The Best of the Best Golf

The Volkswagen Golf is nearing its end. With the introduction of a new model planned before summer, the current sixth generation will soon cease production. However, this final iteration of the sixth generation is currently showcasing remarkable refinement.

The current sixth-generation Volkswagen Golf, known as the Golf 6, was introduced in Japan in the spring of 2009. Its defining features include a small-displacement 1.4-liter turbocharged engine paired with an efficient twin-clutch "DSG" transmission. The sixth generation significantly improved cabin quality, with particular attention paid to noise reduction.

While a 1.2-liter turbo engine seems to be the mainstream for Volkswagen's compact car lineup, the 1.4-liter engine is remarkably torquey for its displacement and revs freely. It's a unit that masterfully balances efficiency and driving pleasure, worthy of being called a milestone for Volkswagen (VW).



Among these, the Golf 6 Comfortline was a model that truly embodied the Golf's concept: a comfortable ride, enjoyable on winding roads, and excellent fuel efficiency.

For me, it's the best Golf ever. Currently, the final model available in Japan is the "Meister Edition" (¥2.79 million), equipped with bucket seats, 16-inch wheels, and paddle shifters. If you're looking for a "partner" that can do it all, this is the car you shouldn't miss. It's that well-executed.

The Sixth Generation Inheriting from the Golf 5

The most significant change in the Golf's history, spanning six generations, occurred with the fifth generation unveiled in Europe in 2003. This introduced the small-displacement 1.4-liter engine and the DSG gearbox, which combined the efficiency of a manual with the convenience of an automatic.



The 1.4-liter engine was offered in the "Comfortline" with a single charger (turbocharged), and the "Highline" with a twin charger (turbocharged plus a supercharger to boost torque at lower RPMs). Additionally, the "Trendline"Trendline," now the mainstream for smaller VW cars like the Golf and Polo, also appeared. For users seeking sportier models, there was the "GTI" and the "Golf R" models.

Everything You Need

I feel the Comfortline strikes a perfect balance. With the Highline and GTI, their characters overlap significantly, making it difficult to decide: 'Realistically, the Highline is sufficient, but for brand image, it has to be the GTI.' I, for one, would struggle to make that choice.

On the other hand, the Trendline felt a bit lacking in punch. However, the refinement of the recent 1.2-liter engine is remarkable, and I can confidently say it's good in its own right. But that also means the 1.4-liter Golf has been polished to an even higher degree.

I experienced the Golf Comfortline Meister Edition on a drive from Tokyo to Chiba, covering city streets, highways, and a few winding roads.

To put it simply, I felt it had reached the pinnacle of automotive engineering. It lacks nothing.

Two Characters Coexist

To get into the Golf Comfortline Meister Edition (hereafter Comfortline), one must "plop" into the bucket seats, similar to those in the Highline or GTI. Not only are they visually appealing with their tactile suede-like Alcantara trim, but they are also practical for those who enjoy sporty driving. However, for someone who interprets "Comfortline" as "comfort" for daily, all-around use, these seats might feel a bit excessive.

The Comfortline's 1.4-liter engine delivers strong torque from low RPMs, and its robust power continues to climb without faltering, accelerating the car with impressive momentum. The low-end torque makes it easy to handle in city traffic, while the power felt between 3,000 and 4,000 RPM offers a strong sense of driving enjoyment.

Especially when selecting "S mode" on the shift gate, you might be surprised, thinking, "Is the Golf really this sporty?" The engineering that masterfully blends these two distinct characters is truly admirable.



The ride quality is smooth and refined, with the harshness taken out of the edges – another excellent aspect of the Comfortline.

Personally, I feel that to fully appreciate this quality, the seats in the standard model with thicker cushioning would be more suitable than the bucket seats of the Meister Edition. However, even with these seats, it's by no means bad, and you certainly won't be disappointed.



It may sound repetitive, but the greatest appeal of the Comfortline is the profound sense of security it provides.

I once heard someone say, "In Europe, when dusk falls and you have to drive home over the Alps, would you entrust your life to this car?"

Not just the Comfortline, but the entire Golf 6 offers a sense of security that allows you to entrust your life to it.

What's Outdated?

I was initially surprised by the Golf 6's quietness, but I didn't experience the same level of surprise with the Comfortline this time. There's a certain amount of noise intrusion from various sources. However, this might be because I've become accustomed to the dramatic improvements in cabin quietness seen in other cars (often more premium models) over the past few years.

This is a matter of comparison; the Golf 6 is still sufficiently quiet. I believe daily noise levels are not a concern.

The Golf 6 feels somewhat outdated when compared to the remarkable advancements in electronic safety features offered by its rivals today. This might be a crucial factor for those interested in the Golf.

The Human Controls the Car

Ultimately, the human controls the car. And when it comes to safety, it's not just about collision avoidance devices; preventing human error, which is a cause of accidents, is paramount. Therefore, I don't think the number of safety devices should be the sole criterion for choosing a car. Comfort, enjoyment, and a fatigue-free experience are far more important.

What the Comfortline offers is communication between the car and the driver. The responsive handling, excellent chassis dynamics, and well-tuned suspension create a setting where the driver (and passengers) can maintain their own world within the car. This isn't just my personal feeling; any car enthusiast will understand it upon experiencing the Golf. It delivers both exhilaration and peace of mind.

A Car That Matures

The word "aging" or "maturing" is quite popular these days. In the culinary world, for example, "aged meat" is a trend, with restaurants serving beef that has undergone a process of controlled temperature and humidity for days, breaking down proteins into amino acids to enhance umami. What started as a specialty in the Kansai region has seen a surge in Tokyo over the past few years.


The next significant evolution for the Golf will undoubtedly be the Golf 7, built on a new generation platform. While it promises to be a highly intriguing model, perhaps it's worth savoring the mature experience of the current generation first.

After spending time with this final Comfortline, I am convinced of this.

Volkswagen Golf TSI Comfortline Meister Edition |
Volkswagen Golf TSI Comfortline Meister Edition
Body Dimensions | Length 4,210 x Width 1,790 x Height 1,485 mm
Wheelbase | 2,575 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,535 / 1,510 mm
Weight | 1,290 kg
Engine | 1,389 cc Water-cooled inline 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve with intercooler turbo
Max Output | 90 kW (122ps) / 5,000 rpm
Max Torque | 200 Nm (20.4kgm) / 1,500 - 4,000 rpm
Transmission | 7-speed DSG
Tires | 205/55 R16
Fuel Consumption (10-15 mode) | 16.4 km/ℓ
Price | ¥2.79 million