Other Volkswagen Golf (2004 - 2009) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    VW badge commands respect. He likes his economy with some punch thrown in for good measure.

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

    'Nice car'. Most say it looks mean and at 123k, it still looks like new.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Maybe - Flywheel issue makes me sceptical!

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Passat CC or Passat Estate, possibly Skoda Octavia - They are basically the same car but with less niggles.

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Independent

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £7,000

    When did you buy the car?

    June 2009

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Yes. Got a full front end respray and cambelt change at screen price and competitive trade in on previous Laguna.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Brand, power, reliability, looks, specification.

    What was the dealer like?

    Very good. Couldnt fault them.

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    It's a GT, so the suspension is solid but the seats are superb. She just 'bounces' a little on bumps. Easy to drive, lovely steering, positive and very close 6 speed box. Great visibility, not so much road noise but the engine gets noisy above 2500 rpm.

    What's it like to park?

    Easy. Rear window is basically where the car ends.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Dual mass flywheel failed at 118k, this and new clutch cost £800. Offside front wheel bearing replaced also.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Huge inside for a standard size hatch. Can fit 2 bikes inside with back seats folded. Fuel efficiency is superb is driven sensibly.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    One touch indicators, auto dimming mirror, auto lights and wipers are all gadgets that you have no idea how handy they are, until you drive something else!