Photo shown for illustration; shade and shape may differ slightly.
MTS Technik Performance Lowering Kit - Volkswagen Golf 5 - MTSKPLVW228
A lowering kit pairs short-stroke sport dampers with progressive springs matched to them. Unlike springs dropped onto standard dampers, here the rebound of the damper and the compression of the spring are calibrated together, so the car stays predictable and precise. It is the set-and-forget option: a finished road setup from the first drive, with no adjuster collars and no seized threads to worry about.
On a Volkswagen, this kit drops the car by 30 mm on both axles.
Technical specifications
- Front axle lowering: 30 mm
- Rear axle lowering: 30 mm
Technical notes
- The catalogue drop is smaller on cars with factory sport suspension or a factory lowered setup.
- Without NIVO.
- Not compatible with 4x4 models.
- Not compatible with estate models.
- With extra factory equipment such as a tow bar or an LPG system, the actual drop can differ from the figure quoted.
- The set contains dampers and lowering springs. Anything else needed for the job is not included and has to be carried over from the original parts or bought separately.
Vehicle compatibility
| Model | Engine | Years |
|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen GOLF V (1K1) | 1.6 (102 hp) | 11/03 - 10/08 |
| Volkswagen GOLF V (1K1) | 1.4 16V (75 hp) | 11/03 - 10/08 |
| Volkswagen GOLF V (1K1) | 1.4 16V (80 hp) | 11/03 - 10/08 |
| Volkswagen GOLF V (1K1) | 1.6 FSI (115 hp) | 11/03 - 10/08 |
| Volkswagen GOLF V (1K1) | 1.4 FSI (90 hp) | 11/03 - 10/08 |
| Volkswagen GOLF V (1K1) | 1.4 TSI (170 hp) | 11/03 - 10/08 |
| Volkswagen GOLF V (1K1) | 1.4 TSI (140 hp) | 11/03 - 10/08 |
| Volkswagen GOLF V (1K1) | 1.4 TSI (122 hp) | 11/03 - 10/08 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the advantage over a coilover?
Simplicity. Nothing to adjust, nothing to set wrong, and no exposed threads to seize.
And over lowering springs on their own?
Here the dampers are built for the shorter spring travel, which makes the whole assembly last far longer.
Can it be raised for winter?
No, the height is fixed. Ground clearance stays the same all year.
Can I add camber plates?
Adjustable plates are made for coilover systems. Fixed kits use the original top mounts.
Are the dampers gas or oil filled?
MTS uses twin-tube dampers charged with pressurised nitrogen, which stops the oil foaming when you drive hard.
Is the damper rod shorter?
Yes, so the spring stays properly loaded and has no play at full droop.
Is knocking at the front normal with these?
No knocking is normal. It usually comes from a nut that was not torqued properly or a worn bearing.
Will it make the car understeer?
The kits are set up to keep the car neutral, sometimes with a touch of controlled oversteer.
Do they work with adaptive suspension?
If the car has factory EDC, this kit disables it. You need delete modules to stop the dash warning.
Are they suitable for track use?
They perform well, but a serious trackday needs adjustable suspension for fine tuning.
Can I carry 5 people in it?
Yes, within the maximum authorised weight on the car's papers.
Does the ride height drop as I drive?
The suspension needs a few dozen kilometres to settle into the rubber mounts, then it stays put.
Is a geometry check still required?
Yes. Changing the assembly always changes the angles.
How long does fitting take?
Between 3 and 5 hours at a specialist workshop.
Are they stiffer than S-line or M-Tech?
Similar or slightly firmer, tuned towards the sporty end.
Why is it the more reliable option?
Nothing moves on the outside, so mud and road salt cannot seize anything.
How do I check they are still good years later?
A suspension tester at an MOT station measures how much damping is left.
Do I need new gaiters and bump stops?
Most manufacturers, MTS included, recommend replacing them if they are not in the box.
How far does the car drop?
The common options are between 30mm and 50mm, which brings the wheel much closer to the arch line.
Why is it sold as a full set?
Front-to-rear balance is what keeps the car safe at speed.