What is it?
The Golf SV is an MPV of sorts; think Citroën C4 Picasso in size but with the sort of premium feel that could see it compete with the likes of a BMW 2 Series Active Tourer or Mercedes-Benz B-Class. The SV builds upon an already superb VW MQB platform and enhances it with more versatility, space and family appeal.
Those looks…
Okay, I’ll admit, the SV isn’t the prettiest thing around but at the same time this segment is more about versatility, space and fuel consumption. Outside, it looks a bit like the Golf had a child with a Touran, with a high roof line, broad front-end and Golf-esque rear treatment. In my defence, the SV is one of the more sophisticated-looking MPV choices out there, especially with the optional 17-inch alloy wheels.
Inside the van
The interior is very similar to that of its Golf sibling with great quality materials, the same steering wheel, a reworked dashboard/centre console and a familiar infotainment system. The added interior space is where the SV outdoes the standard Golf.
There’s more headroom, more rear passenger space and it has the added practicality of flexible rear seats, which can be moved forward, increasing the boot volume from 500 litres to 590 litres or, if you fold the rear seats, 1 520 litres. To put it in perspective, I could easily fit eight 265-section semi-slick tyres in the rear with the seats down.
Drivetrain
The model that I had on test was the 1.4 TSI Comfortline auto, meaning you get the superb seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox and the frugal 92kW/200Nm 1.4-litre turbocharged motor. Volkswagen claims a consumption figure of 4.6 litres/100km however, I could only manage around 7.0 litres/100km, which is still commendable.
Driving the SV is truly a comfortable, easy-going affair; the motor pulls well, the shifts are seamless from the DSG and the overall refinement and road noise is commendable for something with such a large windscreen. Due to the airy feel in the cabin and the added length and height, the SV also feels more substantial than the Golf on the road.
How does it stack up?
The SV is very well priced when you consider that it is cheaper than the turbo petrol Citroën C4 Picasso, BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and the Mercedes-Benz B-Class. That being said, our test unit, with all its optional extras, was around the same price as the competition.
The Citroën comes with almost every conceivable extra for around R370 000, while the other two Germans could creep up to the half-a-million mark easily, with options. Overall, the SV has to be the go-to-guy in this segment; it is the best compromise of premium, initial value and resale value in this segment.
Warranty and service plan
The SV comes with a three-year/100 000km warranty as well as a five-year/90 000km service plan.
Price
Volkswagen Golf SV 1.4TSI Comfortline auto R341 200.
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