VOLKSWAGEN was not the only manufacturer offering a practical and affordable hatchback when it introduced the Golf in 1976, but by pioneering a level of desirability not previously seen in the segment, it made the car an icon.

In the 37 years since its introduction, almost every manufacturer has tried to copy the Golf recipe but, to a degree, no other marque has quite managed to take its crown.

The outgoing Golf 6 carried the flag well with strong sales both in Australia and worldwide, but can the new Golf 7 maintain its position amid the ever-advancing challengers?

In short, yes – after driving a 110 TDI diesel version, we think those canny Germans have shifted the bar up to a whole new level.

Click the Our Opinion link for the full review…