THE VOLKSWAGEN Golf is more than a popular car – it has become a bellweather for the car industry since its introduction in 1974. Its second-hand values traditionally set the mark for the cars competing against it.
The Golf is still the preferred choice for many loyal fans, but the Ford Focus has emerged as a better-value competitor. This, and the economic situation we find ourselves in, makes valuing the Golf as a second-hand proposition quite difficult.
It comes in all guises, from the basic 1.4 petrol to the accomplished GTi, but the 1.4 five-door hatchback creates the most demand. It is safe, solid, comfortable, elegant, stylish and practical. Interior styling is understated and mature and VW engineers have been very good at making us feel secure.
The 1.4 engine is not particularly impressive but it is fine for average motoring. The same can be said of the car’s ride and handling. Overall, it is a conservative proposition for conservative drivers, which is why people keep buying it.
VW has not been able to rest on its laurels because of competition from the Focus – actually a more rewarding car to drive. But its shape and style are still appealing and there is a huge customer loyalty around the Golf. Many owners are also careful drivers, which is something to bear in mind when looking for a second-hand one – trawl well and you will come up with a very nice car indeed.
Reliability hasn’t been an issue with the model produced since 2004 and it has a very comforting five stars in the EuroNCAP crash test programme.
How does one value the car? Asking prices are in the premium range but there are too many on sale to suggest they are moving at the requested prices.
A 2006 five-door 1.4 petrol hatchback with 25,000km on the clock and extras such as ABS and electric windows and mirrors is on offer for €18,750. A similar 2007 model with 34,000km is €19,500.
Both prices are too high in today’s tight market but in six months’ time the asking price of cars like this will be the true indicator of the value of an average-sized second-hand car.
STAR RATING: 7/10