Golf GTi (Germany, 2004)

The fifth GTI to be made was first publicly revealed in 2003 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, although production and worldwide sales wouldn’t start until 2004. It would only be released on the North American market in 2006, under the sole name of GTI (and not the Rabbit GTI).
In 2006, the GTI completed 30 years of existence so Volkswagen wanted to celebrate that fact by creating a special edition of the GTI – the Edition 30. This 30th birthday edition consisted of a restrict 1500 cars set, available just for the European market and whose 2.0 TFSI engine delivered an extra output of 30 hp (making a total of 230hp). Also, it was only available in 6 different colors.

The standard Mk5 GTI comes with an intercooled turbocharged 2.0L engine, built from FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) technology, which outputs up to 200hp. This is said to be a generally reliable engine as there are no common problems known so far. Its top speed is estimated to reach the 235 km/h (146 mi/h).
This GTI gives the customer the chance to pick either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic DSG gearbox transmission.

            Platform             Volkswagen A5 platform.               Suspension Mk5 GTI is built with a front independent suspension that integrates McPherson struts and a rear independent four-link suspension that includes coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers and a stabilizer bar. Sports suspension is a standard feature.               Steering This GTI has an electro-mechanical, power assisted, rack and pinion steering.               Brakes The ABS four-wheel disc lock brakes integrate power assisted front vented discs and rear solid discs. Additionally, these also include TCS (Traction Control System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution) and ESP (Electronic Stability Programme).

The fifth generation GTI continues to be available in three-door and five-door hatchbacks.
However, its exterior design has experienced quite a remarkable change in comparison to the previous years, having now a black independent radiator grille with a honeycomb grid bordered by a red frame, along with roof edge spoilers, side skirts, a new lower bumper and a chromed exhaust. They come with standard 17-inch (or optional 18-inch) alloy wheels, alloy pedals, sports seats and a racing-inspired three-spoke steering wheel.

The GTI Mk5 is a current contestant on the KONI Challenge Series.

Automobile Magazine has elected the VW GTI as Automobile of the Year for 2007.
The three-door Mk5 GTI is the only fifth generation Golf being sold in Mexico.