Which VW Golf?

Im changing jobs and will have to commute 100 miles a day. As a result, I need an economical car and have decided to go for a two-year-old VW Golf 1.9 TDI. What Im not clear on is the difference between the 1.9 TDI S and the 1.9 TDI SE. Could you advise which is the best car to go for?
Mike Barnes

The letters after the engine name relate to the trim level. 'S' was the entry-level spec and came with air-conditioning, electric front windows, a CD player and stability control.

'SE' models cost around 500 more when new, and on top of the 'S' trim added alloy wheels, body coloured door mirrors, cruise control, electric rear windows, rain-sensing wipers and automatic lights. However, the engines are exactly the same, which means both cars should hit 53.3mpg.

Which one you go for really depends on how many extras you want. An 06-plate 'SE' model will probably cost you around 200 more than an 'S', which is good value for the extra kit you get.

The 'SE' trim was ditched in late 2006 and was replaced by 'Match' trim. This added body-coloured door handles and side strips, a front armrest, iPod connectivity and stereo controls on the steering wheel in addition to 'SE' spec, so is worth looking out for.