THE words GTI and diesel aren't exactly natural bedfellows.
But when you combine the two on a Volkswagen Golf you have a car which offers brilliant economy and blistering performance.
In fact having driven the new diesel Golf GTI for a week I find it hard to understand why - additional money apart - anyone would buy the petrol version of this car.
From the outside there's nothing to distinguish the diesel from the traditional hot hatch petrol model. The GTI badge is affixed only to the 1.9-litre, 150 bhp model in the diesel range and this carries a £1,300 premium over the 130 bhp GT TDi model.
This is one diesel that really does deserve that badge. It will throw you back in your seat when you put the power down and it's power that keeps on coming through all six gears.
Its responsiveness is nothing short of brilliant, no matter what gear you are in. Even at high speed on the motorway in sixth gear you can drop your right foot and this car will take off.
In fact it is the world's most powerful four-cylinder 1.9-litre diesel, with maximum pulling power available from just 1,900 revs.
The only downside is that it is not the quietest of diesels around. We may be in an age where many oil burners are now becoming so silent you cannot distinguish them from their petrol-powered brothers, but that doesn't apply to the 150 bhp GTI diesel Golf.
Having said that the diesel burble is a small price to pay for a car which puts fun back into driving. The six speed box is super slick and the firm but comfortable lowered suspension ensures that the road holding lives up to the performance.
Drive it sensibly and you will easily average fuel consumption in the high 50s.
This model comes particularly well equipped, with Anti-lock Brakes, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Electronic Stabilisation Programme, Electronic Differential Lock and traction control all standard.
Well designed front sports seats hold passengers in place with plenty of side support, the driver's seat is adjustable for height and the steering wheel for both height and reach to ensure the ideal driving position.
Other features include "Climatronic" air conditioning, a single CD player and black-stained wood trim on the dashboard and doors.
In fact this Golf is very well appointed indeed, tending to appeal to drivers who want a performance car but one with style and comfort.
So if you want performance with understated quality in a car which tends not to visit fuel stations too often, this GTI could well be the one for you.
FAST FACTS
Volkswagen Golf GTI PD
Price: £17,585
Mechanical: 150 bhp, 1,896cc 4cyl engine driving front wheels via 6spd gearbox
Max speed: 134mph
0-62mph: 8.6 secs
Combined mpg: 52.3 mpg
Insurance group: 14
CO2 emissions: 146g/km
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 12yrs anti-rust; 3yrs paint