Volkswagen Golf Hatchback (2004 - 2008) 1.6 S FSI 5d (AC) (2006/06) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

A person who likes a quality, good car without having to pay over the odds for one.

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

My family thinks it's a great looking car. A friend of mine thought it was brand new even though it was 6 years old! But then again I always like to give my car a good wash and polish once in a while! :).

Would you buy this car again and why?

Probably yes, though maybe with a plusher trim and powerful engine like a Golf GT Sport or GTI MK5 or even a MK6.

What are you likely to buy next?

Golf MK5 (GT Sport/GTI), Golf MK6 (Match/GT/GTI) or maybe an Audi A3/A5.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£4,995

When did you buy the car?

August 2012

Did you get a good deal and why?

Relatively low mileage for its age plus it was pretty good condition too - all for under £5k.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Driven other cars but felt the VW Golf MK5 offers the best balance of comfort, driveability, quality and affordability.

What was the dealer like?

Generally very good, no problems.

What's it like to drive?

Solid, the steering feels meaty so it's nice to drive round corners at speed. But it's comfortable even with imperfect road surfaces, much more comfortable and refined compared to the Honda Civic (2007) I had before. The 1.6 FSI engine is adequate overall but not mind blowingly quick.

What's it like to park?

Generally easy, good visibility all round. The steering does feel a tad bit heavy in certain tight spots but this is negligible though.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Discovered it had warped front discs from the previous owner. Had the front brakes replaced and fluid change at a VW Specialist for £180 including VAT and labour. Had vibrations at high speeds due to an unbalanced wheel but upgraded to alloys and the problems was gone after. Other than that mechanically it has been sound.

What's most practical about your car?

The shape of the car with 5 doors makes it easy to carry passengers in comfort as well as lugging in furniture from IKEA.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

I love the blue instrument lighting on the dials. My car is the "S" Trim so it was a bit spartan but I added alloys and Double DIN Touchscreen Stereo so it's nicer in and out now! The Shadow Blue paint is rather nice too.