2005 Volkswagen Golf GT TDI review from UK and Ireland

Creaking noise from steering column when manoeuvring at parking speeds. My local VW dealer, Motor Services of Bath reports that other cars recently built have the same problem and are waiting from VW for a fix for mine and other similar cars, this was confirmed by VW customer service. A minor annoyance, but does not overshadow my enjoyment of the car.

This car replaces a 1.9 TDI Sport which had to be returned to VW as it had a fuel-related problem that could not be resolved, however the dealer (Reg Vardy of Leicester) was extremely helpful and cooperative and provided a good deal on a new 2.0 TDI to end the "saga" - despite VW themselves refusing to provide any financial assistance or a fix for the problem.

Extremely impressive car, a real improvement over the Mark 4 (I had a GT TDI 130BHP for 3 years) in terms of comfort and as a drivers' car. Ride and handling superb. The 2.0 TDI engine is excellent, powerful, responsive and refined. A joy to drive and perfect for long distance driving.

Plenty of room in the cabin and boot area - again a significant improvement over the Mark 4. Lots of clever features like the ambient red lighting for the interior and also like the removable bottle opener that comes with the armrest.

Car looks great - took a while to get used to the look of the Mark 5, however has really grown on me. Really needs 17" wheels to fill the huge wheelarches, however rides better on the standard 16" wheels.

Cabin quality good - most of the materials used are high quality (even if not quite to the standard of those in the Mark 4), much improved over earlier examples of the Mark 5 Golf that I drove so seems to be going in the right direction.

All in all, glad I chose and stuck with the Golf - will definitely have another (looking forward to the upcoming 170BHP diesel version).