I was looking at a 2012 Golf 2.5 w/ 5 speed M/T about a month ago but I didn't pull the trigger fast enough (it sold)….I was contemplating using regular 5w30 and 10w30 synthetics like QSUD, PP, NAPA syn etc...at 5K intervals strictly because I already have them in my stash. I feel that the 2.5 is non-turbo and not overstressed so I doubt it would cause any issue.....I might have even stretched it out to 6 or 7K if a UOA showed it was doable...the 6 quart sump should help in that regard....
PS: I agree with the OP's supposition that VW recommends 502/504 approved oil in this engine for 'dealership logistics' purposes.
PS: I agree with the OP's supposition that VW recommends 502/504 approved oil in this engine for 'dealership logistics' purposes.