This is the new Volkswagen Golf GTI Pirelli – a 152mph special edition of the German hot hatch.

Powered by an tuned version of the 2-litre turbocharged engine, the Volkswagen Golf GTI Pirelli produces 225bhp – 29bhp more than a standard GTI.

This accelerates the mean machine from 0-62mph (100kph) in 6.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 152mph – the same as the special edition GTI Edition 30 unveiled last year.

Buyers can opt for the six-speed manual or the excellent twin-clutch semi-automatic DSG gearbox.

The Pirelli name is making a return to the Volkswagen Golf GTI range exactly 25 years after it made its debut.

But instead of 13-inch alloys seen on the 1983 MK1 Golf, the 2008 Golf GTI Pirelli rolls on a set of sexy five-spoke 18-inch wheels.

Other exterior differences over the current fifth generation GTI include a body-coloured front splitter, side skirts and rear bumper.

But the funkiest difference are the Golf GTI Pirelli’s half leather sports seats which feature tyre-tread imprints set into the backs.

Inside, the Volkswagen Golf GTI Pirelli gets six airbags, dual-zone climate control and a CD player as standard.

The Volkswagen Golf GTI Pirelli is available to order now in three or five-door form with the first models arriving in June.

Prices start from £22,555 for the three-door manual, rising to the £24,385 for the five door model with semi-automatic gearbox.