Volkswagen launches anniversary-edition Golf GTI

Volkswagen has unveiled an anniversary edition of its souped-up Golf GTI at a meet for GTI fans in Austria.

The German automaker launched the Golf GTI Edition 35 at the GTI Meet in the town of Woerthersee, to mark the 35th anniversary of the sporty compact.

At 173 kW (235 PS) Volkswagen says that the Edition 35 is the most powerful GTI ever, giving it a top speed of 247 km/h thanks to a 25 PS power boost compared to the normal GTI.

With an optional 6-speed automatic gearbox, the Edition 35 manages 0-100km/h in just 6.6 seconds, using the same four-cylinder, 2.0-liter turbocharged engine as the four-wheel drive Golf R, with the power adapted to the front wheels.

Volkswagen also claims that the model is one of the most fuel-efficient sports cars in its class, with a standard fuel consumption of 8.0l/100km.

As is to be expected, the model has been treated to an instantly-recognizable exterior revamp, with a new bumper design, winglets, side sill extensions, LED lights, smoked windows and 18-inch alloy wheels.

When first conceived in 1974, the Golf GTI was originally intended to have a production run of 5,000 vehicles but has gone on to become one of Volkswagen's most iconic models, selling more than two million to date.

It has spawned a series of "hot-hatch" competitors, including models such as the Renaultsport Megane RS and the Ford Focus ST.

Next week, another model will enter the fray with the launch of the new Opel Astra GTC, a three-door hatchback based on the Opel GTC Paris concept first shown at last year's Paris Motor Show.

The Worthersee GTI meet runs through June 4 in Woerthersee, Austria.

http://www.woertherseetreffen.at/