PRICES for Volkswagen's top-of-the-range TDI PD Golf and Bora 150bhp models will start at £17,425 on the road. According to VW, the new 150bhp models represent a new benchmark in the diesel sector for power and performance.

Using the company's Pumpe Duse technology, the 1896 cc unit produces 320Nm of torque. The engine drives through a six-speed gearbox. The Golf delivers 0-62mph in 8.6 seconds and goes on to a top speed of 134mph.

Both return more than 51 mpg on the combined cycle. More significantly, for company car drivers is that when the new tax regime comes into force in April, both produce 149g/km of carbon dioxide, placing them in the lowest diesel tax band and qualifying for an 18 per cent levy.

The three-door Golf costs £17,425, while the five-door is £18,045. At £17,995 the Bora costs £485 more than its 130 bhp PD Sport equivalent. The premium for the Golf is greater (£1,370). However, it includes the upgrade from GTI to GTI Turbo trim Ð large alloy wheels, sports seats with lumbar support and three rear head restraints and three-point seatbelts.

This is all in addition to standard specification which includes for airbags, ABS, air-conditioning, remote central locking and alarm and a a CD player. The Bora TDI PD 150 comes in Sport trim. This features as standard a similar specification to the Golf (except for different design wheels), rain sensor automatic dimming mirror, dash-mounted CD autochanger and walnut wood inserts in place of black wood.