Used Volkswagen Golf: Buyer's Guide
Overview of the Volkswagen Golf
The Volkswagen Golf is one of the UK's most iconic hatchbacks. It's stylish and practical, a bestseller and �the people's car' for a reason. Since its launch in 1974 the Golf has become a household name that offers something for every driver, from efficient everyday models to sporty GTI and R variants. Now in its eighth generation, the Golf remains one of the best all-rounders on the road.
A used Volkswagen Golf will always provide outstanding value for money, and is never a bad idea if you're after a reliable commuter car, versatile family hatchback, or a performance-focused hot hatch.
Volkswagen Golf Popular Trims
| Trim Level |
Detail |
| S |
Entry level trim with all the essentials |
| SE/SE Nav |
Adds comfort, infotainment upgrades, and better connectivity |
| Match |
Popular mid-range trim with parking sensors and upgraded interior features |
| Style |
Premium-focused with high-quality finishes and advanced driver-assist tech |
| R-Line |
Sporty styling with upgraded interior and exterior design |
| GT, GTD, GTI, GTE, and R |
Performance models offering stronger engines, sportier handling, and unique design touches |
Volkswagen Golf Popular Engines
| Engine |
Details |
| Petrol (TSI) |
Efficient turbocharged petrol engines, including the popular 1.0 and 1.5 TSI units, both powerful and economical. |
| Diesel (TDI) |
Strong motorway performers, the 2.0 TDI is a particular favourite for long-distance drivers. |
| Mild-Hybrid (eTSI) |
Uses a small electric motor to support the petrol engine, improving efficiency. |
| Plug-in Hybrid (GTE) |
Combines petrol power with an electric motor, offering up to 40 miles of electric-only range. |
| Performance Engines |
The Golf GTI and Golf R's turbocharged engines and sports suspensions deliver a more thrilling ride. |
| Electric (e-Golf) |
Older generations offered a fully electric Golf, with a real-world range of around 120 miles. The e-Golf was discontinued in 2020, replaced with the popular Volkswagen ID.3 model. |
Volkswagen Golf Practicality
- Boot space: around 380 litres (depending on generation), expanding to over 1,200 litres with seats folded.
- Rear passenger space: comfortable for adults, with good legroom and headroom.
- Interior quality: high-quality materials and an ergonomic design.
- Flexible seating: 60/40 split-folding seats make it easy to adapt to larger loads.
Volkswagen Golf Key Features
Features of the Volkswagen Golf that drivers enjoy:
- Digital Cockpit with customisable displays (newer models)
- Touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane assist and front assist with emergency braking
- Premium sound system options
- LED headlights and advanced lighting systems
Popular Options of the Volkswagen Golf
- Panoramic sunroof
- Vienna leather upholstery
- Upgraded alloy wheels
- Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC)
- Heated seats and steering wheel
- Harman Kardon premium audio system
Volkswagen Golf Reliability Rating
The Golf has long been praised for its strong reliability record, with robust engines and solid German build quality. Regular servicing is key, but many owners report years of trouble-free motoring. Parts are widely available, and maintenance costs are reasonable compared to premium rivals.
Volkswagen also provides a standard three-year/60,000-mile warranty, giving buyers added reassurance when purchasing a used model.
Volkswagen Golf Safety Rating
- The latest Volkswagen Golf achieved a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, scoring highly for both adult and child occupant protection.
- The Golf benefits from advanced driver assistance systems, including:
- Front Assist with City Emergency Braking
- Lane Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control
- Travel Assist semi-autonomous driving features (on newer trims)
- ISOFIX child seat mounts in the rear
Awards for the Volkswagen Golf
- Auto Trader's Best Car For Long Distances 2020
- New World Car Championships Best Car Of The Half Century 2024
- The Sunday Times Car Of The Year 2020
Who is the Volkswagen Golf Best For?
- Families - The Golf is safe, practical, and comfortable, making it a great choice for young families.
- Commuters - Efficient engines and hybrid options make it ideal for both city driving and long motorway runs.
- Driving enthusiasts - GTI, GTD, and R models offer sporty performance without compromising everyday usability.
- First-time buyers - Easy to drive, affordable to run, and widely available on the used market.
Where Can You Buy a Used Volkswagen Golf?
Vertu has ten Volkswagen dealerships across the UK, from Harrogate to Hereford. All offer affordable and high-quality Volkswagen servicing and MOTs, and are happy to discuss our flexible Volkswagen servicing plans with you.
You can explore hundreds of used Volkswagen Golfs at Vertu, as well as other popular models such as used Volkswagen Polos and used Volkswagen T-Rocs. We also stock the full range of new Volkswagen Golfs, all available on flexible finance options.
Find your nearest Vertu Volkswagen.
Used Volkswagen Golf FAQ
Is a used Volkswagen Golf a good buy?
Yes - the Golf is one of the most versatile hatchbacks available, offering comfort, quality, and value across all trims.
What engines are best in the Volkswagen Golf?
The 1.5 TSI petrol is a great all-rounder, while the 2.0 TDI is ideal for long-distance driving. The GTI and R are perfect for enthusiasts.
How reliable is the Volkswagen Golf?
The Golf is known for strong reliability, with robust engines and long-lasting build quality.
What is the boot size of a Volkswagen Golf?
Boot space is around 380 litres, expanding to over 1,200 litres with rear seats folded.
Is the Volkswagen Golf good for long-distance driving?
Yes, especially diesel and hybrid models, which combine strong fuel economy with excellent ride comfort.
