What do you think of the Volkswagen Golf match or Audi Sportback as a small family car?

My partner is replacing her 5-year-old Skoda Fabia Classic with either a Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI Match 5-door or an Audi Sportback 1.6TDI SE. Both of these are similarly priced, however the Golf is more generous with its equipment specification. We would like to know if there are any problems with these cars and what your thoughts would be if you were in the market for an economical small family car?

Asked on 14 July 2010 by Carl Ryan

Answered by Honest John
Readers report poorer than expected certificated economy. I haven't driven the Leon ECOmotive, but on paper it's almost too good to be true. I'd also consider the Hyundai i30 and KIA Cee'd 1.6 CRDIs, particularly those without DPFs as the engines are chain cam. You didn't mention mileage, but any VAG car with a DPF and combustion chamber-fuelled regeneration could prove unsuitable for short runs.
Similar questions
Would you be kind enough, please, to recommend a car that will do approximately 10,000 miles per annum, and will last for the next ten years, will do at least 10 miles per litre in mainly rural and small...
I apologise if I am boring you with this subject. I have been contacted by a local Volvo dealer who is aware that I am in the market for a new car and of my concerns regarding the DPF. They have a special...
I have a 2006 Audi 3.0 V6 TDI. Does this engine have a particulate filter? At the last service the garage used long life oil and said it would not need another service for 24 months. I don't do a high...
Related models
Quality feel from behind the wheel. More practical and spacious than standard A3. Impressive choice of engines including excellent TFSI turbocharged petrols.
Well equipped. Refined. Good ride and handling. Economical. Available as a 1.6 diesel auto, which is rare. Five-year unlimited mile warranty.
Facelifted Cee'd with a sharper look. Improvements in economy and reductions in CO2. Seven year warranty as standard. All engines chain cam.
Stylish design. Excellent road manners. Roomy and well-equipped cabin. An easy car to live with and enjoy. Superb value. FR models are the best.
Comfortable and quiet on the move, enjoyable to drive. Nicely trimmed with great attention to detail. 1.4 TSI sweeter to drive than a diesel.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer