VW’s latest offering could be my new favourite. It is pretty to look at, fun to drive and well-specced. 

This version is super-powerful, making it an easy ride on motorways. And its suspension on bumpy rural roads fares well too.

The interior is no-frills yet smart and comprehensive – sat nav, climate control, aux-in, steering wheel controls – and epitomises what this car is about: simplistic yet effective functionality with a sharp look to match.

Qualms include poor wiper actions and unheated wing mirrors which means condensation lingers longer than it should.