In terms of comfort and dynamics the Golf Mk5 scored high marks thanks to features including the new four-link suspension rear axle and a new 7-speed DSG, bi-xenon headlights, rain sensor as well as a tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof, plus the debut of the first turbocharged direct petrol injection engine in the Golf GTI (2004) as well as the world’s first Twincharger (TSI, 2006) featuring turbocharging and compressor-based charging. At the same time, the product line became relevant to an even wider range of drivers thanks to new body variants: the Golf Plus made its debut in 2006, the CrossGolf, a new Variant and the Golf BlueMotion premiered in 2007, the latter of which set a benchmark with an average consumption of just 4.5 l/100 km. In March 2007 the Golf celebrated a major milestone: 25 million units had been produced since 1974. When the Golf Mk6 was subsequently introduced in 2008, 3.4 million units of all available Mk5 variants had been produced.

Golf Mk5 annual figures 2003 Laser-welded doors, underbody, roof seam, side panels 2003 Multi-link rear axle 2003 Electromechanical power steering 2004 Comeback of the GTI with turbocharged engine (147 kW/200 PS) 2006 GT, direct petrol injection engine with twincharging (turbocharger and compressor) 2006 Debut of the Golf Plus 2007 Introduction of CrossGolf and new Golf Estate 2007 Production milestone: 25 million Golfs since 1974 2008 Phase-out of the fifth generation after 3.4 million vehicles produced.