In a market dominated by SUVs and electrified powertrains, it’s easy to forget the type of car that once defined long-distance driving: the diesel-powered hatchback. But the latest test of the Volkswagen Golf 8.5 2.0 TDI, conducted by motor.es journalists, serves as a stark reminder that the old formula still works – and in many cases, works better than ever.

On a 1,500-kilometer journey from Madrid to Barcelona and back, the updated Golf proved that for those who rack up serious mileage, there’s still no substitute for a well-tuned diesel engine. In fact, the team needed just €68 worth of diesel to cover the first 1,000 kilometers, a feat few electrified or petrol-powered rivals can match in terms of both cost and range.

Evolution of an Icon

Now in its eighth and a half generation, the Golf 8.5 doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel. Instead, it focuses on refining what already worked. Subtle styling updates—such as redesigned bumpers and the adoption of IQ.Light Matrix LED headlamps—keep the design fresh without losing the Golf’s signature silhouette. Inside, the upgrades are more meaningful. A larger touchscreen, improved software, and a new steering wheel with physical buttons (finally!) all contribute to a more intuitive and ergonomic experience.

The Diesel Dilemma, Revisited

Let’s address the elephant in the room: diesel has a PR problem in Europe. Regulatory crackdowns and urban restrictions have led many to dismiss it as outdated tech. But if your driving habits lean more toward highway cruising than city crawling, diesel remains a compelling proposition. And the 2.0 TDI engine with 150 horsepower and 340 Nm of torque is a shining example of that.

This engine doesn’t just sip fuel—it impresses with refinement. Even when cold, engine noise is well isolated, and once you’re at cruising speed, it fades into near silence. That mechanical serenity, combined with the Golf’s characteristic handling balance, makes for a composed and confidence-inspiring ride. The punchy low-end torque outclasses its petrol sibling (the 1.5 TSI), especially in real-world scenarios like overtaking or merging onto highways.

Real-World Efficiency

Over the course of the 1,500 km test, average fuel consumption settled at just 4.8 l/100 km—an astonishing result considering the challenging conditions: over 35°C ambient temperatures, heavy use of air conditioning, and frequent traffic snarls. The car covered the first 1,000 km on a single 50-liter tank, and the total fuel bill for the entire journey came in just over €100.

That’s not just efficient; it borders on absurd. And in a time when many car buyers are weighing the high up-front costs and infrastructure challenges of EVs and hybrids, this kind of real-world frugality cannot be overlooked.

Not Perfect, But Purposeful

It’s worth noting that modern diesel engines come with complexity. Systems like AdBlue injection, particulate filters, and EGR valves are necessary to meet today’s emissions standards—but they also make diesels less ideal for city dwellers. In heavy urban traffic, consumption rises to around 6.5 l/100 km, and components like the DPF may struggle to regenerate properly.

Still, for drivers covering 20,000 km or more per year, no current alternative offers the same blend of performance, range, and economy.

Verdict: The Right Tool for the Job

The Golf 8.5 TDI isn’t trying to be a revolution. It’s not flashy. It doesn’t shout about its talents. But for those who want a mature, versatile, and incredibly efficient car for long-distance travel, it’s hard to think of a better option. With a 381-liter trunk, room for a small family, and the kind of driving experience that makes you forget the SUV craze ever happened, this diesel hatchback makes a compelling case for itself.

Hybrids are great. EVs are the future. But when you need to traverse a continent, sometimes the old ways are still the best. And the Golf TDI proves that diesel, far from dead, still has plenty of life left on the open road.

Source: Motor.es