AT FIRST, I didn't understand VW's latest Golf GTI - I thought the reality failed to match the hype.

The turning point was a particular journey - not a spectacular one involving sinuous mountain passes and stunning views, but one mixing good old British motorways, pockmarked urban streets and sweeping A-roads.

In this environment, the Golf excelled. One minute it was a hooligan, the next it was Mr Sensible.

In a bygone era, the Golf GTI was a lithe and responsive machine, but generations three and four lost their way.

Fifth time lucky? Volkswagen certainly hopes so, and has engineered in a more communicative and responsive helm, sharper handling and a potent 197bhp turbo-petrol motor.

Engine aside, the on-paper changes appear to position the new model closer to the MkII, a car often praised as the most complete of GTIs one to four.

The most obvious change is to the car's grille. The deep, extrovert frontage, boasting a mix of black honeycomb material and a plunging bumper design, is your first clue to this car's performance aspirations.

The view from the rear includes a more substantial bumper, bold GTI tailgate badge and twin exhaust pipes poking menacingly from under the reshaped bumper.

Ambling around town is a doddle in the Golf. The engine's 207lb/ft of torque is more than capable of hauling you from traffic light to roundabout with the minimum of effort.

And while the car's suspension is on the firm side, fillings stay firmly in your teeth over even the worst examples of highway decay.

Motorways highlight the GTI's impressive cruising ability. Stick the car in sixth and watch it glide serenely to an immodest speed of your choosing, leaving you to listen to the powerful stereo unhindered by a rev-happy and intrusive engine.

The ride feels more grand tourer than eager hot hatch on the motorway, but once you make for an exit the Golf soon switches into fun mode.

Fear not if the road is slippery or especially bumpy, as the friendly traction control light will illuminate and the electronic gubbins will kill wheelspin and steady your trajectory in a jerk-free manner.

Whether you push the car hard or decide to stay within your own limits, the Volkswagen Golf GTI always turns in a winning performance.

When travelling at modest speeds, the car's exhaust plays a suitably sporty tune.

Decide to up the pace and even hardened enthusiasts will be pleasantly surprised by the Golf's abilities.

But it's the way the car tackles tight bends, sweeping bends and dodgy off-camber surfaces that will have even disillusioned fans rejoicing.

The way you can point the Golf at a corner, turn in and feel it working through the seat of your pants is nothing short of thrilling.

Yes, the traction control light will occasionally flicker, but the electronic intrusion is measured. Best of all, the Golf will happily do this all day - or for as long as you're able. Its ability to gobble up corners and devour straights makes it a potent cross-country and overtaking tool.

If you're after a seriously swift car, but don't fancy a flash Japanese rally replica or rev-happy French hatch, and need to transport a family shopping or even friends and business clients on a regular basis, the Golf GTI - especially in five-door guise - will surprise you.

For more information, call Martins VW on 01256 867010.