Used Volkswagen Golf GTI 2020-present reliability review

What should I look for in a used Volkswagen Golf?

Although the Golf GTI’s a hoot on open roads, it will of course have been subjected to the ravages of supermarket car parks and school runs, so check the extremities of the car for any scuffs or dents. Look at those handsome alloy wheels for any kerb damage – they are susceptible to scrapes and repair can be expensive.

Is a used Volkswagen Golf reliable?

This Mk8 version of the Golf finished in 28th place out of 30 cars in the family car class with a disappointing score of 82.2%. Petrol versions were more reliable than diesel-powered ones.

Our survey had this to say about the regular Golf.

In many ways, the Golf is a highly recommendable family car: it has tidy handling, a range of strong and frugal engines, and the latest cars have an upgraded interior that is better than many rivals.

However, the Golf has been plagued by issues with infotainment and other electrical systems, with diesels also suffering gearbox glitches. 30% went wrong, a third taking at least a week to fix. Only 41% were fixed for free; 11% of owners faced bills of £1000 or more.

Owner's comment: "A lot of the electrical technology has been very unreliable and took several updates to work properly."

• Most common faults: Gearbox/clutch 11%, sat-nav/infotainment 11%, non-engine electrics 11%, air-con 8%, bodywork 8%, brakes 5%, engine 5%

• Average repair cost: 41% £0, 11% more than £1500

• Typical time off road: 35% one day to a week, 33% more than a week

Volkswagen finished down a little in the latest What Car? Reliability Survey, in 24th place out of 30 manufacturers with an overall score of 90.5%. That put it above Audi and Mercedes, but below other rival brands, including BMW, Ford, Mazda, Seat and Skoda.

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