The iconic Golf GTI, the car that popularised the 'hot hatch' phenomenon, is 40-years old this year and, to mark the occasion, Volkswagen has created the most potent iteration of the GTI to date. The specially commissioned Golf GTI Clubsport Edition 40 celebrates four decades of a true automotive icon.
Powering this addition to the GTI range is a 2.0-litre turbocharged direct injection engine that delivers 261bhp, making it the most powerful Golf GTI yet. Accelerate hard in third gear or higher and, for up to 10 seconds, an additional 'overboost' function increases the engine power to 286bhp. Maximum torque, under boost, is 350Nm. Top speed is limited to 249km/h and 0-100km/h takes a brisk 6.3 seconds.
In the new Golf GTI Clubsport Edition 40, this power is channelled entirely to the front wheels via either a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed DSG. The lightweight front-wheel drive system that is typical of the Golf GTI offers tremendous agility, working in conjunction with an electronically controlled front differential lock and the XDS+ vehicle dynamics function. The DSG version of the car is also equipped with launch control as standard.
Inside, the new car features iconic details that are essential for every GTI. These include the ergonomic sports seats with a tailor-made look featuring Alcantara and black cloth upholstery; red topstitching; a gear knob in golf ball design; and a black headliner. Meanwhile, black honeycomb patterned backrests and seat centre section with red seaming perfectly complement the dynamic and sporty interior. New trim strips in 'Honeycomb 40' design give the interior an even more exclusive appearance. Sporty decorative features include Alcantara trim on the gear lever, an Alcantara-clad sport steering wheel and customised floor mats with red edging.
The anniversary model is being offered with optional black painted roof, which is combined with one of the body colours: Pure White, Tornado Red, Oryx White mother of pearl effect, Reflex Silver, Carbon Grey Metallic, or Urano Grey. The solid colour Deep Black pearl effect is also available.
