Should we go diesel or stick with petrol?

Hi guys, we're looking at upgrading my wife's car in the New Year. She currently has a 2006 1.4 Volkswagen Golf CL and we were thinking of another Golf, maybe a 2012 1.2 HL model. We live in Knocklyon and she works in Carrickmines so we're thinking, would it be worth considering diesel?

Brendan Cullen (Dublin)

Nov 2013 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi Brendan,

I would avoid the 1.4 CL as the engine is a touch underpowered and therefore both slow and thirsty. Go for the 1.2 HL. It's a turbo and a brilliant little engine, and should average about 45mpg if you're careful. A much better choice for low mileage drivers than a more expensive diesel, but your resale will suffer somewhat.

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe