Volkswagen of America is in a festive mood as it blows 40th Candles on Golf GTI birthday cake. Celebrating four decades since the 1983 Rabbit GTI went on sale locally, the hot hatch gets a special edition based on the GTI S but with a choice between two exclusive paints: Tornado Red and Urano Grey. Alternatively, buyers can also choose Pomelo Yellow Metallic or Opal White Pearl.
All cars use 19-inch alloy wheels with a multi-spoke design and glossy black color. VW used 235/35 summer performance tires and added red stripes for a contrast effect. If the alloys look familiar, it’s because they were borrowed from the Golf GTI Clubsport 45 which was launched in Europe last year to celebrate. (yes, you guessed it) 45 years since the original Grand Touring Injection went on sale in 1976.
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Golf GTI 40th The Anniversary Edition can also be distinguished by a side graphic with a honeycomb pattern and a “40” sticker. Rounding out the tweaks on the outside are the black roof and mirror caps to contrast with the main body color. Inside, VW installed Plaid Scalepaper upholstery, a shift knob that looks like a golf ball, and the “40” logo on the underside of the steering wheel.
There are no mechanical changes under the hood, so you get the same 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine that makes 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Adaptive damper and electronic differential lock come as standard. VW plans to build around 1,500 cars and split production evenly between a six-speed manual gearbox and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.
VW of America charges $33,055 for Golf GTI 40th Anniversary Edition with clutch pedal and $33,855 if you want a DSG. New arrival completes Golf R 20th The Anniversary Edition limited to 1,800 examples is also available with both types of transmission.
