2.0 184ps Sport Nav+ 2dr

Life Affirming

I've owned this car since new and, honestly, it has been fantastic so far. I have owned it for almost 5 years, and it is daily driven.

It is comfortable, attractive, reliable, economical and a huge amount of fun at all times, at any speed. The engine is wonderfully responsive, flexible and throaty, and is a joy to rev out to it's redline. It makes any driving situation an event.

The car replaced a MK7 Golf GTI after a van driver helpfully reversed into that and ruined it - but honestly, it makes that car feel really dull, no matter how refined and nice it's interior was.

I plumped for the Android Auto upgrade, which is really worthwhile as the standard system is a bit r****** (due to be fixed with the upcoming ND3 update in 2024). I wish it had a reversing camera or a lowering curbside reversing mirror like VWs. And, as utterly beautiful as the soul red crystal paintwork is, I would probably recommend a clear lacquer paint colour instead, to reduce paint match anxiety should the worst happen. But other than that, and perhaps a glovebox, it's wanting for nothing.

My wife and I travelled everywhere in it. With careful/creative packing, a week away is fine. And, now that my child has arrived and is in a forward facing child seat, they fit fine too (obviously not together!). Weekly shop for a family of 3? No problem.

Is it perfect for everyone? Probably not. It's not particularly quiet on the motorway, it's no estate car and getting into it requires technique. But the pros far outweigh the cons for me, and I hope to own it for many years to come. Almost every drive becomes life affirming. I hope everyone gets the chance to try one at least once.

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