The Golf had been a mediocre car for years. Average build quality, patchy reliability, so-so dynamics... it needed a miracle to compete with rivals such as the Ford Focus - and a miracle was what Volkswagen performed with the Mk5 Golf.
Golf Engines
From launch the Golf was available with 1.4, 1.6 and 2.0 petrol engines and 1.9 and 2.0 diesels. Some of the petrols employed FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) technology, designed to improve fuel economy. However, this needs zero-sulphur fuel to work best so check this is available in your country before buying. Later, the 1.4 petrol was given the option of a TSI turbo and supercharger (GT), while the 3.2 V6 R32 was launched in 2005 and a high-output 2.0 diesel (170 GT) was launched in 2007. Body styles were 3dr and 5dr hatchback and estate.
GTI Golf
The Mk5 Golf marked a radical departure from the stodgy Mk4 model. It was spacious inside, was good to drive, had a quality interior, looked great and had a good range of engines. Best of all, the GTi deserved the badge - its turbocharged 2.0-litre engine gave it the power it needed, while FSI technology meant economy wasn't going to break the bank and emissions were par for the course.
The 4Motion four-wheel-drive system appeared on the 2.0 TDI 140 Sport and the R32, although it adds weight and isn't recommended. However, it's standard fit on the R32 so can't be avoided.
Golf trim levels begin with the lowly S (with air-con), rising through SE, Sport, GT and GTi.
Golf Gearboxes
Lower-end petrols have five-speed gearboxes but most others have six-speed ’boxes. Don't ignore the DSG automatic, which employs two clutches for lightning-quick changes. Unusually, the DSG doesn't sap power, so performance is virtually the same as for manual versions, and economy can even be slightly better.
Golf Special Editions
Although not officially a special edition, the Match was launched in 2006 in 1.6 petrol and 1.9 diesel versions, and brought new trim options. The GTi 30 in 2007 celebrated 30 years of the GTi and there was the GTi Pirelli in 2008.
What to Watch Out For
- Timing belts and pulleys need changing regularly, especially on 1.4 and 1.6 petrols.
- FSI engines need expensive Shell Optimax/BP Ultimate to run best.
- 1.4 petrol is underpowered and should only be considered if driving mostly in town.
- ESP (stability control) is fitted as standard across the range.
- Large wheels tend to mar the low speed ride - 17in alloys are the best compromise.
- Check that the engine management light isn't showing on the dashboard.
- Ignition coils fail prematurely.
Volkswagen Golf Engines and Dimensions
The following list shows the engines' performance and the hatchback's dimensions, as quoted by VW:
- 1.4 petrol - 73bhp, 0-62mph 14.7sec, top speed 102mph, 40.4mpg, 168g/km CO2
- 1.4 TSI petrol - 120bhp, 0-62mph na, top speed na, 44.8mpg, 149g/km CO2
- 1.4 GT TSI petrol - 167bhp, 0-62mph 7.9sec, top speed 137mph, 38.7mpg, 174g/km CO2
- 1.6 petrol - 113bhp, 0-62mph 10.8sec, top speed 119mph, 41.5mpg, 163g/km CO2
- 2.0 GT petrol - 147bhp, 0-62mph 8.9sec, top speed 128mph, 38.2mpg, 178g/km CO2
- 2.0 GTi petrol - 197bhp, 0-62mph 6.9sec, top speed 145mph, 35.3mpg, 192g/km CO2
- 3.2 R32 DSG - 246bhp, 0-62mph 6.5sec, top speed 155mph, 26.2mpg, 259g/km CO2
- 2.0 RS - 212bhp, 0-62mph 6.4sec, top speed 144mph, 28mpg, 237g/km CO2
- 1.9 TDI - 103bhp, 0-62mph 11.3sec, top speed 116mph, 53.3mpg, 143g/km CO2
- 2.0 SDI - 73bhp, 0-62mph 16.7sec, top speed 101mph, 52.3mpg, 146g/km CO2
- 2.0 TDI - 138bhp, 0-62mph 9.3sec, top speed 126mph, 49.6mpg, 154g/km CO2
- 2.0 GT TDI - 167bhp, 0-62mph 8.2sec, top speed 137mph, 46.3mpg, 160g/km CO2
- Length 4204mm
- Width 2010mm
- Boot space (seats up/down) 350/1305 litres
Used Golf For Sale
The Golf will appeal to many buyers simply because of its VW badge, but it should also now appeal to those who enjoy driving, thanks to its increased dynamic abilities.
Buyers would be advised to steer clear of the 1.4 petrol version (GT excepted) due to its lacklustre performance. At the other end of the scale is the 2.0 TDI SE, which offers plenty of grunt and good economy. Its strong residual values are a direct effect of its virtues.
It's also worth looking at Golf alternatives, such as the Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Peugeot 307, Seat Leon, Skoda Octavia and Vauxhall Astra. The Focus runs the Golf very close, although the Ford badge doesn't carry as much kudos.
Robert Keenan - Professional UK-based magazine sub editor and writer. Rob was one of the lucky few who knew what they wanted to do for a living from an ...
