Volkswagen Golf V (3-door) 2.0 TDI 16V (140 Hp)


Overall Rating

8.3 / 10
Safety 5.0 / 5
Engine 4.2 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.8 / 5
Comfort 4.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Volkswagen Golf:

The Volkswagen Golf is a compact car/small family car produced by the German automotive manufacturer Volkswagen since 1974, marketed worldwide across eight generations, in various body configurations and under various nameplates – including as the Volkswagen Rabbit in the United States and Canada , and as the Volkswagen Caribe in Mexico. Historically, the Golf is Volkswagen's best-selling model and is among the world's top three best-selling nameplates, with more than 35 million units sold as of 2019....(Read more on Wikipedia)

V (3-door) Overview:

Volkswagen Golf (V (3-door)). With 320 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~6.95 l/100km). With a weight of 1366 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 9.3 s). The top speed reaches 205 km/h. A compact car with a rear door that swings upward to provide access to the cargo area. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

2.0 TDI 16V (140 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

A strong and efficient diesel engine, providing robust torque and confident acceleration for all driving conditions.

Fuel Economy

Excellent fuel economy, making it one of the most economical choices for mixed and highway driving.

Best Use Case: Mixed / Highway Economical

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Solid build quality and refined ride comfort
  • • Wide range of engines, from economical to high-performance
  • • Excellent Euro NCAP safety rating for its time
  • • Practical and well-designed interior
  • • Good driving dynamics and handling

Cons:

  • • Some early TSI and TDI engines had known reliability concerns (e.g., timing chains, DPFs)
  • • Older naturally aspirated petrol engines can be less fuel-efficient
  • • Interior design may feel dated compared to newer models
  • • Rear legroom is adequate but not class-leading
  • • Higher running costs for performance variants

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(IV: 2002 - 2003).

General:
Brand:Volkswagen
Model:Golf
Generation:V (3-door)
Modification (Engine):2.0 TDI 16V (140 Hp)
Start of production:2003
End of production:2008
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Hatchback
Seats:5
Doors:3
Engine:
Power:140 Hp @ 4000 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:71.1 Hp/l [54mm more]
Torque:320 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:EA188 / BKD More details about the engine EA188 / BKD
Engine displacement:1968
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Pump-nozzle (Unit Injector)
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:3.8 l
Coolant:8 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:81 mm mm
Piston Stroke:95.5 mm mm
Compression ratio:18.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:6.8-7.1 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:4.6-4.8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined (NEDC):5.4-5.7 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (NEDC):6.8-7.1 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (NEDC):4.6-4.8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:5.4-5.7 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 4
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:9.3 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:9.3 sec
Maximum speed:205 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:9.2 kg/Hp, 109.3 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4 kg/Nm, 249.8 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:8.8 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1281-1451
Max. weight:1870
Max. roof load:75 kg
Max load:419-589
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1305 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:350 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):1400 kg
Fuel tank capacity:55 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:670 kg
Permitted towbar download:75 kg
Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%):1700 kg
Size:
Ramp-over (brakeover) angle:9.4°
Length:4204 mm mm [54mm more]
Width:1759 mm mm [24mm more]
Height:1485 mm mm [71mm more]
Wheelbase:2578 mm mm [60mm more]
Width including mirrors:2010 mm
Front track:1539 mm
Rear (Back) track:1528 mm
Front overhang:880 mm
Rear overhang:746 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.9 m [above average]
Approach angle:13.9°
Departure angle:14.2°
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears6
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringElectric Steering
Tires size195/65 R15; 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17; 225/40 R18
Wheel rims size6J x 15; 6.5J x 15; 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 7.5J x 18
Front suspensionIndependent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer

Driven it? Loved it? Hated it? Share your honest review!