Volkswagen Golf VI R-line 2013

Safety

According to Volkswagen, just like the fifth-generation, the Golf 6 was awarded five stars for adult occupant safety after being put through its paces at the Euro NCAP crash tests. Musaala says such results do not come as a surprise, since Volkswagen fitted every Golf with seven airbags and electronic stability programme. He adds that after researching about the Golf 6’s child occupant safety, it was rated at four stars, despite the fact that the safety-boosting suite offers faster sensors for the airbags, brake assist and ABS, all wrapped in a stronger cell and chassis.

Interior and comfort

The cabin shows excellent soundproofing work, better than the previous Golf. Musaala says he never really worries about wind and road noise. The seats are comfortable and offer good support in addition to the suspension’s cushion-like effect. Air conditioning is available as standard and space-wise, there is plenty of room for two adults in the back.

The entire Golf family does a lot of things by the book, and quality is one of them, starting with the build and finishing with the interior and the materials used inside the cabin. Musaala, however, says this proven reliability means a heftier acquisition price for used vehicles. The Golf 6 goes for not less than Shs50m.

According to Volkswagen.co.uk, the Golf 6 is on par with its predecessor as far as practicality is concerned. For example, All VW Golfs (except the eHybrid and the plug-in hybrid VW Golf GTE) have a height-adjustable boot floor. This lets you create two separate compartments and, when raised, irons out the step that is otherwise created when the rear seats are folded down. With the floor on its highest setting, there is barely any lip to negotiate when you are lifting heavy items in and out.  Musaala says you will only unlock the full amenities of the infotainment system by opting for higher-specification models. Therefore, you will get a CD player, a Multi Device Interface with USB and iPod connectors and a tactile display for managing the DAB digital radio, eight speakers and Bluetooth.

Efficiency

Of course, the most frugal choice is the BlueMotion model, which returns 69 mpg, a slightly better average than the one displayed by the regular 1.6-litre TDI, namely 63 mpg – the same offered by the 2.0-litre TDI mill. In the petrol department, the range-topping 1.4-litre unit is good for 45 mpg – a good value considering the engine’s power output – while the 1.2-litre TSI returns between 49 and 51 mpg.