Volkswagen Golf 2008-2013 used car review

The Volkswagen Golf is a super-efficient and well-built small hatch.

Richard Edwards

Expert Reviewer | Auto Media Group

Exterior

Drive

Safety

Value

Interior

Overall score , 4.1 out of 5

The good

Diesel is super fuel efficient with a massive range
Feels very well built inside
Spacious rear seat and boot

The not-so-good

The dual-clutch transmission has been troublesome
Expensive to service

Inside and out

On the road

Safety

Reliability

Cost of ownership

Buyers' guide

Variants

Timeline

Details

Review vehicle

2011 Volkswagen Golf TDI Trendline

Price

$6,500 to $18,000 for models which have travelled 70,000 to 120,000km

Engine

1.6-litre four-cylinder turbocharged, 77kW/250Nm (claimed)

Transmission

Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, front-wheel drive

Safety rating

Five-star ANCAP rating

Servicing

15,000km or 12 months

Spare wheel

Space saver

Fuel economy

4.8-litres per 100km (claimed)

Fuel type

Diesel

Length

4204mm

Width

1759mm

Height

1479mm

Turning circle

10m

Image gallery

Richard Edwards

Expert Reviewer | Auto Media Group

Also consider

Review

2022 Fiat 500 Dolcevita review

OMG, a modern day Cinquecento for just over $20k. Is that some sort of Italian bargain or what? For some perhaps...

Peter Louisson

2023 Toyota Corolla side quarter shot through fence

Review

2023 Toyota GR Corolla vs 2023 Honda Civic Type R comparison review

It’s difficult to separate these two, each with character and quirks that will endear them to those after a hot hatch.

Kyle Cassidy

Review

Nissan Tiida 2004-2012 used car review

The Nissan Tiida is a practical and family-focused everyday car.

Sam Domett