VW Golf GTI bites back

• Power boost for limited edition Golf GTI
• Edition 30 model available in January from £22k
• Cuts up to 0.6sec from 0-62mph sprint time

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Volkswagen is launching a limited edition Golf GTI, with a hike in power to keep up with rivals from Ford and Vauxhall.

The Edition 30 celebrates the 30th birthday of the Golf GTI and gets a 30bhp rise in power output to 227bhp.

Available with a six-speed manual or DSG transmission (with manual and automatic modes), the Edition 30 can sprint to 62mph in 6.6sec, up to 0.6sec faster than the standard car. Top speed is also extended 5mph to 150mph.

On paper the Vauxhall Astra VXR and Ford Focus ST are still quicker, but now only by the smallest of margins.

The Edition 30 gets unique 18-inch alloy wheels as well as a new front chin spoiler and side skirts. Inside, seats get leather side bolsters and headrest, while there's also red stitching on the leather steering wheel and silver sill plates. The golf ball gearknob, synonymous with the original GTI, makes a return as well.

Only 1500 examples will be available from early January, with prices starting at £22,000 for the manual and £23,330 for the DSG-equipped version.