Volkswagen Golf Hatchback (2004 - 2008) 1.9 SE TDI 5d (2004/54) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Too many of these about to say an awful lot. A few years ago, owning a Golf would imply that the owner was well off; and fairly well to do. But you get used to owning it, so it's just transport really.

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

They really like it.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Why not. 12 months and 18k miles later; and it has given me no problems. Would'nt buy from a dealer though.

What are you likely to buy next?

Would'nt mind an M3. Back in the real world though, probably another Golf.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£10,495

When did you buy the car?

December 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

Not really, cars have depreciated so quickly in the past few months, even so-called 'prestige' marques like VW have suffered. As of Nov 2008, I would be lucky to get £6k for mine now. That's £4.5k down the swanny.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Decided to go for something that was seen as reliable, solid ;and reasonable to run.

What was the dealer like?

Quite rude really, especially when I tried to negotiate a better deal. Still managed to wrangle a year's road tax though. Mind you, he had the last laugh, was sold the car believing it had one previous owner, when the V5 came through the post, turned out it had two. Dealers are dealers.

What's it like to drive?

Very solid, holds the road well. Smooth turbo, no lag at all. It's fairly quite for a diesel, which is handy, as I do alot of motorway driving. Plenty of torque for overtaking. My Dad thought the car felt like a tank, but in a good way.

What's it like to park?

Easy, as its quite compact. Electric mirrors very helpful when parking close to the kerb.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Only niggles that I've learned to live with, such as the passenger window, that when slightly open; and you try to lift it up, will drop all the way back down. Dealer servicing costs are unreal, find yourself a good independent.

What's most practical about your car?

Good boot space; and plenty of room for oddments.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Cruise control, although rarely used, is nice to have. Air-con, of course.