If you missed the last update, our Golf GT is no more, written-off in a high-speed accident.
While I’m missing the chunky styling and performance of the GT, Volkswagen has let me try out a couple of other models from the range.
First up was the BlueMotion with its 99g/km of CO2, more aerodynamic bodywork and stop-start technology.
First impressions? After the sporty looks of the GT Golf, the BlueMotion model looks anaemic, its wheels being too small for the arches.
Inside, it lacks the class of the GT and its metal-look trim which even extends to the tips of the electric window switches. The little inserts of brightwork really do lift the predominantly black cabin.
Where the BlueMotion does score, of course, is on paper, with lower emissions and better fuel economy.
Volkswagen quotes 74.3mpg but I only achieved 62mpg, whereas in the GT (claimed economy – 58.9mpg) I was regularly hitting an average of 54mpg.
On the road, the GT outdoes its eco cousin in all areas, being more comfortable (the sports seats are excellent), better to drive and, strangely, quieter. Whether it’s the special low-rolling resistance tyres on the BlueMotion or not, but there is a lot more road noise than in the GT.
Of course, BlueMotion and GT appeal to widely different drivers – the former designed to appeal to those who want to give as little money to the taxman as possible, the latter to the Golf’s user-chooser heartland where badge, looks and equipment matter more.
There’s a difference of £24 a month between Golf BlueMotion and Golf GT in company car tax.
That’s less than a pound a day. If you have the choice, it’s worth paying the extra.