The Volkswagen Golf V Plus 1.4, producing 80 horsepower, was a compact minivan offered by Volkswagen between April 2006 and November 2008. Positioned as an entry-level variant within the Golf V Plus range (based on the Golf Mk5 platform – internally designated 1HX0/A3), it aimed to provide affordable family transportation with a focus on fuel efficiency. The Golf V Plus itself was a stretched version of the standard Golf Mk5, offering increased interior space and a more versatile layout, bridging the gap between the standard hatchback and the larger Touran minivan. This 1.4-liter engine and five-speed manual transmission combination represented a significant portion of the Golf V Plus sales in many European markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf |
| Generation | Golf V Plus |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (80 Hp) |
| Start of production | April, 2006 |
| End of production | November, 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 169 km/h (105.01 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.8 kg/Hp, 63.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.6 kg/Nm, 104.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 80 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 132 Nm @ 3800 rpm (97.36 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | BUD |
| Engine displacement | 1390 cm3 (84.82 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt | 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1262 kg (2782.23 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1890 kg (4166.74 lbs.) |
| Max load | 628 kg (1384.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 305 l (10.77 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1360 l (48.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4204 mm (165.51 in.) |
| Width | 1759 mm (69.25 in.) |
| Height | 1592 mm (62.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2578 mm (101.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1517 mm (59.72 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15; 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Golf V Plus 1.4 was the BUD engine code, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine was a relatively simple design, utilizing a naturally aspirated intake and multi-point fuel injection. The BUD engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) operating four valves per cylinder. This configuration was chosen for its cost-effectiveness and reasonable efficiency. The 80 horsepower output was achieved at 5000 rpm, while peak torque of 132 Nm (97 lb-ft) arrived at 3800 rpm. The engine’s relatively low compression ratio of 10.5:1 helped it run reliably on a wide range of fuel grades. The standard transmission was a five-speed manual gearbox, designed to maximize fuel economy and provide adequate acceleration. While an automatic transmission was available on other Golf V Plus models, it was not offered with the base 1.4-liter engine.
Driving Characteristics
The Golf V Plus 1.4 80 hp was not designed for outright performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 14.2 seconds, and top speed was limited to 169 km/h (105 mph). The engine felt somewhat strained when fully loaded or climbing hills. The five-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, with relatively short gear ratios to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter engines available in the Golf V Plus range, the 1.4 felt noticeably slower. However, it offered a smoother and more relaxed driving experience, particularly in urban environments. The manual transmission provided more driver engagement than the optional automatic available on higher trims.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4-liter Golf V Plus typically came with a basic level of equipment. Standard features included power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Air conditioning was often an optional extra. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a simple, functional design. Higher trim levels, such as the Trendline and Comfortline, added features like alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, and climate control. The Golf V Plus offered a flexible interior with sliding rear seats and a folding rear bench, allowing for a maximum cargo capacity of 1360 liters (48 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded down.
Chassis & Braking
The Golf V Plus 1.4 utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, and the steering was light and easy to use. The relatively low weight of the 1.4-liter model (1262 kg / 2782 lbs) helped to compensate for its modest power output.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Golf V Plus 1.4 was generally well-received as an affordable and practical family vehicle. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and spacious interior, but noted its lack of performance. Compared to the 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter Golf V Plus models, the 1.4 offered significantly lower running costs but at the expense of driving enjoyment. The 1.4 was often seen as a sensible choice for drivers who prioritized economy and practicality over performance. Its fuel economy figures of around 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg) were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The BUD engine, while not known for its longevity or high performance, proved to be reasonably reliable in the Golf V Plus. Common issues included occasional oil leaks and problems with the ignition system. However, with regular maintenance, these engines could provide many years of service. Today, the Golf V Plus 1.4 is a relatively affordable used car, appealing to budget-conscious buyers. Its simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy and inexpensive to maintain. While it may not be the most exciting car to drive, it remains a practical and economical choice for those seeking a spacious and versatile family vehicle.
