Already the quickest Volkswagen across the Nürburgring, the Golf GTI Version 50 is now additionally probably the most potent automotive from Wolfsburg to put on the Grand Touring Injection badge. It stays front-wheel drive, however now packs practically as a lot energy because the all-wheel-drive Golf R. This particular model takes the GTI system past 300 horsepower for the primary time, surpassing the 296-hp Clubsport. Talking of forbidden fruits, VW tells us its new hardcore model is not coming stateside both.

So, what’s America lacking out on? Nicely, VW is leveling up its already feisty FWD hatch but once more. The GTI Version 50 boosts its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine to 320 horsepower, simply eight shy of the Golf R, whereas matching its 310 lb-ft (420 Nm) of torque. As with all latest efficiency variations of the compact hatchback, there may be, sadly, no six-speed handbook gearbox. Essentially the most highly effective GTI to hold a license plate is just supplied with a seven-speed dual-clutch computerized transmission.

Photograph by: Volkswagen

The stronger EA888 evo4 engine, paired with the DSG, permits a dash to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 5.5 seconds, making it 0.1 seconds faster than the Clubsport. It takes 16.8 seconds to achieve 124 mph (200 km/h), chopping 1.6 seconds off the time set by the beforehand most track-focused GTI. Prime velocity stays unchanged at an electronically restricted 168 mph (270 km/h).

There’s extra to the GTI Version 50 than its upgraded engine. If clients go for the GTI Efficiency Bundle, VW lowers the journey peak by 0.8 inches (20 millimeters) in comparison with a typical Golf. The pack contains “high-performance” pivot bearings on the entrance axle, together with stiffer transverse hyperlinks and strut mountings for sharper steering. On the rear, it options double-shear hub carriers and revised suspension mounts.

To sweeten the deal, the bundle sheds practically 66 kilos (30 kilograms) because of 19-inch solid wheels and an Akrapovič titanium exhaust. A part of the food regimen additionally contains the bespoke Bridgestone Potenza Race semi-slick tires, the identical ones used to lap the Nürburgring Nordschleife in 7 minutes and 41.27 seconds. Different upgrades embrace revised software program for the progressive steering and normal adaptive chassis management (DCC).

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Supply: Volkswagen

Visually, the Golf GTI Version 50 doesn’t stray removed from the system. Apart from the brand new wheels with pink accents, it incorporates a particular emblem on the perimeters of the rear spoiler. VW paints the roof and facet mirrors black and provides darkish trim across the exhaust suggestions. There’s additionally a facet stripe that fades from black to Twister Pink. Different obtainable physique colours embrace Moonstone Gray, Pure White, Grenadilla Black, and the unique Darkish Moss Inexperienced.

Inside modifications are minimal, that includes pink seatbelts, darkish anodized aluminum door handles, and extra GTI 50 logos, together with one on the important thing fob. The seats come wrapped within the acquainted checkered sample and have faux velour accents together with a inexperienced stripe. Regardless of being a top-tier GTI, extras just like the head-up show and navigation nonetheless come at a better price.

VW hasn’t introduced pricing, nevertheless it’s certain to price greater than a GTI Clubsport with the Efficiency Bundle and semi-slick tires, which begins at an already eye-watering €54,330 at residence in Germany.

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Whereas the Golf GTI Version 50 is probably the most highly effective manufacturing GTI ever, it’s nonetheless overshadowed by the outrageous Golf GTI W12-650 idea. Unveiled on the Wörthersee present in 2007, it featured a twin-turbo 6.0-liter engine from the Bentley Continental GT. The mid-mounted monster produced 641 hp, paired with a gearbox from the Phaeton.

A wonderful instance of a elements bin particular from the VW Group, the bonkers W12 idea took the rear axle and brakes from a Lamborghini Gallardo, whereas the entrance brakes got here from an Audi RS4. Regardless of the GTI title, the widebody beast, which may hit 202 mph (325 km/h), was really rear-wheel drive.