Buying a new Golf SV - automatic or manual?

My wife and I are are looking to get a new car to replace our Peugeot 206 for our growing family. We have been looking around for a new car and in principle like the Volkswagen Golf SV 1.4 petrol automatic.

I have read a lot of reviews which are mostly positive, but your review suggests that the automatic gearbox was not great. Would you not recommend this car? Or the automatic version? If so, can you recommend a similar size/style car instead?

Asked on 18 March 2015 by Barnes

Answered by Honest John
The Golf SV is excellent. The current 1.4TSI engines are excellent. I just don't trust the seven-speed dry clutch DSG transmission. Manuals, fine. If you must have an automatic, Mazda 6 speed torque converter autos in the Mazda2, Mazda3, Mazda CX-5 and Mazda6 are best in class.
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Not bad looking. Economical 1.4 diesel gets under 119g/km.
Spacious and flexible interior, almost as nice to drive as a regular Golf, comfortable for rear-seat passengers.
 

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