Latest news with #GTIEdition50
Auto Blog
15 hours ago
- 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:
7NEWS
13-06-2025
- Automotive
- 7NEWS
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.
Perth Now
13-06-2025
- Automotive
- Perth Now
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. Camera Icon Supplied Credit: CarExpert 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.' Camera Icon Supplied Credit: CarExpert '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. Camera Icon Supplied Credit: CarExpert 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
Miami Herald
13-06-2025
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Golf GTI Edition 50 Becomes VW's Fastest Car At Nurburgring
Volkswagen has proved yet again that it's one of the hot hatch authorities, with its new Golf GTI Edition 50 setting a new record for production VWs around the Nurburgring. Referred to as a "near-production test vehicle" by VW, this special GTI set a time of seven minutes and 46.13 seconds. That surpasses the time of seven minutes and 47.31 seconds set by the Golf R 20th Anniversary edition, a time achieved in 2022. Unlike the all-wheel-drive Golf R, the GTI sends power to the front wheels only, yet it's always remained fun to drive despite its FWD setup. The record-breaking time was set across the 12.9-mile route of the course, and an even quicker time of seven minutes and 41.27 seconds was achieved over the slightly shorter 12.8-mile stretch. The GTI 50 was not quite able to dethrone the Honda Civic Type R, which remains the FWD hot hatch king. The hottest Civic completed the 12.9-mile lap in a time of seven minutes and 44.88 seconds. Although we don't know if this GTI improves upon the normal GTi's 241 horsepower, it's highly unlikely to match the Type R's 315 hp, which is more Golf R territory. Still, the GTI 50 gets close, thanks to an optional Performance package with lightweight 19-inch semi-slick Potenza Race tires from Bridgestone. These are wrapped around lightweight forged wheels, which lower unsprung and rotating masses. A performance-tuned chassis is also part of this package, which was equipped to the GTI that completed this latest effort at the Green Hell. Benny Leuchter was behind the wheel of the GTI Edition 50 for this run, and was left blown away by the car. He was a good choice for the job, having driven the Golf GTI Clubsport S for the brand's first lap record nearly a decade ago. He did the same in the Golf R 20 Years in 2022. "The entire setup of the Golf GTI Edition 50 means you can drive the ideal line of the Nordschleife with high precision," said Leuchter. "If you really want to be fast on the track known as the 'Green Hell', the car also has to compensate for the typical bumps in the ground and reach very high cornering speeds. This is exactly what the Golf GTI Edition 50 achieves in perfection. The aplomb with which it masters the peculiarities of the legendary Nordschleife is cool: the GTI is instantly stable over the entire 20.8 kilometers." Leuchter said he would never have believed he could beat the Golf R's lap time in a FWD GTI. A full reveal of the record-breaking GTI Edition 50 is set for June 20. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
