Would you recommend the Volvo V40 to replace my 2004 Volkswagen Golf?

We are thinking of changing our 2004 Golf 1.9TDI. We would like something of a similar size although petrol as we do a lot of short and medium trips with a fairly low annual mileage. I note from reading your column in the Telegraph that the Volvo V40 never seems to get a mention although I believe it is aimed at the Golf market. Is there any reason for this? If not, bearing in mind the above which model would you recommend?

Asked on 7 December 2013 by KT, Axminster

Answered by Honest John
One of my team tested it here: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/volvo/volvo-v40-d2.../ But currently the surprise best of this bunch is the new Mazda 3: www.honestjohn.co.uk/road-tests/mazda/mazda-3-2014.../
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