching the accelerator. The extremely mighty torque of this motor and the well crafted and finely adjusted transmission make it possible.
Pushed to its limits on windy roads mothers little electronic helpers rule down the slightest outbreaks of the already quite perfect Golf chassis. Enjoyable: Even the hood closes with almost the same solid "thump!" the doors make and the interior designers integrated a bottle opener into the double cup holder in (for Volkswagen) an astonishing attempt to act playful.
One thing customers have to get accustomed to is the very bright direction indicator lights on the corners of the exterior side mirrors that will irritate sensitive drivers at night.
The (tested) Sportline version is equipped with six airbags, fog lights, power windows in front and rear, heated side mirrors, air conditioning, alloy wheels, sport chassis, leather trim for gear shift, hand break and steering wheel and radio/CD player. Additionally available: alarm system and rain sensor for the wipers.
You'd like to have a look at our test of the Volkswagen Golf Plus to compare? Here you go!
Driving the new VW Golf TDI
Engine/Powertrain * * * * *
We liked: With 320 Nm torque beginning at 1750 rpm this is a diesel engine with all the power you could ask for. And even driving roguishly at full throttle all the time won't make it all together thirsty.
We didn't like: The typical noises of a diesel engine and vibrations could be less.
Comfort * * * *
We liked: Outstanding sport seats capable for long distance travels that offer good hold and are nicely variable. Many intelligently situated storage panels.
We didn't like: In spite of the standard radio/CD player VW did not bother to integrate speakers in the rear. The pocket for the drivers sunglasses is too small.
Driving Characteristics * * * * *
We liked: Secure passenger feeling even when driving at limits, because of the very rigid car-body. The steering wheel has a good touch to it, the gearshift is easy going. The chassis is well trimmed to the demands of the powerful engine.
Room Capacities/Variability * * * *
We liked: Rear seats are asymmetrically foldable, Isofix-childseat-embodyment, 350 litres luggage capacity, 1305 litres with folded back seats, good headroom, leg room in the back is average of segment, spacious door panels.
Performance * * * *
Top speed: 203 km/h. Acceleration: 0 – 100 km/h in 9,3 seconds. Fuel consumption during test: 7,7 litres/100 km. Price (VW Golf Sportline TDI 4 doors in March 2008): 25.100 Euro (price in Germany including taxes)
Data From the Manufacturer
Engine
Four cylinders in line, 1968 ccm, 103 kW/140 hp at 4000 rpm, 320 Nm from 1750 to 2500 rpm, four valves per cylinder, two overhead camshafts, turbocharger with intercooler, direct fuel injection
Powertrain
front wheel drive, six-speed manual gearbox.
Chassis and Body
self supporting body; McPherson struts with wishbone in front, rear axle with separate suspension-damper arrangement; anti-roll bars in front an rear, coil springs, telescope dampers.
Tyres, Breaks and Steering
brake discs in front and rear, ABS, EBD, traction control as standard, hand brake on the rear wheels; electromechanical power steering, fuel capacity 55 litres, tyres 205/55 R 16, wheels 6,5 Jx16.
Dimensions and Weights
wheelbase 2578 mm, length 4204 mm, width 1759 mm, height 1485 mm, kerb weight 1155 kg, maximum weight 1780 kg, 10,9 metres turning circle.
Consumption
for 100 km (according to company): urban 7,1, extra-urban 4,5, mix 5,4 litres diesel oil.
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