Not the fastest hatch in it's class, but one of the classiest hot hatches. It's a good looking golf with an oomph when you need it. And if driven sensibly 100miles, 70mph) has returned 45mpg! The drive is comfortable, interior good quality, seats hold you and support you and even now (mk5, 5 yrs old) people will occasionally stop and stare.

The only down I can find is the stock stereo - compared to the superb stock mk4 golf stereo, the sound quality has stepped down. It's good enough, but it is the one thing that wasn better about the mk4.

VW are also expensive when it comes to servicing or parts, but finding an independent honest garage is pretty easy, and there are a number of GTI specialists nationwide, and the prices are considerably better and workmanship in my experience just as good if not better.

Great cars, have gt the edition 30 of the VW Golf and its an awesome machine. For a 2.0 fwd car its awesome, gt with the traction control off in the wet if you want to have yourself a bit of fun, spins in 3rd.