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