Such is the timeless popularity of Volkswagen’s Golf that global sales have now topped 29 million.

Now in its seventh generation, the adoration is set to continue. The new Golf is lighter and longer than the car it replaces – and it also offers quite a bit more room for passengers.

There are a range of engines available, including a 1.2 and 1.4 petrol, and a 1.6 and 2.0 turbodiesel. Three specification levels are on offer – S, SE and GT. BlueMotion and GTI models will follow soon, along with a GTD high performance diesel and a new Golf Estate.

Gearboxes are five or six-speed manuals and six or seven-speed DSG autos, and there are both three and five-door body styles.

It’s happily predictable too – the ride is smooth and refined with nimble handling, and I could definitely notice a reduction in road noise.

Inside, there is much more room for luggage – an increasing necessity for modern day lifestyles. The boot is 30 litres larger, at 380 litres, with a low 665mm sill to make loading effortless.

All models now have touchscreen systems as standard, starting with a 5.8-inch colour display system and rising to the range-topping satellite navigation with an eight-inch colour display. A clever new option is a function on the touchscreen to select one of four driver modes – Eco, Sport, Normal and Individual – and there’s a fifth Comfort mode with the DSG transmission.

Features include a DAB digital radio, auxiliary inputs (including USB), Blue-tooth telephone preparation and access to vehicle trip information.

Between the front seats, space is increased thanks to the electronic parking brake with an auto hold feature. Options include high beam assist, park assist, adaptive chassis control, a rear-view camera, a Discover Pro navigation system, keyless entry and a panoramic sunroof.

Now and again, ‘eco’ tips will flash at you from the dash, in a bid to encourage you to drive more efficiently, which is great, although it sometimes feels like the car is criticising your driving style! There is an extensive amount of safety equipment, which is always reassuring, including ABS, ESP and seven airbags.

There is also XDS (an electronic differential lock for improved traction and handling), as well as an Automatic Post-Collision Braking System.

The Golf has a three-year/60,000-mile mechanical warranty.

In addition, it comes with a 12-year body protection guarantee, three-year paint warranty and a year’s membership of Volkswagen Assistance which includes European breakdown cover.

Fact file:
Car: Volkswagen Golf SE
On the road: £19,645
Top speed: 126mph
0-62mph: 9.3 seconds
Fuel: 53.3mpg (combined)
CO2 emissions: 123g/km