THERE’S a reason the Volkswagen Golf continues to win awards worldwide. One test drive is convincing enough to prove that no one does the family hatchback like the Germans. It’s packed to the hilt with technology and refinement that many larger cars have a problem matching.

On the outside, the Golf is mostly to design, retaining enough touches that keep it fresh and gives it links to its enviable past successes. Its boxy shape is unavoidable, but easily excusable upon entry, as it contributes to the class-leading interior space. Slipping into the driver’s seat of the Golf is a bright airy occasion and not the cramped quarters many have grown accustomed to in this segment. In back, things are just as comfortable.

The driver and passengers interface is beyond expectations in this price range. Neat touches like the sport steering wheel wrapped in wonderfully tactile leather that feels perfect in hand as well as the small rubber ridge on the indicator stalk are added accents.

The dials are bright, clear and backed up by a smaller digital display, all of which blends into a dashboard that sweeps down into the centre console finished in a flat brushed metal texture. The centrepiece of this is the touch-screen infotainment system. Using it is as simple as any smartphone, and it offers access to an amazing array of features with a scroll or tap of a finger. Want to centre the source of the audio, monitor critical travel data, or switch off the traction control? How about setting light intensity or having the rear wipers activate in the rain when reverse is engaged? All done.

Sceptics of large cars powered by small displacement engines will easily be bowled over by the duality the 2015 Golf offers. Its 1.2-litre turbocharged motor is a revelation from the first press of the gas pedal. It punches above its weight giving the Golf a sense of urgency when needed, yet still being refined enough to facilitate calm fuel-efficient motoring. A lot of this is due to the excellent manner of the DSG gearbox. Slipping between the three models, normal drive for maximum miles-per-gallon, sport and manual, will be second nature within minutes.

This would be a problem if the rest of the car wasn’t willing to indulge some spirited driving. However, the Golf has no problem keeping up with the inner speed demon, confidently dismissing corners at speed. Snap back the DSG level into S-mode and drivers will be handed a small taste of bigger brother the GTI as the car’s character changes to match. Back in drive, one can relax in a soothing environment to 60mpg nirvana.