Why we’re driving it

Volkswagen has updated its best-selling car, introducing a “Golf 7.5” facelift before more substantial changes arrive with the eighth-generation model in a couple of years.

Having driven the Golf hatch at its local and international launches as well as comparing it with key rivals, we felt it was time to review it in cargo-conscious wagon form.

There are three models in the Golf Wagon range for now: an entry-level Trendline ($28,990), mid-range Comfortline ($30,490) and top-end Highline ($35,990) – as well as high-riding Alltrack versions and an upcoming Golf R Wagon. We’re driving the mid-range Golf Comfortline variant.

What we like

That Volkswagen doesn’t call it the Golf Variant. The car’s official title in Europe would make little sense in Australia, so VW followed spade-naming convention by calling this exactly what it is.

Our Golf Wagon Comfortline model is well-equipped, bringing an 8-inch infotainment screen with sat nav, a reversing camera and Apple CarPlay as well as dual-zone climate control, 17-inch alloy wheels and more comfortable seats than the standard car.

Safety gear such as autonomous emergency braking and Volkswagen’s post-crash multi-collision brake system comes as standard.

A $1500 driver assistance package is worth consideration as it adds active cruise control, lane keeping assistance, self parking and more to make the car a safer, more enjoyable proposition. Buyers who want to go further than that can pay $2300 for an infotainment package that includes an outstanding digital dashboard and upgraded 9.2-inch touchscreen with gesture control, as well as a premium stereo.

Volkswagen splashes a bit of chrome inside and out for the Comfortline, making it feel a little more premium than the entry-level grade. As we’ve come to expect from VW, the cabin is well-finished and ergonomically sound, a superior space than that offered by the majority of small cars today.

The brand charges a $1500 premium for wagon treatment that expands the Golf’s cargo capacity from 380 litres to 605 litres with the back seat in place, or from 1270 to 1620 litres with the second row folded flat.

Much more versatile than the hatch, the wagon weighs around 60kg more than its compact cousin, bringing a level of practicality rivalled be few cars at this price.

Though a longer wheelbase dulls its responses, the Wagon drives more like a Golf than an SUV, feeling more comfortable and precise than high-riding rivals.

What we dislike

While Volkswagen’s half-step between new models is a welcome one, it’s hard not to feel like a missed opportunity. The car’s styling received the gentlest of touches, and Australia missed out on a new 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine offered in Europe. The main changes surround active driver aids and a first-rate entertainment system, but you have to pay an extra $3800 for all the good stuff.

Unlike the hatch, there’s no real base model for the wagon, and the lack of a cheaper manual option pushes up its price. Buyers who want a diesel option are restricted to the top-grade Highline that costs $9500 more than a standard petrol wagon, which feels mean.

As well as making the car look a little frumpy, the wagon body style blunts the 110TSI’s performance, pushing its 0-100km/h time out to 8.6 seconds (0.4s slower than hatch).

Volkswagen’s comparatively high service prices and three-year warranty remain off the pace, too.

Would you buy one

Spacious wagons based on small cars aren’t exactly thick on the ground. Hyundai’s i30 Tourer is a less techy option, while Volkswagen’s sister Skoda brand offers an excellent alternative in the Octavia Wagon. All three should be on your shortlist.

2017 Volkswagen Golf Wagon 110TSI Comfortline pricing and specifications

Price: From $30,490 plus on-road costs

Engine: 1.4-litre four-cylinder turbo

Power: 110kW at 5000-6000rpm

Torque: 250Nm at 1500-3500rpm

Transmission: Seven-speed automatic, front-wheel-drive

Fuel use: 5.6L/100km

• For all the latest info, visit our Volkswagen showroom