ADVERTISEMENT
Sort

Filter & Refine

Dealer used
4 cyl
Premium
View Layout

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.
VolkswagenGolfSilver or ChromeIs your car registered?: Yes4 cylDealer usedPremiumClear all

Top2011 Volkswagen Golf VI MY11 118TSI DSG Comfortline Silver 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch

  • 136752 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

Family Owned Business Est 1985 Free 3 Year Warranty Full Car History Report Available and Clear of All Titles NSW Registered All Cars Mechanically Workshop Tested Log Books with Service History Automatic

$10,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Lidcombe, NSW

Dealer used
29/04/2024

Top2011 Volkswagen Golf 1K MY12 103 TDI Comfortline Silver 6 Speed Direct Shift Wagon

  • 182147 km
  • Wagon
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

"2011 Volkswagen Golf 103 TDI Comfortline Automatic Turbo Diesel. We are located 1.5 hours north of Sydney at the M1 Freeway at Newcastle. Finance options available to approved customers, Warranty options available We Can also assit with freight options Australia wide. We are a Local Family owned and operated Dealership Established for over 12 years . Contact our team for hassle free friendly service today. If the Vehicle is advertised - YES it is available - Call today to book your appointmen

$5,800 Excl. Gov. Charges
Beresfield, NSW

Dealer used
16 hours ago

Top2004 Volkswagen Golf GTi Silver 5 Speed Manual Hatchback

  • 239547 km
  • Hatchback
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 1.8L

"2004 Volkswagen Golf GTi Manual in Silver but a good cheap vehicle. NEWCASTLE DEALER. Finance available TAP. Trades welcome. Give us a call for all the details or drop in for a look and a test drive."

$3,800 Excl. Gov. Charges
Beresfield, NSW

Dealer used
28/04/2024

Top2019 Volkswagen Golf 7.5 110TSI Highline Silver Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

  • 86828 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

2019 Volkswagen Golf 7.5 110TSI Highline Silver Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

$28,477 Drive Away^
Vermont, VIC

Dealer used
29/04/2024

Top2009 Volkswagen Golf 1K MY09 GTi Silver 6 Speed Direct Shift Hatchback

  • 125091 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

PLEASE QUOTE STOCK NO: 153617 2009 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTI THIS VEHICLE IS NOT IN THE YARD CURRENTLY. IT IS BEING DETAILED AND SERVICED OUT OF YARD. ONCE ALL IMAGES/VIDEOS (APPROX 30 IMAGES) OF THIS VEHICLE ARE UPLOADED IT MEANS THE VEHICLE HAS ARRIVED IN OUR YARD AND IS READY FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION/TEST DRIVES. * VIDEO WALKAROUND INSPECTION AVAILABLE * GST INVOICE AVAILABLE * CAR LOANS AVAILABLE APPLY ONLINE * UP TO 500 VEHICLES TOO CHOOSE FROM * 3 YEAR EXTENDED WARRANTY * COMPETITI

$14,950 Excl. Gov. Charges
Oakleigh, VIC

Dealer used
17 hours ago

Top2015 Volkswagen Golf R

  • 153916 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Experience high-performance and luxury with this 2015 Volkswagen Golf 7 R Hatchback. This remarkable vehicle comes with a 5-door design and is powered by a 2.0T 4-cylinder engine, offering smooth, reliable performance and economy. Its 4MOTION drivetrain and sports automatic dual-clutch transmission ensures a truly exhilarating driving experience, whether you're navigating city streets or exploring open highways. Finished in a striking silver exterior, this Golf R Hatchback is a sight to behol

$22,800 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
28/04/2024

2011 Volkswagen Golf 1K MY11 118 TSI Comfortline Silver 7 Speed Auto Direct Shift Hatchback

  • 122557 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

WE ARE LOCATED 12KMS NORTH OF THE CBD OPPOSITE NORTHERN MEMORIAL PARK! Clean Example - This Would Make an Ideal First car! This Volkswagen Golf Comes with all Standard TSI 118 Comfortline Features Finished in Reflex Silver Duco with 2 x Keys, Owners Manual and Great Service History! We are a Family Owned and Operated Business with over 40 Years Experience in the Automotive Industry. We are Easy Going, Easy to Get Along With and the Coffee Machine is Always On! We are a VACC Approved

$13,069.90 Excl. Gov. Charges
Fawkner, VIC

Dealer used
2 hours ago

2011 Volkswagen Golf VI MY12 103TDI DSG Comfortline Silver, Chrome 6 Speed

  • 141455 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

* ONE OWNER * FULL VOLKSWAGON SERVICE HISTORY * 2.0 TURBO DIESEL This Golf 6 will impress Safety features include airbags ABS ESP Comes with all the original owners books Full service history Golfs are fun to drive safe and economical to run SOLD WITH RWC

$6,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Ringwood, VIC

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2013 Volkswagen Golf VII 90TSI DSG Silver 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

  • 143969 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

Rap Car Sales is an owner operated pre-owned vehicle dealership that was established in 1993 making it one of the longest standing dealerships in the Car City complex. Every vehicle at Rap Car Sales has been fully workshop tested, is professionally prepared and presented to the highest quality. All vehicles come with registration and a current Victorian roadworthy certificate. Not only at Rap Car Sales do I have fantastic competitive finance and warranty packages available but I also have va

$12,999 Drive Away^
Ringwood, VIC

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2012 Volkswagen Golf VI MY12.5 77TSI DSG Silver 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

  • 143350 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.2L

Looking for a stylish and reliable hatchback that won't break the bank? Look no further than the 2012 Volkswagen Golf VI 77TSI! Priced at just $13,888.00 AUD, this silver beauty is sure to turn heads. With its sleek design and comfortable grey interior, this Golf is perfect for those who value both style and functionality. But don't let its compact size fool you - this Golf is packed with features! Take advantage of the 12V auxiliary socket, perfect for charging your devices on the go. Enjo

$12,000 Drive Away^
Ringwood, VIC

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2010 Volkswagen Golf VI MY10 103TDI DSG Comfortline Silver Ash 6 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch

  • 119847 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Affordable,economical, reliable low km,turbo diesel 5 door hatch.this quality euro vehicle will impress and is priced and ready to go.a must to inspect... All our cars are checked in house and come with a PPSR Certificate * Ask us about weekly payment options! * We can assist you with finance and extended warranty options * Enquire and view our 170+ cars, commercials and 4x4's online now! View all of our other stock on www.somertoncarsales.com.au we accept all major credit cards

$12,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Morphett Vale, SA

Dealer used
3 hours ago

2017 Volkswagen Golf 7.5 MY18 R DSG 4MOTION Grid Edition Silver 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch

  • 71985 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Welcome to Sunshine Autos. We have a huge range of premium quality cars from 5K onwards whether it is a Sedan or Hatch, SUV or Commercials, 4x4 or AWD, Petrol or Diesel. All our vehicles are provided with current Road Worthy Certificate, Clear Title (PPSR) and Extended Warranty. Moreover, we do provide - Premium Quality Cars for Attractive and Competitive Price - Good value for your Trade Ins - Pickup and drop off service from nearest train station - Delivery for Interstate Cu

$34,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2020 Volkswagen Golf 7.5 MY20 110TSI DSG Comfortline Silver 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch

  • 60274 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

2020 Volkswagen Golf 7.5 MY20 110TSI DSG Comfortline Silver 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch

$26,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Bibra Lake, WA

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2012 Volkswagen Golf VI MY12.5 118TSI DSG Comfortline Silver 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch

  • 53590 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

Looking for a sleek and stylish ride? Check out this 2012 Volkswagen Golf VI 118TSI Comfortline Hatchback. With a stunning silver exterior and comfortable cloth interior, this hatchback is sure to turn heads on the road. Featuring a sunroof for those sunny days and logbooks to keep track of your maintenance, this Golf has all the bells and whistles you could want. With only 53,590 km on the odometer, this beauty is ready to hit the road. Equipped with a 1.4TSC engine, cruise control, and clim

$14,777 Excl. Gov. Charges
Elderslie, NSW

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2010 Volkswagen Golf VI MY10 118TSI DSG Comfortline Silver 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch

  • 109802 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

Discover the timeless appeal of the 2010 Volkswagen Golf, a compact hatchback that delivers an exceptional blend of performance, comfort, and reliability. This automatic model offers a smooth and responsive driving experience, making it an ideal choice for both city commutes and longer journeys. Inside, the Golf boasts a well-appointed interior that maximises both passenger comfort and practicality, with ample space for all your needs. Safety is paramount, and this model comes with a 5-star ANC

$10,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Cannington, WA

Dealer used
7 hours ago

2015 Volkswagen Golf AU MY15 103 TSI Highline Silver, Chrome 7 Speed Auto Direct Shift Wagon

  • 216189 km
  • Wagon
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

We are a family-owned and operated dealership, with yards located both in Traralgon and Sale Victoria. All our cars are priced with all on-road costs included, drive away no more to pay! We also Buy vehicles even if you don't buy one from us. If you would like to speak to one of our sales staff in Traralgon please contact Jason or Brodie During Business Hours on *******0366 If you would like to speak to someone at our yard in Sale VIC please call Grant on ********4166 Business Hours 9am-5:

$12,537 Drive Away^
Traralgon, VIC

Dealer used
8 hours ago

2012 Volkswagen Golf 1K MY12 118 TSI Comfortline Silver 7 Speed Auto Direct Shift Wagon

  • 103164 km
  • Wagon
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

2012 VW GOLF 118 TSI Comfortline (WAGON) PRICE $12,990 ONLY $70 per WEEK FOR ONLY $12,990, this GOLF is the perfect combination of COMFORT, PERFORMANCE, and VERSATILITY. GREAT LOOG BOOK HISTORY – ONLY 103,000KMS Its sleek silver exterior is sure to turn heads, while the spacious 4D wagon body provides ample space for all your needs – WORK, PLAY OR ADVENTURE – THIS WAGON CAN ACCOMIDATE IT ALL. Don't miss out on the opportunity to own this incredible VOLKSWAGEN GOLF. With its attractive pri

$12,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Richmond, NSW

Dealer used
9 hours ago

2019 Volkswagen Golf 7.5 MY19.5 110TSI DSG Comfortline Tungsten Silver 7 Speed

  • 29784 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

Stylish German engineered hatch with the powerful yet economical 1.4 litre 110 TSI engine, seven speed DSG auto, adaptive cruise and traction control, front-side airbags, SatNav, Bluetooth, smartphone connectivity, premium sports style seats safety of ABS braking, keyless entry, push button start, alloy wheels, reverse camera, sensors plus more. Low, 30,600 kms, 2 keys, full service history. Best you'll see We are a friendly and efficient company, trading with integrity and determined to

$25,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
10 hours ago

2010 Volkswagen Golf 1K MY10 103 TDI Comfortline Silver 6 Speed Direct Shift Hatchback

  • 168599 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

-1 OWNER FROM NEW WITH FULL SERVICE HISTORY -SOLD WITH REGO TO OCT 2024 AND A CURRENT RWC -2010 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF COMFORTLINE HATCH -RARE 2.0 TURBO DIESEL NOT THE TROUBLESEM 1.4 PETROL -LOW 168,000KMS WITH THE ALL IMPORTANT HISTROY -LADY OWNER PET AND SMOKE FREE -WELL PRESENTED BOTH INSIDE AND OUT -6 SPEED AUTOMATIC -KUMHO TYRES AND BRAND NEW DISC ROTORS -BEING A COMFORTLINE ITS OPTIONED WITH -ALLOY WHEELS -PARKING SENSORS TINTED WINDOWS -KEYLESS ENTRY -AUTO LIGHTS AND WIPERS -DUAL CLIMATE CONT

$10,999 Excl. Gov. Charges
Avondale Heights, VIC

Dealer used
10 hours ago

2020 Volkswagen Golf 7.5 MY20 110TSI DSG Comfortline Silver 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch

  • 53441 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

Welcome to our dealership, where the perfect car is just a phone call away! At our dealership conveniently located near the CBD, we're revolutionizing the way you buy vehicles. With our focus on providing exceptional service and competitive pricing, we're dedicated to ensuring your car-buying experience is seamless and satisfying. Our call center isn't just a point of contact; it's your gateway to a vast selection of top-quality vehicles. From small vehicles to luxury SUVs and everything in

$22,897 Excl. Gov. Charges
Victoria Park, WA

Dealer used
10 hours ago

2015 Volkswagen Golf VII MY16 92TSI DSG Trendline Silver 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch

  • 121234 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

*** This vehicle is still available *** Call us for a Live Virtual Walk around video demonstration on any of our Vehicles. We are located only 10 minutes from Blacktown NSW. This vehicle is ready with the following extra’s; - Tinted Windows - Alloy Rim's - Fog Light's - Reverse Sensor's - Reverse Camera - Front Sensor's The vehicle presented here is presented in excellent condition throughout. Very reliable and fuel efficient. It drives beautifully, receives cu

$14,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
10 hours ago

2017 Volkswagen Golf AU MY17 110 TDI Highline Silver 6 Speed Direct Shift Hatchback

  • 59156 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

This 2016 Built/2017 Complied VOLKSWAGEN GOLF 110 TDI HIGHLINE HATCHBACK is a 2.0 Litre 4cyl Turbodiesel with a 6 Speed Automatic and has travelled 59,000kms. This Golf is finished in Tungsten Silver with a Black Leather Interior and features: + 17 Inch Wheels + Sat Nav + Park Distance Control with Rear Parking Camera + Apple CarPlay & Android Auto + Heated Front Seats + Keyless Start + Cruise Control + Dual Zone Climate Control + Automatic Headlights + Bluetooth + 3 Months Free Roadside Assis

$23,800 Excl. Gov. Charges
Rozelle, NSW

Dealer used
11 hours ago

2018 Volkswagen Golf AU MY19 110TSI Trendline Silver 7 Speed Automatic Hatchback

  • 107417 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

“New Location Alert! A1 Motors Company from New Town has moved to bigger premises in Moonah at 100-102 Hopkins Street TAS 7009. Visit us for unbeatable deals on quality used cars!” 2018 Volkswagen Golf AU MY19 110TSI Trendline 7 Sp Auto Hatch, 4 Cyl Petrol 1.4T -Safety Inspection Done -Two Remote Keys -Excellent Service History -Reversing Camera -Front & Rear Parking Sensors -Collision Warning - Full Auto Brake -Android Auto/Apple CAR Play -Cruise Control -City Brake Support Forward -Driver As

$16,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Moonah, TAS

Dealer used
11 hours ago

2018 Volkswagen Golf 7.5 MY19 110TSI DSG Comfortline Silver 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch

  • 131018 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

***PLEASE READ AD CAREFULLY: Our vehicles are workshop approved and come with * VicRoads Roadworthy Certification (RWC) * Registration * Transfer Fee * Stamp Duty * 1 YEAR WARRANTY Contact us for an inspection or to arrange a test drive today. We send our cars anywhere in Australia; VIC,SA,QLD,NSW,TAS,NT,ACT,WA We are located in , one minute from the Western Ring Road.

$16,888 Drive Away^
Thomastown, VIC

Dealer used
11 hours ago

2014 VOLKSWAGEN Golf 90 TSI

  • 160700 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

This vehicle is Available (Please DO NOT ASK) for viewing at our undercover Springwood showroom 22 kms south to Brisbane to Gold Coast on M1 Highway. We are open By Appointment at 9am till 4pm Monday to Friday and 8:30am till 2pm on Saturdays. 2014 Volkswagen Golf VII MY15 90TSI Hatchback 5dr DSG 7sp 1.4T Up to Date service history, 160xxx Kilometers Adaptive (Radar) Cruise control, Self Parking, Front and Rear Parking Sensors Bluetooth, Alloy wheels, Auto hold function, Multi-function con

$11,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Springwood, QLD

Dealer used
11 hours ago

2018 Volkswagen Golf AU MY19 110 TSI Trendline Silver 7 Speed Automatic Hatchback

  • 90834 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

“New Location Alert! A1 Motors Company from New Town has moved to bigger premises in Moonah at 100-102 Hopkins Street TAS 7009. Visit us for unbeatable deals on quality used cars!” 2018 Volkswagen Golf AU MY19 110 TSI Trendline 7 Sp Automatic Hatchback, 4 Cyl Petrol 1.4T -Safety Inspection Done -Full Service History -Collision Warning - Full Auto Brake -Parking Distance Control Front & Rear -Pedestrian Recognition -Driver Fatigue Detection -Reversing Camera -Electronic Differential Lock -Kerb

$18,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Moonah, TAS

Dealer used
12 hours ago

2012 Volkswagen Golf VI MY12.5 118TSI DSG Comfortline Silver 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch

  • 122616 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

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 Simple Fortnightly for ppl on Government payments. • *Dealer Charges Apply. •

$13,995 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
13 hours ago

2013 Volkswagen Golf VII 103TSI DSG Highline Silver 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

  • 135882 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

Buying a car just got so much Easier as we offer: Great Finance Packages Over the phone approvals Top trade-in value 1-5 Years Extended Warranty Roadside Assistance Guaranteed Clear Title Australia-wide transport Bad Credit? Pensioner? Ex Bankrupt? The Bank said NO? We Can Help with Easy Finance available so give us a chance... Whether you are looking for Auto or Manual, SUV or Wagon, Coupe or Convertible, Hatch or Sedan, Petrol or Turbo Diesel, 4x4 or 4x2 We can make it happen with a

$14,880 Excl. Gov. Charges
Minchinbury, NSW

Dealer used
13 hours ago

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

  • 168270 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

Volkswagen Golf 118 TSI Comfortline, Automatic hatchback with air conditioning, power steering, power windows, power mirrors, central locking, cruise control, dual airbag package, ABS, sunroof, alloy wheels & more, looks & drives great, come in and test drive today, open 7 days a week till late. * Great location just 30 mins from Sydney CBD at the foot of the mountains * Australia wide, interstate transport options available * 1-5 years full parts & labour warranty available * 24/7 Roadside

$9,950 Excl. Gov. Charges
Penrith, NSW

Dealer used
14 hours ago

2016 Volkswagen Golf VII MY16 92TSI DSG Silver 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

  • 90000 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

The 2016 Volkswagen Golf VII MY16 92TSI DSG Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback is part of Volkswagen's popular Golf lineup. Here's a breakdown of its features and specifications: Engine: The 92TSI refers to the engine's output, which is a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, producing 92 kilowatts (125 horsepower) of power. Transmission: It comes with a 7-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG), which is Volkswagen's dual-clutch automatic transmission. This transmission offers smooth and qu

$17,990 Drive Away^
Pialba, QLD

Dealer used
14 hours ago

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.