Volkswagen Golf GTI (09 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on 22 April 2009

Last Updated: 29 September 2009

The Volkswagen Golf GTI launched the trend for hot hatches in the late 1970s and has grown from a cult car, to - in its current incarnation - perhaps the best all-round fast family hatchback. This sixth-generation Golf GTI is effectively a thorough re-working of the previous car, itself a superb performance hatch. Volkswagen, therefore, had a strong base upon which to develop this car. It comes with a new, more powerful 2.0-litre TFSI engine and sharp handling, but doesn't compromise on comfort. And while it provides most of the thrills that more powerful rivals can offer, it is utterly painless to use as everyday transport for a family.

4.5 out of 5

Other Volkswagen reviews

3 out of 5

Running costs

Although the Golf is a little pricier new than many rivals, such as the Ford Focus ST or Honda Civic Type R - and buyers would be unlikely to achieve such a generous discount - depreciation will be slow. The GTI has surprisingly good fuel consumption with almost 40mpg possible in everyday driving. Volkswagen servicing charges might not be the cheapest around, but compared with other cars in this class, the GTI isn't an expensive car to own.

Summary Running Costs
Servicing period	Variable servicing (up to approximately 18,000 miles or two years) or fixed servicing (at every 10,000 miles or 12 months) can be chosen when new. It is possible to change from one to another during the vehicle’s life, but it can only be done when a full inspection service is due.
Warranty	Three years/60,000 miles.
Road tax (12 months)	£195.00 - £250.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO₂ emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO₂ emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

3.5 out of 5