Volkswagen Golf R Estate review: what the car critics say

Combining rapid dynamics with comfy functionality, the new VW Golf R Estate is powered by the same 2.0-litre turbo engine as the Golf R hot hatch, said Top Gear. 0-62mph takes just 4.9 seconds, and it has a top speed of 155mph (unless you opt for the £2,160 Performance Pack, which adds two drive modes and boosts this to 168mph). It is officially capable of 35.8mpg, only slightly less than the hatch.

Four-wheel drive is standard, powered by a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, which is impressively smooth and jerk-free, said What Car?. Quick steering makes it eager to turn in to bends and it has flair too, with excellent balance and tenacious grip in corners. The only element that doesn’t deliver is the artificial engine sound in the aggressive Race mode, which is better switched off.

Inside, there’s ample space in the rear, and a large 611-litre boot, said Auto Express. Climate control and sports seats come as standard, as do satnav, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and wireless charging. It’s just a pity that, as with other Golfs, the touchscreen is so frustrating. It’s slow to respond and features are hidden in sub-menus, making routine tasks like changing the volume unnecessarily tricky.