Volkswagen Golf Estate 2013 pictures

The VW Golf Estate is a more practical version of the hugely popular hatchback

It shares many of hatchback's plus points, including a high-quality interior and great driving experience

Petrol, diesel and high-performance GTD diesel engines are available – as well as a hot R version

The Golf Estate tends to blend in rather than standing out, but it's a handsome car nonetheless

Key rivals for the Golf Estate include the Ford Focus Estate and Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer

Match Edition spec provides the best balance of standard kit and an affordable list price

Other trims include entry-level S and sport GT, while VW also offers a rugged Golf Alltrack Estate

We prefer the more powerful 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine to the entry-level 1.2-litre, which is a bit gutless

Diesel is still the engine of choice for most estate buyers though and VW's 1.6-litre is excellent

The GT and Match Edition can be specified with adjustable suspension to tweak the ride quality to your taste

The Golf has a five-star Euro NCAP crash-test rating and additional active safety kit can be added

All Golf Estates have a stop-start system to boost efficiency

The Golf Estate isn't thrilling to drive but can hold its own on a twisty back road

VW offers affordable monthly payments to cover servicing

The Golf Estate has a robust and high-quality interior, but it's not the most attractive design

Front-seat occupants have plenty of room and there's lots of adjustment in the seat and steering wheel

The Golf Estate's boot isn't the very biggest in the class, but it can still carry a lot

Folding rear seats boost versatility