Volkswagen Golf Hatchback (2004 - 2008) 2.0 GT FSI 5d (2004/04) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Can't afford a GTi

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

Nice car, shame about the MPG

Would you buy this car again and why?

Would buy a Golf, but would get a chipped Diesel (better MPG) or save up for the GTi (makes the low MPG worth while).

What are you likely to buy next?

Scirroco

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£8,000

When did you buy the car?

October 2009

Did you get a good deal and why?

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Couldn't stretch to a GTi. Test drove back to back with an 08 Focus of similar price and spec and it felt much less like white-goods.

What was the dealer like?

Very reluctant to lower the price and keen to sell lifeshine and gap insurance.

What's it like to drive?

Plenty of power from the 2.0ltr engine and lots of low down torque so it is possible to hold on to a higher gear. Using the ESP it was able to keep up with an A3 quattro tdi in the snow. The car does suffer from brake fade when driven aggressively and this has lead to me being reluctant to drive it fast. The fuel economy is not great, low to mid 30mpg (and VW recommend every 3rd tank should be super unleaded) It also suffers from some tyre noise.

What's it like to park?

No harder than my old Mk3. It has a good turning circle which helps.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Suffers from brake fade, this appears to be common to the MK5

What's most practical about your car?

Large boot, 5 door

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Autowipers