Latest news with #GTIEdition50
Top Gear
23-06-2025
- Automotive
- Top Gear
The VW Golf GTI Edition 50 is the most powerful production GTI ever made
The VW Golf GTI Edition 50 is the most powerful production GTI ever made Special edition celebrates 50 years of the Golf GTI and already has a 'Ring record to its name Skip 12 photos in the image carousel and continue reading Turn on Javascript to see all the available pictures. 1 / 12 Meet the Golf GTI Edition 50. We already knew it was Volkswagen's fastest ever production car around the Nürburgring in the hands of, er, the extremely handy Benny Leuchter, and now we discover it's the most powerful production GTI in its 50-year history. So, let's have at those numbers. It gets a tuned version of VW's turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder EA888 petrol engine for 321bhp/310lb ft total outputs, up on the Golf GTI Clubsport's 296bhp/295lb ft and up even more on the standard Golf GTI's 261bhp/273lb ft. Advertisement - Page continues below Indeed, it's only slightly down on the all-wheel-drive Golf R's 328bhp, with which it shares the same torque figure. And it's already beaten that car around the 'Ring. All that power helps it see off the zero to 62mph sprint in five and a half seconds. Volkswagen has retuned the DCC adaptive dampers, adjusted the front differential lock and revised the steering, while the optional GTI Performance Package sees a tweaked suspension setup including 20 per cent stiffer springs, sitting 20mm lower than the GTI and 5mm lower the GTI Clubsport. There's also new shoes in the shape of lightweight 19in forged alloy wheels on semi-slick tyres – reportedly saving around 4kg per corner – plus an Akrapovič titanium exhaust that saves a further 11kg. Not bad for a summer shred. Looks the part too, with VW having given its 50-year anniversary special the glow up treatment in the form of a black roof, mirrors and exhaust pipes, plus GTI 50 decals on the mirrors and spoiler. Five colours are available, including Moss Green and Tornado Red, the latter worn by various Golf GTIs in the past. Advertisement - Page continues below No word on how many will be built, or how much it's going to cost, but expect a slight hike over the existing Golf GTI Clubsport's £43,215 starting price. Tempted? Top Gear Newsletter Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Look out for your regular round-up of news, reviews and offers in your inbox. Get all the latest news, reviews and exclusives, direct to your inbox. Success Your Email*
The Citizen
23-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Volkswagen celebrates Golf GTI's 50th early with special Edition 50
Besides the regular GTI, the 50 Edition also becomes the most powerful Golf GTI ever made with power than the GTI Clubsport and the same torque figure as the Golf R. Edition 50 has officially become the fastest and most powerful Golf GTI ever made. Image: Volkswagen Ahead of its 50th anniversary celebration next year, Volkswagen officially debuted the commemorative Edition 50 of the Golf GTI this past weekend on the eve of the 24 Hours of the Nürburgring. The most powerful GTI ever made, and the fastest to have lapped the 'Ring with a time of seven minutes 46.13 seconds, the GTI Edition 50 retains usage of the same 2.0 TSI engine as the standard GTI and Golf R, but with the same drive unit as the Golf 8.5 GTI Clubsport. Mechanically otherwise unchanged, the result is a power output of 239 kW, 44 kW more than the normal Golf 8.5 GTI and six kilowatts down on the R, and torque rating of 420 Nm. The latter representing an increase of 50 Nm over the standard GTI and matching that of the R, the GTI Edition 50 will get from 0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds and hit a limited top speed of 270 km/h. More powerful than the Clubsport, whose 221kW/400Nm had been the most of any GTI until now, the Edition 50 continues to send its amount to the front axle only via a seven-speed DSG. Unsurprisingly, a series of extensive revisions have taken place underneath. These include a 15 mm ride height drop, retuned steering, reprogramming of the Dynamic Chassis Control system and a revised XDS electronic front differential. As an option though, the GTI Performance package goes a step further by adding an additional five millimetre ride height drop for a total of 20 mm compared to the standard GTI, 19-inch Warmenau forged alloy wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza semi-slick tyres that weight eight kilograms less each than the normal wheels, and an Akrapovič titanium exhaust system that reduces weight by a further 11 kg. Externally, the easy-to-spot changes consist of gloss black finishes on the door sills, gloss black mirror caps, GTI 50 logo on the outer blades of the roof spoiler, black exhaust outlet tips, Tornado Red detailing on the wheels and a black stripe at the base of the doors that fades to red. Inside, the unique touches comprise red seatbelts, a GTI 50 logo on the base of the steering wheel, check pattern red, white and green imitation Velour-trimmed seats, GTI stitch work on the front seatbacks, a gloss black centre console, GTI 50 treadplates and red alloy pedals. In total, the GTI Edition 50 will be offered in five colours; Pure White, Grenadilla Black, Moonstone Grey and two exclusive hues not offered on the standard GTI, Tornado Red and Moss Green. Now available for ordering with deliveries starting from the first quarter of 2026, the Golf 8.5 GTI Edition 50 is unlikely to be offered in South Africa anytime soon as a result of the country's poor quality currently prohibiting the launch of the normal GTI and R until at least 2027.
Hindustan Times
21-06-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Volkswagen Golf GTI gets a limited-run anniversary edition with more power
The Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 is the fastest VW-badged production model to lap the Nürburgring and the most powerful GTI model to date. Check Offers The Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 has recently been unveiled, and the German automaker has debuted this 50th anniversary edition at the Nürburgring 24 Hours. This special version is the most powerful GTI-badged car, boasting nearly as much performance as the all-wheel-drive Golf R. It comes with an upgraded engine, revised chassis tuning, and new cosmetic elements for a sportier look. The limited edition of our favourite hot hatch is fitted with a more powerful iteration of the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol inline-four engine. While it makes 245 bhp in the India-spec GTI (and 262 bhp in the Euro-spec), the anniversary special hikes the power output to 321 bhp. This brings it closer to the Golf R's 329 bhp output, while torque figures are identical at 420 Nm. Also Read : MV Agusta Superveloce 1000 Ago is a limited-edition 208 bhp tribute on two wheels The GTI Edition 50 features a 7-speed DCT and sprints from a standstill to 100 kmph in 5.5 seconds. This makes it faster than both the standard GTI and the Clubsport models. While the Golf R with its AWD system does make the sprint in 4.6 seconds, the Edition 50 is the fastest Volkswagen production model to lap the Nürburgring. Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50: Performance Pack Interested buyers can further choose to opt for the optional Performance package, which adds an extra two degrees of negative camber and 20 per cent stiffer springs. While the anniversary model is 15 mm lower than the regular GTI, the Performance package further lowers the car by 5 mm. The Performance Pack additionally offers 235-section Bridgestone Potenza Race semi-slick tyres which help cut understeer, 19-inch Warmenau forged wheels borrowed from the Golf R, and a titanium exhaust from Akrapovic. Suggested watch: FIRST LOOK: Volkswagen Golf GTI For India | Specifications, Features and Interior Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50: Design and interior The anniversary model features multiple GTI 50 logos all around the exterior with blacked-out elements such as the roof, mirror housings, and tailpipe trims. There is also a unique side stripe that runs along the car's side skirts with a gradient that goes from black to Tornado Red. The GTI Edition 50 rides on 19-inch Queenstown alloys with a special red glaze finish. Out of the available five colour options, Tornado Red is the most significant owing to its reputation for being offered with all high-performance VWs since the late 1980s. Changes inside the cabin are minimal, with red seatbelts and dark anodised aluminium door handles. There are additional GTI 50 logos inside, including one on the newly designed leather-wrapped steering wheel. The sport seats remain unchanged with the familiar chequered pattern and synthetic velour accents. It is important to note that features such as a heads-up display and navigation still come as optional extras. Also Read : We've driven the Golf GTI at NATRAX. Here's our review) Volkswagen has confirmed that production for the Golf GTI Edition 50 will commence towards the end of 2025. Deliveries are scheduled to begin from the first quarter of 2026, which marks the start of the anniversary year. Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2024, Best SUVs in India. First Published Date: 21 Jun 2025, 14:00 PM IST
Auto Blog
20-06-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Volkswagen GTI Edition 50 Revealed With Golf R-Rivaling Horsepower
Introducing the new king of FWD hatchbacks A few days after confirming that it's the quickest production Volkswagen around the Nurburgring, the brand has officially taken the covers off the Golf GTI Edition 50. It arrives at the perfect time for the iconic Golf nameplate, which celebrates its 50th anniversary next year. With this reveal, we have more insight into how VW managed to get a front-wheel-drive GTI around the famous Green Hell more quickly than the all-wheel-drive Golf R, which is quite an achievement. Thanks to a Performance Package and even more power than we were expecting, this hottest Golf GTI achieved a Nurburgring lap time of seven minutes and 46.13 seconds. Nearly As Powerful As Golf R The final specs are in, and this is clearly no ordinary GTI. Whereas the standard GTI produces 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque (making it slightly less powerful than the European GTI), the GTI Edition 50 gets achingly close to the Golf R with outputs of 321 hp and 310 lb-ft. That's only 7 hp less than the R, and torque is exactly the same. This GTI is also more powerful than the Civic Type R (315 hp), often considered the king of FWD hot hatchbacks. Riding on a special Performance chassis, VW used half a century of experience in developing the GTI to perfect this model. The Golf VIII GTI Clubsport was used as a starting point, before the team added semi-slick tires and more precise steering. The front differential lock was also tuned for this application. Source: Volkswagen Go for the GTI Performance package, and the car gets higher spring rates, a further lowering of the ride height, special suspension mounts, lighter forged wheels, a weight-saving Akrapovic titanium exhaust system, and 235 Potenza Race semi-slick tires from Bridgestone. The cumulative effect of these changes left racing driver Benjamin Leuchter deeply impressed. 'For me, the Golf GTI EDITION 50 is the most precise and sporty Volkswagen I've ever driven,' says Leuchter. 'It reminds me a lot of the Golf GTI Clubsport S from 2016. However, the Golf GTI EDITION 50 has been systematically enhanced once again. Because it's so intuitive and precise, I have a lot of confidence in the car and can really push it to the limit.' Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Sporty Looks Match Record Pace Outside, the GTI Edition 50 gets a choice of five exterior colors: Pure White, Moonstone Grey, Grenadilla Black, Tornado Red, and Dark Moss Green. The red is especially closely tied to various VW performance cars from the past, including the Golf VR6 Mk3. GTI 50 logos, a black roof and mirrors, and a distinctive side stripe combine to visually differentiate this special Golf. Inside, the nostalgic check pattern has been applied to the supportive seats, which has red detailing. The GTI 50 logo can be found on the steering wheel, which also houses paddles for the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. 'The Golf GTI EDITION 50 is our fastest and most powerful GTI to date. With the optional Performance package, we have taken the GTI concept to a whole new level,' explains Sebastian Willmann, Head of the Chassis Development and Driving Dynamics Department at VW. There's no word yet on pricing or availability, but we expect a figure far above the $32,445 starting price of the normal GTI. About the Author Karl Furlong View Profile
The Advertiser
13-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
2026 Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 beats R round the 'Ring
The Volkswagen Golf GTI turns 50 next year, and to celebrate the German auto giant has created its fastest-ever production model around the famed Nurburgring Nordschleife circuit. Dubbed "the most powerful production GTI to date", the 2026 Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 celebrates half a century of the iconic hot hatch nameplate, and will officially debut at the Nurburgring 24-hour race on 20 June. This week, company race driver Benny Leuchter set a 7 minute 46.13 second lap around the Nurburgring Nordschleife, making the GTI Edition 50 the fastest Volkswagen production model on the iconic 20.8km German circuit. It beat the 2022 Golf R 20 Years by over a second, the previous VW record holder with a 7 minute 47.31 second time – again with Mr Leuchter at the wheel. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. WATCH: Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 sets the fastest Nurburgring lap time by a VW "For both of the aforementioned records, the timed lap on the Nürburgring Nordschleife started flying in front of grandstand T13," Volkswagen says in its media release. "The start and finish for the measurement were at the beginning and end of the grandstand, respectively; the approximately 200 meters in between were not counted. "The official lap time of 07:46:13 for the Golf GTI Edition 50 includes this distance. For better comparability, a look at the on-board camera installed during the record run provides a time of 07:41:27 for the comparable lap." While full details of the GTI Edition 50 are still to be revealed – i.e. power figures and performance claims – VW says the production model due to launch in 2026 will be available with a Performance package, which brings a "performance chassis and particularly lightweight 19-inch semi-slick Potenza Race tyres from Bridgestone… which have been specially developed for the car." The forged alloy wheels are said to "noticeably reduce the unsprung and rotating masses", which according to Mr Leuchter were "a decisive factor" in setting the record lap time. VW's claim that the Edition 50 is "the most powerful production GTI to date" indicates the commemorative edition will eclipse the power and performance of even the GTI Clubsport, which isn't available in Australia but on sale in overseas markets like Europe and the UK. Equipped with a 221kW/400Nm 'evo4' iteration of Volkswagen's venerable 'EA888' 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, the 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport can dash from 0-100km/h in 5.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 267km/h when optioned with the Race Package. Drive is sent exclusively to the front wheels via a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. Sound familiar? A version of the same drivetrain powers the flagship Cupra Leon VZx in Australia. Speaking with CarExpert at the recent local launch of the new Mk8.5 Golf range, general manager for product at Volkswagen Australia, Arjun Nidigallu, said the German brand's local arm is actively looking into how the GTI Clubsport could fit into the local lineup. "[There's] a bit more work to do, but it's certainly something we will look into later in the lifecycle as an opportunity," Mr Nidigallu told CarExpert. "There are some technical things with the GTI Clubsport – engine and suspension variations that we need to make sure we have clearances for the Australian market." "As we continue through the lifecycle, there are always opportunities for us to look at, special editions in particular, but typically they tend to be performance editions as well – GTI special edition or a Golf R special edition that [we have done in the past]. "Along those lines there might be an opportunity [for the Clubsport], but we need to investigate it in more detail." The GTI Clubsport would give Volkswagen a more direct competitor to track-focused competition like the Honda Civic Type R, as well as the now-defunct Renault Megane R.S. Naturally, you can throw the aforementioned Cupra Leon in there as well. No doubt part of the brand's initial hesitation to bring the GTI Clubsport to Australia is the presence and popularity of the all-wheel drive Golf R. Given the new GTI is priced from $58,990 and the R from $70,990 (both before on-road costs), it's a fairly narrow window for what is a niche product to sit in. For reference, the GTI Edition 50's 7:46:13 Nordschleife record is within striking distance of the 2023 Type R's 7:44:881 and 2019 Megane R.S. Trophy R's 7:45:39 times. The record holder for compact vehicles, however, is the Golf's cousin the Audi RS3 – which holds a 7:33:123 best time. Stay tuned to CarExpert for our coverage of the GTI Edition 50's reveal on June 20 MORE: Volkswagen mulling hardcore Golf GTI for Australia MORE: Everything Volkswagen Golf Content originally sourced from: The Volkswagen Golf GTI turns 50 next year, and to celebrate the German auto giant has created its fastest-ever production model around the famed Nurburgring Nordschleife circuit. Dubbed "the most powerful production GTI to date", the 2026 Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 celebrates half a century of the iconic hot hatch nameplate, and will officially debut at the Nurburgring 24-hour race on 20 June. This week, company race driver Benny Leuchter set a 7 minute 46.13 second lap around the Nurburgring Nordschleife, making the GTI Edition 50 the fastest Volkswagen production model on the iconic 20.8km German circuit. It beat the 2022 Golf R 20 Years by over a second, the previous VW record holder with a 7 minute 47.31 second time – again with Mr Leuchter at the wheel. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. WATCH: Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 sets the fastest Nurburgring lap time by a VW "For both of the aforementioned records, the timed lap on the Nürburgring Nordschleife started flying in front of grandstand T13," Volkswagen says in its media release. "The start and finish for the measurement were at the beginning and end of the grandstand, respectively; the approximately 200 meters in between were not counted. "The official lap time of 07:46:13 for the Golf GTI Edition 50 includes this distance. For better comparability, a look at the on-board camera installed during the record run provides a time of 07:41:27 for the comparable lap." While full details of the GTI Edition 50 are still to be revealed – i.e. power figures and performance claims – VW says the production model due to launch in 2026 will be available with a Performance package, which brings a "performance chassis and particularly lightweight 19-inch semi-slick Potenza Race tyres from Bridgestone… which have been specially developed for the car." The forged alloy wheels are said to "noticeably reduce the unsprung and rotating masses", which according to Mr Leuchter were "a decisive factor" in setting the record lap time. VW's claim that the Edition 50 is "the most powerful production GTI to date" indicates the commemorative edition will eclipse the power and performance of even the GTI Clubsport, which isn't available in Australia but on sale in overseas markets like Europe and the UK. Equipped with a 221kW/400Nm 'evo4' iteration of Volkswagen's venerable 'EA888' 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, the 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport can dash from 0-100km/h in 5.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 267km/h when optioned with the Race Package. Drive is sent exclusively to the front wheels via a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. Sound familiar? A version of the same drivetrain powers the flagship Cupra Leon VZx in Australia. Speaking with CarExpert at the recent local launch of the new Mk8.5 Golf range, general manager for product at Volkswagen Australia, Arjun Nidigallu, said the German brand's local arm is actively looking into how the GTI Clubsport could fit into the local lineup. "[There's] a bit more work to do, but it's certainly something we will look into later in the lifecycle as an opportunity," Mr Nidigallu told CarExpert. "There are some technical things with the GTI Clubsport – engine and suspension variations that we need to make sure we have clearances for the Australian market." "As we continue through the lifecycle, there are always opportunities for us to look at, special editions in particular, but typically they tend to be performance editions as well – GTI special edition or a Golf R special edition that [we have done in the past]. "Along those lines there might be an opportunity [for the Clubsport], but we need to investigate it in more detail." The GTI Clubsport would give Volkswagen a more direct competitor to track-focused competition like the Honda Civic Type R, as well as the now-defunct Renault Megane R.S. Naturally, you can throw the aforementioned Cupra Leon in there as well. No doubt part of the brand's initial hesitation to bring the GTI Clubsport to Australia is the presence and popularity of the all-wheel drive Golf R. Given the new GTI is priced from $58,990 and the R from $70,990 (both before on-road costs), it's a fairly narrow window for what is a niche product to sit in. For reference, the GTI Edition 50's 7:46:13 Nordschleife record is within striking distance of the 2023 Type R's 7:44:881 and 2019 Megane R.S. Trophy R's 7:45:39 times. The record holder for compact vehicles, however, is the Golf's cousin the Audi RS3 – which holds a 7:33:123 best time. Stay tuned to CarExpert for our coverage of the GTI Edition 50's reveal on June 20 MORE: Volkswagen mulling hardcore Golf GTI for Australia MORE: Everything Volkswagen Golf Content originally sourced from: The Volkswagen Golf GTI turns 50 next year, and to celebrate the German auto giant has created its fastest-ever production model around the famed Nurburgring Nordschleife circuit. Dubbed "the most powerful production GTI to date", the 2026 Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 celebrates half a century of the iconic hot hatch nameplate, and will officially debut at the Nurburgring 24-hour race on 20 June. This week, company race driver Benny Leuchter set a 7 minute 46.13 second lap around the Nurburgring Nordschleife, making the GTI Edition 50 the fastest Volkswagen production model on the iconic 20.8km German circuit. It beat the 2022 Golf R 20 Years by over a second, the previous VW record holder with a 7 minute 47.31 second time – again with Mr Leuchter at the wheel. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. WATCH: Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 sets the fastest Nurburgring lap time by a VW "For both of the aforementioned records, the timed lap on the Nürburgring Nordschleife started flying in front of grandstand T13," Volkswagen says in its media release. "The start and finish for the measurement were at the beginning and end of the grandstand, respectively; the approximately 200 meters in between were not counted. "The official lap time of 07:46:13 for the Golf GTI Edition 50 includes this distance. For better comparability, a look at the on-board camera installed during the record run provides a time of 07:41:27 for the comparable lap." While full details of the GTI Edition 50 are still to be revealed – i.e. power figures and performance claims – VW says the production model due to launch in 2026 will be available with a Performance package, which brings a "performance chassis and particularly lightweight 19-inch semi-slick Potenza Race tyres from Bridgestone… which have been specially developed for the car." The forged alloy wheels are said to "noticeably reduce the unsprung and rotating masses", which according to Mr Leuchter were "a decisive factor" in setting the record lap time. VW's claim that the Edition 50 is "the most powerful production GTI to date" indicates the commemorative edition will eclipse the power and performance of even the GTI Clubsport, which isn't available in Australia but on sale in overseas markets like Europe and the UK. Equipped with a 221kW/400Nm 'evo4' iteration of Volkswagen's venerable 'EA888' 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, the 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport can dash from 0-100km/h in 5.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 267km/h when optioned with the Race Package. Drive is sent exclusively to the front wheels via a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. Sound familiar? A version of the same drivetrain powers the flagship Cupra Leon VZx in Australia. Speaking with CarExpert at the recent local launch of the new Mk8.5 Golf range, general manager for product at Volkswagen Australia, Arjun Nidigallu, said the German brand's local arm is actively looking into how the GTI Clubsport could fit into the local lineup. "[There's] a bit more work to do, but it's certainly something we will look into later in the lifecycle as an opportunity," Mr Nidigallu told CarExpert. "There are some technical things with the GTI Clubsport – engine and suspension variations that we need to make sure we have clearances for the Australian market." "As we continue through the lifecycle, there are always opportunities for us to look at, special editions in particular, but typically they tend to be performance editions as well – GTI special edition or a Golf R special edition that [we have done in the past]. "Along those lines there might be an opportunity [for the Clubsport], but we need to investigate it in more detail." The GTI Clubsport would give Volkswagen a more direct competitor to track-focused competition like the Honda Civic Type R, as well as the now-defunct Renault Megane R.S. Naturally, you can throw the aforementioned Cupra Leon in there as well. No doubt part of the brand's initial hesitation to bring the GTI Clubsport to Australia is the presence and popularity of the all-wheel drive Golf R. Given the new GTI is priced from $58,990 and the R from $70,990 (both before on-road costs), it's a fairly narrow window for what is a niche product to sit in. For reference, the GTI Edition 50's 7:46:13 Nordschleife record is within striking distance of the 2023 Type R's 7:44:881 and 2019 Megane R.S. Trophy R's 7:45:39 times. The record holder for compact vehicles, however, is the Golf's cousin the Audi RS3 – which holds a 7:33:123 best time. Stay tuned to CarExpert for our coverage of the GTI Edition 50's reveal on June 20 MORE: Volkswagen mulling hardcore Golf GTI for Australia MORE: Everything Volkswagen Golf Content originally sourced from: The Volkswagen Golf GTI turns 50 next year, and to celebrate the German auto giant has created its fastest-ever production model around the famed Nurburgring Nordschleife circuit. Dubbed "the most powerful production GTI to date", the 2026 Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 celebrates half a century of the iconic hot hatch nameplate, and will officially debut at the Nurburgring 24-hour race on 20 June. This week, company race driver Benny Leuchter set a 7 minute 46.13 second lap around the Nurburgring Nordschleife, making the GTI Edition 50 the fastest Volkswagen production model on the iconic 20.8km German circuit. It beat the 2022 Golf R 20 Years by over a second, the previous VW record holder with a 7 minute 47.31 second time – again with Mr Leuchter at the wheel. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. WATCH: Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 sets the fastest Nurburgring lap time by a VW "For both of the aforementioned records, the timed lap on the Nürburgring Nordschleife started flying in front of grandstand T13," Volkswagen says in its media release. "The start and finish for the measurement were at the beginning and end of the grandstand, respectively; the approximately 200 meters in between were not counted. "The official lap time of 07:46:13 for the Golf GTI Edition 50 includes this distance. For better comparability, a look at the on-board camera installed during the record run provides a time of 07:41:27 for the comparable lap." While full details of the GTI Edition 50 are still to be revealed – i.e. power figures and performance claims – VW says the production model due to launch in 2026 will be available with a Performance package, which brings a "performance chassis and particularly lightweight 19-inch semi-slick Potenza Race tyres from Bridgestone… which have been specially developed for the car." The forged alloy wheels are said to "noticeably reduce the unsprung and rotating masses", which according to Mr Leuchter were "a decisive factor" in setting the record lap time. VW's claim that the Edition 50 is "the most powerful production GTI to date" indicates the commemorative edition will eclipse the power and performance of even the GTI Clubsport, which isn't available in Australia but on sale in overseas markets like Europe and the UK. Equipped with a 221kW/400Nm 'evo4' iteration of Volkswagen's venerable 'EA888' 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, the 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport can dash from 0-100km/h in 5.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 267km/h when optioned with the Race Package. Drive is sent exclusively to the front wheels via a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. Sound familiar? A version of the same drivetrain powers the flagship Cupra Leon VZx in Australia. Speaking with CarExpert at the recent local launch of the new Mk8.5 Golf range, general manager for product at Volkswagen Australia, Arjun Nidigallu, said the German brand's local arm is actively looking into how the GTI Clubsport could fit into the local lineup. "[There's] a bit more work to do, but it's certainly something we will look into later in the lifecycle as an opportunity," Mr Nidigallu told CarExpert. "There are some technical things with the GTI Clubsport – engine and suspension variations that we need to make sure we have clearances for the Australian market." "As we continue through the lifecycle, there are always opportunities for us to look at, special editions in particular, but typically they tend to be performance editions as well – GTI special edition or a Golf R special edition that [we have done in the past]. "Along those lines there might be an opportunity [for the Clubsport], but we need to investigate it in more detail." The GTI Clubsport would give Volkswagen a more direct competitor to track-focused competition like the Honda Civic Type R, as well as the now-defunct Renault Megane R.S. Naturally, you can throw the aforementioned Cupra Leon in there as well. No doubt part of the brand's initial hesitation to bring the GTI Clubsport to Australia is the presence and popularity of the all-wheel drive Golf R. Given the new GTI is priced from $58,990 and the R from $70,990 (both before on-road costs), it's a fairly narrow window for what is a niche product to sit in. For reference, the GTI Edition 50's 7:46:13 Nordschleife record is within striking distance of the 2023 Type R's 7:44:881 and 2019 Megane R.S. Trophy R's 7:45:39 times. The record holder for compact vehicles, however, is the Golf's cousin the Audi RS3 – which holds a 7:33:123 best time. Stay tuned to CarExpert for our coverage of the GTI Edition 50's reveal on June 20 MORE: Volkswagen mulling hardcore Golf GTI for Australia MORE: Everything Volkswagen Golf Content originally sourced from:
