Well one is 7 years old, the other almost new; surely its no suprise it looks a little dated? Especially as you picked a picture of the ropiest GTI you could find, someones got way too much love for the dash silicone! Besides, don't forget when the MKIV was launched it was a landmark in interior quality for its class. But yup, I also hate the wood...
For the record I like the MKV interior, but like the Audi A3 and A4 its has this weird feel; well made and designed yes, but at the same time cheap. Centre console around the gearbox and armrest is where its most noticeable on all three IMO, but the rest of it is absolutely fine