VW Golf Hatchback 1997-

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  • Economy

    Value

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Too expensive nowadays, but held value well. Paid £18k. Traded in at 3 years, 45k miles, for £7,700.

    Costs

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Servicing and parts very expensive compared to my wife's Focus.

  • On the road

    Driving

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Ok, but the Focus beats it hands down.

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Superb for a diesel.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Spent far too much time in the garage. Nearly every electrical component was replaced under warranty (climate control, central locking, immobiliser, etc...). The mechanicals never failed though.

    Image

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Ok.

    Comfort

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Never got uncomfortable in it.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Everyone knows how to get into one with a screwdriver and VW charge you to upgrade the locks (this was the last straw that made me sell it).

    Service

    1 out of 5 1.0

    VW customer service aren't interested. The dealers think you are lucky to own a VW and don't know how to spell customer service.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Other

    Lots of electrical problems. Both electric window regulators failed leaving the windows open.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    No

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    No