POSSIBLY one of the three most iconic models of the last half century, the VW Golf is still hale and hearty ⦠and continues to sell like proverbial hot cakes.

In its latest guise, there's version that looks racy and of-the-moment but won't bust the bank in terms of insurance running costs.

The 1.5eTSI Black Edition mirrors the super-fast R model with fancy alloys, scalloped front spoiler, dashboard inserts, sports seats and even R badging. But with a super-eco 148bhp battery assisted engine it's a real fuel miser.

Back in the 1970s when the Golf first took its bow, it became known for its blend of balanced handling, practicality and frugality. Today, those qualities are upheld and reinforced in the current models.

The mild-hybrid turbo engine may not be rapid by latest BEV standards, but it can nevertheless dispose of the 62mph dash in around eight seconds - which incidentally is a full second faster than the original Golf GTi back in 1976!

Mechanically, it's smooth and willing most way through the rev range, only getting a tad harsh under full throttle. There's little wind noise but tyre roar over certain surfaces can get wearing on long runs.

Handling and balance is where the Golf score top marks. It sits well on the road and feels composed and secure at speed through curves, with little body roll and grippy roadholding. The steering is among the best available on a family car with plenty of intel being passed back to the driver.

Despite the dynamic excellence, the ride remains supple and absorbent even over near corrugated surfaces.

There's inevitably a temptation to push the Golf hard, so it's all credit to the engine design that we were able to average 46mpg over the 400-mile review. Most owners will easily manage the 50mpg mark.

The seven-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox is well suited to the power unit providing slick perfectly judged changes. If you wish to seize control, there are steering wheel paddles that prove pretty entertaining.

Whether you're in the mood for pottering or in a hurry, the Golf is more than happy to oblige. It's one of the most compliant mid-size hatches available.

The latest facelift has improved the cabin quality and addressed some of the criticism of touch sensitive screen controls, but many owners would no doubt prefer a few more proper knobs and switches.

Driving position is near perfect with excellent all-round vision and front seats that hug you like an old friend. Leg room in the rear is at a premium if those in front are long-legged and boot space of 381litres is less than the class average. No shortage of cabin space for oddments, water-bottles etc though.

So it's high marks for what has become know as the Mark 8.5 Golf - clearly justifying its iconic status after all these years.

And for these who are curious about this writer's two other icons of the last half-centuryâ¦in my book, they are the original BMC Mini and the Jaguar E-Type.

£33,465

1.5litres, petrol mild hybrid, 148bhp engine driving two wheels vis automatic gearbox

: 139mph

8.4seconds

56.6

23

121g/km

29%

3yrs/60,000 miles

4.7