Used Volkswagen Golf 2004-2008 review

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  • Economy

    Value

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Shop around for a good deal. Tried to exchange it for a Touran after 6 months. the dealer knocked 3.5K off.

    Costs

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Long life engine oil expensive. It needs a top up every tank full of diesel.

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Wider than MK4. Poor rear visibility & thick A pillars. Fun to drive when you get used to it.

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    2L TDI is perky. The DSG gearbox great. The tip function is lifeless as the stick is hard to shift. VW are planning a 170 BHP version of the same engine. Super chipping this version might invalidate your warranty!

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Engine fault from new. 11 months and 6 weeks workshop time to fix. Cabin rattles. Less well put together than older VW models.

    Image

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Older models grew on me. After a year I still find the MK5 odd. Its front does not match the side and back. The Golf + looks smarter.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Seats a bit on the hard side. Sport seats hold you better than standard ones. Lumbar support too low.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    4 out of 5 4.0

    No problems yet. The coming/leaving home light function can attract trouble.

    Service

    1 out of 5 1.0

    VW do not respect their private customers. I had to chase the Dealer and VW Customer Care to repair a factory fault. The worst customer service I have encountered.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Factory fault from new.

    Other

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    New

    Would you buy the same model again?

    No

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    No