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Volkswagen Golf
2020 | 2.0 TSI GTI Performance DSG Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr
MF70XTG
38,213 miles
Automatic
Petrol
2.0L

Volkswagen Golf

2020 | 2.0 TSI GTI Performance DSG Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr
MF70XTG
ID: 327527
38,213 miles
Automatic
Petrol
2.0L
Grey
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This car is located at Big Motoring World Cannock.
Pay in full
£1,243
Below market value
total
£20,500
Includes Admin fee
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New car cost: £32,900 | Included options: £620
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The condition of your car will have a large influence on its value. We've assumed your car is in excellent (showroom) condition.
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The guide price we provide will give you a good idea as to what your car might be worth. However, many factors can influence the price, such as the overall condition and the number of owners. Our estimate is subject to viewing and is based on your car being in an excellent showroom condition. See what determines a cars condition below.
What determines a cars condition?
Showroom condition
There is no damage to the bodywork, wheels, tyres and interior. • There is no damage to lights, glass and mirrors. • All tyres are at a legal limit and are safe. • The vehicle has a current MOT and has at least six months to run. • The vehicle has a full, documented service history. • There is no outstanding finance on the vehicle. • The vehicle is not a write-off (category C, D, S or N vehicle). • All documentation and keys are present.
Good condition
Minor or cosmetic damage can be found on the bodywork, wheels, tyres and interior. • Minor or cosmetic damage can be found on the lights, glass and mirrors. • The tyres are at a legal limit and are safe. • The vehicle has a current MOT. • There is a partial, documented service history. • There is no outstanding finance on the vehicle. • The vehicle is not a write-off (category C, D, S or N vehicle). • All documentation and keys are present.
Poor condition
Minor or cosmetic damage can be found on the bodywork, wheels, tyres and interior. • Minor or cosmetic damage can be found on the lights, glass and mirrors. • The tyres are at a legal limit and are safe. • The vehicle has a current MOT. • There is a partial, documented service history. • There is no outstanding finance on the vehicle. • The vehicle is not a write-off (category C, D, S or N vehicle). • All documentation and keys are present.
Fuel Type
Fuel Type
Petrol
Engine Size
Engine Size
2.0L
Transmission
Transmission
Automatic
ULEZ
ULEZ
Compliant
BHP
BHP
241
Mileage
Mileage
38,213 miles
0-62MPH
0-62MPH
6.2 secs
Doors
Doors
5
200 point inspection
Passed
200 point inspection
Passed
MOT
Passed
MOT
Passed
Service History
Passed
Service History
Passed
Service dateDealershipTextMileage
11-Oct-2024Big Motoring WorldMulti Point Inspection Check38,210mi
01-Sep-2020Volkswagen UKPDI0mi
HPI Check
Passed
HPI Check
Passed
  • Digital History Check
  • Not Recorded Stolen
  • Not Exported
  • Not Scrapped
  • Not an Insurance Write-Off
  • No Mileage Discrepancies
2 Previous Keepers
Passed
2 Previous Keepers
Passed
Previous registered keeper information provided by DVLA. This vehicle may have had multiple users and may have previously been owned by a business, fleet or lease company. For specific information on this vehicle please speak to a member of our team.
Tyre Report
Passed
Tyre Report
Passed
Front Left Tyre Tread Passed
Most recent tread depth readings
No data found - please contact us
Front Right Tyre Tread Passed
Most recent tread depth readings
No data found - please contact us
Rear Left Tyre Tread Passed
Most recent tread depth readings
No data found - please contact us
Rear Right Tyre Tread Passed
Most recent tread depth readings
No data found - please contact us
200 point inspection
Passed
MOT
Passed
Service History
Passed
HPI Check
Passed
2 Previous Keepers
Passed
Tyre Report
Passed
200 point inspection
Passed
MOT
Passed
Service History
Passed
Service dateDealershipTextMileage
11-Oct-2024Big Motoring WorldMulti Point Inspection Check38,210mi
01-Sep-2020Volkswagen UKPDI0mi
HPI Check
Passed
  • Digital History Check
  • Not Recorded Stolen
  • Not Exported
  • Not Scrapped
  • Not an Insurance Write-Off
  • No Mileage Discrepancies
2 Previous Keepers
Passed
Previous registered keeper information provided by DVLA. This vehicle may have had multiple users and may have previously been owned by a business, fleet or lease company. For specific information on this vehicle please speak to a member of our team.
Tyre Report
Passed
Front Left Tyre Tread Passed
Most recent tread depth readings
No data found - please contact us
Front Right Tyre Tread Passed
Most recent tread depth readings
No data found - please contact us
Rear Left Tyre Tread Passed
Most recent tread depth readings
No data found - please contact us
Rear Right Tyre Tread Passed
Most recent tread depth readings
No data found - please contact us
Features
This Volkswagen includes £620 of added extras
Highlights
Added Extras
Specification
Android Auto
Android Auto
Apple CarPlay
Apple CarPlay
Sat Nav
Sat Nav
Privacy Glass
Privacy Glass
Heated Seats
Heated Seats
Parking Camera
Parking Camera
Bluetooth
Bluetooth
Parking Sensors
Parking Sensors
Ambient Lighting
Ambient Lighting
Powered Folding Mirrors
Powered Folding Mirrors
The vehicle data displayed highlights the typical specification of the most recent model of this vehicle. This specification is sourced from leading industry suppliers CAP/HPI. We offer this information in good faith however cannot guarantee the accuracy of any specification/information supplied by 3rd party providers. The specification can vary. You must physically check the specification of the vehicle on site prior to purchase. The specification & features on this website do not form part of the buying contract.
Your car when new
£32,900
Extra Features
£620
Indium Grey MetallicMetallic paint - Indium Grey
IncludedWorth £620
The vehicle data displayed highlights the typical specification of the most recent model of this vehicle. This specification is sourced from leading industry suppliers CAP/HPI. We offer this information in good faith however cannot guarantee the accuracy of any specification/information supplied by 3rd party providers. The specification can vary. You must physically check the specification of the vehicle on site prior to purchase. The specification & features on this website do not form part of the buying contract.
Driver Convenience
'Lights On' Reminder warning buzzerACC - Adaptive cruise control with front assist, forward collision warning, distance monitoring, city emergency brake and speed limiterActive information display - 12.3" high resolution TFT displayBluetooth telephone and audio connection for compatible devicesView moreBrake pad wear indicator warning lightDriver alert systemDriving Mode Selection with four preset modes - Eco, normal, sport or individual modesMultifunction computer with visual gear change recommendation for fuel consumptionProgressive steeringPush tank flapRear view cameraSpeed limit displaySpeedo, rev counter, electronic odometer, trip, service interval display, exterior temperature and fuel gaugeStop/start systemThink blue trainer driver tips and journey analysisUnique GTI instrument clusterWarning buzzer and light for front seatbelts unfastened
Engine/Drivetrain/Suspension
Anti-tramp functionBattery regeneration during brakingMechanical limited slip differential
Entertainment
Composition media systemDAB Digital radio receiverDriver Personalisation profile selectionMP3/WMA compatabilityView moreMulti device interface (MDI) via USB connectionPremium USB cable in choice of either Apple or Android smartphone compatibilitySMS FunctionalityTitle and cover art displayUSB and SD card connectivityVolkswagen media control
Exterior Features
3D-LED tinted rear light clusters with indicator sweep functionBlack front air intake and radiator grille with chrome insertBody colour door handlesBody colour door mirrors with integrated indicatorsView moreBody colour rear roof spoilerDusk sensor + automatic driving lightsElectric front windowsElectric rear windowsElectrically adjustable and heated door mirrorsExtended sill strips flaredFront and rear unique GTI badging in redFully galvanised bodyGTI logo in red on front and backGTI logo lettering on front wings on right and leftHeated rear windscreenHigh level 3rd brake light incorporating LED TechnologyHoneycomb front air intake - BlackHoneycomb radiator grille with red stripeLED daytime running lights incorporating red stripeLED front fog lightsLED headlights with dynamic light assistRear fog lampRear number plate lights incorporating LED technologyRear window aerialRear window wash/wipe with intermittent wipeReflectors in all doorsUniquely shaped front/rear bumpersWindscreen wipers/ intermittent wipe + 4 position delay
Interior Features
12V socket in luggage compartment3 rear headrests4 load lashing points in luggage compartment60/40 split folding rear seat backrestView moreBag hook in luggage compartment x 2Black rear diffuser with chrome exhaust tailpipes in left and rightBlack roof liningClimate control - 2 zone electronic air conditioning with automatic air recirculation and allergy filterCooled gloveboxCover for storage compartment in centreDust/pollen filterFront + rear carpet matsFront centre armrest with storage compartment and two rear air ventsFront seat back storage pocketsGrab handles front x 2, rear x 2 with integrated coat hooksHeight and reach adjustable steering wheelIlluminated vanity mirrorsInterior light delayIsofix preparation for 2 rear child seatsLeather gear knob and handbrake gripLoad through provision with rear centre armrest and cupholders x2Luggage compartment lightingOverhead storage boxStainless steel pedalsStorage box in luggage compartmentStorage compartment in roof console with coverStorage compartments in centre consoleStorage compartments in front doorsStorage compartments in rear doorsStowable luggage compartment coverSun visorsThree spoke multifunction leather steering wheel with GTI logo and red stitching including gearknob gaiterVariable boot floor, height adjustable and removable
Packs
Ambient lighting pack - GolfConvenience Pack - GolfMirror pack - GolfWinter pack - Golf
Passive Safety
3 rear three point seatbeltsAirbags - Driver's and front passenger's, curtain airbag, Driver's knee, front side impact and passenger's airbag deactivation switchAnti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)Automatic post collision braking systemView moreChild locks on rear doorsDriver/Passenger optimised head restraintsElectronic parking brake with auto holdElectronic stability control (ESC) including Electronic differential lock (EDL) and ASR (Traction control) with deactivation via infotainment systemFront ventilated disc brakes and rear disc brakesLarger diameter brake discs and GTI logo on red brake calipersPre crash preventive occupant protectionThree point height adjustable front seatbelts with tensionersTyre pressure loss indicator
Security
Alarm with interior protection and deactivation via infotainment systemElectronic engine immobiliserKeyless entry with start/stop button on centre console
Trim
Chrome plated air vent surroundChrome plated electric mirror adjustment switch surroundChrome-plated light switch surroundHoneycomb black decorative insertsView morePiano black decorative inserts in centre console
Wheels
Steel space saver spare wheel
The vehicle data displayed highlights the typical specification of the most recent model of this vehicle. This specification is sourced from leading industry suppliers CAP/HPI. We offer this information in good faith however cannot guarantee the accuracy of any specification/information supplied by 3rd party providers. The specification can vary. You must physically check the specification of the vehicle on site prior to purchase. The specification & features on this website do not form part of the buying contract.
Specification
Performance
Acceleration (0-62MPH)
6.2 secs
BHP
241 bhp
Maximum speed
154 mph
Fuel Consumption
MPG
38
MPG (Extra Urban)
/
MPG (Urban Cold)
/
Emissions
Co2
146 g/km
Standard Euro Emissions
EURO 6
Valves per cylinder
4
Weight / KW
Gross weight
1,890 kg
Kerb weight
EURO 1,377 kg
Seats
5
KW
180 KW
Dimensions
Height
1,492 mm
Length
4,268 mm
Width
1799 mm
Engine & Drivetrain
Cylinders
4
Engine Capacity
1,984 cc
Gears
7
Engine
2.0 TSI 245PS
View more information
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HPI Check
Passed
Interior
Passed
Road Test
Passed
Suspension
Passed
Under the bonnet
Passed
Oil
Passed
Wheels & brakes
Passed
Body work
Passed
MOT
Passed
200 point inspection
Passed
See the entire 200 point check
We're BIG on low prices
Volkswagen Golf
GTI Performance
MF70XTG
38,213 miles
Automatic
Petrol
Favourite
New car cost: £32,900 | Included options: £620
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Local to you
With locations all over the country, you can visit a branch local to you. Now, that's convenience.
90-day warranty
Our cars come with a 90-day warranty as standard so you can drive away with confidence.
Same day drive away
Complete your purchase in a couple of hours. No need to wait around, our cars are good to go.
Low prices
You’re getting a great deal, with up to 95% of our cars being priced below market value.
200 multi-point inspection
We're BIG on quality. That's why we check, check and check again. Customer confidence? Check.
Hassle & haggle-free
Our lowest price. Always. There is no awkward haggling, no high mark-ups, and no pressure to buy.
Find your dream car
Independent review
The information below is provided by Car and Driving and the actual specification of this car may vary
Volkswagen Golf
Introduction
The Volkswagen Golf GTI wears one of the most iconic badges around and this post-2012 Mk7 model proved to be a class act.

It was bigger, quicker, better built and more efficient than its predecessor, offering a choice of three doors or five, standard or 'Performance Pack' models and manual gearbox or DSG semi-auto transmission.

This car proved to be the best all-rounder from its era in the hot hatch division.

But does it make sense on the used market?
Models
3dr/5dr Hatch (GTI, GTI Performance Pack, GTI Clubsport S)
Show more
History
Before Volkswagen dreamed up the Golf GTI, there was no such thing as a 'hot hatchback'.

Today of course, the phrase has entered everyday parlance and virtually any manufacturer that has a hatchback also has a hot one - or a warm one at the very least.

It was 1976 when the original version of this car was born and since then, through continual generations and with the help of countless imitators, it has brought performance, handling and fun to the masses on an unprecedented scale.

The Golf GTI we look at here was the mark seven version and claimed to be the best yet at its original launch in 2012. But did that mean 'best of breed' or 'best in class'? This car, after all, may define the hot hatch genre but prior to 2012, it had rarely been recognised as the most accomplished car in its sector.

In fact, to be brutally honest, there have been some distinctly average Golf GTI models over the years, the low point reached in the Nineties with unremarkable third and fourth generation models.

All that changed though, in 2005 with a completely re-developed fifth generation version that also lent its platform and most of its 2.0-litre turbo mechanicals to the slicker MK6 design that followed in 2009.

For the first time since the Seventies and early Eighties, a hot Golf was a credible driver's choice once again. By 2012 though, Volkswagen's iconic shopping rocket was beginning to be overtaken by a whole host of rivals, all of whom offered more firepower and greater technical superiority.

Another big step forward was called for - and this seventh generation Golf GTI claimed to represent exactly that.

Wolfsburg's hi-tech MQB platform made it lighter and more efficient, there was hi-tech suspension and steering, plus extra power up-front (220PS) along with the option of a pokier Performance Pack (boosting output to 230PS) if that wasn't enough.

A rorty three-door GTI Clubsport S version with 310PS was launched in 2016.

And the standard GTI was facelifted, along with the rest of the Golf range, for the 2017 model year, an update that boosted power of the standard model to 230PS and that of the 'Performance Pack' variant to 245PS.

In 2018, the standard 230PS model was phased out and only the 'Performance Pack' variant remained until the end of the production cycle in 2019.
What You Get
What do you think of in terms of the small but significant distinguishing features that have always marked out a Golf GTI from its ordinary stablemates? The red stripe around the radiator grille? The black border around the rear screen? The smaller sports steering wheel, golf ball-shaped gear knob or tartan-trimmed seats? All of these things have characterised this model line for nearly forty years and back in 2012 when this MK7 Golf GTI was first launched, Volkswagen wasn't about change them.

But subtle evolution was required for this seventh generation version - and that's exactly what we got. One glance might suggest that this car isn't much different from what went before.

Take another.

A new MQB platform gave this model a sportier, more dynamic stance.

That's down to the way that the front wheels were moved further forward, reducing the front overhang, visually lengthening the V-shaped bonnet and moving the passenger compartment a little towards the rear.

The result is a gym-toned look that's particularly nice at the side, with the C-pillar design supposed to resemble the drawn string of a bow, giving the Golf a look of acceleration even when it's standing still.

Confident and assertive then, without being overly showy - but then this has never been a model to champion lairy spoilers and drainpipe exhausts.

Instead, you get a car that sits 15mm lower to the road than its humbler siblings, the lovely 18-inch alloy wheels with their red callipers filling the arches purposefully.

As is usually the case, the three-door version looks a bit better than its five-door counterpart, the longer doors having the visual effect of lengthening and lowering the profile. On to the detail visual changes made to the MK7 Golf GTI.

At the front end, you get a red styling line that extends not only across the grille but also clean through bi-xenon light clusters that sit above three lateral high gloss black aerodynamic fins sitting either side of the honeycomb-trimmed screen that covers the lower air intake.

At the side, there are red-on-chrome 'GTI' wing vents that begin the stronger of the two character profile lines, a crease that flows down the flanks into a silver centre section of smoked LED tail lights marking out a rear hatch styled to continue the understatedly purposeful theme.

The roof spoiler is supposed to be larger than that found on any ordinary Golf but you wouldn't know it.

More obvious are the twin chromed tailpipes that sit either side of a black diffuser. Take a seat inside and there's just enough differentiation to justify this car's heritage and substantial asking price.

We've already mentioned the three features that brand aficionados will expect - the chunky three-spoke sports wheel, the tartan seat coverings and the golf ball-shaped gear knob.

But this cabin is anything but a throwback, with buttons and switches precisely where you'd want to find them and everything just as it should be.

The carpet that lines the storage boxes so that your keys don't scrape around on the move.

The upholstered material used for the upper section of the dashboard that's lovely to the touch.

The central armrest that adjusts for length and five stages of height.

And a 2Zone climate control system that can even adjust itself according to the direction of the sun.

It's better than a BMW from this era, every bit as good as an Audi from this period and it all means that if you were to sit in a Ford Focus ST or a Renaultsport Megane from this time after driving one of these, it'd be a bit like stepping from Harvey Nichols into Primark. Could it be a little more showy? Perhaps, but the red stitching, the dark roof fabric, the GTI trim strips and the stainless steel pedal caps do just enough to set the performance theme.

Can the same be said of the red ambience lighting? We think it a little 'Hamburg night club': you may disagree.

At least Volkswagen resisted the urge to slather this cabin with carbon fibre, material that at one point was going to be used for the entire roof section - until the idea was abandoned due to the production complications it would have created at the Wolfsburg and Zwickau factories. If you come to this seventh generation model fresh from its direct MK6 predecessor, you'll find yourself feeling slightly more comfortable at the wheel but perhaps unable to precisely reason why.

Let us tell you.

The brilliantly comfortable seat was shifted back for the seventh generation model, at the same time as the pedals were made a little more widely spaced and there was more adjustment possible from the leather-trimmed, flat-bottomed multi-function steering wheel, through which you view lovely instrument dials reminiscent of high-end chronometers.

Start the engine and the needles swing once to the end scale position and then back.

Lovely.

In between the gauges is a centre display with carousel-style graphics that deliver everything from sat nav information to a lap timer. Some of this information is also replicated on the colour infotainment touch screen that dominates the centre of the dash and will be the biggest cabin change for buyers of previous GTI models, a feature you can control merely by swiping your finger across its surface as you do on a smart 'phone.

In early MK7 Golf GTI models, it was 5.8-inches in size as standard but could be upgraded to an 8-inch item if, as was mostly the case, the original buyer opted for the more sophisticated sat nav option.

The 8-inch screen was standardised after the 2017 model year facelift.

This display is the starting point for operation of the Driver Profile selection system that can alter the throttle mapping and engine management set-up to suit your chosen driving style.

More conventionally, there's access the stereo with its DAB digital radio, the trip computer and all manner of Bluetooth telephony - enough to make your mobile device feel right at home.

Especially if your car has been fitted with the 'Advanced telephone connection' option that'll enable you to link it in to the car's external aerial for improved reception.

Thankfully, ventilation controls were left off the menu of screen functions, operable instead by three chunky dials below.

Stabbing away at a touchscreen every time you want to change the fan speed or cabin temperature is a modern innovation most owners, we think, could do without.

A bit like the electronic handbrake in fact, something you have to have here. In the back seat, you'll most notice the improvements wrought through the introduction of the hi-tech MQB platform - and the 53mm wheelbase increase it allows.

Rear legroom rose with this MK7 model by 15mm, despite the change we mentioned earlier, that of the front seats being moved further back to better suit taller drivers.

Shoulder and elbow-room were both improved too and headroom's also quite adequate, despite this generation model's small reduction in exterior roof height.

As usual in this class, three adults would be a little squashed here but a trio of kids will be quite happy. Out back, there's more space for luggage than there was in the MK6 Golf GTI, the cargo bay 30-litres larger than before at 380-litres - that's 10% bigger than a Megane Renaultsport from this time and 20% bigger than a Focus ST from this period.

It's easier to use too, with probably the lowest loading sill height in the class, a wide hatch aperture and a wide base on the dual-height luggage floor.

There's a ski hatch too for longer items.

Fold the 60/40 split rear seats down and you get useful 1270-litres - again one of the biggest spaces in the class from this era.
What You Pay
Please contact us for an exact up-to-date valuation.
What to Look For
Most Golf GTI MK7 owners we surveyed were very happy with their cars, but inevitably, there have been those who have had problems you'll want to look out for.

One owner reported squeaky noises coming from the suspension over speed humps.

Another noted that his steering wheel made a slightly wheezy noise when going round bends slowly.

There were reports of the boot juddering when closing.

And fuel caps that were difficult to open, making re-fuelling a struggle.

One owner reported vibration from the door cards at the front and the rear.

And another reckoned that his infotainment system was choosing not to function in very cold weather - and at times, was choosing to control itself. As for mechanical stuff, well we came across one owner who'd had a clutch go after just 4,600 miles - but that's very unusual.

Another experienced faulty injectors.

And another experienced a power failure related to his DSG auto gearbox.

Also look out for smearing wipers, problems with the cabin air blowers and a rattle from the gearbox over speed humps.

There have been a few reported issues with the DSG auto gearbox, so make sure the gearbox changes properly.

Timing chains have been known to snap prematurely and cause major engine damage - yet another reason why a full service history is critical.

GTI models can also suffer from quite high oil consumption, so it's important to keep an eye on the oil level, to avoid damage to the engine or timing chain.
Replacement Parts
[based on a 2017 model GTI 2.0 TSI ex VAT] An air filter will be priced in the £13 to £20 bracket, an oil filter will sit in the £5 to £15 bracket.

A radiator will likely cost between £95 and £115.

The front brake discs we came across commonly sat in the £50 to £70 bracket, with pricier-branded discs costing between £120 and £250.

The rear brake discs we came across commonly sat in the £40 to £86 bracket, with pricier-branded discs costing up to around £115.

Front brake pads are in the £27 to £65 bracket for a set but for pricier brands, you could pay up to nearly £75.

Rear pads cost in the £20-£37 bracket.

A thermostat is around £19.

A water pump is around £53-£73,.

A radiator is around £152-£158.

Wiper blades cost around £9.
On the Road
So.

Just how quick does a Golf GTI really need to be? Performance-wise, this car certainly has to fit into a very tightly-defined slot.

This MK7 model had to be faster than any of the conventional models in the range of course - and of course it needed to be able to duke it out with the rest of the hot hatch brigade.

But it couldn't be so rapid that Volkswagen had nowhere to go with the even more focused 4WD Golf R that by 2012 had superseded the GTI as the Golf model line-up's flagship.

Within these constraints, you think you know exactly what you're going to get with the GTI and yet..

well, we'll get to that in a minute. It's certainly true that the engine stats are reasonably predictable.

The original version of this car back in 2012 offered 220PS - or 230PS in 'Performance Pack' form.

As part of the facelift changes in 2017, those stats were changed to 230PS and 245PS.

Either way, you're looking at more than double the kind of power that was generated by the original MK1 Golf GTI we saw way back in 1976.

You might think that still doesn't sound very much given that all this car's direct rivals from this period offer more - a Ford Focus ST from this era has 250PS, a Megane Renaultsport 265PS.

But this Volkswagen's efficient MQB platform means that both these cars are heavier - the Ford 100kgs more portly, which is one reason why this Golf, even in 220PS form, can pretty much duplicate their performance, rest to sixty two mph occupying 6.5s en route to 152mph.

Still not convinced? Then opt for the 'Performance Pack' version that as well as the power hike comes with bigger brakes and an electronically controlled locking front differential. Whichever version you go for, you'll appreciate the 2.0-litre TSI direct injection turbocharged engine that was further refined for this 7th generation model.

OK, so it doesn't have too much aural personality, either on start-up or under hard acceleration, but you can readily forgive it that for the way it goes.

Like all the best turbo installations, this one actually feels like a bigger normally-aspirated powerplant.

There's no lag and lunge, just a smooth and flexible surge that swells at around 2,500rpm before gradually tailing off as you edge past 4,000rpm, confirming that wringing the thing out to the redline isn't the most effective way to drive this car.

Besides that, mid-range punch is what you want for overtaking and merging into fast-moving traffic flows. So it's fast enough - but that you expected.

What's more of a surprise is the ride and handling balance on offer here.

We used to think Ford were the only brand with a real handle on making a sporting family corner tightly yet ride beautifully.

By 2012 though, it was clear that Volkswagen had mastered the art too.

Or perhaps you just better notice the dynamic step forward this Golf made in this form thanks to its standard Driver Profile Selection system, essentially the same as Audi's 'drive select' set-up.

Here, the four available programmes you can select from the centre dash colour touchscreen - 'Eco', 'Sport', 'Normal' and 'Individual' - alter the throttle mapping and engine management to suit your chosen driving style - gearshift times too if you've opted for a DSG automatic model.

Add the optional DCC Dynamic Chassis Control system, which enables you to tweak the suspension to suit the road and your mood, and there's a fifth 'Comfort' mode. We're not actually sure that the standard set-up really needs the extra cost assistance of the Dynamic Chassis Control electronics, so incredibly supple and well balanced is it but if you do choose a car whose original owner specified the DCC option and select the 'Comfort' mode, then you'll get yourself a Golf GTI that tackles urban roads with more composure than some luxury saloons we've come across.

Which is nice because no matter how much of a driving enthusiast you are, it's tiresome to saddle yourself with a hot hatch that constantly, wearingly has to remind you of its red mist pretensions when you've had a long day, you just want to get home and the whole of the road network seems to be infested with infernal speed humps. If that's a common scenario for you, then you'll probably be one of those considering a version of this car fitted with the 6-speed DSG automatic gearbox.

We'd think twice before doing that.

OK, so this Golf is a more sensible and mature proposition than more track-orientated rivals from this era like Renaultsport's Megane or Vauxhall's Astra VXR but it's still a package that has the potential to thrill and excite, so damping it down with auto transmission - even one as good as Volkswagen's DSG system - doesn't do it any favours.

True, you can set DSG into a Sport mode to hold gears longer and there are steering wheel-mounted paddles but it's still an auto 'box - and one with a slightly irritating tendency to climb straight into sixth gear in order to save fuel. In any case, the six-speed manual transmission is a joy to use, with a short clickety-click action that makes you want to flip up and down the 'box just for the fun of it.

Another pleasant surprise is the 'Progressive' steering system, slick, fairly light, unerringly accurate and designed to reduce the amount of lock you have to put on through the corners without you noticing.

True, the set-up could offer a touch more response and feedback.

Along with the reduced size door mirrors, it's one of the few things we don't like about this car and the feel on offer at the helm certainly doesn't encourage you to switch off all the control systems, fling the car into a corner and see what happens.

You have to learn where the limits of the front end are by gradual experimentation rather than through an intuitive connection through the wheel. But once you have, this can be an astonishingly rapid back road brawler.

Focus yourself, select 'Sport' on the Driver Profile selection system and on a typical British B road and at typical British B road speeds, the Golf GTI feels ruthlessly good, the suspension artfully tuned so as not to continually upset the car or its traction control systems.

Throw a Megane Renaultsport down a fast, twisting, bumpy country lane and you'd likely emerge at the other end a bit sweaty-palmed with your adrenal glands waving the white flag.

The Golf might arrive a tenth or a second or two behind but it's driver would be serene, relaxed and with enough mental capacity in hand to enjoy a play on Radio 4.

And therein lies the joy of this car.
Overall
When the Golf GTI was first launched in 1976, Volkswagen wondered whether it would struggle to sell an early production run of 5,000 vehicles.

By 2012, two million sales later, the issue the issue the brand faced was not whether this car would sell, but who might buy it.

After all, previous to 2012, this model had mainly sold to folk who, if they were honest, would probably admit to having out-grown the shopping rocket genre it originally created.

In 7th generation form, this car needed to return a little to its roots - add an old fashioned dose of fun into the mature mix.

It did. You might not know that from the figures.

In all the dynamic measures that tend to matter to hot hatch drivers - 0-62mph acceleration, top speed, lap times, lateral grip, braking performance and so on - this Golf never really seriously bothers the class best.

You might not be immediately arrested by the looks either, or the initial experience on the drive round the block.

But persevere.

Forty years of experience in creating a car of this kind has to count for something.

It does. Importantly, Wolfsburg didn't here make the mistake of developing this GTI for the track rather than the road, so bumpy British tarmac doesn't bother it.

You're always confident in pushing the performance envelope in a way that few rivals can match, yet that's possible without the sweaty palms that usually characterise red mist motoring.

MK5 and MK6 Golf GTI models were also accomplished in this way, but with its extra power, lighter lithe responses and brilliantly sorted suspension, this MK7 version can not only be a confident performance car but a credibly exciting one too.

So yes, it should sell to folk who want a proper hot hatch experience as well as a very mature one. The very first generation version set out to define a fundamental standard for performance that was more precise than any other compact car.

So it is here.

Long after the novelty of some rivals has worn off, this GTI will always feel a class act.

Crucially though, in this form, it's also a very entertaining one.
Performance
70%
Handling
80%
Comfort
70%
Space
80%
Styling
80%
Build
80%
Value
70%
Equipment
80%
Economy
70%
Depreciation
80%
Insurance
70%
Vehicle location
This vehicle is located at Cannock Big Motoring World A5 Watling Street Cannock Staffordshire WS11 1SL
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What our experts say
Tony - Master Technician, Big Motoring World
Our 200-point checks are stringent and methodical. We check all components including the body exterior, engine, suspension, steering, brake system, tyres, electricals, underbody, interior, and boot to name a few
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I recently purchased a VW polo from the Werrington Branch and the service was amazing. I had the pleasure of having Amelia as my sales rep who was super friendly and helpful. She wanted to ensure I got the best deal within my budget and worked hard to get me what I wanted. I was able to take the car the same day even with having the garden extra added on thanks to Amelia which was amazing! I felt really looked after in the branch and would purchase a vehicle again here. Thank you again!
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Some of our recent awards
Top Rated Dealer Award 2024
CarGurus Awards
Top Value Dealer Award 2024
CarGurus Awards
MotorTrader Industry Award Winner 2023
Used Car Dealer Group of the Year 2023
Motor Trader Industry Awards
MotorTrader Industry Award Winner 2023
Dealer Website of the Year - 300 Vehicles Plus 2023
Motor Trader Industry Awards
Top Rated Dealer Award 2024
CarGurus Awards
Top Value Dealer Award 2024
CarGurus Awards
Used Car Dealer Group of the Year 2023
Motor Trader Industry Awards
Dealer Website of the Year - 300 Vehicles Plus 2023
Motor Trader Industry Awards
Over 30 years offering quality used cars
FAQs
What do I need to bring with me to buy a car?
To test drive and buy a car, you’ll need to bring your driving license. Should you decide to also fund your purchase with one of our lenders, you may also require a secondary form of ID, such as a passport.
How do I reserve a car?
Easily reserve one of our cars online or over the phone with a fully-refundable £99 deposit. This will then hold the car for three whole days to give you enough time to come down for a viewing. Once the three days are up, we’ll automatically refund your reservation fee. Please note, you can only reserve a vehicle once. You can also reserve a car inside our dealership by placing a non - refundable £500 deposit to hold the car. Deposits in-store must be placed by debit card as we’re unable to accept cash. This will secure the car ready for collection.
Do your cars come with a warranty, and if so what does this cover?
Since we’re big on peace of mind, we provide a 90-day warranty on all of our cars. This does not affect your statutory rights. You even have the choice to purchase an extended warranty from us to make sure you’re covered for longer if anything was to go wrong. These include 1, 2, or 3-year warranty plans. You’ll be pleased to know that our warranty covers both all major mechanical and electrical components in case of a sudden mechanical breakdown. Parts and labor are also included. Under our warranty, you’ll have coverage for the engine, gearbox, transmissions, and suspension as well as smaller items such as electric windows and central locking.
How do I get my car valued?
You can use our online valuation tool to receive an instant, no-obligation valuation. Once you have completed this, you will receive your valuation by email so you have all the details ready for when you visit us. Once you visit our dealership, you will receive your final valuation quote once your vehicle has been inspected by our appraisal team.
Why should I sell or part exchange with Big Motoring World?
There are several reasons why selling or part exchanging your car with us would be ideal. Firstly, it is an extremely efficient and fast process, taking the hassle out of selling privately and dealing with tyre kickers. We will also offer you our best price guaranteed, providing a competitive valuation that is hard to beat.
Can I drive away on the same day in a car I’ve just purchased?
Yes, you can. All of our vehicles are ready to drive away. If you are applying for finance, however, you will need to be on-site by 3 pm in order to take the car the same day.
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