A few short quotes from the Irish Independent:
It remains, though, instantly recognisable as a Golf, if anything even more sturdy-looking.
Of course it has extensive technical upgrading, though it comes at a price. The current 5-dr entry level costs ?20,000. The new one will rise by 4pc, VW say, though higher equipment levels will mean a real increase of 2pc-2.5pc.
The pictures really don't do it justice - it is more eye-catching in the metal.
there's an 80pc increase in rigidity
Initially there will be two petrol engines (a 75bhp 1.4 and a 115bhp 1.6 FSI) and two diesel TDi engines (a 105bhp 1.9Tdi and a 2-litre 140bhp).
the normally aspirated 5-dr 1.4 petrol 5-speed, revealed the last to be far from least, delivering assured handling and responsive acceleration
the 5-dr 1.9 TDI, 6-speed (5-speed standard, 6-speed optional) was easily the most pleasing and the smoothest performer.
It's wider, higher and longer, with increased cabin area, headroom and luggage space and it's more gadget-laden.