Volkswagen Golf GTI
VW officially unveiled their enhanced Clubsport hot hatch at Germany’s Nurburgring racetrack. Boasting bolder looks, improved interior features and impressive performance figures, VW unveiled this enhanced version of their front-wheel drive hot hatch at an appropriate event.
Standard LED headlights feature illuminated Volkswagen logos while the roof spoiler helps optimise downforce. Furthermore, optional 19-inch Warmenau3 forged alloys that weigh only 8kg per wheel may also be added for additional downforce.
Volkswagen Golf GTI | Exterior
The Golf GTI Clubsport is an impressive upgrade of Volkswagen’s legendary hatchback. Powered by a 296bhp version of their turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder EA888 engine and connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, it can run 0-62mph in just 5.6 seconds while reaching an electronically limited top speed of 155mph; though this can be increased up to 166mph with optional Race package upgrades.
Volkswagen has made significant modifications to the chassis in addition to providing more power, in order to enhance agility and poise of their new car. Engineers added more camber to the front wheels, expanded parameters of electronic front-axle differential lock operation, Vehicle Dynamics Manager now allows for changes such as steering damping etc. Furthermore, Bugatti senior test driver Sven Bohnhorst joined Volkswagen’s project team and helped fine tune steering tuning of this project car.Volkswagen Golf GTI
Visually, the Clubsport can be easily recognized by its red-trimmed front bumper with illuminated VW logo and new LED Plus head lights that integrate more tightly into its grille. A large roof spoiler and revised LED tail light clusters complete its package. Standard wheels for this vehicle are 18-inch ‘Queenstown’ alloys; 19-inch forged Warmenau rims may also be chosen to reduce unsprung weight further aid handling while an upgraded infotainment system that incorporates voice assistant IDA and ChatGPT complete its interior upgrades.Volkswagen Golf GTI
Volkswagen Golf GTI | Interior
The Golf GTI Clubsport has been designed for optimal performance on both road and track – as evidenced by its presence at this weekend’s Nurburgring 24 Hours race. This series production model boasts 35hp more than the standard Mk8 GTI model as well as several unique enhancements.
Front end modifications have included new LED Plus head lights with illuminated Volkswagen logo for the first time ever; and rear roof spoiler to increase downforce. Also new are 19-inch “Queenstown” alloy wheels inspired by classic Detroit wheels used on previous generations of hot hatch.Volkswagen Golf GTI
Underneath it all lies the greatest transformation, with an EA888 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine producing 221kW (348PS). Transmission for this Clubsport model is provided through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and has been modified for agility and poise.Volkswagen Golf GTI
It can reach 62mph from rest in just 5.6sec and features an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h; with the optional Race package this top speed can be raised to 267km/h. Inside the Clubsport is designed for its sporting aspirations with sports seats covered with ArtVelours fabric for comfort while standard features include an instrument display of 10.2-inches along with the MIB4 modular infotainment system, VW’s IDA voice assistant feature and 480W Harman Kardon sound system.
Volkswagen Golf GTI | Engine
With 296 horsepower from its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, the Clubsport is the most powerful front-wheel drive hatchback available today. It outguns Ford Focus ST while almost matching Honda Civic Type R’s reserves. Intended to tackle Nurburgring lap times of 7 minutes 55 seconds or faster, its chassis setup features 18″ brake rotors, roof spoiler and new taillight design while offering an unique drive mode to recreate those used during Volkswagen’s record 7:55 lap time around the 12.9-mile Nordschleife circuit.
Even with its power and handling upgrades, the Clubsport remains one of the most cost-effective Golf GTI models with manual transmission. It can accelerate from zero to 62 mph in just 6.0 seconds before reaching top speeds of 155 mph – in DSG models this time is reduced even further to 5.9 seconds.
As with other Volkswagen Golf models, the Mk 8 Golf’s interior combines practicality and sportiness seamlessly. There is ample storage space, along with a 10.0-inch digital driver’s display that is customisable and multiple driving modes such as Comfort to Sport to meet any mood or driving need – including Soft suspension softer suspension and lighter steering for easier commuting rides; in Sport Plus mode however the car becomes even more responsive.
Volkswagen Golf GTI | Performance
Volkswagen’s Golf GTI Clubsport is one of their quickest front-wheel drive models, boasting a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 296bhp that can be sent through its seven-speed DSG dual clutch transmission to power its wheels. They estimate it can accelerate from rest to 62mph in just 5.6 seconds before topping out at an estimated top speed of 155mph.
The new front fascia displays performance intent through body-colored, wing-shaped elements on each lower corner and a large roof spoiler designed to aid downforce. Other visual changes include an aggressively styled rear diffuser, Akrapovic sports exhaust system options and 19″ Warmenau forged wheels designed to reduce unsprung weight.Volkswagen Golf GTI
Inside, drivers can choose to enjoy a track-oriented steering wheel and custom upholstery, along with more sporty driving modes which change suspension and steering characteristics to better accommodate for the bumps and dips of the ‘Ring.Volkswagen Golf GTI
Volkswagen gave us the chance to drive its camo-clad Clubsport on both roads and around the Nurburgring. Although its impressive acceleration wasn’t overly twitchy or nervous at higher speeds. Furthermore, we found its electric steering system was well balanced between light and direct; an important feature considering it is one of only front-wheel drive cars offering multiple modes for its electric power steering; we found progressive setting more suitable when driving on roads than other options available on market.Volkswagen Golf GTI
