As a current owner of a clean and well looked after Mk5 GTI, I must admit that its nose is definitely more aggressive and distinctive than the Mk6 or Mk7. However, the rear end is a bit ugly (huge black bumper!), not much improved on the Mk6 with the massive rear light clusters! I think that as an overall car design, the Mk7 feels more understated, but at the same a bit more consistent if that makes sense. Having said that, there is definitely enough different about it to stand out from the Mk6 and other standard Golfs.
I'll miss it for sure, but with the clean lines, improved performance, more comfortable ride, and level of technology inside, it's time to move on
