Not sure what sort of boy could afford such a car (£23,015), but the Golf GTI must be the ultimate ‘boy-racer’. The term has derogatory undertones these days, but I was driving an all-new three-door Mk6 in white with black tartan trim and striking red stitching throughout, finished off with blacked-out rear windows – surely the definitive description of the breed? Very smart though, and all topped off with a leather steering wheel and gear knob. This must be every boy’s dream, especially when you step inside the classy cabin with seats that are so comfortable and supportive, and all the gadgets a lad could want?…

I did wonder whether the dark rear windows were just asking for trouble, and as soon as I put the GTI into gear and pressed my right foot down on the shiny chrome accelerator pedal I knew that was precisely the case. Fast and furious – just like my heart-rate. I felt I was in a bumper car (thankfully without the bumps), zooming along, changing direction instantly. But I could never live with a car like this – it would end badly, and probably in court. I know my place: I’m just a Polo-type of girl despite aspirations to the contrary.

Now if the GTI is a boy-racer, then the GTI with the six speed DSG double-clutch is definitely for the ‘man-racer’ out there (5-door £24,905). Almost as much fun, but so effortless. Still fast, furious and thrilling and great for those who no longer feel the need to rev the engine for effect, but zoom on by in a blur of class, quality and style. Yet more money, of course.

The thing is, driving a speedy, beautifully made, high kerb-appeal vehicle just makes you feel so good. It’s very seductive. Perhaps that’s why there will always be those prepared to splash out for a Golf GTI.

I suppose the GTI is the ultimate for a driver of a certain age (I imagine late-twenties), but there are other Golfs of course, and the range offers something for everyone – if you have the cash.