After two less inspiring incarnations the Golf GTI was back with a bang in Mk5 guise. Steering, handling and performance were all markedly improved, whilst the high-quality cabin's styling harked back to the Mk1 and Mk2 models. And although some rival hot hatches still offered more power, the Golf had taken back its best all-rounder title as What Car? named it their 2005 Hot Hatch of the Year.
Old styling cues returned, as did the old fun
A punchy 2.0-litre 200hp TFSi engine delivered a 7.2-second 0-62mph time and a 146mph potential top speed. For the first time the DSG transmission was offered as an option. Capable of changing gear even quicker than the manual it was a serious technological achievement, although it received a mixed reaction with GTI aficionados.
2007 saw a 230hp GTI Edition 30 to celebrate the car's 30th Anniversary (2,264 were eventually sold), and in 2008 a GTI Pirelli special edition was launched.
For those seeking even greater punch a 250hp R32 Golf was launched in 2005, but this didn't dent Mk5 GTI sales - which topped 18,223 in the UK.
Special edition or standard, all are very good
There have been some issues since with DSG transmissions so a manual is probably the best bet. "The MK5 is highly tuneable and has much improved handling with that multi-link rear suspension," enthuses Shaun at AMD. And Revotechnik's Paul Farenden backs this up. "A simple £500 remap alone can see many Mk5 GTIs pushing 300hp, and RevoTechnik offer packages with a reliable 450hp or more if you're prepared to spend on a serious build." The best starting point? "Has to be the Edition 30 which has the better S3-derived engine," says Jody.
And the Mk5 GTI shows little sign of depreciating heavily any time soon. "Prices holding up very well," according to Rupert at Glass's.
Buy if: You want the best all-round Golf GTI for sensible money
Don't buy if: You're seeking the ultimate out-of-the-box performance
We found: 2007 VW Golf GTI Edition 30 5dr, red, service history, 87K miles, £7,790
Price Guide
Poor: Under £3,995
Good: £4,000 to £11,500
A1: £12,000+
Special Editions: GTI Edition 30 £7,800 to £12,000, GTI Pirelli £8,500 to £12,000, R32 £7,000 to £14,995