Volkswagen Golf IV 1.6

I was torn between buying a brand new Ford Focus for around the £9,000 - £10,000 mark or paying a little bit extra for a second hand VW Golf. After test driving the two cars I was impressed by both but several things ensured that my decision to buy the Golf was the right one. Resale value, build quality and prestige. The Focus just looked a little too plasticky and there is not the same kudos as being seen in a Jazz Blue - drop dead gorgeous - VW

After owning it for 6 months I have found the build of the Golf to be fantastic. The panel fit and instrument switchgear are flawless. There are reassuring clunks and clicks in all the right places. One additional touch of class has to be the neon blue intrument panel which is really original. It also is very soothing on the eye and ideal for driving in the dark. The driving position can be altered plenty to allow those that are vertically/horizontally challenged to rest in comfort. There is ample room for rear passengers but it can get a little cramped with 3 adults. The boot space is also ample.

The performance is good from the 1.6 engine and acceleration in all gears in swift enough. Handling and grip are also good with plenty of feedback for the more challenging driver. The gearchange is nice and compact allowing for swifter changes when needed.

There is also no shortage of equipment on the SE trim level. Air conditioning, electric windows all round, immobiliser, alarm, driver and passenger airbags, velour seats (which have not attracted as much fluff or dirt as I thought), cup holders for 6, power steering, on board computer (MPG, trip, average speed), arm rests, stereo radio cassette, alloy wheels and electric mirrors.

One little niggle is that the alarm sometimes plays up and goes off without any reason but a quick visit to the local VW dealer has seen off the problem.

I would definately buy VW again and can wholly recommend the VW Golf as an excellent car