2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI hatchback review

The Volkswagen Golf GTI is an iconic name amongst motorists, and the latest version is as fun as ever

It might not offer the power of models like the Honda Civic Type R, but the GTI is hardly a slouch

£10,000-£15,000: The outgoing Volkswagen Golf GTI can be easily picked up for under £15,000. For that price, you can buy a car that’s barely five years old, and some even come with the optional Performance Pack that boosts power to 227

The standard GTI has 227bhp, but a Performance Pack version increases this to 242bhp

Acceleration from 0-62mph takes 6.4 seconds, or 6.2 seconds with the Performance Pack fitted

The Performance Pack also improves braking power and traction, but for most people it isn't necessary

Despite its power and excellent handling, the Golf GTI is also comfortable, making it a great all-rounder

This ties in with the GTI philosophy, because this go-faster Golf is just as practical and easy to drive as an SE trim

Fuel-economy of just under 45mpg makes it surprisingly affordable to run

The interior is ahead of most other hot hatch rivals for design and quality