Ref. 30765-9Reading your favourite book undisturbed in the library is a similar experience to driving the VW Bora, silent and comfortable. ANDY TATE takes it for a drive about town

It is tempting to dismiss the VW Bora as boring and not just because of its outstanding alliterative potential.

The Bora's best quality is its comfort. Taking the Highline TDI 130 PS on long stretches of the M4, the four-door saloon fits the driver like a snug slipper.

The suspension does what it's supposed to do, and blocks any unwanted shocks and bumps.

Engine noise has been suppressed, and with the windows shut the interior experience is more like a library than a motorcar.

Pressing firmly on the gas pedal produces powerful but controlled acceleration.

The name Bora means Adriatic wind, and this car moves like it sleek and silent.

Nothing about this car is flash or cheeky. It is a serious vehicle for serious people, who would no doubt appreciate the excellent rear visibility far more than the sliding drinks holder.

Inside a respectable but unexciting exterior, and safely away from the leather seats, sits the 1.9 litre diesel engine.

The TDI engine features the Pump Duse fuel injection system, resulting in increased torque as well as strong fuel economy.

The Bora can accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 10.1 seconds, with a maximum speed of 127mph, and returning a combined 51.4 miles to the gallon.

Predictably, safety features high on the manufacturers' concerns, and every model is fitted with an Electronic Stabilisation Programme to help correct over steer, under steer and loss of vehicle stability.

Other standard features include ABS anti-lock braking system, door side impact protection, air conditioning and cruise control.

The Highline model comes with leather seats, parking sensors, heated front seats and Montreall alloy wheels.

Volkswagen offers the Bora as an alternative to its larger Passat.

Both are mid-size saloons, but the Bora is supposedly sportier and more compact.

It is certainly compact in the rear of the car, where there is barely enough room for passengers.

Those who insist on travelling in the back would be advised to remove their legs for a more comfortable journey.

This is not a car that should be recommended for families. Middle-aged businessmen would be much better suited to its leathery comforts and impressive thrust.

Nor is it a nippy motor that likes to run around town. The Bora is best on the bigger, straighter roads, where dignity can be maintained.

To spend time stuck in traffic in this car would be no tragedy, but what a shame VW insists on cutting costs and corners with a pathetic cassette/radio.

Put in a CD player and perhaps more customers would be prepared to listen.

n The basic VW Bora S 1.6 petrol version starts at £13,575 on the road. The Bora Highline TDI 130 PS is available at £17,335.

For more details or a test drive contact Mann Egerton near Junction 16 in Frankland Road, Swindon SN5 8SU or call 01793 600010.

Andy Tate