Now in the fifth generation, the largest criticism being levelled in the car is the fact that it doesn’t look sufficiently new; Volkswagen Design’s procedure for evolution is really deeply entrenched it looks like another facelift model, as opposed to the entirely new car that it’s.

Leave that aside and also the car is very good. Offered initially in 3-door and 5-door variants (an estate will follow) with a range of petrol engines from the modest 1.4 petrol up to and including 150PS 2.0 litre, along with a pair of diesels with either 105PS or 140PS, the vehicle has the expected degree of performance and handling that Golf buyers have started to take for granted.

Larger than previous Golfs, the primary benefit is increased interior space and heightened safety levels.