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

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

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

$36,990 Drive Away^
Eagle Farm, QLD

Dealer used
Yesterday

Top2018 Volkswagen Golf 7.5 MY18 110TSI DSG Trendline White 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Wagon

  • 53217 km
  • Wagon
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

Experience the legacy of a family-owned dealership spanning over 70 years! Our location nestled in the breathtaking Riverland region is only 2.5hrs from Adelaide. Embark on a scenic journey to explore our extensive range of New and Pre-owned quality vehicles. At our dealership, we understand the value of customer care. That’s why we proudly offer transport and accommodation subsidies for our long-distance customers, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Worried about financing? Don’t be! We pr

$23,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Berri, SA

Dealer used
25/04/2024

Top2016 Volkswagen Golf VII MY16 R DSG 4MOTION Blue 6 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

  • 135889 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Crazy Daves is a family run business with over 30 years experience in the industry. We stock quality used cars at wholesale prices, with new stock coming in daily. Buy with peace of mind knowing that all of our cars come with warranty, registration, guarantee of clear title and a current safety certficate. We do not stock repaired write offs and offer a large range of very competitive finance options, tailored to suit customers from all backgrounds. Give us a call today, so we can have you driv

$34,850 Drive Away^
Springwood, QLD

Dealer used
25/04/2024

Top2008 Volkswagen Golf GTi

  • 198854 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Xmas Saturday Special ONE DAY ONLY P Plate Legal Gti Auto Black on Black leather seats Heated seats Dual Zone Climate control Cruise control Pedal Shifts Auto headlights Clear title Rwc provided No writeoff And much more Vehicle at 485 Warrigal Rd Moorabbin

$10,990 Drive Away^
Moorabbin, VIC

Dealer used
25/04/2024

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

$10,990 Drive Away^
Moorabbin, VIC

Dealer used
25/04/2024

Top2017 Volkswagen Golf 7.5 110TSI Highline Grey Steptronic Wagon

  • 70065 km
  • Wagon
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

We're thrilled to present to you this exceptional 2017 Volkswagen Golf with a mere 70,065 kilometers on the odometer. Perfect for those who appreciate the blend of German engineering and style, this Golf has been meticulously maintained and cared for. As with all our vehicles, it comes with a comprehensive mechanical protection plan for your peace of mind. This Volkswagen Golf was carefully selected, having been purchased directly from a private owner, ensuring a history free from the uncerta

$23,990 Drive Away^
Elsternwick, VIC

Dealer used
19 hours ago

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

  • 150574 km
  • Wagon
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

Looking for a spacious and practical family car? Look no further than this 2015 Volkswagen Golf VII 92TSI Wagon! Priced at $14,995.00 AUD, this white beauty is packed with features to make every drive comfortable and convenient. With a fuel-efficient 1.4T engine, this Golf Wagon is perfect for everyday commuting or long road trips. The interior features black upholstery and plenty of storage space, including cup holders, door pockets, and a cooled glovebox. Stay connected on the go with Bluet

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

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2012 Volkswagen Golf GTI A6 White Automatic Hatchback

  • 217859 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4

We are located in Sydney just 20 minutes from the CBD however we can arrange competitively priced transport to anywhere in Australia and we are more than happy to go the extra mile with additional photographs a virtual tour of the car and a comprehensive description of the condition of this vehicle to give you extra peace of mind if you are unable to make it into our dealership. We welcome all trade-ins and finance enquiries. Let us offer you the Ultimate Dealership Experience. Call to book y

$13,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Granville, NSW

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2018 Volkswagen Golf 7.5 MY18 110TSI DSG Trendline Silver, Chrome 7 Speed

  • 108175 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

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

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

Dealer used
4 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
4 hours ago

2015 Volkswagen Golf VII MY15 GTi Winter White 6 Speed Manual Hatchback

  • 152929 km
  • Hatchback
  • Manual
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

05/2015 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF VII MY15 GTI HATCH-BACK 2.0 Litre Turbo-Intercooled 6 Speed Manual With Only 152 Km And Full Complete Service History All In Book's With Manuals.......12V Socket(s) - Auxiliary, 18" Alloy Wheels, 8 Speaker Stereo, ABS (Antilock Brakes), Adjustable Steering Col. - Tilt & Reach, Air Cond. - Climate Control 2 Zone, Air Conditioning - Pollen Filter, Air Conditioning - Rear, Air Conditioning - Sensor for Humidity, Air Conditioning - Sensor for Pollutants, Airbag - Driver, Air

$21,990 Drive Away^
Pakenham, VIC

Dealer used
4 hours ago

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF R 2020

  • 65586 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Buy your dream car online • Free home delivery in Sydney • Minimum 3 months registration • Comes with minimum 3 month warranty • Tested and inspected by experts in our state-of-the-art facility • 7-day money-back returns • Over 700 quality used cars to choose from This grey VOLKSWAGEN GOLF R is in excellent condition. This is a 5 seat, 5 door vehicle with automatic transmission. It has travelled 65586 km during its lifetime. It has a petrol fuel system with consumption of 7.2 L/100

$43,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Alexandria, NSW

Dealer used
4 hours ago

2018 Volkswagen Golf 7.5 MY18 110TSI DSG Comfortline White 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch

  • 52004 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

SUNSHINE COASTS BEST DEALER GROUP! * QUALITY VEHICLES PRICED TO SELL & EXCELLENT VALUE! YOU’LL NEED TO GET IN QUICK OR YOU MAY JUST MISS OUT * CALL US ON THIS CAR AND ASK HOW TO PUT A HOLD ON IT FOR A TEST DRIVE * ALL OUR VEHICLES QUALIFY FOR AN EXTENDED MECHANICAL PROTECTION PLAN FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND * ALL OUR VEHICLES COME WITH A 50 POINT QUALITY & SAFETY ASSURANCE CHECK LIST REPORT * EVERY VEHICLE COMES WITH RWC, CLEAR TITLE, WRITTEN OFF VEHICLE & STOLEN VEHICLE CHECK CERTIFICAT

$23,990 Drive Away^
Buderim, QLD

Dealer used
5 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
5 hours ago

2012 VOLKSWAGEN Golf GTD

  • 145476 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

POWERFUL 2.0 LITRE TURBO DIESEL ENGINE, SMOOTH 6 SPEED DSG AUTO, LUXURY LEATHER INTERIOR, BLUETOOTH, CRUISE CONTROL, ALLOY WHEELS, HEATED SEATS AND MUCH MORE... This vehicle is located at Sky Motors, 347 Main North Road, Enfield, SA 5085. We are one of the biggest and best, quality second hand vehicle used car dealerships in Adelaide and South Australia. Our friendly team ensures we always have the lowest prices and best used car deals in Adelaide and South Australia. 1-5 Year EXTENDED WARRA

$15,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Enfield, SA

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2022 Volkswagen Golf 8 MY22.5 110TSI Life White 8 Speed Sports Automatic Wagon

  • 20608 km
  • Wagon
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

2022 Volkswagen Golf Life Wagon with a Full Service History, Electronic Tailgate, Wireless Apple Carplay / Android Auto, Adaptive Cruise Control w/ Travel Assist, Blind Spot Monitoing, LED Headlights, Dual Zone Climate Control, Digital Cockpit, Roof Rails, Keyless Entry, Push Button Start and so much more. Located on the Sunshine Coast, our dealership has over 25 years of clients Driving Away Happy. Experience how easy purchasing a vehicle can be. We can arrange to have your selected vehic

$34,990 Drive Away^
Maroochydore, QLD

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2017 Volkswagen Golf 7.5 MY17 110TSI DSG Trendline Silver 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch

  • 95536 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

Apple CarPlay & Android Auto Reverse Camera with Parking Sensors Sat Nav Tyre Pressure Sensor Front Parking Sensors 1 KEY We are Western Victoria's Biggest Used Vehicle dealer located just 10 minutes from the famous Sovereign Hill with a wide range of pre-owned vehicles in stock ready to choose from along with several New Vehicle options on site with Kia, Peugeot, LDV and SsangYong on offer. We have multiple in-house finance options available to tailor to your needs. Purchase wit

$20,888 Drive Away^
Wendouree, VIC

Dealer used
5 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
5 hours ago

2023 Volkswagen Golf Reflex Silver Automatic Hatchback

  • 6359 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto

Enquire today! We have a full range of New and many more Demonstrator vehicles availible for immediate delivery at unbeatable drive away prices! You can buy with confidence from us! We have a strong reputation as a trusted automotive dealer group, with a network of 28 brands, spanning 24 locations from South Brisbane in Queensland to Southwest Sydney in New South Wales to Melbourne Victoria. We look after everyone!

$42,907 Drive Away^
Tweed Heads South, NSW

Dealer demo
5 hours ago

2023 Volkswagen Golf Reflex Silver Automatic Hatchback

  • 5479 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto

Enquire today! We have a full range of New and many more Demonstrator vehicles availible for immediate delivery at unbeatable drive away prices! You can buy with confidence from us! We have a strong reputation as a trusted automotive dealer group, with a network of 28 brands, spanning 24 locations from South Brisbane in Queensland to Southwest Sydney in New South Wales to Melbourne Victoria. We look after everyone!

$41,877 Drive Away^
Tweed Heads South, NSW

Dealer demo
5 hours ago

2022 Volkswagen Golf 8 MY22.5 GTI DSG Black 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

  • 12576 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Experience the thrill of the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI 8, where performance meets style. Its Deep Black exterior and powerful 2.0L engine delivering 180kilowatts ensure every drive is an adventure. With a luxurious interior, precise 7-speed sports automatic dual-clutch transmission, and agile front-wheel-drive system, this hatchback redefines driving enjoyment. Door to door transport available Australia wide, call for competitive rates! Discover our multi-franchise dealership located in the h

$49,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Launceston, TAS

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2024 Volkswagen Golf 8 MY24 R DSG 4MOTION White 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

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

Brand New MY24 Volkswagen Golf R in Pure White Comes With; - Panoramic Glass Sunroof - Harmon Kardon Audio ( This Is Now a Factory Fitted Item ) *** 5 Years Unlimited Km Warranty *** *** Finance Available For An Obligation Free Quote *** *** 5 Minutes off the M2 Motorway *** Multi Franchise Award Winning Prestige Dealer. Reputable family owned business for over 50 years. In house finance department with access to over 6 different lenders with industry best packages to cater for your situation

$81,887 Drive Away^
Blacktown, NSW

Dealer new
5 hours ago

2023 Volkswagen Golf Mark 8 CD MY23 Update 110TSI R-Line Grey 8 Speed Automatic Hatchback

  • 2738 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

Just brought into stock, all specs, features and photos will be loaded soon... Be the first to see this vehicle.

$41,800 Excl. Gov. Charges
Mansfield, QLD

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2023 Volkswagen Golf 8 MY23 110TSI R-Line Yellow 8 Speed Sports Automatic Hatchback

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

***NEW GOLF 8 R-LINE - RARE POMELLO YELLOW – READY FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY - TINTED WINDOWSM LUGGAGE LINER 5 YEAR FACTORY WARRANTY INCLUDED*** 2023 Volkswagen Golf 8 MY23 110TSI R-Line Hatchback 5dr Spts Auto 8sp 1.4T Finished in POMELLO YELLOW METALLIC ***GOLF 8 R-LINE STANDARD FEATURES*** Front Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Monitoring Lane Assist, Side Assist with Rear Traffic Alert Adaptive Cruise Control Travel Assist 8 Airbags App Connect and 4x USB-C Ports LED Headlights and LE

$49,990 Drive Away^
Chatswood, NSW

Dealer demo
5 hours ago

2015 Volkswagen Golf 7 110TSI Highline White Steptronic Hatchback

  • 110712 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

Have a look at this Vw Golf Mk VII My16 110Tsi Highline with R Line pack so it has all the extras including Panoramic Sunroof Full Leather Interior and much more. Just passed our 100 point inspection and WA Licensing inspection so its ready for a new owner. Dont delay.

$23,998 Excl. Gov. Charges
Kingsley, WA

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2018 Volkswagen Golf 7.5 MY18 GTI DSG Grey 6 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch Hatchback

  • 87502 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

*** JUST ARRIVED *** MK7.5 GTi *** PRIVATE OWNER VEHICLE, WITH FULL VW SERVICE HISTORY FROM NEW. *** HAVE THE PEACE OF MIND THAT THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN FULLY INSPECTED BY OURON-SITE MULTI FRANCHISE SERVICE CENTRE AND IS READY FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY *** CONTACT OUR SALES TEAM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO BOOK AN INSPECTION *** We are AUSTRALIA'S LARGEST and most Trusted Family Owned Auto Group. At our Sydney based dealership conveniently centrally located, we trade all makes and models a

$29,990 Excl. Gov. Charges
Greenacre, NSW

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2015 Volkswagen Golf VII MY15 110TDI DSG Highline Limestone Grey 6 Speed

  • 94047 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

2015 Volkswagen Golf Highline 110TDI Limestone Gray Metal Cruise Control Bluetooth Navigation Reverse Camera Dual Zone Climate Control Visit our showrooms to explore our wide range of vehicles! Being the second longest trading Ford dealer in Australia you can trust your expectations will be met to a high standard! Competitive finance options available! Trade in your current vehicle hassle free! We can register vehicles in NSW & Victoria! **Conditions may apply Nationwide transport also offere

$19,990 Drive Away^
Wodonga, VIC

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2015 Volkswagen Golf AU MY15 103 TSI Highline White 7 Speed Auto Direct Shift Hatchback

  • 175823 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

PLEASE QUOTE STOCK NO: 153707 2015 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF 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 * COMPETITIVE T

$16,950 Excl. Gov. Charges
Oakleigh, VIC

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2020 Volkswagen Golf 7.5 MY20 110TSI DSG Highline Black 7 Speed Sports Automatic Dual Clutch

  • 30387 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 1.4L

1.4L Turbo Petrol Leather Appointed Interior With Front Heated Seats Satellite Navigation And Bluetooth Device Integration Sunroof Adaptive Cruise Control Blind Spot Monitoring And Lane Keep Assist 2 KEYS We are Western Victoria's Biggest Used Vehicle dealer located just 10 minutes from the famous Sovereign Hill with a wide range of pre-owned vehicles in stock ready to choose from along with several New Vehicle options on site with Kia, Peugeot, LDV and SsangYong on offer. W

$37,888 Drive Away^
Wendouree, VIC

Dealer used
5 hours ago

2017 Volkswagen Golf AU MY17 R Grey 6 Speed Direct Shift Hatchback

  • 79709 km
  • Hatchback
  • Auto
  • 4 cyl 2.0L

Highly Optioned!! Volkswagen Golf R MY17, 2.0L Turbo, AWD, 6 Speed Sports Automatic, full options, leather upholstery, satnav, factory panoramic sunroof, led daylight driving lights, keyless go push button start, reversing assist camera, front and rear parking assist sensors, blind spot assist mirrors, bluetooth connection, factory bodykit, factory 19" alloy wheels, tinted windows and the list goes on!! what a car!! pocket rocket!! check out our website and see all our other Performance cars an

$34,888 Excl. Gov. Charges
Homebush, NSW

Dealer used
5 hours ago

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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.