2022 Volkswagen Golf wagon review: This car proves why you don’t need an SUV

Aussies are rushing out to buy SUVs in record numbers but they should consider an old school car that is cheaper and just as practical.

Australians buy more SUVs than any other type of vehicle, but most over look cars that have the same benefits and cost thousands less.

Here are five things you need to know about the Volkswagen Golf wagon, one of the best anti-SUVs on sale today

STICK THE BOOT IN

Shoppers looking for greater space and practicality automatically gravitate to an SUV but the humble station wagon brings most of the same benefits and a few more.

The Golf wagon boasts 611 litres of boot space, which is about the same as the Kia Sorento large SUV.

The VW Golf wagon has an enormous boot.

Fold the back seats down and the wagon’s luggage space can hold 1642 litres.

Volkswagen has extended the distance between the front and rear wheels in the wagon compared to the hatchback. This results in a cavernous cabin and a roomier back seat – easily a match for more expensive higher-riding SUVs.

IT’S FUN TO DRIVE

The wagon also trumps SUVs in the driving department. The lower ride height of the wagon means it is more composed when asked to change direction, leaning less and hugging the bends better.

Power comes from a familiar four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that makes 110kW and 250Nm. It provides zippy performance around town and there are ample reserves for safe overtaking at speed.

Volkswagen has replaced the dual-clutch auto with a conventional eight-speed unit. It may not be as snappy with gear changes but it has minimal lag on takeoff and smoother shifts in stop-start traffic.

The car’s lower ride height makes it a superior drive to an SUV.

THE TECHNOLOGY IS IMPRESSIVE

The Golf is packed to the gills with infotainment and safety tech.

Occupants are greeted by a 10-inch touchscreen that is compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as a wireless device charging pad.

Gauges and dials are replaced by a fully digital driver display that provides crisp readouts and sharp graphics.

It will automatically brake if it detects a potential collision with a car, pedestrian or cyclist, while multiple sensors keep you centred in your lane.

It will also flash a warning if something is in your blind spot and sound the alarm if a car approaches as you reverse.

The lower height makes it easier to load bulky, heavy items.

THERE ARE SOME NICE TOUCHES

The equipment list on the top-spec Life variant we tested isn’t as comprehensive as some rivals but there are some quality items.

At night, ambient lighting with 10 colour options elevates the cabin atmosphere, while puddle lamps that light the ground around the door are a nice touch.

Stylish 17-inch alloy wheels and plenty of chrome highlights help it stand out in traffic.

The boot will open at the touch of a button and a proximity key opens the doors as you approach.

The interior is loaded with tech.

IT’S NOT CHEAP

The Golf Wagon Life is priced at about $43,500 drive-away, which is a fair chunk of change.

It’s about $2000 more than the equivalent Golf hatchback but is relatively good value compared to the Tiguan 110TSI Life SUV, which is priced at about $47,500.

It misses out on some goodies you’d expect at that price, though.

The cloth seats are manually adjustable and they don’t have a heating function.

A head-up display, which projects your current speed and blind-spot warnings onto the windscreen, is part of a $1600 pack that includes a premium Harman Kardon stereo.

Another $2000 option includes 30-colour ambient lighting, “comfort seats” with extra support and a panoramic sunroof.