3 I (BK) vs Golf V: which is better?
Mazda 3 I (BK) (2003–2009) vs Volkswagen Golf V (2003–2008): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Mazda 3 I (BK)Specifications
| Mazda 3 I (BK) | Volkswagen Golf V | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2003–2009 | 2003–2008 |
| Body | hatchback | hatchback |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 1.6 | 1.6 |
| Power, up to | 105 hp | 102 hp |
| Torque, up to | 145 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | manual |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 420 mm | 4 204 mm |
| Width | 1 755 mm | 1 759 mm |
| Height | 1 465 mm | 1 485 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 640 mm | 2 578 mm |
| Fuel tank | 55 L | 55 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 13 675 ₸ | ≈ 13 675 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Mazda 3 I (BK)
Pros
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Mazda Z6 / LF / FS engine: oil consumption at high mileage
Engine (Mazda Z6 / LF / FS): oil consumption at higher mileage; carbon buildup and ring coking.
Volkswagen Golf V
Pros
- Engine VW 1.6 MPI (BSE): a reliable engine
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine VW 1.6 MPI (BSE): oil consumption at high mileage
Engine (VW 1.6 MPI (BSE)): reliable engine; oil consumption at high mileage; timing belt wear.
Which one to choose
- 3 I (BK) — if you care more about: power, wheelbase.
- Golf V — if you care more about: torque.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: 3 I (BK) or Golf V?
3 I (BK): up to 105 hp, Golf V: up to 102 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: 3 I (BK) — about 13 675 ₸, Golf V — about 13 675 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.