Volkswagen Golf GTI (2005 - 2008) 2.0 GTI 5d DSG (2005/54) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

You are a connoisseur. Naturally.

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

See above. Black with 17" rims, it looks smart, but not flashy. Hot hatch for people not that pushed on baseball caps.

Would you buy this car again and why?

New Mk7 looks like it'll be a cut above. Mk V interior could have been prettier and better quality, which they improved. I'd be tempted by a Ed30 with the right spec. It was definitely the right choice at the time. Low annual mileage, need to carry baby, long trips with luggage, and actually be entertaining at the same time. Much better value than a 1 series, bigger boot.

What are you likely to buy next?

BMW 5xxD estate. E61. Because you can't get 2 baby seats, a double buggy, and a couple of suitcases into a Golf.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£11,000

When did you buy the car?

February 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

Good price by local market rates (French). Some bodywork damage that I could live with given it was going to be parked city centre (and therefore likely damaged further).

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Something I could put a baby in without depressing me every time I drove it.

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

Great. Handling is superb. Around town it's fine, auto box is great. Can be a bit crashy even on 17" rims, but generally comfortable. On the open road the balance really surprised me, it's quick but it copes well with any bad ideas you might have.

What's it like to park?

Fine, but awkward due to jerky DSG in reverse. Not sure if that's a trait of the box or simply the dodgy mechatronic unit. Tight spaces can be a bit touch and go, as the clutch can be sharp coming in.

Have you had any problems with the car?

DSG mechatronic controller is faulty, apparently a frequent issue. VW dealer said not to worry about it as €1000+ replacement and has no real impact on driving. Lot of road noise but much of it seems to be caused by a poor choice of rear tyre by the previous owner.

What's most practical about your car?

Comfortable 5 doors (baby seat) Plenty of passenger space.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

DSG Sports seats. Really miss an aux in or usb port. Option missing on my car.