Nearly new buying guide: Volkswagen Golf Mk7 GTI/R

Perhaps the best argument for not spending that sum on a GTI Performance is the Golf R, which can be found for much the same money (albeit with higher mileage). When the Golf R arrived in 2014, prices started at a whisker under £30,000. With two extra driven wheels, 296bhp and superbly tuned suspension, the R was worth the extra outlay over the GTI back then, and with the price differential much slimmer now, the R looks even more attractive. Like the GTI, the R comes in both three and five-door configurations and you can choose between manual and DSG transmissions although, in this case, the DSG is preferable. 

If you put down £2000 and sign up to a 36-month finance agreement, a £16,000, four-year-old Golf R will cost you £296 each month (with a £7470 optional final payment). However you pay for your Golf hot hatch, though, bagging a warrantied car at half the price of a brand-new one would be a winning move by anybody’s judgement. 

BUYER BEWARE

Engine Oil consumption is constant, so make sure the level is around half way between min and max. Make sure there are no leaks from the water pump and thermostat housing. Check the exhaust for white smoke since some turbos have failed.

Transmission If relevant, make sure the DSG 'box had fresh fluid and filter at 80,000 miles. Expect first and second gear changes to be abrupt from cold. On the Golf R, check the Haldex system is sending drive to the rear wheels. If it isn't, check the AWD control module fuse is OK and that the Haldex pump is connected. It should be serviced every 30,000 miles.

Wheels Examine the alloys for white corrosion stains and for kerbing. If fitted, the expensive, optional Pretoria wheels don't stand up to potholes well, so check them for damage. 

Body Check that the radar brake assist and auto cruise systems function flawlessly. Drench the sunroof and make sure it doesn't leak. 

Interior Be sure you can tolerate the inevitable creaks and rattles generated by the firm suspension. Be sure the infotainment system works without freezing and that the heater system does its job (the matrix can fail expensively).  

Need to know

Wrapped in very low-profile rubber, the Golf R’s optional 19in wheels can be susceptible to pothole damage and are £800 a corner. Expect to pay £120 for each Bridgestone tyre, too. 

The Golf R’s Haldex four-wheel-drive system will need oil changes every three years, as will the GTI Performance’s limited-slip differential. In many cases, the differential fluid and transmission fluid are one and the same, but not here. 

Golf GTI owners have reported issues with rear dampers, which can begin weeping fluid after a number of years. A replacement VW part is an inexpensive fix, although some owners choose to upgrade to aftermarket Bilstein dampers all round.