The MK5 GTI is one of the least-loved generations of the namesake but we don’t think that’s fair. Just because the lovable boxy styling of the GTI faded into the past with the introduction of the rather bubbly and rounded MK5 generation doesn’t mean it can’t be cool. Some of the best-looking cars I notice at shows are the MK5. With a few simple upgrades following a clear-cut formula, you can take your completely stock MK5 GTI and make it an impressive example of an enthusiast’s daily driver even on a budget. If you just picked up a MK5 GTI and want to make it excellent, or you’re just looking for a proof of concept for your next project, this is it.
Our formula is simple: focus on fitment and details. Perfect ride height, a stylish choice of wheels featuring better specs than the factory Detroits, and subtle changes will make your MK5 GTI look and feel like something you’ll find exciting to own. First, we have to establish a budget. Considering the going price for the MK5 GTI, you can confidently pick up one for yourself for well under $5,000. If it’s your only car or your next project, the idea is to spend as little as possible for the most impactful results. That’s why we think you should focus on looks rather than horsepower gains.
Why no horsepower, you may ask? While it’s tempting to throw on a bigger turbo, bigger injectors, a tune, intake, exhaust, intercooler, and other horsepower-adders, these cars need maintenance more than anything. Spend your upgrade budget on repairs and services. That way, you won’t be making 0 horsepower while your MK5 sits in the garage with one problem or another. Basic maintenance like an oil change, cam follower replacement, brake service, spark plugs, coil packs, belts, and a cooling system refresh will do wonders for your daily drivability. You can find all these service kits and more in our expansive catalog of MK5 GTI parts.
After tackling the normal maintenance, you can go for the fun stuff. Namely, suspension, wheels, exhaust, and details.
Suspension:
With a significant drop in ride height and more capable handling, one of the biggest improvements you can make to your MK5 GTI is to replace its stock suspension with ECS Street System Coilovers. The shocks and struts on your new-to-you MK5 are likely garbage anyway, so you can also consider this a maintenance service.
Not only will the ride height drop improve the looks of your GTI dramatically but these coilovers will also provide an increase in handling. While we won’t be adding power, we will be using all the factory horsepower more effectively. Reducing body roll and increasing traction will allow you to drive the GTI harder in the corners, which means better performance and more fun.
ECS Street System Coilovers Cost (including Heavy Duty Installation Kit): $686.95
Wheels:
A popular style for this generation of Volkswagen is a set of wheels that has a high positive offset. That just means the mounting surface of the wheel to the hub is close to the outboard side of the wheel. Flat faces rather than concave or dish wheels. The wheels, especially when incredibly lowered, offer a chunky appearance we love. Go fender to lip on something like a set of Alzor Style 330 or Style 1365 to give you a unique yet classic look. According to the experts, perfect fitment without body modification is 18×8.5 ET 45 for the MK5 GTI. With our wheel suggestions, you’re sitting pretty with proper fitment.
18×8.5 ET42 (will need rolled fenders) Alzor Style 330 Cost: $629.95 per set
18×8.5 ET45 (might need rolled fenders) Alzor Style 1365 Cost: $694.95 per set
Exhaust:
Milltek Sport offers excellent budget options for improving the sound of your MK5 GTI. With a simple cat-back exhaust, you can give your MK5 an aggressive sound that will match your new appearance thanks to the impeccable fitment. While it won’t necessarily add measurable horsepower, it will give you a better look with your exhaust system out the back and offer more enjoyable sounds, especially when the throttle is buried.
Cat-Back Exhaust Cost: $989.00-$1319.00
Wrapping up:
Yes, for less than $3,000, you can give your MK5 GTI a complete makeover. For a daily driver, there’s no reason to make it unreliable with excessive modifications for more power. All you need to do is give your MK5 GTI proper fitment with lower ride height and better wheels as well as more grunt from the engine noise with a cat-back-exhaust. This is the perfect way to start your build off right. With this simple setup, your MK5 GTI will look right at home at your local cars and coffee or even a European car show. Of course, should you need anything else, our catalog of MK5 parts is there to help you keep your VW happy, healthy, and performing the way you want.
