VW Golf Alltrack 2.0 TDI 150, car review: Only the price may make you think twice

This car follows in the footsteps of its Passat Alltrack big brother, as well as its Audi A4 and A6 Allroad cousin

The Alltrack is characterised by slightly chunkier styling

It’s that time of year when the UK’s already-challenging driving conditions hit a new low. And even if you don’t want a full-on 4x4, the more equipped you and your car are to deal with the muddy roads, ice, snow and floods that winter inevitably brings, the better.

That’s where versatile models such as the new Golf Alltrack come into their own. More than a mere estate but without the compromises of a full-on SUV, the Volkswagen follows in the footsteps of its Passat Alltrack big brother, as well as its Audi A4 and A6 Allroad cousins.

It’s characterised by slightly chunkier styling, a 15mm raised ride height, four-wheel drive on demand and a predilection for occasional all-terrain work-outs thanks to its tractable off-road driving mode.

Our mid-range 148bhp 2.0-litre proved easy to drive and great for overtaking

Yet due to the use of the standard Estate’s springs and wheels, good – even sporty – on-road manners are ensured even without speccing the multiple chassis mode option.

Volkswagen Golf Alltrack 2.0 TDI 150

• Engine: 2.0-litre diesel
• Price: £28,155
• Power: 148bhp
• Torque: 251lb ft
• 0-62mph: 8.9 seconds
• Top speed: 129mph
• Fuel economy: 58.9mpg
• CO2: 125g/km

Inside, the roomy, well built cabin is equally car-like and refined. It boasts cruise and dual-zone climate controls, DAB, Bluetooth, auto lights and wipers, plus all-round parking assist. The load area is impressively versatile and spacious for its class, offering 1620 litres with the seats down.

Three TDI diesels are available: a 109bhp 1.6-litre, and a 2.0 with 148bhp or 182bhp. The former pair both come with a six-speed manual gearbox, while it’s a six-speed DSG auto for the range-topper.

The roomy, well-built cabin is highly refined

Our mid-range 148bhp 2.0-litre proved easy to drive, a strong and smooth performer and, with 251lb ft of torque, great for overtaking.

At £28,155, only the price of the Alltrack 2.0 TDI 150 may make you think twice. Its VW Group stablemate the Skoda Octavia Scout offers a similar package for quite a lot less money and is even roomier – and that could be enough to sway some of the Golf’s prospective customer base.