VW Golf Hatchback 1997-

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  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Hasn't depreciated too much in 18 months. But I do think you pay for the badge.

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Fuel consumption ok - servicing and parts overpriced.

  • On the road

    Driving

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Love the blue dashboard! But has always pulled to the left and gearbox can be clumsy.

    Performance

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Good accelaration in 1st and 2nd, 3/ 4 / 5th not so much fun. Performance is adequate, this isn't a sports car.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    No problems 1st year of ownership. But 2nd year - gearbox and clutch needed replacing (although VW paid 70% of costs - with no warranty). Window fell into door. Hopefully i've just been unlucky. Needs cambelt change at 60k

    Image

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Turns heads in Dark Blue, with alloys and rear spoiler. If you're into that kind of thing.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Comfortable and classy interior. No faults in the cabin. Road noise creeps in a bit, but nothing major.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Alarm as standard. Deadlocks etc all ok -useless an electric window falls into the door! (Common fault)

    Service

    4 out of 5 4.0

    VW Windrush in Maidenhead have been good, if a little pricey.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Other

    Window fell into passenger door, water leaked into passenger footwell. Also had trouble with Climate control and rain sensor.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    No

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes