Currently reading: 227bhp 'birthday Golf' gets green light
227bhp 'birthday Golf' gets green light

This is the Volkswagen Golf GTI that could raise the benchmark for hot hatches again - the Edition 30.Previewed back in May, the Edition 30 is designed to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the original Golf GTI. It gets a 30PS (29bhp) power boost to take its output to 230PS (227bhp). That finally gives the Golf the grunt to match rivals from Ford and Vauxhall, and given the Golf's fine chassis in basic trim, we've high hopes that the Edition 30 could prove pretty special.

The special edition is available with a six-speed manual or DSG transmissions. With the latter, it can hit 62mph in 6.6secs. Its top speed is now 150mph.

Externally, the car gets unique 18in alloy wheels as well as a new front chin spoiler and side skirts. Inside, the Edition 30 features 'Interlagos' trim seats with leather side bolsters and headrest, red stitching on the leather steering wheel and silver sill plates. The golf ball gear knob, synonymous with the original GTI, makes a return here, too.

The bad news? Only 1500 examples will be available from early January, with prices starting at just over £22,000 (£23,330 for a DSG-equipped car). So if the Edition 30 does set new standards, it could prove a hard-to-find classic.

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