Welcome back, 2010 Volkswagen Golf! After four years of unavailability in North America, this compact, fun and economical car has returned by the graces of its German masters. There are two engine choices available: a 2.5L 170 horsepower 177 lb-ft gasoline-powered I5 and an intercooled turbocharged 2.0L 140 horsepower 236 lb-ft TDI clean-diesel I4. Transmission choices for the I5 include a 5-speed/OD manual or an automatic 6-speed Tiptronic gearbox. Purchasers who choose the TDI 4-cylinder diesel can select between a 6-speed manual and a DSG 6-speed Tiptronic auto.

As you would expect from Volkswagen engineers, the 2010 Golf is loaded down with standard safety features. Six separate airbags, electronic traction control, remote keyless entry, occupancy sensor, panic alarm, ignition disabling and a theft deterrent radio are included to name a few. There's also an innovative safety configuration. Again, those who select the TDI-equipped Golfs will be treated further to a sport-tuned suspension system, 17 inch wheels and tires, genuine leather steering wheel wrap and shift knob, SIRIUS Satellite Radio and a touchscreen stereo system.

Suggested retail pricing for the 2010 Golf from Volkswagen skips around between $17,490 and $22,590. The Honda Civic, Pontiac Vibe, Toyota Matrix and the Mazda Mazda3 would have all liked to have seen the Golf just stay in the past. When you consider the meticulous German engineering standards that it displays, it's practical yet sporty appeal and the fact that it can deliver an EPA-estimated 30/41 mpg city/highway (TDI Golf only), it's no wonder. Four trim levels are available overall: the 2-door Hatchback, 4-door Hatchback and their TDI equivalents. All trims are capable of carrying about 1000 pounds, are front wheel driven and require a 17.9 foot turning radius.

The hatchback design of the 2010 Golf Volkswagen enables it to carry a head-spinning amount of luggage, gear and other cargo - 46 cubic feet in particular. Its 165.4 inch overall length is balanced nicely with its 70.3 inch width and 58.3 inch height. Trim dependent curb weights range between 2968 pounds for the 2-door Hatchback up to 3074 pounds for the TDI 4-door Hatchback. Remember, this is a compact vehicle, but it still presents 39 inches of headroom in the front and rear, 55 inches of shoulder room in the front (53 in the rear) and 41.2 inches of legroom in the front (35.5 in the rear). Impressive spaciousness!

Bound to be a hit, the 2010 Volkswagen Golf jumps back into action this year. Competitors beware of this fun, economical, masterfully-engineered compact work of art.