VW Golf GTI mk5 vs mk8

Grudge match!
The all-new Volkswagen Golf GTI mk8 promises to be the most sophisticated version yet of the German brand's famous hot hatch. But is it the best? In this CarGurus UK review, Dan Prosser pits it against the all-conquering mk5 GTI in order to find out.
Read our full VW Golf mk8 review:
www.cargurus.c...
Mk8 Golf
Pros
Desirable image
Great to drive
Comfortable ride
Cons
Fiddly infotainment system
Rivals offer more interior space
Not significantly better than a Mk7 Golf
Read our full VW Golf mk5 review: www.cargurus.c...
Mk5 Golf
Pros
Broad range of engines and trims means there's a Golf for everyone
Sophisticated suspension delivers great handling
Plenty of interior space
Cons
Lower-spec models are a bit basic
Reliability issues mean you need to buy carefully
Some diesels are a bit noisy
CarGurus can help you find great deals on used cars from top-rated dealers in your area. To find out more, visit www.cargurus.c...
#vwgolfgti #golfmk8 #golfmk5

[@disarchitected]

MK5 might be a classic in the making.

[@MrElectricSkittles]

Without doubt a future classic.. probably up there with one of the best cars ever built

[@ddrrFA5]

If you keep the intake valves clean its a wonderful car. Mine has 140,000 miles and counting!

[@AlexJohnson-yl6hu]

@@ddrrFA5 Same!

[@davishunt3018]

my mk5 has 190,000 miles and no issues, its also stage 2 plus tuned soon to be stage 3 ko4. shit will not die haha

[@fukndrums367]

And the Mk4 has done it already;)

[@ram64man]

The mk7, 7.5 for me the quality difference really makes the mk8 look like a backwards step regardless of what happens under the bonnet

[@nickhudd2011]

@Daniel Murillo I'm not a fan of the micropenis of a shifter in the center. Mk7 for me had a more practical interior. Can't stand all of the touch controls. How am I supposed to figure out where they are while I'm driving without taking my eyes off the road. Seems counter intuitive. Mk7 and mk7.5 nails the sweet spot between sleek interiors and practical design.

[@chrisl6989]

@@nickhudd2011 Reminds me of a chicken nugget.

[@chrisl6989]

@Phil I got the 7.5 Love that car.

[@eurownedmk71.88]

Mk7 1.8 with a tune beats both! Lol mine is a S base model but i love the simplicity of that as driver more than even the mk7 gti. Thats just me though ima a cheap ass and totally happy with it.

[@disarchitected]

@@eurownedmk71.88 What country are you in to have a 1.8l engine?

[@deanheylen]

Still have my MK5 GTI after 12 fantastic years with it. Very little went wrong and was easily fixed. Car is showing its age through minor issues such as the ceiling material coming loose now and sagging a bit, but it is still mechanically sound. MK5 has already secured its spot in the hall of fame.

[@mrlabonte]

Do you have the FSI or TSI engine? I used to have the mk5 with a FSI engine, and it gave me loads of probs. I have a VW R32 now :D, but I still miss the mk5 GTI. AWD is nice, but the little turbo pocket rocket sweeettttt, and the R32 is quite heavy and because of that, is somewhat slow in passing speed.

[@colin4793]

@@mrlabonte I test drove a MK5 GTI & the R32 version at the same VW official dealer. I went out in the GTI first, then the R32. The GTI was better for me, the R32 felt heavy and a lot of work whereas the GTI felt light and way more fun. I never bought any of them though ironically, both had the DSG and I preferred a manual,for obvious reasons. Funny thing is though now I’m in Australia and I’ve currently got a Jetta 155 Highline Sport with a DSG and I like it, would prefer a manual but it’s difficult or near impossible to get a manual version of this car. Anyways yeah the MK5 GTI was very good.

[@mrlabonte]

@@colin4793 Dudeeeeee wooowwwwww!!! It’s so nice to hear someone else having a similar experience!!! It’s crazy. Yes that’s exactly it!!!!!! The R32 feels a bit too heavy and the car always feels obstructed by that. Fun little car due to the awd but lacks a bit of pace, and impedes overall enjoyability. I just might sell my r32 and would be considering going for the mk5 gti, but the awd is so much fun. Manuals are fun I have to say; I guess dsg is good for convenience… haha. Im sorry you couldn’t find the manual one…

[@Diminish12]

Dude I sold my MK5 a 4 months ago. I've owned it for 12yrs. I recently purchased the MK7.5 and I got to be honest I regret selling my MK5 and this video makes me want it back!

[@stevenswann3254]

Same here. Traded my Mk5GTI, which I owned from new for 10 years, on a mk7.5 a couple of years back. I still miss the Mk5 - especially the steering. The 7.5 is more refined but lacks the 5's feedback and tactility. If I'd known back then what I do now, I'd have kept the Mk5GTI. Best car I've ever owned by a mile.

[@silkstar20]

Buy my Edition 30!

[@parvindermander5664]

I've currently got a mk5 GTI manual and was thinking of trading up to a mk7 GTI but I think I might hold on to it now, just love driving it.

[@markstewart110]

Sold my Mk5 GTI less than a year ago for an Audi S3. Really regret selling it. The GTI was a far superior driving car and put a bigger smile on my face. Was definitely one to keep.

[@upbeatmantis86]

Its like selling iphone12 for an iphone 2 , yeay right..

[@88tmilko]

My MK5 R32 will never be sold, love the GTI too!

[@chrislaws9524]

One of the best exhaust notes going around! Miss my R32, though a bit nose-heavy.

[@farguc]

Mk5 GT Sport here. She served me well. Upgrading to 2021 Skoda Scala cause im older now with a family, but by God Ill miss my mk5 :(

[@EmanuelePolimeni]

Mk5 is probably my favourite hot hatch of all time, considering how it blends performance with every day use

[@matthewsmith2787]

Mk6 is good too

[@angusmulcahy7946]

Carbon buildup

[@solo636]

For drive mk5, for styling the mk4 for me.

[@ShaneCharlesProductions]

@@matthewsmith2787 Mk6-7 were the best, Mk5 looks like a Japanese car, so unGerman, hated Golfs when they looked like this, you can see why VW only did it for one make, trash.

[@mrvolkswagon1710]

Un German? It looks more like a Audi from that era from the front I’d say. Never heard anyone say it looks jap in my life.

[@-DC-]

The cost cutting in VAG products is really beginning to show , great content on this channel 👍.

[@martygrb26]

The engine cover doesn't even have a VW logo, I assume so they can share it across the VAG group

[@WabeTM]

Especially with seat.. seat used to be cheap audis 😔

[@AgonxOC]

They put money where it matters. The MKVI and MKVII became very cheap in mechanical areas. The MKVIII is gone back to better materials. One example. The MKV had an aluminum alloy subframe, missing on the rest until the MKVIII. My MKV has all Aluminum Allow front suspension bits (Front a donor Passat).

[@spencerquimby4726]

One thing he didn't mention (unless I missed it) on the MKV is the soft touch coating in the interior. If you glance at it too harshly it will come off. This is not just an age thing, it was an issue when the car was new as well, owners reported some of the soft touch finish lasted less than 6 months from the factory. Also the FSI engine does have some known issues that can kill it if not dealt with. Like the fuel pump cam follower and the timing system/belt, if you aren't the type to regularly service your car, it WILL bend the valves or send shards of metal into your valvetrain.

[@AgonxOC]

@@spencerquimby4726 ahhh soft touch. Mine has faired well after 17 years. It’s started showing age at five or so. It’s a matter of what you used to clean it. People would touch with harsh chemicals and that would cause it to bubble and peel. I was very careful. My car is an 05/06 so it is covered in the “soft” rubbery material. My head liner on the other hand has failed twice and my wind shield is in need of replacement, but VW no longer makes there blue tinted ones.

[@davidhuysmans67]

There are so many new cars that came on the market lately, and aren't better than the previous model. Just my opinion.

[@matthewsmith2787]

The new fiesta is a lot nicer than the previous model, but your right new cars seem to generally be worse than their predecessors

[@WabeTM]

It’s the work of Satan unfortunately

[@ROMANERUIZA]

I always believed that the real "game changer" in the lot had been the MK5, and it seems like I'm not the only one with such thoughts. I still remember the cravings of having one of those back in the day, that no other GTI generation had (nor has up to this day) caused in me. Every Golf after the MK5 has felt like a minor update, not a major upgrade like it should have been.

[@richboy900]

Yea, totally dude. I think its also due to the older mk4 gti being a heavy old unit if a thing. Vw knew they had to up their game with the gti when ford had the rs and honda had the ep3 type r

[@Neptune8]

I think the Mk6 was the best generation. Same comfortable sporty feeling car , but the interior quality was improved and the TSI engine was , overall , more reliable. But I agree, every generation has been very minor changes, except the Mk6 to Mk7 was shift towards a new vision for VW trying to be the mid luxury European brand , the Hyundai Veloster is the new cheap and fun hot hatch. Having had both a Veloster and GTI , the gti is better but if you were to buy a new car the Hyundai is the better deal especially since the interior quality seems to be moving backwards from the mk7 to the mk8

[@anthonycraig1458]

Yes a lot changed with the Mk 5 and the Mk 6 & 7 were updates but I'll be totally biaised and choose the Mk 7 as it's the only GTI I've owned! (after Mk 4 & 6 diesels). Test drove a Mk 6 GTI but decided to wait for a Mk 7 and it's been great. Can't say there's anything about the Mk 8 that makes me want to trade mine in so will keep on going with it for as long as I can. Plus we got the golf ball gear knob back with the Mk 7!

[@dashing2293]

Mk5 also comes in tsi!

[@angusmulcahy7946]

The mk4 is literally lighter than the mk5 with a more reliable power plant, gtfo

[@StakedWealth369]

Car design is in decline as everything around. MK5 takes my vote!!

[@angusmulcahy7946]

Mk5 is arguably the worst looking generation

[@DarrenJMHughes]

Happy Mk5 GTi owner here. Great review and it’s not really surprising that the Mk5 is better than the mk8.

[@darrel.cooper]

Mk7 is my favourite.

[@michaeleverson3801]

Agree. Never had a 5, but I've owned a 3, a 6, and now a 7. The 7 is miles ahead of the other two, honestly feels more like an Audi than a VW, and the jump in torque from the 6 to the 7 was instantly noticeable. I also can't say enough about what a stickier set of tires does for the 7. On the OEM rubber, the car felt like it was capable of much more, but the front-end would give up and the XDS would kick-in. With better tires, it just grips, and grips, and grips. The car comes alive and reminds you that the chassis was developed by the same guy who did the previous Porsche GT3.

[@yes8032]

Mk6 is also very awesome

[@jordiskillerboy]

mk5 gti owner here, thought it was a very nice video to watch, this reminds me again why i bought it and why i would never get rid of it😁

[@s9523pink]

Same here, bro, I feel fortunate to own one, and tuned, the 5 can hold its own!

[@michaelw6277]

I have a mk6 that I bought new over 10 years ago, which is basically a mk5 with different headlights and an updated interior.... there’s a reason I’ve held onto it, it’s a fantastic car and I just don’t feel the need to buy a new one. If anything I really dislike that they’ve gone to a nearly all glass cockpit; I want physical buttons for the most commonly used functions. Thing is, if you want the mk5/6 platform to be a more interactive driver’s car, the aftermarket is seemingly endless and it’s very easy to sharpen it up. I run mine at track days and through the corners it’ll trade punches with Porsches.

[@kiantaylor6087]

Love my mk5 gti. It’s my first car and I’m definitely a lucky kid. 170,000 miles and still running very strong (because I do all the maintenance)

[@jamesoc22]

Coming from a MK5 GTI owner who has driven the MK7 GTI, performance, club sport and R all of which are great cars. I found none of them gave me anymore enjoyment / smiles per miles than the MK5 for the money.

[@mrlabonte]

You drove the R and found you got more enjoyment out of the MK5 GTI? That is interesting, but definitely not the first I've heard that from... What do you really like about the MK5 GTI the most?

[@natestrand4922]

Still got my mk5, 13 years running strong. It’s relatively easy to work on yourself as well. Only thing that was a pain was replacing the timing belt, but I got it done with help from a friend. Another thing to note with these FSI engines is the carbon build up on the intake valves, that’s the next thing I’m going to work on in the coming months.

[@dashing2293]

Tsi as well just did a full cleaning on mine as well

[@loccatolufitu3586]

How many Ks has your mk5 done?

[@Pug205GtiMi16]

Have mine the same length of time 13 years, 130k miles and going strong, gearbox rebuilt, Sachs clutch, rear springs snap over time so will be upgrading shocks to b4 or b6 Bilstein and few oem suspension components. Definitely a future classic

[@KarlkEst]

Golf GTI should be easy to use but the interior of mk8 is not that. Fussy climate controls, materials seem lower quality after dieselgate.

[@Kelveron]

Too many functions placed on touchscreens, as is sadly the case with so many new cars, instead of a few easy to use short-cut buttons.

[@richboy900]

I heard the mk8 is a mk7 underneath. The mk5 was designed from the ground up after mk4

[@chrisd4432]

Some of those interior controls- like the sliders- are just different for the sake of being different. I think it stems from VW wanting the ID3 to avoid the scorn from the Tesla fanboys button and knob hatred and they just shared the controls with the Golf/GTI. How is a rotating knob not preferable to a fussy touch slider?

[@parvindermander5664]

Totally agree

[@matthewsmith2787]

I used to buy Golfs thinking they were good quality and solidly made, the Mk8 is just blending in at the crowd

[@steveskipper6473]

Spend a few hundred quid on a modest remap (don't over do it) and colour code all the black trim on your MK5 then you have car that looks and goes as well an any hot hatch around today.

[@andrewmooney9966]

Or try and find an Edition 30

[@jordanwatkinson3645]

@@andrewmooney9966 then give that a remap 😂

[@GODEW]

Mate..please try MK6 you not regret I believe that's the Golf which cannot be replaced with any other Golf. Its like a toy, brilliant control so pleasant to drive and never feels like cheap from inside...what a masterpiece

[@jmccann6735]

Mk6 was a cost cut MK5. All the good points of the MK6 are even nicer on the MK5 👀

[@matthewsmith2787]

Mk6 definitely has the most premium interior

[@jmccann6735]

@@matthewsmith2787 yooo not even..ever been in a MK7?

[@JulitoPapitoo]

@@jmccann6735 I own an 06 GTI, I test drove an 18 GTI and I was honestly really surprised to find I prefer the MK5. I was so excited to get one out for a drive but all in all they feel very similar. The MK5 takes it for me in all the driving input areas such as steering feel, clutch feel, and suspension. I really disliked the actual steering wheel in the MK7 compared to my MK5, it's way too skinny. As for the interior in MK7, it's pretty nice, not a fan of the pedal placement and I prefer the seats in my MK5 (they're a bit narrower and hug me better), but it's still not much different or "modern" than my MK5 with the RCD330 head unit with apple carplay and android auto. I think I'll be keeping my MK5 for a while.

[@jmccann6735]

@@JulitoPapitoo A really good summary, I agree pretty much all the way. Especially with the steering wheel, only wheels I've held so far that I prefer over my MK5s are a 2020 Lexus IS F-Sport, and new-gen Porsche 911s. Drove a few MK6 GTIs and a few MK7s, but once I drove my first MK7 R, set in stone man. The R has juust a few more interior touches to give it that premium feel, and hoooly fuck a Stage 2 DSG Golf R is just...wow. Easily faster than 95% of the road, from a launch and a roll. With some good coilovers, bushings, and something like Michelin Pilot Sports (all on the R I drove), the handling was on point with my MK5 (also pretty modified) and undoubtedly superior than it, especially into the triple digits. The MK7 R in terms of tunability, durability, and overall performance and power delivery is hands down one of the best packages Volkswagen has ever manufactured. But stock for stock? No mods? .... MK5 GTI for sure 😁👌🏻

[@christopherleetrf]

Get a Mk5 Gti and install a modern stereo, say, RCD330, and you can use it like any modern hot hatches.

[@parvindermander5664]

I currently have a mk5 GTI manual and just love it, good quality examples are going up in value.

[@camf7522]

Sadly, the MK5 still looks better.

[@TroyHR123]

5 door though more practical lose the clean lines/proportions you get with a 3 door. Same can be said for all hot hatches except the Yaris GR, unfortunately.

[@swanblake]

Should have been Mk5 vs Mk7. The Mk8 is a step backwards.

[@matthewsmith2787]

I hate it, seen them in the flesh and not a fan of it

[@lidiyarenjan4074]

everyday regret selling my mk5, the best car i ever owned, period. hope i will get one one day. It had 265kms and the engine was butter smooth!

[@pauljonkers4359]

Same here, sold my mk5 gti last year after 12 years (I was second owner) and bought a mk7 gti ‘performance’. Still misses the fabulous seats…

[@rrshowtime3900]

I like the Mk5 it might be a slower in a straight line than the never models, but its more 'Hot Hatch' , more nimble in the twisty stuff.

[@dtprodrive]

For me the 7/7.5 golf is the benchmark golf. I had a 7 r which I absolutely loved at the time my Mrs had a 7.5 gtd which with its lsd handled great and I had a friend with a 7 gti performance which really impressed me. They all had great build quality unlike the mk8 unfortunately

[@andrewmontague2636]

Material quality has definitely gone down a notch on Mk8, Dieselgate and an expensive electric car programme to blame, but I think the build quality is just as good as Mk7

[@richboy900]

I have a mk7 gtd. It's not going to set the world alight but i actually love it. You can drive it hard and still see near 60mpg

[@inbloom08]

Let's see how that touch sensitive crap is going to last after 10 years haha.

[@lenep9985]

Mk5 gti dsg....i had was briliant...ive since had an s3 and now an rs3.....the mk5 is still my fave car...they are brilliant. Also we need buttons in car...its much safer and easy.

[@YOYO-vl6xr]

another mk5 gti owner...very frun to drive, very well made interior and butter smooth for everyday use...then I have the S2000 for the weekends ;=)

[@KMFDM781]

I love my MK5. I also have an MK6 and the 5 feels so much more solid and substantial. Just feels more analog even though it's not.

[@realeyes2458]

Same here

[@redliner6940]

I got the Mk5 GTi remapped stage 1 , now its around 250-260hp , don't think I will be upgrading to the new one as I love manual and love the way It drives

[@about48hotchiks]

When you remapped it did you have to put it on a dyno? I’ve got a 2007 GTI and want to get it remapped

[@redliner6940]

@@about48hotchiks you don't need to Dyno... Just get it mapped all good. Unless you want 300hp then you will have to start changing lots of things . .turbo ..intercooler...etc etc and do stage 2 remap

[@s9523pink]

Same here!

[@myob1kenobi]

Was going to replace my MK5, but what do you replace it with? After test driving a few possible replacements decided to keep it. It now has a remap which has not only boosted performance, but made the general fuel economy better, and i've added an Android head unit which is a nice upgrade to the original, allows me to use apps like Torque pro to connect to a bluetooth OBD2 connector and see all kinds of car information.

[@daklown305]

I got rid of my MK7.5 R for an MK5 GTI And I’m not even that upset about it. I love this little GTI

[@RedNffc]

Mk6 my favourite

[@gretschludwigdrummer209]

That front grill is grotesque on the mk8 !!!

[@rayoflight39]

the back just looks like a polo

[@Joose]

I'd rather have a Mk6-7.5 over either of these, by a LOT. And yes, I know the 6 is just an updated 5... but the updates are what made me like it.

[@JohnnyGTR34]

I actually found my white mk5 on cargurus. I'm genuinely surprised by the amount of love for the mk5 in the comments, it really might be a future classic. Was expecting the mk8 to be the clear winner in the eyes of the enthusiasts. Makes me proud to have a mk5 nonetheless

[@andrewmontague2636]

Fascinated to watch this vid. I’m lucky to own a Mk5 and a 7.5R. The R is an amazing car, super quick, grips fantastically well in all conditions and feels so stable and safe, which makes its power so useable. You’re sensing a ‘but’ here.. But, I love the GTI more. There’s something about the accuracy of the steering, it’s excellent balance and the eagerness of the way it delivers its power that makes it feel so special. I completely agree, Mk5 GTI is a wonderful car

[@darrangoodman6688]

that's a cracking comment, passion decides in the end ahh

[@Alex-io6ky]

i own the same cars and i agree ..problem is i have two cars that car both good but my heart says gti is more fun but awd is quite a lot of fun also

[@yes8032]

No matter what I’d always get the mk5 over the new one just a great design and sound

[@seinsmeld13]

My MK5 GTI was wonderful. I sold it to a friend that recently broke up with his wife. When I sold it it had 291,000 km on the dial. Today she's still running now with 360,000 km on her. What a fantastic car. I miss her.😁

[@Miaxkash]

Wow, is this with the original engine ?

[@seinsmeld13]

@@Miaxkash Yes it was the original engine. Great car, I miss her.

[@Miaxkash]

@@seinsmeld13 wow, mine just clocked a healthy 200,000km. I love mine so much, I can only imagine how you feel.

[@seinsmeld13]

@@Miaxkash I would have kept my GTI however a close friend od mine split up with his wife and needed a car so I sold him my GTI. What can you do, eh?

[@Dwilsonmusic145]

I absolutely loved my Mk6!

[@rongambol9910]

My first VW was a Mk6 manual GTI with adaptive dampers. I absolutely loved it and clocked up 240k km before replacing it with another Mk6, this time a dsg with adaptive dampers. Good car but lost the magic of the manual. That is now gone, changed for a Mk7.5 Golf R. They come fully loaded in Australia, the only options being sunroof and upgraded audio. I love the R, fast, comfortable, great handling and understated, just the way I like it, but the Mk6 manual GTI remains my favorite.

[@gbc7344]

I had the mk5 from new 54 plate( well ex demonstrator anyway as there was a 5 month wait thanks to top gear!) I did 70k miles in it in less than 3 years as I loved driving it so much and it was faultless..I always said I’d get another but decided to recently get a 7.5 ( don’t like the mk8) which is a fun car too but on balance I still prefer the mk5 even tho it used to get through front tyres like no other car I’ve owned. Always been a fan of the gti though ..I’ve also owned 2 mk1’s, 2 mk2’s also ( oh and a vr6 back in the day)

[@pauljonkers4359]

Same here, still misses the excellent seats of the mk5 gti…

[@sounddiaryess]

i miss my MK5 was such a fun car and marked a very exciting point in my life, i think my good memories with that car make me think it is better than the MK7 R that i drove a few cars later.

[@urbandadtv]

You Cant go wrong with a good MK5! not to mention great gas milage, cargo space, premium audio, aesthetics of the exterior which still looks modern even after a decade! You will have to update and upgrade certain componets at a certain point but it's well worth it, even very user friendly when it comes to DIY's and maintenance! great car.

[@jonathanw844]

Mk 5 hands down, we have an 8 style company car and that touch screen is rubbish! And fails regularly.. Not a patch on my 7.5 GTD

[@rayoflight39]

my friend just sold his 7gti for a manual 5 gti bwa with 63000km on the clock... I CANNOT wait to detail it and test drive it

[@charlietwotimes]

I bought a Mark V as a daily driver so I could retire my "toy car" Volvo V50 R design to Sundays.. the V is now my preference any time : around town shopping, quick family jaunts, long distance missions. Easily the best most well-rounded car I've ever owned.. and it's sixteen years old.

[@Neptune8]

Wow ! I had a mk4 and a mk5 and considered get a mk6 a few years ago. When you told me the power figures I am absolutely astonished that vw is giving you that much power in a GTI now. My mk5 was tuned to stage 2 and was probably close to 240 hp and 270ish tq (estimates from the tuner I used ) , it felt very quick after a tune but the new gti is astonishing. Can’t imagine what it would do after a tune

[@ovathere93]

I had that mk5 gti. 2007 apr stage 1. My first new car. Absolute blast to drive.

[@DavidSmith-wn6pw]

I've had mk5 Gti's. Love them. Totally agree with the driving position. Best there is.

[@sergei.perlov]

The MK7 GTi is the best car ever, proved by this video!

[@paulkippax4530]

Can not agree more Dan. loved my mk 5, shadow blue, manual!!

[@Whalub]

I just bought a 2017 mk7 and I’ve loved every second of it. I’ve never really experienced any other gti though

[@jermainerobinson7098]

Totally agree with everything he has said. Nice video great tribute to the golf GTI mk5👏🏾👊🏽

[@johnpownall3466]

Just got a low Km 07 MK5 and I’m soo happy! 😍😍😍

[@SED347]

Used to have an MK5 and used to love it... But I wish the DSG problem didn't exist...

[@scott8200_0]

had my mk5 gti 5 years now only 84k on clock. been thinking about getting mk7 performance pack but after this video might just keep it

[@Shortstahp]

Im a car salesman at nissan and still choose to drive my 2006 vw mk5 with 180k miles. Its about 45 minute commute every day and I still would take it over any used car on our lot with less miles/5+ years newer

[@ChutneyGames]

I have about the same time for my commute and I still haven't gotten tired of driving my mkV, great car

[@waynedavies8130]

Best car presenter in the UK.

[@pigeonpoo1823]

Real world comparison test. Get in, set temp, find Heart Dance, 0-60-0. Mk5 thrashes Mk8! Great video. Love to see more of these (civic, focus, Yaris)

[@dudndadn12212]

I had a '06 GTI in united gray, miss it dearly. Wish I would have never sold it.

[@zaamuro8408]

Mk5 still my favourite looking GTI

[@timpricedrums]

I’m currently in the market for a mk5/6. I assume prices have shot up since this video as I can’t find anything decent below 7k!

[@hankhoh]

Great video - many thanks! The Golf GTI 16V (Mk 2) made me a lifelong fan! Had the Mk5 R32 and still have the Mk5 and Mk7 GTI. Both are better than the Mk8 (which seems overly fussy). Am sure VW won't like your conclusion but it's the honest truth that the older car is more fun to drive!

[@jamestrousdale7511]

checked the MK5 reg and it has 3k miles on it, what a gem

[@LoveLikeaHurricane]

I had a Mk5 2007 GTI. I was the first owner. Unfortunately, despite me taking care of the car, the plastics in the engine bay get old and they break clips. My coil pack connector clips break off just because of age. So despite the car being taken cared of, it will NOT last.

[@BertoniBertone]

That EA888 has been knocking around , I think , since the Gen 2 Mk V, so quite how the Big VAG has got the front to charge punters that kinda dough for the Mk 8 is beyond me. Making up for the bill DieselGate hole in its balance sheet, no doubt.....

[@Tonyc_1987]

I am pretty sure you mean the ea113. The ea888 was introduced in the MK6 GTI. The mk6 R was the last VW to use the ea113.

[@BertoniBertone]

@@Tonyc_1987 Think I said Mk V Gen 2 or ‘update/facelift’....Call it what you like. Mmm: thought V meant 5 in Roman numerals ? A misunderstanding perhaps ?

[@Tonyc_1987]

@@BertoniBertone I stand corrected. I was talking specifically about the Australian market. Looks like things are different in the US market for the mk5. 😊

[@BertoniBertone]

@@Tonyc_1987 And indeed Europe & UK where I reside. With VW’s ‘de-contenting’ regime added in for good measure, looks like they’re trying to short-change the average punter. South Korea , I suspect, will be the beneficiary since they’ve hoovered up a lot of German talent....

[@MH-ro1ix]

Agreed 👍 have to say tho always thought the TFSI sounded much better than the newer TSIs sounds deeper I feel the mk6 and mk7 GTIs and R sound far to tinny

[@Yhoothoob]

I’ve got a Mk5 GT Sport 140, blue, 18 inch alloys, full leather interior. Just about to put it on the market.

[@CallumMcK99]

Running the Polo GTI (9N3) that came out alongside the MKV, always makes me smirk when required to do so.

[@G.Uppercut123]

I’m gonna be completely honest, Chris Martin is a wonderful musician, but an even greater car journalist

[@reitsmaassociates]

Having owned mk1,mk2, mk5 mk6 and mk7 golfs our fav was our manual Mk5 Gti ( a total revelation when we bought it) ,next favorite our manual Mk7 Gti, not sold on Mk 8 Gti so did a VW Arteon for our practical car and Alpine A110 for our fun car. Great review - cheers from Brisbane

[@HuggybearFezzy]

Great video, nice to see this concept of comparing the latest model with what you consider to be best previous model or the game changer model. Would be good to see more of this...say, for example, compare the new BMW M5 LCI (F90) against the BMW M5 (E39) a model that changed from straight six to V8 format used in the current model.

[@rayoflight39]

ey dude... that E39 still does things to some of us humans... lol

[@HuggybearFezzy]

@@rayoflight39 oh definitely! I remember seeing my first one when I was 16 and always aspired to own one.

[@pauledmonds3249]

I looked long and hard at Golf GTI's recently when changing cars. I had a Civic type R GT . Just for info I actually bought a 2009 Bmw 330d SE. Full dealer history, 70K miles. I enjoyed test driving Mk5 and 6 Golfs, but the BM just murders them in real world driving situations. The torque is insane and the power is instant and devastating. I paid £7500 for the BM.

[@cacaisaac]

thats cool, i test drove 2005 e46 M3 and in my opinion it didnt come close to how fun my mk7 GTI is (or really how sweet my friends mk5 jetta 2.5 is) sure, the BM is much faster but something about the way a volkswagen feels on the road just has me hooked!

[@EvanXDev]

Getting pissed off at all these recent MK5 videos which putting the price of used MK5's up when I haven't bought mine yet.

[@johnsaunders8021]

You will get one ,,,,

[@JakobusVdL]

So a Leather Upholstered Mk5, with a stage 1 upgrade, and suspension refresh for the cost of three years depreciation on the Mk8?

[@Nissannx2000svg]

I love my 7.5 and I throw the keys to any of my friends to let them experience it, I always say “Don’t be afraid get on it” and the always come back with a smile on their faces.

[@Mark-nu3ej]

I had a 1988 Mk2 (kept it 11 years and 216k miles) that is still one of the most fun driving cars I've owned. Currently have a 2010 Mk6 (12 years now) and really like it as well but not as fun as the Mk2, which was super light and could be thrown around for lots and lots of fun! Great video and it looks like I'll need to try a Mk5 someday 😀

[@Golfgtiguy]

I bought my mark 5 gti new 16 years ago . I still love the car and 120000 miles later no major issues , 2 fuel injectors replaced in the last 2 years thats about it .

[@KnightFilms32]

I got a Mark V last year and it has been the most pleasant car I have ever had. its my first one and it just feels so amazing and so comfortable.

[@russelltolley7947]

I've owned a mk1 Campaign GTI, a mk2 16v GTI and a mk5 GTI. The mk1 was great for its time, the valver was better but the mk5 is just brilliant. As you say, it still feels like a modern sports hatch. Great review of a great car.

[@diydrivenGA]

I loved the MK5 when it released in the US but reliability issues and overall build quality down the stretch had me looking elsewhere on the used market later on. The MK6 had a great desogn and feel but it wasnt until the MK7 (after initial turbo issues) that their reliability improved significantly. VW's continue to have some issues with design and ease of maintenance for the average owner but the MK7 that I currently own has been a great car and my favorite hatch of the hatches I've driven even when compared to the R (at least to me).

[@dominicfrassetto]

I have a apr stage 2 mk5. I unwrap new cars at a VW Audi dealership and I can say that i would rather drive my mk5 than any of the new vws or audis.

[@michal2089]

When I compare drving feel in my Ford Focus mk2 to the new cars like Golf 8 or Ford Focus mk4 I always come to the same concluston that my car is still not bad and I'm not going to spend all the money on a new car....

[@AdHD1905]

Because we have hidraulic steering, a real feel to it, independent 4 wheels suspension and a good gearbox. And a a very driver focused calibration for all these.

[@michaelcliff6574]

@@AdHD1905 mk2 focus is a very early epas system, the rest is good but the steering imo doesn't hold up. Sick engine tho.

[@RickGTI2019]

I’ll be sticking with my mk7.5 dsg for a while. Love the actual switches and knobs. Great video ! Thanks, RickGTI….. 🇺🇸🔧 .

[@danielfl.9347]

The MK5 is such a fun car

[@alonzoharris222]

Never understood why everyone says the Mk5 was well built and high quality. The front wings were rust magnets and the interior quality was really poor.

[@disarchitected]

Agreed about the the interior quality. They really upped it for mk6 and mk7.

[@smiler921]

I’ve never really thought the mk5 has the looks for a Gti. Mk7-7.5 definitely much preferred to either of these

[@mikeyap4159]

I still have my MK5 now with a K04 hybrid and KW suspension, just brilliant. The MK5 was VWs 1st foray into EPS but the steering is nicely weighted and very telepathic sadly missing in the subsequent generations!

[@kevinoshaughnessy2752]

Class Video Dan as detailed as ever

[@patrykgti5893]

Mk5 is already a classic to me, mk5 was way ahead of its time

[@ps36081]

Mk5 Golf modern classic. Since they used Multilink Rear Suspension like the Focus and Civic EP3

[@darrenprior6339]

I've owned a MK6 GTi and MK7.5R but each time I see a MK5 I go ga-ga at the looks of the thing. It just looks right on the road. Sounded better than the MK6 too. Sadly I parted ways with my MK7.5 and bought a Tesla Model 3 Performance. Big mistake. Savagely quick but a disaster in terms of fit and finish, braking and body control. I ordered a MK8R but after seeing the interior of a MK8 on the showroom floor I cancelled my order. VW, imo, have shifted focus to EV's and the new MK8 seems more like an afterthought these days than a car VW used to be proud of building. In terms of quality there is no comparison between the MK7 and 8 and those haptic feel buttons in the MK8 are an absolute disaster. Maybe VW will admit they screwed up and fix the mess in the MK8.5. Who knows? Or perhaps by then all the smart guys who used to work on the GTi and R cars will have moved completely over to EVs. I'm sad about it. I used to love VW's. My Grandad, who owned three beetles and a MK1 GTi would be turning in his grave.

[@Michael-ou6lu]

worth mentioning you can upgrade the head unit in the MK5 to RCD330 it's plug and play with Android Auto and Bluetooth. The unit is 200-300GBP but well worth it.

[@a2jettagli]

Completly agree with your comments on the MK5. Fun review.

[@itsallinthewrists4251]

I've got a mk5 gti with under 70k on it. Standard everything just better brakes and stage 1 tune. Transformed it. However Ive had the flashing PRNDS on the dash twice now on it gets stuck in first gear. I have to turn engine off for it to reset. Only happened 2 times in 2 years though and serviced dsg 4k miles ago. Really hope its not the mechatronics box.

[@yourfast07]

I had mk4, mk5, and mk6, my friends have mk7 and I have to agree mk5 was the best in quality, mk6 lost some of the quality but on mk7 you can see the difference, I’m not even waiting for mk8 i will stay with mk6.

[@dougpredmore3780]

Cane here to say exactly this.

[@ianowen7335]

My Mk 6 is the better choice. The fabulous spread of torque, 206lb-ft from 1750 to 5200 rpm with no turbo lag makes it the one everyone would rather own. Better 6th gear performance than both a Mk 5 and Mk 8. A real Speedo, Rev counter and handbrake, proper switches instead of touch screen

[@NikosSpyridakis]

I agree. Mk6 is the sweet spot.

[@City1Tiger]

MK5 is the sweet spot Mk6 just looks cheap