This is the new Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport, unveiled today and which, we're told, “not only impresses due to its high engine power but also thanks to a new high in driving dynamics.” Them’s Volkswagen’s words.
First the power bump, then. A standard Golf GTI has 242bhp but this one’s packing a relatively massive 296bhp, an output more akin to the outgoing Golf R. Unlike the standard car you can’t have this with a manual gearbox, only a seven-speed DSG, and although we’re not told exactly how quick this new Clubsport is, we can expect a 0-62mph time well below six seconds. The standard one does it in 6.3.
The Clubsport model has a short history going back to 2016, when VW released one to celebrate the GTI’s 40th anniversary. Later that year came a Clubsport S model, which was stripped out and tuned up to 306bhp and limited to 400 copies. It was used to set a new lap record for a front-wheel drive car around the Nurburgring, a record yet to be broken.
This Clubsport doesn’t have any weight reduction measures, but aside from the power bump it does get aerodynamic and styling changes, and a specific ‘Nurburgring’ driving mode which sets up the differential, gearbox, steering, traction control, and (optional) adaptive damping specifically for track use.
Karsten Schebsdat, Head of Driving Dynamics, Steering and Control Systems at Volkswagen said:“Networking all driving dynamics systems means that the new Golf GTI Clubsport handles even more neutrally and precisely than the classic Golf GTI. For the legendary Nordschleife track, we have also programmed a new Nürburgring profile, which specifically adapts the running gear components in the new Golf GTI Clubsport to this race track.”
Visually the Clubsport is distinguished by unique front and rear bumpers, the former using extensive honeycombe trim to give the snout an especially wide and ‘open’ look. At the back the duel tailpipes are wider than the standard GTI ones, and there’s a prominent black-trimmed roof spoiler which matches the black detailing on the Clubsport-specific 18-inch alloy wheels. The body is 10mm wider thanks to the flared front splitter, and the suspension sits the car 15mmm lower than the standard GTI.
VW says that the interior boasts “countless GTI-specific features” but basically it’s a pair of sports seats, a unique steering wheel with paddle shifters and aluminium pedals. You probably could count them quite easily.
No prices yet, but given that a DSG-equipped Golf GTI costs about £35,000 we can expect this fella to sail closer to £38,000. You’ll be able to order one before the year is out.
Keyword: Volkswagen unveils Golf GTI Clubsport with big power hike