Skip Channel4 main Navigation
Explore Channel4
Food
Homes
Film
4Car
News
See All
4Car
 
  • YOUR 4CAR
  • PLAY & WIN
  • ESSENTIAL TOOLS

  • Road Test: Volkswagen Golf GTI (2005-)
    Hot Hatchbacks by: John Simister
    Volkswagen Golf GTI
    Volkswagen Golf GTI Gallery
    RELIABILITY AND QUALITY RATING:

    There has been criticism of the Mk5 Golf's perceived interior quality, because there are many more hard surfaces than there were in the Mk4 whose soft-touch ambience redefined the level of what was possible in the hatchback class. That said, there's nothing wrong with the fit and manufacturing quality, and somehow in a GTI-badged car there's less expectation of a luxury feel. The black décor and functional air suit this Golf's image well, and everything feels functional, durable and not at all cheap. And, despite quite firm suspension, there is not a single rattle, squeak or creak.

    As for reliability, most of the GTI is derived from existing Golf componentry which is now well established. The turbo FSI engine has already been seen in the Audi A3 Sportback, and while the turbo installation is new the FSI engine is a proven unit. Some early Mk5s had problems with automatic rain and light sensors and locking mechanisms, but the several GTIs that 4Car sampled showed none of these faults.

    previous: Introduction next: Image
    Back to Index  
    Introduction It was curious, what happened to the Golf GTI. Versions one and two...

    Reliability & Quality
    Image
    Driving
    Performance
    Safety & Security
    Running Costs
    Comfort & Equipment
     



     BEST HOT HATCHBACKS

    Want to know the best cars in this class? Here's our current picks.

    Renault Megane RenaultSport 230 F1 Team R26
    Ford Focus ST
    Honda Civic Type-R

    See Best Hot Hatchbacks In Class