Other Volkswagen Golf (1997 - 2005) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Nothing really. Nobody would have any idea it wasn't a 1.6 because it doesn't look a great deal different from standard unless you know what to look for.

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

    They quite like it because it is plain on the outside, nice on the inside. It is a pleasant surprise.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    I would like an R32 for the power but not for the looks. If I were looking for the same type of car again I probably would.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    An AMG Merc I think. Understated yet poweful and reliable. Just like the Golf but faster.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Independent

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £9,000

    When did you buy the car?

    November 2006

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    It was from a specialist dealer who had too much stock. I didn't have a part ex so got a good deal.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Reliable, poweful, comfortable, inconspicuous.

    What was the dealer like?

    Friendly and helpful

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Smooth, quite nippy with a lot of torque. You can drive around in 6th gear at 25mph. Out of town it is good fun, plenty of power if you want to have some fun and it handles pretty well too. Good suspension. Very close ratio gearbox can be a bit of a pain, better to skip a few gears on the up changes.

    What's it like to park?

    Easy, it's only a Golf.

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Cooling fans failed. According to Volkswagen the motors were seized but upon closer inspection by an independent garage it was a minor fault. Driver's door sensor also failed.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Big enough for every day use, biggish boot. No different from any other Golf.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    The seats. Leather Recaros are extremely comfortable and supportive. Do not buy one without this option, you will be disappointed when you find out what you missed!