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Mk7 Golf - which engine is best?

I am planning to change my Honda Civic diesel for a newer Volkswagen Golf (Mk 6 or 7). As much as I might like to go for the GTi, I think may have to make do with a GT TDi or Tsi. I would still like to combine an engaging/fun drive with reasonable fuel efficiency.

I usually cover around 15,000 miles pa so would I be best with diesel or petrol? If petrol, is there much to choose between the Mk6 (160ps) v the Mk7 (140ps)?

Asked on 14 May 2014 by Dabdad

Answered by Honest John
15k miles is the cusp for a diesel. But you write "newer", not "new". You could have trouble with a used Golf TDI. And you are almost guaranteed to have trouble with a 1.4TSI 160 Twincharger, while the (rare) Mk VI 1.8 TSI 160 is not very economical and can also be an oil burner.

Your best engine choice here is the newer, belt cam EA211 TSI 140 ACT. That's a lovely engine to drive. But for economy go for the new Civic 1.6iDTEC. You will get 60+ from that, maybe nearer 70mpg.
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