Volkswagen Golf GTD Estate review
What is it?
THIS is the big-booted version of the popular Golf GTD. VW has left everything that makes the GTD such a versatile and affordable performance hatchback but turned its attention to boosting practicality.
Compared to Golf GTI sales, the more frugal GTD outsells its counterpart by almost three to one – so this is the sensible extension of the range.
Headline stats for the GTD Estate read; 181bhp, 605-litre boot and up to 64.2mpg. Because of the added bodywork over the rear wheels – an extra 308mm to be exact – running costs are slightly affected but not enough to affect company car tax band positioning.
Over the hatchback, the estate version asks only an additional £695, with prices kicking off from £28,285. A slick six-speed DSG gearbox can be specced for an additional £1,415.
What’s good?
- The Volkswagen Golf GTD Estate is a compelling blend of performance, practicality and economy. Able to hit 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds yet also capable of van-like carrying capacity, with a 1,620-litre boot with the rear bench folded flat.
- Don’t be fooled by its more practical appearance. The 181bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine serves up hot hatch levels of performance thanks to strong in-gear pace and ample low-down torque.
- A six-speed manual gearbox is standard and delivers crisp and accurate changes. It’s also more efficient than the optional DSG auto, returning 64.2mpg and 115g/km.
- Those economy figures draw a 21% BIK rating with the 20 and 40% tax payers having to folk out £1,186 and £2,371 per year respectively.
- For a diesel estate, the GTD is far more agile and responsive to drive than you’d expect. VW has fitted a clever XDS+ traction system in the front axle, which pinches the inside front wheel when turning into a faster bends to help increase stability.
- The steering is very sharp and accurate if a little short on direct feedback and the ride is also incredibly forgiving, so comfortable and capable enough of covering a gruelling motorway slog.
- The GTD also has a sporty character inside, with GTI-inspired tartan seats, illuminated door sills, stainless steel pedals and black headliner. Standard kit is also generous with, air con, adaptive cruise control and sat nav all fitted.
- Against its closest rivals; the Ford Focus STD Estate and Skoda Octavia vRS Estate, the Golf has a far more design flair inside. Fixtures and fitting look and feel more expensive and the layout of controls more logical.