MENTION the name Golf and it conjures up all sorts of images and expectations, probably most notably of speed, handling and awesome driving dynamics.

But few people would come up with the label estate car.

However, since VW launched the latest Golf Estate model a couple of years back it has been claiming accolades and awards galore.

And little wonder because the Golf Estate is a beautiful piece of kit and despite it's somewhat ‘practical' dimensions, it still boasts that Golf edge when it comes to handling.

It's wider, longer and lower than its predecessors and that means a lower centre of gravity which translates into improved driving responses and road-holding.

But there's no forgetting this is an estate and the load capacity has been increased to a whopping 605 litres. This can be increased to 1,620 litres with the rear seats folded flat and that's probably big enough to live in.

But the Golf still maintains its stylish and striking good looks thanks to the likes of tinted rear glass, 17-inch alloys, front fog lights, silver roof rails and a panoramic sunroof (£920 extra).

And once inside, you are greeted by an array of techno treats and creature comforts.

The seats can be heated and on-board features include a sat nav system, DAB radio, a CD player and eight-speaker sound system which is compatible with all modern media devices, Bluetooth connectivity and plenty more besides.

Navigating the many systems is very simple via the 5.8-inch colour touchscreen and all controls and dials are simple to use without causing any driver distraction. That said; there was a little glare from the shiny fascia if the sun was particularly bright.

Elsewhere occupants are treated to plenty of space with ample room for three adults to stretch out in the back. The cabin is bright and airy with light flooding through the sunroof.

This car was powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine delivering 150ps and mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. Priced at £25,050 (£27,055 with extras) it can sprint from 0-62mph in 8.9 seconds and tops out at 135mph. It has carbon emissions of 108g/km but the most impressive stat is the fuel economy which according to official figures is a combined 67.3mpg.

This frugal figure can be achieved thanks to a highly-efficient powertrain along with a few driver aids such as gear shift prompting, a stop/start function, battery regeneration and also a driver profile option. This allows the driver to select between three driving modes - sport, normal and eco - and in the eco mode the throttle is adjusted along with the air con and engine to achieve maximum efficiency.

Sport mode does the opposite and delivers an edgier, more responsive and sharper drive.

But whatever mode you select, one thing is guaranteed - a great all-round experience. That's because from the second you pull away, you instantly forget this is an estate car - it handles that well. The acceleration is smooth and responsive as it moves effortlessly though the gears and the road-holding is similar to its hatchback sibling.

There is a solid feel to the Golf Estate and road and engine noise are kept to a minimum thanks to the car's highly efficient insulating systems.

And safety features are also comprehensive and include the likes of anti-lock brakes, hydraulic brake assist, traction control, adaptive cruise control, numerous airbags and lots more besides.