Volkswagen has marked the 40th anniversary of the iconic GTI in the best way it knows how, by making the fastest version in its history. Called the Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport, it will be more hardcore than the standard model and gets a serious 35bhp power hike.
Kick the throttle hard enough and you can even activate a ‘boost function’, sending up to 286bhp to the front wheels for up to ten seconds at a time. That means it equals the power output of the SEAT Leon Cupra, and surpasses the highly praised Renaultsport Megane 275 Trophy, albeit only in short bursts.
With the standard six-speed manual gearbox fitted, the 0-62mph sprint takes 6.0 seconds, half a second faster than the standard GTI. With the DSG automatic fitted, this drops to 5.9 seconds. Top speed, meanwhile, is a massive 155mph.
Other performance upgrades include a gloss black rear wing, new front bumper, side sills and rear diffuser, which have been honed in the wind tunnel and offer “significantly improved downforce”, according to VW.
The black spoiler and front air intakes are complemented by a black roof and side stripes boasting the ‘Clubsport’ moniker, along with larger chrome-plated exhaust tips and darker LED rear light clusters.
Inside, the front seats have had an overhaul but still feature the classic tartan upholstery and red stitching synonymous with the GTI. They are now bucket-style chairs with grippy Alcantara upholstery and a honeycomb pattern in the back rest and seat squabs. A red pinstripe adorns the seatbelts and ‘Honeycomb 40’ trim strips give the interior a bespoke feel.
Alcantara also covers the gear lever and sports steering wheel, continuing the motorsport-inspired theme.
The Golf GTI Clubsport will be debuted to the public at the Frankfurt Motor Show next week, ahead of its arrival early next year.
Need a car with serious performance, and a big boot? Check out our review of the SEAT Leon ST Cupra:
