VW Golf Hatchback 1997-

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  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Seems fair, only if you avoid the 'stealerships' though. Very good resale values on all models compared to Astras and Escorts/Focus'.

    Costs

    4 out of 5 4.0

    People complained about bad mpg, that's because they cant drive. Try not revving hard too much in first or second, and then it'll achieve 40mpg for sure.

  • On the road

    Driving

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Steering is a tad light, but grips surprisingly well. Tested coming off a German autobahn at 80mph and onto the notorious exits, which are very sharp, car stayed true and lapped it up.

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Not that sprightly, but plenty of low down torque. Fantastic cruiser. It took two adults and two young adults to Spain twice and to Switzerland in consecutive years, at high speed it is very stable and still beat a BMW 325d up to 110mph.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Nothing has ever gone wrong. Apparently it's supposed to be an unreliable car, maybe people just need to learn how to drive first?

    Image

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Very professional look indeed.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Not bad, climate control could be better as the standard air con saps too much power from the engine.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Seems OK (untested).

    Service

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Only went to VW dealer three times, go to independent.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Other

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    New

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes