There's a tasty secret under this GTI's skirt

Some may argue otherwise, but life for Volkswagen enthusiasts is "definitely" more fun in a Golf.

Originally designed with the young upstart in mind, buyers could choose the red, yellow or blue GolfI colour scheme options. Since then, the iconic hatchback has evolved tremendously, and the seventh edition will be released in SA next year.

But for 26-year-old Rushil Chhoteylal, the Golf5 is where the Germans got it right.

"I've got nothing bad to say about the Golf6, I just feel they have become too common now.

"Owning a Golf5 nowadays gives you a certain exclusivity. It embodies the true spirit of fun and power combined with great looks.

"I'm keen to see the new Golf7 in the metal. Thereafter, I will be able to make up my mind about it. So far, I'm quite excited," he said.

The service station manager from Pietermaritzburg bought his black 2007 Golf5 standard last December for R175000.

Feeling the need to make it unique, he began modifying it after only six months of ownership.

"I've got Stage2Revo software, a 76mm downpipe [reduces the turbo's turbine lag, making acceleration faster], De-cat exhaust system and cold air intake."

Chhoteylal conceded that there were other little engine mods that he did not reveal to the Sunday Times Extra.

"To make it look hotter, I added the Audi RS3 19-inch rims, which cost me the price of a small car."

It was always Chhoteylal's dream to own the "fabulous Five".

"She drives like a dream. When I get to work, I just sit in the car for a few minutes. This helps to get me in a positive mood for the day."

Although he hasn't ventured into formal competitions, he entered the Autostyle Motorshow in the Show and Shine category that took place at Durban's Gateway Shopping Center' s parkade in September.

"It didn't really feature high up there, but I'm guessing with the way she looks now, there's no way she can't win.

"My next goals are to be featured in the Speed and Sound Magazine, and to clinch an Autostyle trophy."

Strangely enough though, Chhoteylal is, in fact, a biker and cars were never his thing.

"My car history includes a 1991 Opel Superboss and a 2009 VW Citi Rox 1.4, but I've owned three superbikes: a 2002 Yamaha R6, a 2009 Honda CRB 1000 Fireblade and a 2007 Honda CRB 600 Moviestar."

Anyone wanting to pimp out their cars, according to Chhoteylal, should be original.

"It's all about exclusivity. Being one in a billion," he said.