VW Golf Estate 1999-
  • Economy

    Value

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Depreciation not much better than average. Poor trade in after 2.5 years from dealers.

    Costs

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Fuel costs ok, but dealer service costs are painful.

  • On the road

    Driving

    2 out of 5 2.0

    OK on motorway, but sloppy and rolls a lot on other roads. Nowhere near as good as old MkII.

    Performance

    3 out of 5 3.0

    115bhp 2.0 just about adequate. Engine flexible, but weight makes for slow getaway from lights.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Dealers think I live on their forecourt. Multiple different faults, rainwater leaks, engine management systems and suspension.

    Image

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Better than Focus / Astra / Peugeot.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Seats a bit hard. Cramped in rear for size of car. Boot excellent.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Has Thatcham Cat II alarm/immobiliser fitted.

    Service

    1 out of 5 1.0

    If you have a problem, don't bother with VW UK. Unhelpful, impolite, backheel all problems to equally unhelpful dealers.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Lambda sensor, temperature sensor, thermostat and water pump (in 3 months).

    Other

    Loose suspension bolts, seat split on seam, horn failed and heater adjustment.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    New

    Would you buy the same model again?

    No

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    No