Help me choose the right Golf GTI!

I am thinking about changing the car at the moment. Currently have a 2008 mk V Golf GTI and was thinking of upgrading to a mk VI, probably around 2011/2012 reg. Thing is, would I be better waiting a year and picking up one of the mk VII models that came out late last year instead? And also, new GTI instead of new GTD for driving enjoyment?

Simon MacMahon (Dublin)

Jul 2014 Filed under: choosing used car

---

Expert answer

Hi Simon,

The thing is that there's not a huge difference between the Mk VI and Mk VII when it comes to driving. The Mk VII is that bit newer and more sophisticated, of course, but in terms of the actual levels of driving enjoyment and quality, they're much of a muchness. If you can find a good Mk VI at a good price, I'd say go for it. Unless that is you're prepared to wait and get the ultimate Mk VII, the one with the Performance Pack fitted. That's another ball game completely.

On the GTD versus GTI front, it's all about your mileage. If you're doing lots of long miles then the GTD provides 80 per cent of the GTI's enjoyment factor with obviously lower fuel bills. If you're not doing mega miles, stick with petrol.

Let us know which way you go

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe