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In the 1980's, having spent 3 years working in Saudi Arabia, I treated myself to a Golf GTI Mk II and held on to it for 12 years. A super car. Now, somewhat older, I still have adrenaline in my veins and am considering a VW Golf GTI Mk 6. A car enthusiast friend of mine advises me to ensure that the model I might purchase is up to full UK standards, in view of cars/car parts being manufactured in various countries these days. Can you please offer me any advice on this particular aspect when spending a lot of money?

Asked on 17 April 2010 by B.V., Axminster

Answered by Honest John
If you order a Golf GTI from a franchised VW dealer then you will get a UK spec car. If you buy it on the cheap via an internet broker, then you may get an odd spec imported to the UK via Cyprus or Malta or something like that, and without a full UK warranty. But before you plump for a Golf GTI, try a RenaultSport Megane 250. Apart from the gearshift, it's far better. See:
www.honestjohn.co.uk/road_tests/index.htm?id=414
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