Golf GTI Clubsport 8.5: the most powerful GTI, with 300 CV and 267 km/h

The Nürburgring, known as the “Green Hell”, witnessed the unveiling, during the legendary 24 Hours of Nürburgring, of the 50th anniversary Golf with the world premiere of its new gem: the Golf GTI Clubsport 8.5. A new update that promises to take the legendary GTI to new heights with a new design, improved performance and sporty equipment to match. The new Golf GTI Clubsport made its debut on the iconic Ring Boulevard of the Nürburgring circuit, allowing all attendees to admire the new design of the Clubsport.

Even more sporty design

The exterior of the Golf GTI Clubsport stands out for its more aggressive design, where at first glance it features new headlights, complemented by 19-inch Queenstown alloy wheels with a design of five oval semicircles that evoke the classic Detroit wheels of the fifth-generation GTI. The option of the forged Warmenau wheels, also 19 inches, is also available, which, at only eight kilograms per wheel, reduce unsprung masses and, obviously, improve the vehicle’s performance.

Inside the cabin, the GTI Clubsport features a new infotainment system, combined with a newly developed multifunction sports leather steering wheel, allowing the driver to stay focused on the road while enjoying the vehicle’s many functions and coordinated systems. The IDA voice assistant, which includes ChatGPT integration, is another highlight, facilitating a more intuitive and natural interaction with the system.

Mechanical performance

Under the bonnet, the Golf GTI Clubsport houses the turbocharged GTI engine (EA888 LK3 evo4), capable of delivering 300 CV and a torque of 400 Nm. This impressive engine is combined with an electronically controlled front differential lock , ensuring that all that power is transferred to the asphalt as efficiently as possible. In addition, DCC adaptive chassis control is available as an option, allowing the suspension to be adjusted to suit different driving conditions.

The Clubsport accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.6 seconds, and its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. However, with the Race package, this limit is raised, allowing the vehicle to reach a top speed of 267 km/h. An exclusive feature of the Clubsport is the Special driving mode, designed specifically for the undulations of the Nordschleife, which optimises the DCC adaptive chassis control configuration and lateral dynamics to deliver maximum performance on this demanding circuit.

Golf 50th Anniversary Celebration

The 50th anniversary of the Golf could not have had a better setting than the 24 Hours of Nürburgring. Volkswagen took this opportunity to present not only the new GTI Clubsport, but also to remind fans of the historic GTI models. The Max Kruse Racing team took part in the race with a Golf GTI Clubsport 24h, which features increased power of 348 CV. Furthermore, in the 24h Classic race, spectators were able to enjoy three classic Golf GTIs: a 1981 Golf GTI 16S Oettinger, a Golf GTI Kamei from the 78 series and a Golf GTI from the 80 series, all of them with a design that pays tribute to 50 years of the Golf.

Technical specifications of this car

HatchbackVolkswagen Golf28 versions · from 24,450 €