The new Volkswagen Golf GTD will have an incredible combination of performance and efficiency, the company has claimed as the car's full specifications were released.

Producing 181bhp and 280lb.ft thanks to the latest version of its 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine, the newest diesel performance Golf is faster than its heavier predecessor in all respects.

Its top speed is now 142mph, with 62mph reached from rest in a claimed 7.5 seconds. Peak power is maintained between 3,500 and 4,000rpm, while peak torque arrives between 1,750 and 3,250rpm.

But with a remarkable 109g/km against its name road tax costs just £20 per year after the first year, which is free. That links to the potential for 67.3mpg according to standard EU tests.

A six-speed DSG gearbox has been deemed the best automatic match for the engine, and while it increases the car's convenience around town it lowers fuel economy to 62.8mpg and shunts CO2 emissions up to 119g/km, which although higher still qualifies for a mere £30 annual road tax payment.

The Golf GTD comes with smoked LED rear lights with LED number plate illumination, along with standard bi-xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, dual chrome tailpipes, 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/40 tyres, side skirts, a rear diffuser, sports suspension and a large roof spoiler.

Grey tartan upholstery has become traditional for the GTI and GTD models, and the two variants also share a black roof lining, a sports steering wheel and stainless steel pedals. The GTD gets a unique gear lever, trim additions and a stylised instrument cluster.

The entry price has only escalated by £310, making the three-door manual model £25,285 before any optional extras. Upgrading to five doors costs £655, while specifying the DSG gearbox adds £1,415. As such there are four possible GTD configurations, peaking at £27,355.

Volkswagen has officially opened the books for the car and the four GTD variants are available to order now.