Volkswagen Golf GTI 40 Years: faster anniversary model from $48,990

Volkswagen’s latest anniversary edition of its famous hot-hatch is called Clubsport in Europe, though will adopt the 40 Years badge locally to avoid a trademark dispute with HSV – which sells a sporty Commodore of the same name.

The GTI 40 Years follows the Edition 35 that was sold here from 2011, though trumps that model’s 173kW output with 195kW – with 213kW available for 10 seconds as part of a throttle-flattening overboost function.

The GTI 40 will from launch be equipped with a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox and is claimed to clock 5.9 seconds on the standing-start run to 100km/h. That makes it notably quicker than both the regular, 162kW GTI (6.5 seconds) and the $46,490 169kW, Volkswagen Golf GTI Performance (6.4 seconds).

Its temporary power boost even lifts it above the 206kW Golf R, though the GTI remains front-wheel drive and comfortably comfortably adrift in the acceleration stakes against the flagship, all-wheel-drive Golf (5.0 seconds).

The GTI 40th employs the same mechanical limited-slip diff as the GTI Performance to help deploy its power to the road, while visual changes include 18-inch forged alloy wheels, black side stripe, larger tailpipe and darkened tail-lights, while the front bumper, sills, rear diffuser and roof spoiler are all revised.

Inside, exclusive touches include a steering wheel covered in suede-like Alcantara, and a ‘honeycomb’ seat design with GTI logo.

Additional standard equipment includes adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, and blind spot and rear traffic warning systems.

The VW Golf GTI 40 Years is available to order now.

Can't get enough? Read our comparison review of hot hatches.

Click here to read the full review on the Volkswagen Golf.