Shortly after the introduction of the Golf GTI, Volkswagen already presents the first superlative variant of that hot hatch. We welcome: the new Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport.
The chance that you are short of power in the Volkswagen Golf GTI does not seem very great to us. The sporty version has a 245 hp 2.0 TSI under the hood, which is just as powerful as the previous Golf GTI in Performance trim. In the land of hot hatchbacks, there is no such thing as ‘too much power’, so the Golf family will eventually be expanded with a fierce four-wheel drive R version. Those who do not want four-wheel drive, but find the 245 hp Golf GTI too little, can now opt for this brand new Clubsport.
Motor
Until the arrival of the new Golf R, this Golf GTI Clubsport is the absolute king of the model series. This new superlative of the Golf GTI is of course a bit more powerful than its predecessor. Where the previous GTI Clubsport initially delivered 265 hp and thanks to a boost function was temporarily powerful at 290 hp, the 2.0 TSI of the new GTI Clubsport immediately produces 300 hp and 400 Nm. In terms of power, this nestles itself between the previous GTI Clubsport and the Clubsport S, which was limited to 400 units and rammed 310 hp to the front wheels. Switching is in all cases with a DSG automatic transmission with seven gears. The Clubsport sprints to 100 km / h in just under 6 seconds. Its top speed is set at 250 km / h.
The 300 hp generated by the 2.0 TSI is sent, just like in the previous Golf GTI Clubsport, to a front axle that now has an electromechanical limited slip differential. This unit is fully controlled by Volkswagens Vehicle Dynamics Manager, a smart control module that is also linked to the Dynamic Chassis Control and the adaptive suspension. Fun fact: Volkswagen gives the Clubsport a driving mode that is specifically tuned to set lap times on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. An extra powerful braking system, including 18-inch discs, should be able to calm him down properly. In addition, Volkswagen puts the new sports version 1.5 centimeters closer to the asphalt than the regular Golf GTI and the brand also fits it camber of the wheels.
Outside and inside
That is of course not the only adjustment. For example, the steering must be a bit more direct and various spoilers, lips and aerodynamic edges provide more downward force and thus more stability at high speed. Striking is the front bumper, which is ‘filled’ with almost nothing but emptiness over the entire width. Practically the complete bumper consists of a wide mesh. LED Plus headlights are standard, LED matrix viewers are optional. Just like the GTI, the GTI Clubsport is also laced with red accents. The rear spoiler is, like its predecessor, made up of two parts and finished in glossy black paint. The diffuser and the two oval tailpipes are also specific design features. The car is standard on 18-inch light alloy, although 19-inch wheels are on the option list. Behind the wheels, red brake calipers with GTI lettering are visible.
Of course, the interior is also decorated. Volkswagen gives the Clubsport special sports seats with integrated headrests, which, like the center armrest, steering wheel and floor mats, are finished with red stitching. Shifters are hidden behind the wheel.
Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport
The GTI Clubsport will not be king of the Golf family for long. Not only will the Clubsport probably get a Clubsport S version in the long run, also a heavy Golf R will come into play in the not too distant future. The new, more powerful Clubsport S may also be assigned a manual gearbox!