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Volkswagen has announced that order books are now open for the new Golf R-Line.

Sitting above the GT specification and for an additional £995, the R-Line adds an R-Line rear spoiler, side skirts and radiator grille, bespoke air intakes, R-Line front bumpers and fog lights, R-Line rear bumper and diffuser and 17-inch Singapore alloy wheels.

Inside features stainless steel pedals and front door sills, black lead grey inlays and door trims, sports race design front seats with R-Line logo, black roof-lining, leather gear knob and gear lever gaiter and R-Line leather multifunction sports steering wheel.

There is a choice of two engine variants: a 148bhp 1.4-litre TSI engine with active cylinder technology which can deactivate two of the four cylinders for enhanced economy returning up to 60.1 mpg. It is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox as standard or an optional seven-speed DSG auto. And a 148bhp 2.0-litre TDI diesel variant which comes with a six-speed manual gearbox, with a six-speed DSG auto also available.

The Golf R-line is available to order now from £24,190 with first deliveries expected in March.