W hen the GTI arrived in the US in 1983, we had no idea it would change the very fabric of our automotive industry forever.

Nick Trott, Performance Pack Mk7 GTI, 2013. ‘This Mk7.5 Golf GTI drives exactly the same as the previous version, which means it’s perhaps the most refined and civilised hot hatch on sale.

Power climbed from the Mk7 GTI Performance’s 242bhp at 5000-6200rpm to 286bhp at 5400-6400rpm, while torque peaked at 280lb ft between 1800 and 5300rpm, compared to 273lb ft from 1600 to 4300rpm.

The standard Mk7.5 GTI was tuned up to 228bhp, while the Performance variant received an even bigger hike, to 242bhp and 273lb ft. If you are going for the later car, we would suggest that the ...

Unlike the BMW 128ti, a direct rival for the Golf GTI, the M140i is rear-wheel drive. Combined with 50:50 weight distribution, it has an engaging, well-balanced feel. A 3.0-litre straight-six mill ...