Playing Golf

In the changing landscape of a motoring writer's road testing year, there are some peaks that rise above the general scene. Here is one of them. I am currently driving the Volkswagen Golf R, a hot hatch with heart, soul and very rapid pace.

I don't have a derestricted German autobahn or an empty test track handy, so I won't be checking out the claimed 155 mph top speed, but the sprint time to 60 mph in under five seconds is pretty impressive. Fuel consumption isn't too shabby either, heading towards 40 mpg, although somewhat less if you make liberal use of the lavish 296 bhp power output.

The engine is a turbocharged two-litre, the drive delivery is to all four wheels, and the price is around £30,000. It's the dearest Golf and the fastest hatchback that VW makes.

I love the clarity and crisp colour choice of these dials, that are exemplary for their easy-read clarity. Playing Golf is fun, and I'll be sorry to wave this one goodbye later in the week.