So soon after VW claimed the Golf GTI 50 was the fastest production VW ever at the legendary Nordschleife track, we now have more details about and it’s a stonker.
After 8 generations of the Golf GTI, when VW celebrates 50 years of the brand, rest assured the engineers will go for broke in making it a landmark GTI. Thats no easy feat considering how popular and acclaimed the 3 door Golf GTI Clubsport S (below) proved when it was launched and how deflated GTI boys became when the Golf 8 Clubsport was launched.
With the Golf 8.5, VW has had time to address all the concerns (no one mentions infotainment and haptic buttons please). With that out the way, the GTI engineers have been given a shot at reinvigorating the spirit of the Clubsport S. With the GTI Edition 50 one will hope they have done so.
First things first, to be claimed as the most powerful GTI in history, ensures the Edition 50 ticks the box. At 239kW/420Nm, the 2.0 litre 4-cylinder engine gets TSI (Turbo) technology driving only the front wheels via a 7 speed DSG. No manual transmission since all Golf GTI 8.5 models have discontinued that option.
0-100km/h is claimed at 5.5 seconds, 0-200km/h in 16.8 seconds topping out at limited 270km/h.
The suspension is lowered by 15 mm compared to the basic GTI configuration. Those needing more dynamic driving will have the option of the GTI Performance package. This further lowers the car by 5mm, refined spring rates ensuring a much more direct response and a lower tendency to roll and pitch. The package also comes with size 235 Potenza Race semi-slick tyres from Bridgestone on 19-inch Warmenau forged wheels.
With a weight of only 8 kg per rim, the forged wheels are around 3 kg lighter than the standard 19-inch wheel rim.
the GTI 50 logo is placed on the roof spoiler and the insides of the exterior mirrors. Other exclusive features include special trim on the door sills, a roof with black paintwork, black exterior mirror housings and black tailpipe trims on the exhaust system.
The GTI Performance package also comes with an Akrapovič titanium exhaust system that saves a further 11 kg. This exhaust will further enhance the vvrrrr phaa sound when pushed hard.
A striking side stripe on the side members with a colour gradient from black to Tornado red additionally underlines the sporty character of the vehicle.
The newly designed multifunction leather sports steering wheel features trim with the GTI 50 logo. Together with the integrated shift paddles for the seven-speed DSG, it offers a real motorsport feeling. The seats and steering wheel are thus the interfaces to the exceptional chassis and engine of the Golf GTIEDITION 50.
Special coloured pedals add to the Edition 50 exclusivity.
Combined with the red seat belts, the sporty seats with check pattern, a line in Racing Green and synthetic velour elements create a high-quality ambience with a motorsport touch. To view the Golf Edition 50 lap the Nordschleife track, see video below:
No word yet from VW Mzansi on whether the GTI Edition 50 will be made available locally with the main hindrance being the low quality fuel we get stuffed with by the government. One will only hope to see this model at the upcoming Festival of Motoring.