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Volkswagen has surprised with the Golf, however, by switching back to a ‘traditional’ torque-converter transmission for all but the performance Golf GTI and Golf R models. It is a welcome return, as the Golf’s main powertrain concern of a jerky transmission has almost been resolved with this new automatic.
It does sport an aggressive calibration and can feel snatchy in certain environments, but that is a shallow criticism compared to the past. Gearshifts are swift and do not interrupt the relaxed ambience of the cabin, though the old dual-clutch did downshift a little faster and cleaner. The most noticeable improvement is in stop-start traffic, where the Golf gains a new sense of smoothness, being easier to drive and feeling more regular. Reverse parking up a slight incline is now an easier task too.
All are worthwhile improvements coming with no nasty side effects to performance or economy. The 1.4-litre turbocharged engine produces 110kW and 250Nm, identical to the previous Golf. The newer engine is calibrated differently, however, now making peak power at 5000rpm, or 1000rpm lower, and holding peak torque for 500rpm longer between 1500–4000rpm.
The mill is satisfactory for the job. With one or two on board, there is no shortage of poke for the everyday commute. We found fuel usage to be excellent, and the stop-start system not intrusive enough to go searching for the ‘off’ function.
When fully loaded with five adults and their associated gear, faster situations like a freeway merge will require burying of the accelerator pedal. Such scenarios will likely be few and far between, however, and in a more common environment of around town and below speeds of 70km/h, its low-down torque gets the job done despite the full load. It is a quiet engine too. One that’s well-balanced and generally feeling free from vibration.
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