Volkswagen Golf 2.0 GTI T-FSI 5dr

Pros: classless, practical, fast, high-torque turbo-charged engine, gearbox, brakes, steering accuracy, build quality, reliability, comfort, handling, body control, low depreciation, saleability, (relative) economy.

Cons: lumpy low speed ride, slightly anodyne engine note, mail dealer servicing costs, minor torque steer.

Just a great car. Fast driving will see 26mpg and longer more leisurely journeys will see 40mpg. Superb engine flexibility. Still makes me smile.

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.

The VW Golf GTI looks a million dollars. Th styling tweaks compared to the standard trim are understated and classy, unlike other cars in this bracket. The handling is superb. It turns into corners surprisingly well when you consider it is a front wheel drive car with 200bhp. There is torque all over the rev range, pulling in every gear no matter what the rev counter is showing. The five door offers more practicality than the 3 door albeit not quite as pretty. This car makes you smile every time you get in it. When you put your foot on the accelerator it absolutely flies, the exhaust note is deep and throaty, tand he gear change on the DSG box is so quick its ridiculous. It also stops very well too. The brakes are very sharp and the ABS doesn't kick in until you absolutely bury your foot in the carpet, allowing you to drive on the limit if that's what your after. This car does everything you can ask of a car, and does it with style.