the MK5 GTI is a great car. Just make sure you use the best quality oil in it to help reduce consumption. As a previous poster mentioned, it can eat anywhere from .5-2.5 Litres of oil between oil changes. I always kept a litre in my trunk for long trips.
There are two versions of the MK5 engine. They have different Intake hoses. Mine was pre revision, so the inlet hose cracked all the time, which is where my oil consumption came from... but was always replaced under warranty after the first time I paid because it would always crack right before the 12 month install warranty would expire
I would have got another MK5 after my previous one got totalled... But since I had got such a good deal on the first one (which was in MINT shape), it didn't seem right to be paying the same price for another 4 years later.. So I made the switch.
There something about the GTI I liked better though. Luxurious interior, ultra quiet ride when you aren't pushing it, and just the way a german engineered engine delivers power... Plus, it FEELS and is built like tank. despite being small, you know you're safe in the car. I do miss it.
I highly recommend the MK5 to anyone, just be prepared for the maintenance bill in your first year of ownership... because very few people that sell their VW take good care of it.