The Golf's interior knocks every one of its rivals for six.

None uses the same expensive materials or has such a sensible, clear and user-friendly layout. Sporting touches, such as the turned aluminium dashboard trim, VW Racing logos and translucent blue instrument needles, are tastefully executed, and thanks to the distant windscreen, there's a sense of space.

Attention has been lavished on the driver too, who enjoys a comfortable, supportive seating position and a tactile steering wheel. The Golf's cabin really is close to faultless, and this makes it a great place to spend time.