Volkswagen has done everything to ensure that the Golf 5 stands out from the competition. However, after years, the most sought-after versions are… the most simplified ones. Let’s take a look at opinions on the used Volkswagen Golf 5.
Independent suspension on both axles, engines with direct injection and turbocharging, a larger yet still compact body compared to its predecessor, as well as high-quality interior craftsmanship—these factors were supposed to position the Volkswagen Golf 5 as a leader in the compact car segment. Users who picked up new Golfs from the showroom were thrilled with the features of modern downsizing engines and the precise handling of this model. At the same time, Volkswagen implemented a policy of mixing new engines with proven technology from older generations. This is why the Golf 5 is also available in versions with atmospheric engines like the 1.4 16V/1.6 8V, and even… a naturally aspirated diesel engine (2.0 SDI with 75 HP), which was offered alongside the durable 1.9 TDI. Customers had to wait two years for additional body versions (the sedan Jetta and the raised Golf Plus), and three years for the Golf Variant (station wagon). The traditional GTI version (200 HP) was not forgotten, and for those who wanted more power, there was always the Golf R32 (250 HP). The fifth generation was also the last with a six-cylinder engine and the first with TSI engines, as well as with DSG transmissions in widespread use.
The “golden age” of the Golf V has passed in both the new car market and the used car market. This car is increasingly seen as an affordable yet comfortable means of transport, and the simplest engine variants, like the older 1.9 TDI or the naturally aspirated 1.4/1.6 without turbocharging and direct injection, best meet those conditions. Do Golfs equipped with everything the manufacturer offered (DSG transmissions, TSI engines) necessarily have to be expensive to maintain? Let’s look at opinions from owners of these compact Volkswagens.
With a length of over 4.5 meters, the Golf Variant boasts a trunk capacity of 505 liters. An alternative is the raised Golf Plus (10 cm taller but the same length as the hatchback), with a trunk volume of 395 liters.
Used Volkswagen Golf V – Interior
Years after its premiere, the dashboard of the Golf 5 evokes even fewer emotions than when the car was new. The classic “Volkswagen” style with a multitude of buttons now appears outdated, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t suit everyone. The Golf has always set standards in terms of ergonomics, and the fifth generation even surpasses what we can see in the current eighth model with completely digital controls. The quality of construction can be considered one of the best in its class, although the condition of some interior elements (mostly door handles) already leaves room for improvement. In the used car market, it is challenging to find a well-equipped model with a lighter interior—usually, we encounter a small radio screen and a panel with covers next to the gear lever. Depending on the engine, the transmission comes with 5 or 6 speeds. Some models came with an automatic Tiptronic transmission (1.6 8V/FSI, 2.0 FSI) or with a DSG with dual clutch (1.4 TSI, 2.0 TDI, Golf GTI/R32).
The Golf has never been known for its body length. The fifth generation measures 4.2 meters but has an increased wheelbase by 7 cm compared to the fourth generation, providing significantly more interior space. Head and knee room is decent, but three people in the back seat lack enough width (in addition, the person in the middle must sit with legs spread due to the central tunnel). The quality of the seats and their comfort remain high, even after years of use. The trunk of the hatchback has a volume of a solid 350 liters, which can be increased to 1305 liters with a flat surface. In the station wagon, the volume is 505/1495 liters, while the Golf Plus has 395/1450 liters. Hooks for bags and a 12V socket were not standard 17 years ago, but they found a place in the Golf V.
Used Volkswagen Golf 5 – Gasoline Engines
The engine offering for the Golf 5 presents a real spectrum—from older units dating back to the Golf III/IV era to the then-ultra-modern engines developed on the downsizing principle. The range begins with the atmospheric 1.4 engine producing 75/80 HP, while above it is the 1.6 8V with 102 HP. Parallel versions with direct fuel injection were also available, differing in the design of the timing belt—FSI versions have a chain, while versions with indirect injection use a belt. The 1.4 FSI engine produces 90 HP, while the 1.6 FSI has 115 HP, and there was also a 2.0 FSI engine with 150 HP.
From the very beginning, Volkswagen equipped the Golf 5 with TSI engines. The power of the 1.4 TSI depends on the charging system: with only a turbocharger, the engine develops 122 HP, while with an additional compressor (Twincharger), it can reach 140 or 170 HP. The engine designated for the Golf GTI was a 200 HP unit (230/240 HP in special versions) labeled 2.0 TFSI, also known as FSI Turbo. This engine belongs to a completely different family than the 1.4 TSI, so it does not have the same problems associated with it. At the top of the range is the 3.2-liter VR6 engine with 250 HP.
Used Volkswagen Golf 5 – Diesel Engines
The diesel engine offering for the Golf 5 was based on units with a displacement of 1.9 and 2.0 liters. The 2.0-liter version even existed in a naturally aspirated variant. Driving the Golf 2.0 SDI with 75 HP recalls all the compromises that owners of old diesels had to accept—modest performance and low operational culture in exchange for lower fuel consumption compared to gasoline versions. All diesel engines in the Golf V, including turbocharged ones (1.9 TDI with 90-105 HP and 2.0 TDI with 136-170 HP), use a pump injector system, which makes them known for their loud “clattering” and vibrations. The pump injector technology in the 2.0 TDI engines proved insufficiently reliable and prone to breakdowns. By 2004, TDI diesel engines began to be equipped with a particulate filter (DPF), while the weaker 1.9 TDI received this filter a year later.
Used Volkswagen Golf V – Failures and Common Issues
The Golf V is a perfect example for listing all possible failures of the 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TDI engines. The former often experienced issues with timing chain stretching and compressor failure that assists the turbocharger. There were also cases of excessive engine oil consumption and piston damage. In 2007, an improved version without the compressor (with 122 HP) was introduced, which is somewhat more reliable.
The 2.0 TDI engines were accompanied by serious issues with cylinder head cracking (most often with the engines coded BKD), failures of expensive injectors, and seizure of crankshaft bearings, which also occurred with certain series of 1.9 TDI engines coded BXE (from 2005). FSI engines had problems with carbon buildup in the intake manifold, while the simpler 1.4 16V and 1.6 8V engines sometimes consumed too much oil.
In addition to engine problems, the Golf 5 with a DSG transmission often requires serious repairs after 250,000 kilometers, which usually costs between 5,000 and 6,000 zlotys. Alternatively, regeneration can be done for a slightly lower price. Although old, the Golf 5 does not suffer from serious corrosion issues, but rust complicates the maintenance of its complex multi-link suspension.
Used Volkswagen Golf 5 – Conclusion
Without a thorough investigation of the vehicle’s history, it is practically possible to buy only a Golf 5 with old 1.4/1.6 or 1.9 TDI engines. Investing in FSI/TSI and 2.0 TDI engines requires a thorough check of previous repairs. It’s not a bad option if you manage to buy the car at a favorable price, even with additional investments, and stay within the average price range for this model. A careful inspection is recommended, even for Golfs from higher price ranges.
