The Superchips map is as good as you will get from "just" a remap, and they quote 185bhp. They have got more out of it, but not in a map they want to release "retail". Regardless of the pub figure, the car is smooth and revvy all the way - more so than the 8v 1.9's. But the characteristics of the engine are that it feels less urgent (without the same lump of torque) than the tuned 130's and 150's IMO. Superchips launched the map soon after the launch of the PD140 in the A3 and this is partly because they worked closely with VW Racing on the MkV racer.
Foxy (PD140) and I (PD150) spent time talking to Allard at Autosport International. We were very impressed, but their development has concentrated on the MkIV to date. Thats not to say it wouldn't make a viable project. To get to the target 220+ you would need to talk to them about a hybrid turbo, larger front mount intercooler and a custom map from their specialist; to push to 250bhp you would need the full-house hybrid turbo, with inlet and exhaust manifolds and a larger downpipe, plus uprated injectors. For the MkIV this costs ?5200 plus VAT. So its possible, just not from someone flashing the ECU with some software.
For brake upgrades, there must be some available as some MkV's at Essen were pictured with Brembo "Leon" callipers. Rich @ JBR has confirmed that as soon as ECS get their hands on a US MkV (Summer '05) they will do the necessary measurements for a suitable calliper carrier and then there can be no barrier to releasing the various stages of front brake upgarde for the MkV. Without going over old ground, although these kits are at the upper end of what people expect to pay for a Golf brake kit, they are superb quality, compact (no spacers, fit behind average alloys) and perform brilliantly.