The latest addition to the Golf's MkV family is the R32, which is essentially a more refined and somewhat more expensive version of the GTi. With its tasteful body and subtle styling tweaks it has been hailed as the gentlemen's GTi.

With its 3.2-litre V6 engine, capable of achieving 0-60mph in 6.3 seconds, the R32 is the most powerful Golf. Its meaty engine sound, smooth acceleration and snappy response also make it the most pleasurable Golf to drive.

Even though there is a small debate on whether the GTi, which has a better in-gear pace and considerably lighter is the superior of two cars, the R32 levels out the playing field with its 4-wheel drive and optional DSG gearbox.

4-wheel drive is as standard, providing superb traction, allowing the R32 to breeze through bends while oozing confidence. The DSG semi-automatic gearbox has one clutch in gear and another with the next gear pre-selected, making shifts lighting fast.

The R32's near faultless interior is just as pleasing to the eye as its exterior. This is thanks to the incredible attention to detail, expensive materials and user-friendly layout. The driver and front passenger seats are supportive and highly adjustable, with the rear seats feeling very roomy - even on the 3 door models. Even though the rear transmission has meant a reduction in boot space, the Golf's renowned practibility hasn't been lost.

The R32 has a wealth of equipment crammed into it, which helps justify the cars steep price tag. Some notable examples include; dual-zone climate control; rain sensing wipers; 10-speaker stereo; blue brake callipers; bi-xenon headlamps; 18-inch alloy's and sports suspension.

To top it off, the R32 is incredibly safe, scoring 5-stars on the Euro NCAP crash tests. This is down to the highly sophisticated equipment that it has been fitted with such as ABS with brake assist, electronic stability and traction control. The R32 is also fitted with twin front, side and curtain air-bags.