Volkswagen has provided the first look at the new GTI Clubsport, its most powerful front-wheel drive Golf.
The automaker showed off the redesigned GTI Clubsport on Friday ahead of the Nürburgring 24-hour race. According to VW, the car boasts 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. VW claims it can go from zero to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds.
The standard spec GTI Clubsport has an electronic limiter that keeps the top speed at 155 mph. However, the optional race package boosts the limiter to 166 mph.
VW made multiple design changes for the GTI Clubsport. For example, the hatch now features 19-inch Queenstown alloy wheels. Lightweight forged 19-inch Warmenau wheels are an optional upgrade. The GTI Clubsport has restyled headlights and taillights, as well as an illuminated VW logo for the first time.
The GTI Clubsport also has a large roof spoiler on the rear, which VW says “ensures maximum downforce.” There is an optional driving mode built for Nürburgring’s Nordschleife, the north loop track at the iconic German motorsports complex.
The Clubsport reveal coincides with Volkswagen celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Golf.
The first generation of the four-door hatchback began in 1974 as Volkswagen replaced the Beetle. This model remained until 1983.
The Golf increased in length for the second generation (1983-1991) and then underwent multiple redesigns for each subsequent generation. The Gen 7 Golf ended in 2019.
According to VW, more than half of Golfs built come from the Wolfsburg plant. This adds up to more than 20 million cars. VW says it has sold more than 37 million Golfs in more than 70 countries.
“50 years ago, the Golf stood for a fresh start and a new beginning as the Beetle era came to an end, today it is a symbol of continuity, reliability, and innovation, said Daniela Cavallo, Chair of the General and Group Works Council of Volkswagen AG, during an event Monday.
“As someone born in Wolfsburg, for me, it is also a symbol of my home in Lower Saxony. Young or old, tradespeople, technical workers or professors – the Golf is a hit in all walks of life and unites society across generations. At the same time, our bestseller from Wolfsburg epitomizes what makes VW so successful: innovation, teamwork, passion, and dedicated colleagues. Our VW family worldwide can be proud of this achievement.”