Model tested: VW Bora 1.9TDi PD 130 SE
Price: £16,900
Date tested: March 2009
Road tester: Richard Dredge

Overall rating: 73%
This isn't a driver's car because it doesn't have the chassis to carry it off – but view this booted Golf as a decently styled small premium saloon and you won't be disillusioned.

1: Looks
The Bora isn't a car to set the pulse racing, but it's still a handsome machine. Also, while it looks different enough from the Golf, it's pretty clear that the two cars are related.
7/10

2: Looks inside
The cabin really is a thing of beauty. Flamboyant design no, but superb quality – yes. While flair is missing as this is a typically teutonic interior, it all works with predictable VW efficiency.
7/10

3: Practicality
If practicality is equated primarily with space and space efficiency, the Bora scores highly thanks to the fitment of split-fold rear seats for most models. There's also plenty of headroom too.
7/10

4:Ride and Handling
VW's cars are generally safe dynamically, rather than exciting. That's how it is with the Bora, which offers a typical mainstream front-wheel drive chassis; understeer when pushed, but neutral handling otherwise.
7/10

5: Performance
The 1.9TDi in 130bhp form is a bit peaky and feels a old-fashioned compared with the 2.0TDi unit offered later, but it's still a great engine that offers plenty of torque (228lb ft of it).
8/10

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6: Running costs
The optional variable servicing allows you to potentially cover more miles between services. Without it, a Bora needs attention every 10,000 miles or 12 months. The 110bhp 1.9TDi averages 56.5mpg while the 130bhp model returns 51.4mpg.
8/10

7: Reliability
Watch out for broken window winder mechanisms, waterlogged cabins because of a misaligned water shield cover over the pollen filter, plus failed fans for the heating and ventilation systems.
6/10

8: Safety
All Boras come with ESP, twin front airbags, traction control, pre-tensioners for the front seat belts and head restraints for all five seats, plus three-point seat belts for everyone – but there's no EuroNCAP crash test result.
9/10

9: Equipment
All Boras gets air conditioning, an alarm, remote central locking and electric windows all round. The SE adds height-adjustable seats in the front, 16" alloys, wood trim inserts, climate control and a CD autochanger.
7/10

10: X-Factor
The Bora is VW's take on the compact sports saloon, but it isn't dynamically sharp enough to lead the pack. See the Bora as a 3-Series alternative and you'll be disappointed; view it instead as a superior rival to more mainstream small saloons such as the Megane or Focus.
7/10