Which used Volkswagen Golf should you buy?

The eighth-generation Volkswagen Golf was launched in 2020, continuing the model’s success story as the benchmark family hatchback. With a wide range of specifications and bodystyles, most buyers will find a Volkswagen Golf that’s right for them.

Under the skin, the Mk8 Volkswagen Golf is closely related to the Mk7 version. The body is slightly longer, wider and taller, but there’s the same distance between the wheels – one of the key factors in determining how much interior space there is. It looks sharper, too.

The Mk7 Volkswagen Golf was a big improvement on the Mk6 with an all-new chassis and a larger body, offering a roomier interior and bigger boot, plus a package of advanced safety features.

We may look back on the Mk7 as the pinnacle of the traditional Volkswagen Golf. It’s good to drive but above all, it’s refined and comfortable. You could choose three-door and five-door versions of the Mk7, whereas all Mk8 models come with five doors.

If you’re after the Mk8, there’s a choice of 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre petrol engines, in regular as well as hybrid forms, and 2.0-litre diesels. On the road, it feels a little more sporty and less relaxed than the Mk7.

The Mk7 was launched with engines ranging from 1.2 and 1.4 TSI petrols to 1.6 and 2.0-litre TDI diesels. More powerful Volkswagen Golf GTD, Volkswagen Golf GTI and four-wheel-drive Volkswagen Golf R versions followed, and later there was the plug-in hybrid Volkswagen Golf GTE and all-electric Volkswagen e-Golf.

A 1.0 TSI petrol arrived in 2015, replacing the 1.2 TSI.

Read our full Volkswagen Golf review

What used Volkswagen Golf Mk7 trim levels are available?

The Volkswagen Golf Mk7 came in S, SE, SE Nav, Match, GT and R-Line trims. There were also specific versions such as the Volkswagen Golf GTE, GTI and GTD. 

Volkswagen Golf S

The Volkswagen Golf S is the cheapest trim, but doesn’t skimp on kit. It has a high-quality feel, so it’s a shame it comes with steel wheels with hubcaps.

Engines are a mix of low-power 1.0 (later versions), 1.2 and 1.4 TSI petrols, and a 1.6 TDI diesel. It’s a car pool model really, but if you’re on a budget and your driving routine is undemanding, it’s ideal.

• Front electric windows
• Body-coloured electric mirrors
• Electronic parking brake with hill start assist
• Digital radio
• Colour touchscreen display
• Phone connectivity
• Air-conditioning
• Split-fold rear seats

Volkswagen Golf SE

The Volkswagen Golf SE brings some additional welcome features and boast a higher level of perceived quality. It may not have that much extra over the Volkswagen Golf S, but it feels like a much more complete, desirable package. If you can afford one, it’s a better choice.

• Alloy wheels
• Rear electric windows
• Adaptive cruise control
• Emergency city braking
• Leather-covered steering wheel

Volkswagen Golf SE Nav

The mid-range Volkswagen Golf SE Nav includes sat-nav. The software includes a generally accurate speed limit display, as well as fuel price and traffic information.

Volkswagen Golf Match 

The Volkswagen Golf Match builds on the Volkswagen Golf SE with a richer feeling interior and even more equipment. Driving modes – standard, sport, economy and individual – enable you to adjust the car’s steering weight and brake and throttle responses to suit.

It was replaced by the Volkswagen Golf Match Edition in 2015, which had a Discover Navigation system as standard. If you don't want a particularly sporty model, this is a fantastic all-round option.

• Front differential lock
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Folding mirrors with puddle lights
• Reverse-activated dipping door mirror
• Driving modes

Volkswagen Golf GT

The Volkswagen Golf GT brings a feeling of luxury with a sporty flavour, but it’s not quite as comfortable as Volkswagen Golf Match versions. It was replaced by the Volkswagen Golf GT Edition in 2015.

• Larger alloy wheels
• Lowered sports suspension
• Ambient lighting
• Brushed silver inserts
• Panoramic sunroof (GT Edition)
• 18-inch alloy wheels (GT Edition)

Volkswagen Golf R-Line

The Volkswagen Golf R-Line has Volkswagen Golf R looks without the performance. There’s a bodykit and even a discreet R badge on the grille, plus a dark interior alleviated by some splashes of alloy for the pedals. 

• 17-inch wheels
• Twin tailpipes
• Sports steering wheel

Volkswagen Golf GTD

The Volkswagen Golf GTD provides hot hatch performance with lower running costs, as it’s powered by a diesel engine. It’s a little more discreet than the Volkswagen Golf GTI, but almost as entertaining thanks, especially, to its strong overtaking acceleration. It’s also very relaxing to drive at motorway speeds.

What used VW Golf Mk8 trim levels are available?

The Volkswagen Golf Mk8 offered four trim levels at launch: Life, Active, Style and R-Line. The Mk8 Volkswagen Golf Match was launched in January 2024.

Volkswagen Golf Life / Volkswagen Golf Style

The Volkswagen Golf Life was the starting point for the range. The highlights are listed below. The Volkswagen Golf Style added upgraded headlights and bigger wheels. 

• Adaptive cruise control
• Alloy wheels
• Automatic wipers

Volkswagen Golf R-Line

The Volkswagen Golf R-Line brought a racy flavour to the Mk8 range. The key additions were:

• Sporty bodykit
• Sports seats

Volkswagen Golf Active

The Volkswagen Golf Active created an upmarket ambience with the following equipment:

• 30-colour ambient lighting
• Multi-zone climate control
• Heated seats

Volkswagen Golf Match

The Volkswagen Golf Mk8 Match sits above the Volkswagen Golf Life, and came with an array of additional equipment.

• Larger alloy wheels
• Metallic paint
• Tinted windows
• Rear view camera
• Keyless entry

Is a used Volkswagen Golf a good buy?

You know what you’re getting with a Volkswagen Golf – solid build quality, straightforward design and a smooth, quiet ride.

It’s a formula that’s seen millions of Volkswagen Golfs sold since 1974, and ensures the car remains hugely popular to this day.