Volkswagen Golf Hatchback (97-04) - Review

Review by Parkers on
The fourth generation Golf delivers luxury, quality and refinement in a very safe package. Rivals may look or drive better, but none offer the Golf's superb cabin and solid but understated image. It costs more than most small family cars, but depreciation is slow and running costs are reasonable. Fuel economy is fine on petrol-engined cars, but the diesel cars are excellent, especially the PD high pressure injection engines. These give enjoyable brisk performance combined with 50mpg.
3.5 out of 5

Buying used

Values will drop slightly because of the new model, but Golfs will always be expensive. More so, the top-end diesel models. Check the history carefully, especially on low mileage 1.8 petrol models and make sure any recall work has been carried out.

See 184 used Volkswagen Golf Hatchbacks for sale, starting at £995

3.5 out of 5

Selling

There's strong demand for all models, but it's exceptional for the high spec diesels. Truth be told, you'll always find a buyer for any Golf, no matter how knackered or untidy.