2008 Volkswagen Golf GTI (Mk5) Pirelli Edition DSG

Highlights

• One of only 222 UK-supplied Pirelli Edition examples
• Documented DSG mechatronics replacement at Volkswagen main dealer
• High-pressure fuel pump tappet renewed
• Comprehensive suspension overhaul completed 2024/2025
• Original head unit included alongside modern Sony upgrade

Overview

The Pirelli Edition represents something rather special in the Mk5 GTI lineage. Sharing its K04-turbocharged heart with the Edition 30 and the Audi S3, this wasn't merely a trim package with fancy seats. The BYD-code 2.0-litre TFSI engine delivers 230 bhp as standard, wrapped in a package considerably rarer than its anniversary-edition sibling. Just 222 found their way to UK shores.

This particular example has been well maintained, with a history file that includes replacement of the DSG mechatronics unit and the high-pressure fuel pump tappet. Between 2024 and 2025, the suspension received a thorough refresh: new front shocks, springs, top mounts, wishbones, ball joints and a rear spring. The car now sits on running gear restored to factory sharpness.

Inside, those unmistakable tyre-tread patterned seats with their yellow contrast stitching remain in good order. A Sony touchscreen brings smartphone connectivity to the cabin, though the original VW head unit accompanies the sale for those who prefer period authenticity. The headliner has sagged around the rear light housing but this is a familiar Mk5 trait that represents a straightforward weekend project.

Finished in Black over that distinctive yellow-stitched interior, this three-door DSG example offers genuine rarity combined with the reassurance of documented, knowledgeable care. And, of course, the Pirelli P Zero tyres fitted to those edition-specific wheels are fully on brand.

History and documentation

• Comprehensive stamped service book with supporting invoices: Jun 2009 @ 6,907 miles, Jun 2010 @ 12,601 miles, Jun 2011 @ 17,130 miles, Jun 2012 @ 20,049 miles, Jun 2013 @ 28,842 miles, Dec 2013 @ 30,585 miles, Jan 2015 @ 37,948 miles, Jun 2015 @ 42,104 miles, Feb 2017 @ 57,865 miles, Apr 2018 @ 61,977 miles, Jun 2020 @ 68,487 miles, Oct 2020 @ 68,887 miles, Sep 2021 @ 70,488 miles, Apr 2022 @ 72,376 miles
• DSG mechatronics unit replaced at Crewe Volkswagen at 20,721 miles (Jul 2012)
• Cambelt and tensioner replaced at 20,721 miles (Jul 2012), then again with water pump at 57,866 miles (Feb 2017)
• High-pressure fuel pump tappet replaced at 61,977 miles (Apr 2018)
• DSG oil and filter services documented at 42,104 miles (Jun 2015) and 70,488 miles (Sep 2021)
• Front shock absorbers, springs, top mounts and droplink replaced March 2025; rear spring also renewed
• Front wishbones and ball joints replaced July 2024
• Front brake pads and discs plus rear pads replaced October 2020
• Two front tyres fitted January 2026
• Original VW RCD 300 head unit with wiring looms and Bluetooth kit included
• Two keys
• First registered 26 Jun 2008
• V5C confirms "Golf GTI Pirelli S-A"
• In current ownership since July 2023
• 79,736 miles

Interior

• Pirelli Edition-specific sports seats with tyre-tread patterned Alcantara centres and yellow contrast stitching throughout
• Driver's seat bolster shows expected wear but leather remains intact without tears
• Headliner has sagged around the rear interior light housing; a common Mk5 trait representing a straightforward fix
• Piano black trim around DSG selector shows some scuffing
• Flat-bottom leather steering wheel with yellow stitching presents well
• Dashboard, gauges and switchgear all reported fully functional by the vendor
• Sony XAV-AX3250 touchscreen with smartphone mirroring fitted; original VW head unit, wiring and Bluetooth kit included
• Dual-zone climate control and heated front seats
• GTI-branded floor mats present with some discolouration to driver's side
• Aluminium sport pedals and GTI sill plates in good condition
• Boot space clean with parcel shelf and load restraint hooks present

Exterior

• Black paintwork presents well with good gloss across all panels
• The vendor describes the exterior as very good with some age-related marks but no dents or major scratches
• Passenger side front and rear alloys have minor kerb marks
• Pirelli Edition 18-inch five-spoke alloys with centre caps intact
• Pirelli P Zero Nero GT tyres fitted with two new fronts installed January 2026
• Chrome GTI and Pirelli badges present on tailgate
• Honeycomb grille with red accent stripe in good order
• Both projector headlamps clear without hazing
• Shut lines appear consistent throughout
• Underside shows typical road grime with some surface corrosion on rear subframe edge and sill seams
• No obvious structural concerns visible

Mechanical

• 2.0-litre BYD-code TFSI engine producing 230 bhp
• Six-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox with paddle shifters
• Front-wheel drive
• DSG mechatronics unit replaced at main dealer; subsequent DSG oil and filter services in 2015 and 2021
• High-pressure fuel pump tappet renewed 2018
• Suspension comprehensively refreshed 2024/2025
• Brakes overhauled October 2020
• Air conditioning compressor replaced at main dealer 2013
• The vendor reports no mechanical issues; starts, runs and drives as expected

Summary

Here's a chance to acquire one of just 222 UK-supplied Pirelli Editions where the K04-turbocharged engine, the slick DSG and those wonderfully distinctive seats combine rarity with real usability. The headliner needs sorting, but weighed against the mechanical peace of mind documented here, that's a minor consideration. For the enthusiast who appreciates both scarcity and substance, this Pirelli delivers.

To arrange a viewing, click the 'Book Viewing' button located under the 'Place Bid' button. Viewings can be booked up until the day before the auction ends, after which the option will change to 'Contact Seller' for further enquiries. This seller is located in Northwich, Cheshire.