WHOEVER coined the phrase familiarity breeds contempt obviously hadnt driven a Volkswagen Golf.

It's been around since 1974 and in the intervening 35 years VW have stayed largely true to the original design brief.

Now in its sixth incarnation, the Golf has become synonymous with quality and there is nothing in this latest version to suggest any different.

On the outside you might struggle to see the difference between the Mk V and the VI, unless you have a keen eye.

It's a case of evolution, not revolution. Subtle tweaks here, little alterations there.

There's new lights, a new grille and there's some changes to the outline, but, while it has taken cues from the recently unveiled Scirocco, it's unmistakably a Golf.

There are improvements to the interior which have come about after the previous version was met with some criticism. To address this higher-specification materials have been used and they serve to give the cabin a classy feel. The dash is beautifully simplistic in its layout and the controls are all sturdily made and easily accessible. Everything has been designed to last.

The main focus for the design team, however, was under the skin.

The new Golf is noticably quieter, even in diesel form as our test car was, thanks in the main to a new door design which cuts down on wind noise. There's also a new damping film around the windscreen and a new engine mounting system.

The 2.0 litre diesel engine coped with everything thrown at it and with added the added refinement that the engineers have been able to bring to the unit, I don't know why anyone would want to bother with a petrol variant.

CO2 emissions have been reduced to 119g/km and its also capable of returning more than 60mpg, according to official statistics.

You can get to 62mph in 10.7 seconds, not fast enough to melt the tarmac, I'll grant you, but more than quick enough for normal every day driving and it will go on to a top speed of 120mph.

The gearbox is a delight to use, with each move sure and certain. For someone like me who loves to go up and down through the box it has to be among, if not the best there is.

The new Golf is the safest yet, with a total of seven airbags now installed as standard. There's also a new head restraint system which aims to reduce whiplash injuries.

It's not cheap, but Golf owners have come to expect that. However, you get what you pay for, as they say, and with this car that's certainly true.

The test car, before optional extras such as multi-function steering wheel, metallic paint and heated seats, came in at a shade under £17,500 on the road.

There are few cars that I would unequivocally say that I would spend my cash on, but the Golf is definitely one.

In a world that is constantly changing it is nice to know that some things stay the same.

SPEC

ENGINE: 2.0 TDI MAX POWER: 108bhp MAX TORQUE: 185lb/ft MAX SPEED: 120mph 0-62MPH: 10.7 seconds AVG FUEL CONSUMPTION: 57.6mpg EQUIPMENT (includes): ABS; ESP; airbags; active head restraints; alarm with interior protection; remote central locking; immobiliser; alloy wheels; electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors with integrated indicators; automatic coming/leaving home lights; rain sensor; air conditioning; cruise control; electric windows; multi-function leather trimmed steering wheel; metallic paint.