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VOLKSWAGEN GOLF Used Car Review

The Volkswagen Golf emerged in 1974 as a hatchback that would essentially replace the famous, long-running Beetle as the German brand's car for the masses. It has since established itself as a classless vehicle with broad appeal, as well as a reputation for leading the mainstream small-car segment for quality, refinement and technology. A large range of models includes hatchbacks, wagons and cabriolets, as well as famous hot-hatch models in the form of the iconic GTI and cult all-wheel-drive R.

Pros

Cons

  • Class-leading cabin quality and refinement
  • Slick and efficient petrol and diesel drivetrains
  • Satisfying to drive with good ride and handling
  • Wide choice of models, including terrific GTI hot-hatch
  • DSG auto gearboxes prone to low-speed jerkiness
  • Relatively expensive servicing
  • Flagship Golf model, the R, not necessarily the best
  • Some engines renowned for high oil consumption
This is general information and should not be relied on as purchasing advice.
VolkswagenGolfRedClear all

Top2011 Volkswagen Golf 103 TDI COMFORTLINE

  • 222894 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Xmas Saturday Special ONE DAY ONLY Turbo Diesel VW Golf Hatch Auto Service Books Front and rear Park sensors Cruise control Bluetooth Multifunction Steering Alloys Rwc Clear title Call Now!!! Vehicle at 485 Warrigal rd Moorabbin

$9,990 Drive Away^
Moorabbin, VIC

Dealer used
12 hours ago

Top2014 Volkswagen Golf VII MY15 GTI DSG Performance Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

  • 110263 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

BUY WITH CONFIDENCE WITH AFFORDABLE FINANCE PACKAGES & WARRANTY OPTIONS AVAILABLE. Located 15 minutes from Melbourne in the eastern suburbs. One of Australia?s largest Pre-Owned Vehicle Sites with over 55 years of experience and operation this Family-Owned business has a large range of quality pre-owned vehicles and 2 on-site valuers to ensure we get the best price for your trade in. Interstate purchases welcome, we?ll help and guide with transportation or arrange a permit if you want to dr

$22,388 Drive Away^
Burwood, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

Top2012 Volkswagen Golf 1K MY12 GTi Red 6 Speed Direct Shift Hatchback

  • 98900 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2012 VW Golf GTI travelled only 99900 km with full service history, 2 keys and presents like a new car. If your looking for that original immaculate vehicle then look no further. Viewing will impress *12 month Warranty on all vehicles at an additional $500* All vehicles PPSR clear(No accident history or financial encumbrances) Finance available Trades welcome We welcome independent vehicle inspections on all our vehicles Call Tony O 416 1O 34 34 or come see us *** at 16 baretta rd *** We car

$18,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
11 hours ago

Top2012 Volkswagen Golf 1K MY12 GTi Red 6 Speed Direct Shift Hatchback

  • 165000 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

-2012 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTI -AMAZING VEHICLE THIS VW WILL LEAVE YOU SPEECHLESS!! -A TRUE POCKET ROCKET -TURBOCHARGED ENGINE -VERY POWERFUL -FULLY OPTIONED -SAT NAVIGATION -BLUETOOTH -PARK ASSIST -POWER STEERING -AIR COND -AIRBAGS -ALLOYS -CRUISE CONTROL -ALLOY WHEELS -FOG LIGHTS -CENTRAL LOCKING -SERVICE HISTORY -AND MANY MANY MORE OPTIONS -DRIVES AND HANDLES GREAT -RWC INCLUDED -REGO INCLUDED -WARRANTY INCLUDED -PRICED TO SELL -BUY WITH CONFIDENCE FROM AN APPROVED VACC DEALER -NO DEPOSIT FINAN

$16,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Brooklyn, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

Top2016 Volkswagen Golf VII MY17 GTi Red 6 Speed Manual Hatchback

  • 126642 km
  • Hatchback
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

This 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI manual has been kept in superb condition by the previous owner and comes with the below features! - Reversing camera - Front and rear sensors - 6 speed manual - GTI edition interior stitching - Bluetooth connectivity - Cruise control - Quality mechanical service history NO LONGER AVAILABLE NEW!! This 2023 Hyundai i30 has been kept in superb condition by the previous owner and is now the closest thing you can get to a new one! - Apple Carplay/ Android Auto - Rev

$21,950 Excl. Gov. Charges
Morley, WA

Dealer used
11/05/2024

Top2019 Volkswagen Golf 7.5 MY20 GTI DSG Red 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

  • 41000 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Experience the perfect blend of comfort, practicality, and affordability with the 2015 Nissan QASHQAI ST. Draped in a sleek silver paintjob, this stunning pre-loved vehicle has travelled a moderate 110,633kms, striking a perfect balance between experience and vitality. Known for its time-tested reliability and impressive performance, this Nissan QASHQAI stands tall as an undisputed family favourite, equipping you with the right tool to tackle the everyday urban commute with ease. The Nissan QAS

$34,490 Drive Away^
Eagle Farm, QLD

Dealer used
11/05/2024

1998 Volkswagen Golf SE Red 4 Speed Automatic Cabriolet

  • 72000 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

• 2 Litre Petrol • 4 Speed Automatic • 14" Factory Alloy Wheels • Air Conditioning • Dual Airbags • Factory Body Kit + Flared Guards • Factory Fog Lamps • New Hood • Power Steering • Power Windows & Mirrors For quick and easy finance applications, please follow this link: https://www.aussieloans.com.au/dealer-feedback-form/apply-now-motorman-imports/ Please note the advertised price includes Queensland registration and government stamp duty (unless

$14,000 Drive Away^
Slacks Creek, QLD

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2012 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTi 6 SP MANUAL 5D HATCHBACK

  • 120000 km
  • Hatchback
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2012 Golf GTI Manual 120,000kms. Serviced with log books. Leater interior. Stock standard. Looked after inside and out. Negotiable on price for serious buyers

$15,500Negotiable
Hamilton, QLD

4 hours ago

2012 Volkswagen Golf 1K MY12 GTi Red 6 Speed Direct Shift Hatchback

  • 98900 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2012 VW Golf GTI travelled only 99900 km with full service history, 2 keys and presents like a new car. If your looking for that original immaculate vehicle then look no further. Viewing will impress *12 month Warranty on all vehicles at an additional $500* All vehicles PPSR clear(No accident history or financial encumbrances) Finance available Trades welcome We welcome independent vehicle inspections on all our vehicles Call Tony O 416 1O 34 34 or come see us *** at 16 baretta rd *** We car

$18,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Wangara, WA

Dealer used
11 hours ago

2011 Volkswagen Golf 103 TDI COMFORTLINE

  • 222894 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Xmas Saturday Special ONE DAY ONLY Turbo Diesel VW Golf Hatch Auto Service Books Front and rear Park sensors Cruise control Bluetooth Multifunction Steering Alloys Rwc Clear title Call Now!!! Vehicle at 485 Warrigal rd Moorabbin

$9,990 Drive Away^
Moorabbin, VIC

Dealer used
12 hours ago

2015 Volkswagen Golf VII MY15 90TSI DSG Burgundy 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

  • 94845 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

Located in Western Sydney. We are a family run business and have been serving the Sydney area for many years. At kingz motors we hold approximately 80 pre owned vehicles in stock with a wide range of options and a price range between $3000 to $70,000 which caters to all clientele. We pride ourselves in only selling the best quality used cars at the most competitive prices possible. We take all precautions to ensure all our vehicles meet all legal and safety requirements with our extensive check

$15,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
21 hours ago

2012 Volkswagen Golf VI MY13 118TSI DSG Red 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Cabriolet

  • 135875 km
  • Convertible
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

we are still operating as per usual with all mechanics open to prepare sold vehicle, all sold cars are transferred instantly online with no delays. We are practising a safe working environment with social distancing a requirement also disinfecting all vehicles. Thank you for your understanding. 25 MINUTES FROM CBD TOWARDS SOUTH EAST SUBURBS OF Melbourne. Undercover showroom area provided and over 150 cars to choose from. All vehicles on site come drive away which includes Roadworthy certif

$12,499 Drive Away^
Mordialloc, VIC

Dealer used
21 hours ago

2013 Volkswagen Golf AU MY14 90 TSI Comfortline Red 7 Speed Auto Direct Shift Hatchback

  • 155570 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

-AND MORE. MOST OF OUR CARS COME WITH RWC FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND. WITH OVER 15 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE I CAN GIVE YOU THE BEST ADVICE AND PROVIDE YOU WITH THE BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE. HASSLE FREE SALE, FRIENDLY STAFF, AUSTRALIA WIDE WARRANTY IS ALSO AVAILABLE UPTO 5 YEARS WITH DIFFERENT LEVEL OF COVERS TO SUIT YOU AND YOUR CAR, PDS IS AVAILABLE IN THE OFFICE, FINANCE AVAILABLE T.A.P. NO REASONABLE OFFER REFUSED, OPEN 6 DAYS, TEST DRIVES WELCOME, COME AND SAY HELLO AT HELLO MOTORS. FOR MORE INFO PLEA

$13,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Footscray, VIC

Dealer used
22 hours ago

2010 Volkswagen Golf 1K MY10 GTi Red 6 Speed Manual Hatchback

  • 208748 km
  • Hatchback
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Looking for a car that will make heads turn and hearts race? Look no further than this stunning 2010 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTi. Priced at an unbeatable $12,999.00 AUD, this car is the epitome of style, performance, and affordability. Under the hood of this beauty lies a powerful TURBO MPFI 2.0L engine, paired with a 6 SP MANUAL transmission. With just over 208,000 kilometers on the odometer, this GOLF GTi has plenty of life left to offer. Safety is a top priority in this vehicle, with features such

$11,999 Drive Away^
Westcourt, QLD

Dealer used
22 hours ago

2015 Volkswagen Golf VII MY15 90TSI DSG Tornado Red 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

  • 72394 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

PARKING DISTANCE REAR ,CLIMATE CONTROL, BLUETOOTH !!! Unbeatable range with exceptional pricing direct to the public. Competitive and tailored same day finance available on-site. This 2015 Built & Complied Volkswagen 90TSI is presented in Stunning Sunset Red Paintwork over Black Cloth Trim, it is heavily optioned and presents in unmarked condition, a credit to its previous owner! Featuring an extensive inclusions list comprising of; -Electric Windows -Multi-Function Steering Wheel -Parking

$18,888 Drive Away^
Mulgrave, VIC

Dealer used
22 hours ago

2010 Volkswagen Golf 1K MY10 118 TSI Comfortline Red 7 Speed Auto Direct Shift Hatchback

  • 214245 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

Welcome to Cars Connect, Check out our NEW website www.carsconnect.com.au fresh WHOLESALE cars daily!!!!! BUYING OR SELLING ?? Welcome to CARS CONNECT , wholesalers in the motor industry. We pride our selves in helping people SELL or PURCHASE their next new or pre-loved motor vehicle. Our wholesale stock range consists mainly of freshly TRADED vehicles DIRECT from our local franchise dealer network , the vehicles we have advertised direct to public are hand picked and priced to move quick

Contact Dealer for Price
Edgeworth, NSW

Dealer used
23 hours ago

2012 Volkswagen Golf VI MY12.5 GTi Red 6 Speed Manual Hatchback

  • 151277 km
  • Hatchback
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2012 Volkswagen Golf VI MY12.5 GTi Red 6 Speed Manual Hatchback

$15,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
23 hours ago

2005 Volkswagen Golf 1K 1.6 Trendline Red 6 Speed Automatic Tiptronic Hatchback

  • 200131 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.6L

2005 Volkswagen Golf 1K 1.6 Trendline Red 6 Speed Automatic Tiptronic Hatchback

$3,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Belmore, NSW

Dealer used
Yesterday

2016 Volkswagen Golf AU MY16 GTi Red 6 Speed Manual Hatchback

  • 104701 km
  • Hatchback
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

We are one of Sydneys largest vehicle wholesalers, we sell direct to the public! Located in the Hawkesbury district a short drive from the m7 and m5. Sydneys Wests largest wholesaler. With a very high turnover of stock, we aim to bring you QUALITY VEHICLES at WHOLESALE PRICES – WE SELL FAST, WE SELL CHEAP! Call us now to make arrangements or book an appointment. Trade Ins are welcomed with Finance and Warranty available TAP. Interstate and rural buyers welcom

$22,880 Excl. Gov. Charges
McGraths Hill, NSW

Dealer used
Yesterday

2014 Volkswagen Golf VII MY14 GTI DSG Performance Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

  • 74611 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

** JUST ARRIVED** **WE CAN SEND A COMPLETE WALK AROUND VIDEO** We are a Franchise Dealership with all vehicles sold have been inspected by Factory Backed Trained Technicians. We put our 'BEST PRICE FIRST' We Sell over 100 Cars per month and stock over 150 Cars, With Such a HIGH TURNOVER AND SIZE means we can operate with Far LOWER MARGINS RESULTING IN A FAR BETTER PRICE FOR YOU! We Provide a large range of FACTORY BACKED COMPETITIVE FINANCE PACKAGES are available to approved purcha

$22,999 Drive Away^
Traralgon, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

2014 Volkswagen Golf VII MY15 GTI DSG Performance Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

  • 110263 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

BUY WITH CONFIDENCE WITH AFFORDABLE FINANCE PACKAGES & WARRANTY OPTIONS AVAILABLE. Located 15 minutes from Melbourne in the eastern suburbs. One of Australia?s largest Pre-Owned Vehicle Sites with over 55 years of experience and operation this Family-Owned business has a large range of quality pre-owned vehicles and 2 on-site valuers to ensure we get the best price for your trade in. Interstate purchases welcome, we?ll help and guide with transportation or arrange a permit if you want to dr

$22,388 Drive Away^
Burwood, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

2012 Volkswagen Golf 1K MY12 GTi Red 6 Speed Direct Shift Hatchback

  • 165000 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

-2012 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTI -AMAZING VEHICLE THIS VW WILL LEAVE YOU SPEECHLESS!! -A TRUE POCKET ROCKET -TURBOCHARGED ENGINE -VERY POWERFUL -FULLY OPTIONED -SAT NAVIGATION -BLUETOOTH -PARK ASSIST -POWER STEERING -AIR COND -AIRBAGS -ALLOYS -CRUISE CONTROL -ALLOY WHEELS -FOG LIGHTS -CENTRAL LOCKING -SERVICE HISTORY -AND MANY MANY MORE OPTIONS -DRIVES AND HANDLES GREAT -RWC INCLUDED -REGO INCLUDED -WARRANTY INCLUDED -PRICED TO SELL -BUY WITH CONFIDENCE FROM AN APPROVED VACC DEALER -NO DEPOSIT FINAN

$16,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Brooklyn, VIC

Dealer used
Yesterday

2016 Volkswagen Golf VII MY17 GTi Red 6 Speed Manual Hatchback

  • 126642 km
  • Hatchback
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

This 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI manual has been kept in superb condition by the previous owner and comes with the below features! - Reversing camera - Front and rear sensors - 6 speed manual - GTI edition interior stitching - Bluetooth connectivity - Cruise control - Quality mechanical service history NO LONGER AVAILABLE NEW!! This 2023 Hyundai i30 has been kept in superb condition by the previous owner and is now the closest thing you can get to a new one! - Apple Carplay/ Android Auto - Rev

$21,950 Excl. Gov. Charges
Morley, WA

Dealer used
11/05/2024

2014 Volkswagen Golf VII MY15 GTI DSG Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

  • 182102 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

INTERESTED ? FINANCE ? TRADE IN ? I CAN HELP. CALL ANTHONY ON ! We have over 300 good quality cars at unbeatable prices, Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Sunroof , Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 All cars are workshop tested, and optional parts and labour warranties are available .• *Pension Finance Available (Single Parent Payments, Parenting Payment, Disability Pension) • *Fee Free, No Interest Loan for Vehicles That Can Be Paid Off with Sim

$18,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
11/05/2024

2010 Volkswagen Golf VI MY10 GTI DSG Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

  • 149030 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2010 Volkswagen Golf VI MY10 GTI DSG Red 6 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

$15,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
11/05/2024

2012 Volkswagen Golf 1K MY13 GTD Red Hot 6 Speed Direct Shift Hatchback

  • 132100 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

****VW GOLF GTD-LIMITED -PRESENTS LIKE NEW-FULL HISTORY*** *** FIXED PRICING ALL STICK REDUCED** ABSOLUTE STUNNING EXAMPLE , FINISHED IN MOZAD RED WITH MATCHING TARTAN GTD INTERIOR, CERTAINLY TICKS ALL THE RIGHT BOXES WITH EXCELLENT HISTORY The GTD is basically the diesel take on the GTi. With sports suspension, 17-inch alloys, colour coded spoiler and unique sills, there's really no doubt about that. Interior trim is also enhanced, but the thing is, it's all fairly low key, so it doesn't st

$12,821 Excl. Gov. Charges
Prospect, SA

Dealer used
11/05/2024

2019 Volkswagen Golf 7.5 MY20 GTI DSG Red 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

  • 41000 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Experience the perfect blend of comfort, practicality, and affordability with the 2015 Nissan QASHQAI ST. Draped in a sleek silver paintjob, this stunning pre-loved vehicle has travelled a moderate 110,633kms, striking a perfect balance between experience and vitality. Known for its time-tested reliability and impressive performance, this Nissan QASHQAI stands tall as an undisputed family favourite, equipping you with the right tool to tackle the everyday urban commute with ease. The Nissan QAS

$34,490 Drive Away^
Eagle Farm, QLD

Dealer used
11/05/2024

2009 Volkswagen Golf VI MY10 90TSI DSG Trendline Red 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

  • 246485 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF 90TSI TRENDLINE DSG 1.4T 7-SPEED AUTO 2009 * Comes with safety certificate * Rego * Clear PPSR check * And fully serviced FIND US AT: 53 Grice Street Clontarf Qld -> Open 7 Days - 10am to 7pm -> After Hours By Appointment -> Call us on We offer video calls to show you the cars so you can know you're not just dealing with a robot. If you'd like to provide your number we'll WhatsApp video call or Facetime you so you can see the car and talk to a r

$4,000 Excl. Gov. Charges
Clontarf, QLD

Dealer used
11/05/2024

2007 Volkswagen Golf V MY08 Comfortline Burgundy 6 Speed Manual Hatchback

  • 129414 km
  • Hatchback
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

GENUINE ENQUIRIES ONLY!!! PLEASE READ THE AD CAREFYLLY BEFORE ENQUIRING AND BE AWARE WE WILL ATTEMP TO CONTACT YOU ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS TO DISCUSS YOUR ENQUIRY SO IF YOUR JUST IN THE BROWSING STAGE IT MAY BE BEST TO RESERVE YOUR ENQUIRY FOR NOW THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN WORKSHOPED SO YOU CAN BUY WITH CONFIDENCE!! THIS VEHICLE REPRESENTS GREAT VALUE AND IS PRESENTED IN EXCELLENT CONDITION FOR ITS AGE WITH LOW KILOMETERS FOR THE AGE!! VEHICLE COMES WITH MANY CREATURE COMFORTS, AIR CON, POWER OPTIO

$5,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
11/05/2024

2014 Volkswagen Golf AU MY15 90 TSI Comfortline Red 7 Speed Auto Direct Shift Hatchback

  • 87081 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

This 2014 first registered 2015 VW Golf 90 TSI Comfortline 5 Door Hatchback in red metallic duco with black cloth is perfectly presented and absolutely stunning. One owner with books, service history and low kms, climate control air conditioning, cruise control, front dual airbags, head and side airbags, anti-locking brakes, rear sensors, mobile phone connectivity, leather multi function steering wheel, electric diff lock, radio/CD player and much more. Enquire online or call today to arrange

$14,880 Excl. Gov. Charges
West Croydon, SA

Dealer used
11/05/2024

Overview of the Volkswagen Golf

Overview of the Volkswagen Golf

The Volkswagen Golf emerged in 1974 as a hatchback that would essentially replace the famous, long-running Beetle as the German brand's car for the masses.

It has since established itself as a classless vehicle with broad appeal, as well as a reputation for leading the mainstream small-car segment for quality, refinement and technology.

A large range of models includes hatchbacks, wagons and cabriolets, as well as famous hot-hatch models in the form of the iconic GTI and cult all-wheel-drive R.

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GENERATIONS (SINCE 2003)

2003-2008

2008-2012

2013-present

RUNNING COSTS

Fuel Consumption (2013 onwards)

1.4L 4-cylinder turbo petrol: 4.9 to 5.7 litres per 100km

2.0L 4-cylinder turbo diesel: 4.7 to 5.0 litres per 100km

2.0L 4-cylinder turbo petrol (GTI): 6.2 to 6.7 litres per 100km

2.0L 4-cylinder turbo petrol (R): 7.1 to 7.3 litres per 100km

= Highly economical.

= Good economy.

= Average fuel use.

= Heavy consumption.

Servicing

SIMILAR MODELS TO VOLKSWAGEN GOLF

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR: VOLKSWAGEN GOLF

Double-clutch gearboxes have been VW's biggest headache with the Golf. Failures are way too common, especially in versions fitted to lower-specification models. Sporty and diesel Golfs get a tougher version, but it's still not without problems.

Any shuddering when taking off, odd shift patterns or a sudden loss of drive are all grounds for concern. And a new gearbox is not cheap.

GTi versions have a track record of turbocharger failures, so a close mechanical check is in order. VW has used up to four different versions of the turbocharger, so find out which one you're dealing with.

Even when running properly, the GTi engine can consume oil between changes, so keep an eye on the dipstick.

Performance versions were also popular with tuners, but any Golf modified for more performance can amount to a hand-grenade.