Is the egr still in a stupid position on mk7 golf 1.6/2.0tdi

[Highlandreid]

I'm considering buying a mk7 golf or Audi a3 up to 3 years old. I've replaced the egr valves a couple of times on previous vw/Audi's over but from what I remember the egr is in a really awkward spot on the cr engines. Is this still the case on 2013+ models 1.6/2.0 TDI engines? I do about 20k a year on country roads...Is it still prone to clogging or did VW/Audi do anything with the design?

Separate question how accurate are the fuel economy figures? I've been driving a 2.0 alt petrol Passat the last few months (after my A4 died) which is specced at 33mpg and I do about 35mpg...1.6 TDI is around 74 mpg but no idea how real that will be...

Thanks for any advice. Den

[turboextreme]

The later models Golf / Tiguans etc have a electronic Egr valve attached to a egr cooler which is located in a awkward place behind the exhaust manifold at the rear low down takes a few hours to change.
To check a functioning Egr on 2.0 common rail Diesel when starting from cold the engine should revv slightly higher to almost 1000 rpm when it warms it should then drop to around 850 rpm approx.

The Vw fuel consumption figures are a bit optimistic but can be achieved with a light right foot normally expect around 48.0/49 mpg 2.0 diesel mixed driving and similar for 1.6 diesel as this engine has to be worked harder.
If you want a fuel frugal petrol try the TSI engine there nippy and fuel efficient.