VW Golf Hatchback 1997-

Want to know everything there is to know about this car?

  • Economy

    Value

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Wouldn't buy new, but good, solid car.

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Parts can be expensive if you go though a dealer, I was quoted £245 for one rear electric window motor! Breakers yards are a better option.

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Smooth and quiet for a diesel, but had consistent problem with camber sensitivity possibly scrubbing OSF tyre - after 6 months of investigation, I still can't get a definitive answer.

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Not great acceleration around the 30-40 mph range, but picks up again at 60-70 mph - no complaints.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Haven't broken down yet... but it's now reaching it's 100k mark, so needs some TLC.

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Fits me well! Not one for waiting on others approval.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Even on long journeys it's very comfortable.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Apart from an alarm with a mind of it's own (mainly during temperature changes i.e. early morning!)

    Service

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Service OK, but too expensive and I don't have much faith in their mechanics' diagnostic techniques for more 'hidden' issues. Now go to a non-dealer garage for a major service at £130 not £230!

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    No problems.

    Other

    Very camber sensitive, always seems to pull left. Electric sunroof needs to be activated slowly otherwise it seems to get confused and loses its place. Parts expensive through dealer.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes