Should I replace my MkVI Volkswagen Golf with the new MkVII?

I have a 2009 Volkswagen Golf Mk VI 1.6 TDI with 40,000 miles on the clock. It has run perfectly for four years, but I am concerned about future reliability. Also, I am semi retired now and shall only be doing 10,000 miles a year. I am considering trading it in for a new Golf Mk VII 1.4 TFSi with metallic paint and a few other extras. The dealer wants around £12,000 to change. Do you think it is worth swapping?

Asked on 26 October 2013 by JB, via email

Answered by Honest John

£12,000 is a lot of money, but a Mk VII Golf is a more satisfying car to drive and the 1.4TSI now has the new EA211 belt cam engine, eliminating the problems of the chain cam 1.4TSI. However, it does have some tech that could cost you money in the future, such as electric parking brakes, prone to failure after four years or so at £600 a side, so take up the additional warranty.

Tags: warranties known defect electric parking brakes reliability

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