So I just had a go in one that a local dealer has up on pistonheads. 2007 though not an HR model and he wanted HR money for it. Really liked it even so, interior felt and looked brand new. Couple of issues though - knocking noise at various points expecially when moving off. Is that the drive shift issue that I've read about on here? Also second gear felt quite notchy, do they all do that?
One other question, clutch felt quite light which was nice but it had quite a high bite point and no evidence in the service history of it being changed. Something to worry about? Car has c43k on the clock. Liked it a lot otherwise!! Interior had no rattles, felt well built, lovely throttle response, nice enough steering although I took the exige up there so was a bit spoilt in terms of steering feel on way up... Really need to get the golf sold!