Volkswagen Golf Estate (2009 - 2013) 1.6 TDI (105bhp) SE 5d DSG (2010/10) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Middle aged, middle class, and a little dull!

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Generally impressed by refinement and space.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Probably not, as reliability hasn't been faultless and I don't think it is worth paying the premium over a second hand Ford Focus.

What are you likely to buy next?

Maybe a Ford Focus or S-Max or something similar.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£10,800

When did you buy the car?

October 2013

Did you get a good deal and why?

OK deal, some money off, generous part ex, free tank of fuel and alloys reconditioned.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

7 speed DSG gearbox provides excellent fuel economy and shift quality compared to rival automatics.

What was the dealer like?

Mitsubishi dealer (CCR Motors Cheltenham). Very good and helpful. No quibbles when I needed work doing under warranty.

What's it like to drive?

Comfortable ride, very quiet and refined but not very fun or exciting. Competent but dull. The 1.6tdi engine is just about sufficient, but I have heard the 2.0tdi has much better acceleration especially with heavy loads, and uses only slightly more fuel. The 7 speed DSG gearbox is smooth and fast shifting, but sometimes hunts around on roundabouts and can be jerky at low speeds.

What's it like to park?

Turning circle is good but the nose is not visible and it is a long car so it would benefit from the optional extra parking sensors. The DSG gearbox can be jerky at low speeds and the auto handbrake sometimes gets it wrong and randomly lets go on hills which has led to a prang whilst parallel parking. You need to be careful; to avoid accidents I recommend using the manual handbrake as well.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Yes, had problem with the EGR valve which was replaced under warranty. Had a factory recall for gearbox. My Dad has 3yr old golf which has recently had failed clutch and gearbox. So generally reliability is ok, but certainly not faultless and not as good as their reputation.

What's most practical about your car?

Very large boot, fullsize spare wheel, and roof rails make this excellent for carrying loads especially when camping. Rear seats are narrow so although it is comfortable for 2 adults in the back it is too small for 3.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Nicely integrated cruise control and smooth 7 speed DSG auto gearbox.