Should you buy a used VW Golf R?

Even a decade after introduction, the Volkswagen Golf R holds up against the latest crop of 300hp+ hot hatches. That’s partly because it’s the template that both Mercedes and BMW ultimately followed, as well as the foundation for Audi, Cupra and even – at a stretch – Porsche small, quick SUVs.

Its clean styling has aged well and it has a purposeful stance. It rides 5mm lower than the Golf GTI, has a full R bodykit, matt aluminium door mirrors and those fulsome (and tasty-sounding) quad exhausts poking out the rear bumper. You can even have a bespoke Lapiz Blue paint colour on the Golf R, which looks truly beautiful.

We rate it highly, as one of the most accessible ways into a high-performance car that won’t force you to compromise in terms of practicality or day-to-day usability. It’s perfect for doing the school run and a trip to the supermarket – but in the same breath, it can then go and chase down a Porsche 911. It’s a brilliant all-rounder and a rightly envied ‘people’s performance car’.

Prices are currently looking really good value. Cars like this have a tendency not to depreciate too severely, and sometimes they can even stabilise then start going up in value. The Golf R is a safe investment that will deliver huge thrills per mile. If you’re looking for one car that can do it all, it definitely deserves a place on your shortlist.   

What we like

Quick, secure, and easy to life with day-to-day. Can be a little wild, but is equally happy just pottering – if you can chill out as well. Three-door and Estate body styles add variety.

What we don’t like

Popularity with leasing firms when new means neglected specialist servicing such as Haldex and DSG. Some abused ones are inevitable. Hard to ignore the allure of the Audi S3’s badge, but the Golf R has a more respectable, subtle image.