3 good reasons to buy a used Volkswagen Golf
With the withdrawal of the entry-level Volkswagen Golf in Canada, and the arrival of the new generation for the 2022 model year, consumers have had to accept higher prices for a sporty Golf GTI (or Golf R), or turn to used models.
Yet, despite progress in recent years, the German compact doesn't have the best reputation for reliability, and this can worry some buyers, especially when the manufacturer's original warranty - 4 years/80,000 km on the vehicle, 5 years/100,000 km on the powertrain - has expired. An extended warranty, if you can afford it, can give you more peace of mind, of course. You also need to watch out for safety recalls, which are fairly numerous for the latest generation marketed from 2015 to 2021.
That said, here are three good reasons to buy a used Volkswagen Golf...
1. An energetic engine
Compared to other cars in its class, the Golf could count on an energetic base engine, in this case a 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder developing 170 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. At least in the 2015 to 2018 models.
For 2019, power has dropped to 147 hp when Volkswagen opted for a smaller displacement engine (1.4 liters) to improve fuel economy (from 8.2 to 7.4 L/100 km), but the good news is that maximum torque has remained at around the same level, at 184 lb-ft. For city acceleration, this is pleasant - and part of the driving pleasure that explains the Golf's success.
2. Greater versatility
The seventh-generation Golf had the advantage of offering greater versatility than its direct competition, with a load volume greater than that of a Honda Civic or Mazda3 hatchback when the rear seats are folded down. We're talking 1,521 liters, no less. So, if you're a single person or a couple and don't need to seat people on the bench, you'll seriously save space by folding the rear seats.
A compact that's both dynamic and practical? Here's the real deal.
3. Superior build and finish quality
Based on Volkswagen's solid MQB platform, the now-defunct Golf never flinched on rough roads. What's more, it stood out for the quality of its assembly, giving it a premium cachet.
On board, ergonomics are almost flawless and finish is well above average. The doors close with a heavy feeling of solidity. At the same time, the seats are designed for comfort - light years ahead of a Sentra or Corolla.
