Twin test Imitation game

MERCEDES-AMG A35 4MATIC

£44,360 (£45,855 as tested)

FOR Barely contained tempertantrum under the bonnet

AGAINST Flat seats, brittle ride, noisy cabin

2.0T 4cyl

302 bhp

4.7 secs

35.8 mpg

188 g/km

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF R

£39,270 (£42,260 as tested)

FOR Easy pace meets clever, comfy chassis for all weather fun

AGAINST Bland engine note, annoying interior

2.0T 4cyl

316 bhp

4.7 secs

36.2 mpg

177 g/km

Here’s a theory: the Merc A35 only exists because the old Golf R was a blinder. AMG made its play in 2013, insisting the