Volkswagen has opened the order books for the fastest and most powerful Golf and Scirocco yet.

The top of the range Golf R and Scirocco R will cost from £28,930 and £26,945 respectively, but you can pay up to £30,820 for a five-door Golf R with the semi-automatic DSG gearbox.

The two cars are the most powerful in their ranges, but it's the Golf that wins the mini power battle between the two.

The Scirocco manages an impressive 261bhp, but the Golf adds another 5bhp to produce 266.

The Golf’s power advantage and its four-wheel drive system means it holds the edge in terms of speed as well – the manual gets to 62mph in 5.7 seconds, while the DSG box is marginally quicker at 5.5 seconds.

But Scirocco is no slouch, managing the same sprint in 5.8 seconds with the DSG system, and 6.0 seconds with the manual gearing.

While the Golf enjoys four-wheel drive, the Scirocco sends all its power through the front wheels.

To counter the problems that may arise from all this power going through two front wheels, VW has given the Scirocco an electronic traction control system that keeps it stable on the road.

In addition to the power boosts afforded to the two cars, VW has given them a styling makeover to differentiate them from their standard siblings.

They get a new front bumper, black wing mirrors, 18 inch five-spoke alloy wheels, a rear roof spoiler and twin exhausts.

Inside they get sports seats, a leather sports steering wheel and electric blue instrument needles.

Both cars are available to order now, and first customers will get their cars at the end of January next year.