VOLKSWAGEN GOLF

▶ It isn’t quite the best hatchback. It’s not the best value for money. Nor is it the most reliable. Yet Volkswagen’s irrepressible Golf is one of the world’s most popular cars. People are drawn to its badge, its perceived quality, and its ability to do almost everything you’d ever want from a car.

Now in its eighth generation, the VW Golf keeps its value better than most rivals, meaning we won’t get even a Mk7 for our money. So, for this budget we’d go for a Mk6, built from 2009 to 2012.

A revision of the 2003-to-2008 Mk5, the sixth Golf looked much the same as its predecessor, but with new lights and grille. The interior was also upgraded to include superior-quality plastics than the much-criticised Mk5’s. It was also better to drive than the sluggish Mk4.

There was a broad choice of petrol engines: 79bhp 1.4, 102bhp 1.6, turbocharged and supercharged 1.4

TSI (120bhp or 157bhp) or 207bhp turbocharged 2.0-litre. There were also multiple oil-burners in a selection of tunes: 1.6 TDI, 1.6 TDI Bluemotion or 2.0 TDI. Many motors were mated to a choice of manual gearbox or seven-speed DSG – a clever clutchless automatic, but certainly not without its faults; beware of harsh or incorrect gearchanges, which may eventually lead to loss of drive and a very high repair bill.

Trim levels were S, SE, GT, GTI and GTD, all of which could be ordered in three-door or five-door form. The basic S its well-equipped, with climate control as standard. The SE gained alloy wheels and cruise control, while the GT added sports seats.

So, which should we be looking at? We won’t find a Mk6 GTI within budget, but if you’re brave you could get a great-looking 168bhp diesel GTD – most likely Cat S/n-repaired. Instead, choose a 140PS TDI or 1.4 TSI. Or, if it’s economy you want, the Bluemotion can achieve 74mpg (if you believe VW figures…).

Buy with your eyes open. Many Golfs have been hammered, and they’re not as hardy as you’re led to believe.