Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 35

• 2-litre turbo producing 232bhp
• On sale in June
• Available for around £26,600

As its name suggests, the Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 35 has been built to celebrate yet another landmark for the iconic hot hatch – its 35th birthday.

Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 35 gallery:

Compared to the 1976 original, the Golf GTI Edition 35 produces more than twice the power, with 232bhp from its 2-litre, turbocharged engine, making it the most powerful Golf GTI ever. That’s an increase of 25bhp over the standard car, which can already accelerate from 0-62mph in just 6.9seconds and reach a top speed of 149mph.

The extra power matches the Alfa Romeo Giulietta Cloverleaf and puts it closer to rivals such as the Renault Megane RS 250 Cup and Seat Leon Cupra R.

Visually, the GTI Edition 35 adds a subtly different front bumper, ‘35’ badging on its front wings and unique 18-inch alloy wheels hiding red brake calipers. Swing open the door and you’ll be greeted with more ‘35’ logos on the doors sills, head restraints and seats. The iconic golf ball gear knob makes a return.

UK prices have yet to be confirmed, but the Edition 35 will cost 30,425 Euros (around £26,600) in the rest of Europe, which compares to £25,060 for the standard car. Final specification and prices will be announced when the car goes on sale in June.

By Owen Ready