Used Volkswagen Golf for sale near Darlington

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.7 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.4%
Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 4,200
Average Price: Around £16,000

Volkswagen Golf Mk8 (2020-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Desirable image	Fiddly infotainment system
Great to drive	Rivals offer more interior space
Comfortable ride	Not significantly better than a Mk7 Golf

Quick Summary

The VW Golf Mk8 (2020-present) is a highly popular family car in Britain, available as a five-door hatchback or estate. While its rear styling resembles the Mk7, the front features a distinct, modern look. Inside, all models come standard with a clean, minimalist dashboard centered around a pair of 10-inch digital displays, with most controls integrated into the central touchscreen or touch-sensitive sliders. It comfortably accommodates four adults, offering good headroom and legroom for its class, though not as spacious as some rivals. The hatchback provides 381 litres of boot space, expanding to 611 litres in the Estate, but the GTE plug-in hybrid hatchback has a reduced capacity of 273 litres.

The Mk8 Golf offers a range of efficient powertrains, including 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre turbo petrol engines (with mild-hybrid options), and 2.0-litre diesel engines, all providing strong performance. The 148bhp 1.5-litre petrol is a highlight, balancing power with potential 50mpg on long runs. High-performance GTI and R models, as well as a GTE plug-in hybrid, are also available. Driving dynamics are excellent, maintaining the Mk7's blend of ride comfort, refinement, body control, and crisp handling, making it one of the best in its class. Running costs are competitive, with petrol engines achieving 50-53mpg and diesels nearly 70mpg (official figures). Servicing is available at fixed prices, with minor services around £200 annually and major services around £360 biannually.

Best for: Drivers seeking a refined, comfortable, and well-built family hatchback with strong performance, modern digital features, and good running costs.

Not ideal for: Buyers who prefer physical buttons over touch controls, those needing class-leading interior space, or those seeking an elevated driving position.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Golf if: You value a refined, comfortable, and well-built family hatchback with strong performance, modern digital features, and competitive running costs.

Consider alternatives if: You prefer physical buttons over touch controls, require class-leading interior space, or desire an elevated driving position.

Competitive Position: The Volkswagen Golf Mk8 remains a top contender in the family hatchback segment, offering a desirable image, excellent driving dynamics, and a comfortable ride. While its advanced digital cockpit is a highlight, some rivals now offer more intuitive infotainment or greater interior space. Despite not being a significant leap from the superb Mk7, its blend of quality, performance, and refinement ensures it remains one of the best, though the competition has certainly closed the gap.

Read our full Volkswagen Golf Review

The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from January 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.