Other Volkswagen Golf (1997 - 2005) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Practicality, reliability and build quality are more important than looks or performance.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    It looks safe, feels safe is comfortable and quiet on long trips and is wearing very well for it's age.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes as it's been 100% reliable and there's been no nasty surprises.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    No even thinking about it at the moment but definitely another estate car and petrol rather than diesel next tijme.

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Didn't buy from a dealer

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £2,500

    When did you buy the car?

    March 2013

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    This car has been in my family from new so I knew it's full history and how reliable and economical it had been.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Family pass down.

    What was the dealer like?

    Not applicable.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Comfortable, quiet and adequate performance. Auto kick-down is good and the Tiptronic 5-speed gearbox is smooth and responsive. Handling is nowhere near as good as my 2006 Astra estate as it feels heavy when cornering but it is otherwise excellent as are the brakes.

    What's it like to park?

    No parking sensors so difficult to judge exactly how much room there is at both ends but with power steering it's easy to get it into spaces only a few feet longer than the car.

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Bought at 40k miles now at 88k miles and it's only ever needed tyres and standard services.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Spacious, comfortable and incredibly economical - much better than the published figures. It average at least 50 mpg for mixed driving despite it being an automatic.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Space under boot floor and cruise control.