Volkswagen's Golf declared world's best car

It's now official – Volkswagen's most popular model, the Golf, is the world's best car.

The family hatchback's latest version, the Golf MkVI, has been declared the 2009 'World Car of the Year' by a jury of 59 automotive journalists from 25 countries around the world, at the New York International Auto Show last week.

Volkswagen Golf MkVIThe Golf beat other big-ticket rivals like the Ford Fiesta and the Toyota iQ for the title. The other contenders in the shortlist were the Audi A4, BMW 7-series, Citroen C5, Fiat 500, Honda Jazz, Jaguar XF, Mazda6 and Nissan GT-R.

The judges observed, "The new Golf VI feels more expensive than other family hatches, thanks to its solid build and high quality cabin. Customers get a choice of nothing less than six engines including the punchy and efficient 158hp, 1.4-litre TSI unit that features both a turbo and supercharger. The Golf is also available with the firm's new 2.0-litre common-rail diesel engine, developing either 108 or 138hp.''

The panel added, "It goes without saying that choosing between the slick six-speed manual and superb DSG twin-clutch gearbox can be difficult. Sitting on an outstanding chassis, the VW is more refined than its rivals, especially when highway cruising. Wind, road and engine noise are kept to a minimum, making the Golf a relaxing long distance companion."

The Golf, a perennial favourite in the Volkswagen line-up, has sold more than 26 million units in 120 countries, making it one of the top selling vehicles of all time. The new sixth generation Golf debuted at the Paris Motor show last September, and made its US debut the New York Show.