We've already driven the new Volkswagen Golf GTi Pirelli, which revives a special edition that made its debut on the iconic Mk1 Golf 25 years ago. ( Autocar )
Originally not intended for the UK market, Volkswagen has now announced that the Pirelli GTi will be available here starting from ?22,555 for a three-door model with a six-speed manual gearbox; the range-topping, five-door, DSG variant costs ?24,385.
The new Golf GTi Pirelli features a power upgrade to 227bhp from the standard Mk5 GTi's 192bhp, taking the 0-62mph time down by 0.4sec to just 6.8sec. The hot Golf's top speed is now 152mph.
Various design tweaks distinguish the car from regular GTis, including unique 18-inch alloys, smoked rear lights, tinted rear windows and a choice of reflex silver, diamond black or blue graphite paintwork.
The interior also gets an upgrade, featuring new half-leather sports seats with tyre-tread imprints and yellow stitching. Order books are open now, with first deliveries expected in June.