Road Test: Volkswagen Golf SV 1.4T 2015

Volkswagen Golf SV facts and figures South Africa 2015

Volkswagen and Golf are synonymous with South African culture. They are like braais, biltong and Klippies, and throughout Golf’s glamorous lifespan, VW has constantly pushed the envelope when it comes to this class leading machine.

The latest derivative of VW’s icon comes in the form of a stretched out Golf to offer a more practical version, dubbing it the Golf SV.

Sharing its DNA with the much loved Golf, means the Golf SV is built on the same MQB platform, which was a revelation when it first arrived on our shores a few years ago. Harnessing the dynamic nature of the MQB platform, SACarFan recently got to grips with the 83mm longer, 8mm wider and 126mm taller Golf.

Take a look

From a styling perspective, the Golf SV shares the same characteristics as its sibling, and it’s only once you view the side profile that a significant difference is evident. It looks chubby and swollen, like a kid that got stuck into the sweetie cupboard.  But, it’s certainly not a bad thing.

The added size has its benefits with the boot space increasing by 120 litres to 500 litres, it adds a new level of practicality. In fact, the SV’s space ushers in a sense of roominess to the Golf line-up, which will be a welcome alternative for families. Loading the car with friends, the rear legroom is impressive and the increased height means those of the ‘taller’ variety get to enjoy more headroom.

Still distinctly Golf

While the space has increased, the Volkswagen Golf SV is still unfalteringly Golf in its make-up. The switch gear and controls along with the vehicle layout is exactly as expected. With a sleek design and practical ergonomics makes driving the SV a breeze.

Under the hood of our Comfortline spec test mule was the renowned 1.4 TSI cauldron. With 92kW and 200Nm brewing, it’s not lightening quick, but a vehicle of this nature, fuel efficiency is key. Sprinting from 0-100km/h will take 9.9 seconds says Volkswagen, while the SV will sip 5.2 litres per 100km.

Putting the SV through its paces, it does lose some of the dynamic handling characteristics due to the increased height, but the seven-speed DSG gearbox is as good as ever and slapping it into S mode does keep the revs up, should you feel a bit ‘playful’.

Spec and trim

In typical VW fashion, the Golf SV comes with a host of optional equipment and our Comfortline, in addition to the standard 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights and wipers, ambient interior lighting and seven airbags as well as ESC stability control, saw the inclusion of a panoramic sunroof, park distance control and the composition media radio.

Just say it

In closing, the new Golf SV adds a vibrant new element to the classic Golf range. Holding its own with Golf and GTI, the SV will appeal to broader audience needing something practical with high levels of comfort and renowned workmanship.

We’ll just have to wait and see if South Africans welcome the new derivative with open arms. Only time will tell.

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