Volkswagen Golf GTD hatchback (2013-2019) - Practicality & boot space

Because the Volkswagen Golf GTD is based on the standard VW Golf hatchback, it’s just as practical and easy to live with every day. If you have a family or regularly carry back-seat passengers, then the five-door model will suit you better, as it offers easier access to the rear. Upgrading to five doors will cost you around £1,000.

The Golf GTD’s dimensions are the same as the regular Golf, with a length of 4.3 metres. It’s therefore shorter than the Ford Focus ST, but slightly longer than the Audi A3. So it won’t be too challenging to squeeze into parking spaces, especially given its responsive steering and parking sensors as standard. But if you’re still worried, a full parking assistance system is a near-£600 option and a rear-view camera is around £250.

Volkswagen Golf GTD interior space & storage

Head and legroom are good in the front and back of the GTD, and with plenty of adjustment in the seat and steering wheel, it shouldn’t be too difficult for any driver to find a comfortable seating position.

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The standard-fit tartan-patterned seats are nicely sculpted and offer enough support without feeling overly firm, making the GTD a very relaxing long-distance cruiser.

Storage around the car is plentiful, with enough space in the glovebox, cup-holders and well shaped door bins, which come with a lining that prevents stuff moving around when you take a corner. There’s also a generous cubbyhole in the centre console that’s deep enough to swallow more than just a bit of loose change – it also hides the USB and iPod connectors.

Boot space

The 380-litre boot is unchanged from the regular Golf’s and the GTD gets split-folding rear seats. Fold those seats down and the available luggage space increases to 1,270 litres.

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This is the same size boot as the Audi A3 Sportback, but substantially bigger than the Ford Focus ST’s small 316-litre boot (although the estate version boosts this to 476 litres).