We learned of the newcomer...

We learned of the newcomer during an exclusive interview with VW boss Bernd Pischetsrieder. The car, set to go on sale in early 2006, has been created purely for keen drivers. He told us: "There are plans for variations of the Golf model, maybe with up to 230bhp and a lighter weight. Ostensibly, however, there will only be one GTI - it"s a car in its own right, and not a trim level."

Losing excess weight will be the key, so the doors, bonnet and tailgate will be made from hi-tech alloy to keep the bodyshell light. Non-essential comfort features, such as the weighty components for the air-conditioning system and electric window motors, will be ditched completely. If the firm"s engineers get it right, the result should be sensational acceleration and amazing agility.

The standard version"s blown FSI engine will be uprated, using a larger turbocharger and a remapped ECU to deliver in the region of 230bhp, along with a 0-60mph sprint time of around six seconds. Lightweight models aren"t new; we revealed Renault"s second-generation Clio Cup in last week"s magazine. However, the development is a move into uncharted waters for VW.

This latest performance Golf is designed to counter the threat from the hot versions of all-new offerings in the small family hatchback market, such as the Vauxhall Astra and Ford Focus.