Volkswagen Golf Hatchback (97-04) - Review Review by Parkers on 01 January 1997 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. 4 out of 5 Other Volkswagen reviews Summary Facts & Figures Equipment Driving & Performance Comfort Costs Safety & Reliability Buying & Selling Also Consider Company Car Info Owners' Reviews Gallery 4.5 out of 5 Performance There's a huge choice of engines and they're all good. Petrol units range from the humble 1.4-litre to the sporty 1.8T and smooth V5 but the 1.6-litre should be fine for most people. Diesel and sporty versions get all the attention - the best are the 1.9 GT or GTI models - not monikers usually associated with diesels - that benefit from Pumpe Düse common rail technology. They’re noisy but offer punchy performance and return upwards of 49 mpg - not bad for a car with sporty credentials. View full gallery 3.5 out of 5 Handling This Golf lacks the edge that gave its predecessors such a fearsome reputation, but this doesn't mean that it's dull to drive. It's more refined than ever before and feels composed and safe. The steering is precise and gives decent feedback, the ride is smooth and the result is a competent and relaxing drive. Quiet on the motorway it's good in town too and easy to slot into a tight space in the supermarket car park. View full gallery Car Valuations Find used car prices with Parkers accurate car valuations. Find out more Volkswagen Golf cars for sale We have 184 models like this for sale. Find Volkswagen Golf cars for sale Previous: Equipment Next: Comfort