Volkswagen Golf 110TDI 2013 Review

Has VW been too conservative in styling it's new Golf 7 along "generic" Golf lines? Probably. The seventh generation hatch looks like the sixth in passing though on closer inspection they are different.

The reason to buy seems diminished when you could be driving last year's car -- and becomes positively critical in the face of forthcoming competitors such as the new gen' Mazda3. However we got hold of the range topping Golf 110TDi diesel and it's an excellent car to drive, no argument.

ENGINE AND TECHNOLOGY

It runs a tried and true 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine with 110kW/320Nm output passing EU5 emissions regulations on the way. The transmission is a six-speed DSG with paddle shift. Works a treat and has handy paddle shift too.

The auto stop/start system has been changed so that it now starts the engine with a touch of the throttle instead of brake pedal lift off. It's a pain in the neck with start-up delay and hesitation being the order of the day. We turned it off... the previous system was better.

CHASSIS

VW cut weight from the new Golf thanks mostly to a better designed chassis that will see duty in numerous Audi/VW products in coming years. It gives Golf a solid feel, nimble and safe.

So does the universal fitment across the range of an XDL (Extended Diff Lock) front axle lifted from Golf GTi. It is similar to a torque vectoring system apportioning drive to the wheel with more traction and basically does away with torque steer that can plague front drive cars.

PRICE AND EQUIPMENT

Plenty of features are stacked in the $34,490 110TDi including dual zone climate control, 17-inch alloys, premium audio, excellent satnav, electric park brake and a 5.8-inch display screen covering off multi media functions. Bluetooth phone and audio is standard.

Golf 110TDi gets a reverse camera and parking sensors front and rear, auto headlights and wipers and cruise with a speed limiter. Bixenon headlights are optional at $2150, leather is another three grand and a glass sunroof adds $1850 to the test car's kick off price. More driver assist features are fitted this time around but none of the real sexy stuff coming through on other European cars and even some of the locals.

DRIVING

It handles and rides beautifully, uses minimal fuel has plenty of get-go and offers a high degree of safety and luxury features. VW implemented considerable Bluemotion efficiency technology in this car refined over the last decade to optimise performance and cut fuel use.

The test car easily achieved 4.9-litres/100km dipping well below that cruising on the freeway. And you are barely aware of the diesel engine at any speed except at start up and just moving away.

But it's bloody boring -- catering for someone who likes to play it safe rather than, heaven forbid, "do something rash." It won't offend.The car feels slightly larger than the previous model and more refined though that is by degrees rather than a big jump. The earlier car was already impressive in this regard.

Interior styling and functionality is impeccable but understated. It's not sassy like some of the Euros these days but is conservative, understated and classy. Engine performance is not a problem and you can engage better with the car by using the Eco coaching system to challenge your fuel efficient driving techniques. Don't laugh, it gets competitive.

VERDICT

Shop Golf against the new Mazda3 when it comes out.

Volkswagen Golf 110 TDI 
Price: from $34,490
Warranty: 3 years/unlimited km
Capped servicing: $876 for 3yrs (6-yr program)
Service interval: 12mths/15,000km
Resale: 58%
Safety: 7 airbags, ABS, ESC, EBD, TC
Crash rating: 5-star
Engine: 2-litre, 4-cyl turbo-diesel; 110kW/320Nm
Transmission: 6-speed dual-clutch auto; front drive
Thirst: 4.9L/100km; 129g/km CO2
Dimension: 4.3m (L), 1.8m (W), 1.5m (H)
Weight: 1326kg
Spare: space saver