AN unfettered version of the Golf R has been announced by Volkswagen taking the top speed of the hot hatch up to 166mph and the estate model to 168mph.

The tweak is part of a £2,300 factory-fitted Performance Pack which is now available for the high powered Golf when fitted with a semi-automatic DSG transmission.

Other additions include an R-Performance brake system, 19-inch alloys and a rear roof spoiler for the hatch which adds an extra 20kg of downforce for the 310ps turbo-charged all-wheel-drive Golf.

Alongside the Performance Pack, VW is also offering an Akrapovic sports exhaust package for all versions of the Golf R hatch, whether they are equipped with a manual or a DSG gearbox.

The titanium exhaust system costs £2,975 and has four rounded rather than oval tailpipes giving added noise when changing gear at high revs.

Regular versions of the Golf R have their maximum speeds restricted to 155mph.

The all-wheel-drive R is the flagship of the current Golf range and is priced from £32,710 for the manual hatchback, £33,995 for the DSG version with the estate costing from £35,700.