Golf GTI's 40th Anniversary

VW is celebrating that fact in style with the new GTI Clubsport Edition 40 model, unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March and on sale from today, at £30,875.

It is the most powerful GTI to date with 265hp – the same as the equally new Ferrari 308GTB could manage in 1976! But there’s more: the turbocharged 2.0-litre engine has an overboost facility that adds another 25hp for 10 seconds when you floor it in third gear or above.

True to its roots, the Edition 40 is determinedly front-wheel drive and comes with either six-speed manual or six-speed DSG paddleshift transmission.

VW describes the acceleration as ‘brisk’. The car comes with standard launch control and 0-62mph takes 6.3secs on its way to a governed top speed of 155mph.

A lowered sport chassis and the front diff lock, electronic stability systems and quicker steering from the current latest GTI model all feature in the anniversary special. VW says the car’s handling is more intuitive than ever.

Exclusive wheels, new bumper profile at the front, a diffuser at the rear and new roof spoiler help the Edition 40 stand out in the hot hatch crowd, as well as add some downforce. GTI essentials inside include well bolstered bucket seats, Alcantara trim, plenty of red edging…and a golf ball design gear knob. Alas no tartan trim!

Available to order now, the special version of this much-loved favourite is expected to be limited to around 1000 cars in the UK. It is available in white, red, silver or grey – and to further set it apart can be had with a black roof for the two-tone look.

The Golf GTI may be only 39 in the UK – it first went on sale here, in left-hand drive form only, in 1977 – but what’s a year between friends for such a performance car icon?