THE fastest ever production versions of the Golf have been unleashed by Volkswagen in Germany, in the shape of the latest R hatchback and estate models.

Based on the eighth generation versions of the iconic Golf, which received a major update this year, the latest R models come with a more powerful, 328bhp, two-litre turbocharged engine which feeds all-wheel-drive via a seven-speed DSG transmission. Top speed is 155mph which can be boosted to 168mph with the optional R-Performance package.

In addition to the higher top speed, the R-Performance package offers two additional track-focussed driving modes, a GPS lap timer and G-meter plus a larger roof spoiler.

UK prices and specifications will be confirmed soon, says Volkswagen, but at launch in Germany the starting price for the R hatchback is just over £45,500 at current exchange rates with the R Estate starting at £46,580.

At launch there will also be an exclusive Black Edition model, which, as the name suggests, comes with darker VW badges and R logos, black brake calipers with a dark R logo, black 19-inch wheels, black tailpipe trims and darkened matrix headlights. It's priced at £49,400 in Germany.