USED Volkswagen Golf Hatchback (04 - 09)

My car

I have this car now as a replacement to a Peugeot 307. What a joy in comparison. It's economical, reliable and the build quality is good except perhaps for the dashboard.

The car is very good and up to the standard I would expect, and also better than the MK 4 by miles - spacious, drivable and comfortable. The annoying things are the indicators in the mirrors. They would be good if they could not be seen from inside the car. Also the key can be annoying but overall I rate the car.

PS We've had it two weeks and my wife has dented it, oops.

My car

A most disappointing vehicle. It drives very well and you can drive long distances in good weather and arrive at your destination still fresh and able to do a good day's work.

I find the finish and quality of the car however are poor.

The door mirrors are undersized and leave blind spots, especially on motorways etc so you are continually looking over your shoulder to see if it is safe.

The temperature and fuel gauges are only partially visible, depending on your height. The luggage area is poor as seats do not fold down fully.

Initially, door opening was confusing and keys could easily be locked in.

It's a great car to drive in daylight on single carriageway roads if you don't have to use boot frequently.

My car

Had the car a week now and have fallen in love with it - sad I know but, it's comfy, quiet, has a good CD player and there is plenty of room in the back for the kids.

Looking forward to many happy driving miles. Being only a week old it's obviously too early to comment on reliability etc, but nothing seems to be wrong yet - not even one of those annoying squeaks that I have had in other new cars.

My car

I have recently taken this car for a test drive and I'm affraid the salesman had trouble getting it back to the dealership.

My first feeling about the car was how safe it feels and as I will regularly be transporting very important little people. That was a main issue for me.

Having also sat in the back, though, I'm not too sure what anyone under the height of 4ft might be able to see as the raised door trim restricts your vision a bit. Fortunately it has no effect from the driving position, which is extremely comfortable.

The drive is smooth and the seats firm. Unfortunately I didn't get to turn the ESP, off but as I have now bought one I will come back with a new review.