Test drive Ford Focus 2.0 TDCI, OpeAstra 1.9 CDTI, VW Golf 2.0 TDI: eternal struggle
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Test drive Ford Focus 2.0 TDCI, OpeAstra 1.9 CDTI, VW Golf 2.0 TDI: eternal struggle

Test drive Ford Focus 2.0 TDCI, OpeAstra 1.9 CDTI, VW Golf 2.0 TDI: eternal struggle

In early 2004, at the tender age of just a few months, the VW Golf V suffered a severe defeat at the hands of the newly hatched Opel Astra. Soon, in the German version of AMS, the most popular market segment was first named "Astra class" instead of "Golf class". Will the revolution be confirmed now that the Golf VI is already being released on the battlefield against Astra and Ford Focus.

Today we are testing the sixth generation of the best-selling Volkswagen, and our main question is again: "Will the Golf be successful this time too?" By the way, the chance for an unexpected outcome in the traditional struggle for supremacy between VW, Opel and Ford motivates us to delve into the technical details of the years when the models from Rüsselsheim and Cologne were called Kadett and Escort.

On the podium

In its new version, the Golf parted ways with the rounded and bulky body of its predecessor. Graceful forms are replaced by straight lines and more pronounced edges, reminiscent of the first two generations of the Wolfsburg model. The length of the "six" is identical to the "five", but the width and height of the body added another centimeter - so the car radiates more dynamics and liveliness. In addition to cabin dimensions that were previously satisfactory, there is now more emphasis on workmanship. In the cabin, VW's interior designers replaced insufficiently sophisticated materials; Control devices have been redesigned. The front seat rails and rear hinges are now "packaged" to hide them from view; even the hooks for securing cargo in the trunk are now chrome-plated.

In terms of quality, the Ford Focus, modified in early 2008, is in line. It cannot be denied that the materials in his cabin are pleasant to the touch, but the combination of all kinds of rough plastics is somewhat depressing. Many joints and unmasked bolts remained visible. The simplified installation cannot be compensated for by the chrome rings framing the instruments or the imitation aluminum on the center console.

The second place in performance is occupied by Astra. The materials used are acceptable, but the whole interior looks a little dated due to the gold molding and simple controls. On the other hand, the 40:20:40 split rear seat backrests bring some interior flexibility to the layout. In this aspect, we expected more creativity, especially from the market leader Golf, which only allows itself an asymmetrically folding rear seat. Since only the backs of the Opel and VW are compressed separately, the Focus scores valuable points for the flat floor of its cargo area. However, the "People's Machine" quickly returned to the game thanks to the most practical compartments for small items, the highest height and the most convenient access to the salon. In Astra, the driver and companion do not sit tight; however, the Wolfsburg seats are more comfortable and can be adjusted more widely.

Let's get on our feet

It's time to turn the key and start the engines. If you've read the best Golf test in the November issue, you'll probably remember that we awarded it for excellent sound insulation. The progress of the Lower Saxons became even more evident when we switched to the Focus, and even evident when we hit the road in the Opel Astra. Numerous noise reduction measures, including the inclusion of an insulating film in the windshield, almost completely eliminate wind, chassis and engine noise. The precise steering system, which filters out any bumps in the road quite skillfully, and the optional adaptive suspension also make Golf passengers forget they're in a compact car.

Depending on the mood and the situation on the road, the driver must choose one of three degrees of shock absorber stiffness. At critical moments, the system itself controls the tilt of the hull to prevent excessive rocking. In our opinion, the engineers from Wolfsburg could adjust the individual levels of Comfort, Normal and Sport in a slightly wider range. Despite larger 17-inch wheels, the VW Highline version handles potholes safer and smoother than its competitors, which rely on 16-inch wheels. Golf is the real king of wavy bumps, even at high speeds. Minimal body shaking in corners also puts it ahead.

Opel also skillfully smooths out even bumps, but rather rough steps when driving on partially destroyed asphalt. With a larger amount of gas, unpleasant influences also arise, distracting the inaccurate power steering in the middle position. However, the biggest problem on the rigid chassis of the Focus is the sealed asphalt - in this model, passengers are subjected to the most intense vertical "acceleration".

Its direct steering, on the other hand, quietly whets the appetite for more corners, which Ford writes in a neutral and hard-edged manner. Traditionally, Cologne models have been vaccinated against understeer – in case of malicious suspension abuse, the rear end responds with a light feed before the ESP stabilization program intervenes. The precise and efficient Focus shifter also brings thrill and emotion behind the wheel.

Slumdog Millionaire

While the sporty spirit comes most strongly from the Ford cockpit, VW surprised us with even better performance between the pylons. The reckless behavior of the machine during tests in border mode instills complete confidence in the pilot. The "annoying" Opel lags a little behind in windings, but subsequently catches up with the rest thanks to its power advantage. When pulling away on the Astra, we were annoyed by the need to get used to the gas, because pointlessly, soon after exiting the turbo hole, the wheels lose traction.

The two squad members are more balanced in their performances and develop their potential more harmoniously. The Golf's weaker values ​​measured in the elasticity test are due to its "longer" gearing, which fortunately results in a significant drop in speed. This drivetrain approach does not in any way interfere with Wolfsburg's nimble Common Rail diesel engine. However, if he has to follow his rivals, he will often have to use a lower gear. The main advantage of low revs is, of course, modest fuel consumption - and indeed, the Golf passed our test track with a phenomenal consumption of 4,1 liters per 100 km. By comparison, the economy version of its predecessor (BlueMotion) recently used 4,7 liters on the same track; Astra and Focus can afford a liter of top. If you believe it, but in the AMS combined cycle that is completely comparable to everyday driving, the Golf surpasses its rivals even by one and a half liters.

Extremists

The Volkswagen model needs an economical drive because its high starting price makes it the most unfavorable starting position in the cost column. However, standard furniture on the Highline test model includes heated seats, 17-inch aluminum wheels, leather upholstery, parking sensors, an armrest and other "extras" that will push the price of the other two compact models to the same level. The Astra Innovation has xenon headlights as standard, only the Rüsselsheimers have saved a lot of detail in terms of comfort. Value-for-money performance The Focus-Style has everything you need and can be equipped with what it lacks compared to the competition. If we finally add up maintenance and all other costs, the three of us will demonstrate the same level of expediency.

When it comes to safety, no one can afford a weak spot, but VW has the best brakes again - even with hot discs and a lot of back strain. Golf nailed in place just 38 meters away. Astra draws attention with its rich protective furniture. It's no surprise that the latter car wins this test, but the ease with which the Golf shows others that they need to freshen up is amazing. The former "people's car" moves forward thanks to small but significant details that contribute to comfort, bodywork and dynamic performance. It's safe to say that the Golf VI creates a sense of harmony unknown in the compact class.

While the Astra focuses on comfort and the Focus emphasizes the sporty aspect, the Golf does better in both disciplines. We give credit to the Lower Saxon model as it has excellent fuel economy.

text: Dirk Gulde

a photo: Hans-Dieter Zeufert

Evaluation

1. VW Golf 2.0 TDI Highline - 518 points

The new Golf is a truly convincing winner - it wins six out of seven rating categories and impresses with its perfect soundproofing, road dynamics and low fuel consumption.

2. Ford Focus 2.0 TDCI Titanium - 480 points

Suspension flexibility continues to delight behind the Focus wheel. However, excellent road behavior comes at the expense of passenger comfort. Ford's interior also deserves more design attention.

3. Opel Astra 1.9 CDTI Innovation – 476 XNUMX

Astra collects valuable goggles with its powerful engine and rich safety equipment. However, its dynamic characteristics are not perfect, there are gaps in the interior sound insulation.

technical details

1. VW Golf 2.0 TDI Highline - 518 points2. Ford Focus 2.0 TDCI Titanium - 480 points3. Opel Astra 1.9 CDTI Innovation – 476 XNUMX
Working volume---
Power140 k. From. at 4200 rpm136 k. From. at 4000 rpm150 k. From. at 4000 rpm
Maximum

torque

---
Acceleration

0-100 km / h

9,8 with10,2 with9,1 with
Braking distances

at a speed of 100 km / h

38 m39 m39 m
full speed209 km / h203 km / h208 km / h
Average consumption

fuel in the test

6,3 l7,7 l7,8 l
Base Price42 816 levov37 550 levov38 550 levov

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