Automotive regulations in Japan are strict. The country has a huge interest in car manufacturing but that doesn’t stop the popularity and importation of European brands and models like the evergreen Volkswagen Golf featured here. As with many nations, there are rules and regulations regarding safety and used vehicles have to have regular inspections. This inspection system ensures that vehicles are properly maintained and are safe to be on the road.
Largely due to promoting the home new car industry, the inspection system is designed to encourage the purchase of new cars. Owners of an otherwise properly maintained vehicle can expect to pay a substantial sum for a two-year inspection. The older the car, the more expensive this gets.
This is good news for overseas buyers. Thanks to this draconian Japanese system, the used vehicles available on the market are in excellent condition and often with low mileage. Add this benefit to the legendary build quality and reliability of the German car and it becomes well worth considering, especially as importing from Japan is so straightforward through our service here at MHH Japanese Cars.
About The Golf
Currently in its eighth generation, the Volkswagen Golf has long been the safe choice for buyers of mid-sized family cars. Like many long-lived models some styling cues are retained as the models progress. In Short, most drivers recognise the Golf.
As time passed, the Golf grew gradually larger, but it’s still a compact hatchback compared with many rivals, but it is roomy enough and the 60:40 split-folding rear seat adds flexibility. Whichever model is chosen the important fact is that the interiors and build quality are always class-leading, with excellent fit and finish.
The Styling
The design of the Golf has always been conservative. It is not flashy, the German brand preferring to promote the vehicle’s reliability and long life. That said, although the looks may be understated it is still an attractive car that ages well and even older models do not look dated.
The Power
There is an extensive range of engines and regionally these will differ, but buyers are sure to find the right power-plant for their needs. Most models imported from Japan will feature either lively 1.2L or 1.4L turbo-charged petrol engines, whist the turbo-diesel variant is two litres. All engines offer good performance and good economy, driving through automatic gearboxes.
The Drive
The unique selling point of the Golf is that nothing about the driving experience really changes. It doesn’t need to as it was good from the get-go. There's a refinement to this car that's evident not only in the way it's built and the quality of its interior fittings but also in the way it drives.
Drive a Golf and find that progress is calm and brisk, thanks to a combination of stability, poise and control that makes long journeys a pleasure. Buy a Golf and you'll be getting an efficient family hatchback with quality throughout. The Golf has been around through its various iterations now for nearly fifty years. The design may have changed but at heart it will always be a Golf. Check out our website for more information.
