Hot hatch - VW Golf GTI MkV

Few hot hatches command the respect of the MkV Golf GTI. Where rivals grew wings and spoilers, and struggled to make good use of their bloated power outputs, the classy VW demonstrated how engineering should be done.

It’s now been replaced by the equally impressive MkVI, but on the used market, the Golf brings top-tier performance car ownership within reach of a larger audience than ever.

The 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol unit produces 197bhp and 280Nm of torque. Crucially, pulling power arrives at a lowly 1,800rpm, giving the VW the sort of flexibility that few rivals can match. Despite the 7.9-second 0-62mph time and 137mph top speed, the GTI returns 35.3mpg on the combined cycle.

In addition, everyday driving is far from a chore. The ride quality is amazingly supple, given the Golf’s cornering abilities, and the cabin
is superbly trimmed throughout.

While early high-mileage cars are available for less than £8,000, you get a much wider selection of more tempting GTIs if you spend £10,000. For example, a 2005 05-reg model with 45,000 miles is easily within budget.

Cars equipped with VW’s DSG dual-clutch transmission cost a little more than six-speed manuals – but whichever MkV GTI you choose, you won’t be disappointed.