It's the Voldemort of the car world. You don't even need to say the name. But you can instantly picture it.
It's been the default answer to “What car should I get?” for approximately 400 years. Your dad had one. Your mate's dad had one. Your mate probably has one. There's probably one behind you right now.
And that's the joys of a VW Golf.
Except this one has turned up wearing solid Urano Grey paint, sitting on 18s, packing Matrix LEDs, a 12.9" screen and area view camera included.
This is the Volkswagen Golf 1.5 eTSI 150 Black Edition DSG.
And we've got stock available for September delivery.
Which is nice. But what's nicer is the deal.
The VW Golf. But Make It Interesting.
The Golf spent the last few decades becoming the automotive equivalent of a national treasure. Reliable. Recognisable. Slightly smug.
But the Black Edition has clearly had enough of being sensible - it looks properly good. So cool, it’s even stopped replying to WhatsApp.
Mild Hybrid. Maximum Sense.
Under the bonnet is a 1.5-litre eTSI producing 150PS, hooked up to a 7-speed DSG automatic.
0–62mph takes 8.4 seconds. Which is quick enough.
We're not suggesting you challenge Lewis Hamilton at the lights. Mainly because he'll win and that's embarrassing for everyone.
But 150PS gives it enough punch to make joining a motorway, overtaking and generally getting somewhere actually enjoyable.
Then there's the mild-hybrid system, helping it return up to 52.3mpg.
This Isn't A "Basic" Golf
Because Black Edition isn't marketing department code for “we put some black bits on it.”
It's properly loaded.
We're talking:
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12.9" infotainment display
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Matrix LED headlights
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18" alloy wheels
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Area View camera
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Adaptive Cruise Control
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Wireless smartphone charging
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Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
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DAB digital radio
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Heated seats
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Heated steering wheel
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Advanced driver assistance technology
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Illuminated Volkswagen badge and door handles
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Black roof lining
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Black exterior styling package
Basically, if there's a button for it, there's a decent chance this Golf has it.
And Area View deserves a special mention.
Four cameras give you a 360-degree view around the car, meaning parking suddenly becomes considerably less of a public performance.
The Verdict
The Golf doesn't need us to tell you it's good. You already know.
The clever bit is getting this much Golf without paying silly money for it.
The Black Edition gives it some attitude. The 150PS eTSI gives it some poke. The DSG gives you the easy life. And the equipment list is bordering on taking the piss.
Then Summit Drive comes along and sticks an unreal deal on it with September delivery.
Suddenly the sensible choice doesn't look quite so sensible.
