Volkswagen Bora Saloon (1999-2005) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 2.5 out of 52.5

Written by Parkers Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 25 - 54 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

Depreciation occurs quicker than with a Golf, but otherwise day to day running costs are reasonable with diesels offering the best economy.

Bora is relatively green and easy on the environment. With an average of 181 g/km CO2 across the model line-up, its emissions are quite low for a small family saloon. However, it’s worth noting that the line up has a high number of diesel models, bringing the average down and giving buyers more choices of low-emission versions. Diesels typically produce less CO2 than petrol engines with similar power outputs.

The range is also fairly economical, averaging 40 mpg.

Very well built and standards of engineering are excellent. VWs are not totally infallible – few are – but their reputation is well deserved.