THE new Volkswagen Golf GTI has big shoes to fill, because its MK6 predecessor set the standard for all other circa-$40k five-door hot hatches when it launched in 2009.

Understandably, VW has not messed with the winning formula, using this new Mk7 offering evolutionary styling inside and out, and similar characteristics from behind the wheel - and that is the best thing.

That said, this really is no mere evolutionary product underneath, with a brand new MQB platform, a new EA888 turbo engine as well as a new progressive steering system leading the way.

The GTI, as before, offers something that more hard-edged rivals do not: it can be as comfortable doddling around town as it is on twisting mountain roads.

It is actually still no fire-breathing beast like a Renault Sport Megane 265 - that brief is filled by the $50k Golf R - but it is no doubt the nicest to live with day in, day out.