Latest news with #Leuchter
TimesLIVE
7 hours ago
- Automotive
- TimesLIVE
Everything you need to know about the new VW Golf GTI Edition 50
Volkswagen has unveiled its new Golf GTI Edition 50. Built to celebrate the German hot hatch's golden anniversary, it is the fastest and most powerful production GTI model to date, thanks to a specially tuned 2.0 l four-cylinder turbocharged engine making 239kW and 420Nm of torque. It comes paired to a seven-speed DSG transmission. The Edition 50 rides 15mm lower than the standard GTI and is available with an optional Performance package that drops the chassis an extra 5mm lower to the asphalt for even better cornering characteristics. Ticking this box also gives you higher spring rates, adapted spring mounts, an Akrapovič titanium exhaust system and 19" 'Warmenau' forged wheels shod with newly developed Bridgestone 235 Potenza Race semi-slick tyres. The latter, according to VW, are 1.1kg lighter than a standard tyre. On the outside, the Edition 50 differentiates itself from its lesser GTI sibling with a black roof, black exterior mirror housings and black exhaust tailpipe finishers. Other exclusive garnish includes a GTI 50 logo on the roof spoiler and insides of the exterior mirrors, special trim on the door sills and a side stripe on the side members with a colour gradient from black to Tornado red. Five striking exterior colours are on offer: Pure White, Moonstone Grey, Grenadilla Black Metallic, Dark Moss Green Metallic and Tornado Red. The cabin features a racier ambience with sport seats upholstered in a check pattern that pays homage to the original GTI that broke cover in 1976. Other tasty mods come in the form of red seat belts and a multifunction leather sports steering wheel with a GTI 50 logo. Though VW hasn't dropped any official performance figures, it has confirmed that the Edition 50 set a lap time of 7:46.13 seconds around the Nürburgring Nordschleife with racing driver Benny Leuchter behind the wheel. That's quicker than Leuchter's previous record in the 245kW Golf R '20 Years' edition in 2022 by just over a second, and more than three seconds faster than his 2016 lap in the GTI Clubsport S (228kW). Impressive stuff. Production of the Golf GTI Edition 50 will begin at the end of 2025 with first deliveries expected to commence at the start of its anniversary year from the first quarter of 2026.
NDTV
3 days ago
- Automotive
- NDTV
Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 Sets Record At Nurburgring
Volkswagen has introduced a new model in its production lineup with the Golf GTI Edition 50, celebrating the 50th anniversary of its iconic hot hatch badge. The near-production version, driven by Volkswagen test and race driver Benny Leuchter, completed a lap of the full 20.8 km Nurburgring Nordschleife in an impressive 7 minutes and 46.13 seconds. On a slightly shorter 20.6 km layout, excluding the T13 grandstand run-off, the car recorded an even faster time of 7 minutes and 41.27 seconds. The Golf GTI Edition 50 is now the fastest road-legal Volkswagen around the Nurburgring, although it still falls short of the ID.R, a 680-horsepower track-only electric prototype that recorded a lap time of 6 minutes and 5.336 seconds in 2019, which remains the all-time record for the German carmaker at the circuit. Golf GTI Edition 50: Powertrain The Golf GTI Edition 50 is powered by a 2.0-litre EA888 turbo-petrol engine, tuned to deliver 324 hp, which is about 60 hp more than the standard GTI. The engine is mated to a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch gearbox and a mechanical limited-slip differential. The test vehicle was equipped with Volkswagen's optional Performance Package, featuring lightweight 19-inch forged wheels, Bridgestone Potenza Race semi-slick tyre, and revised suspension and chassis settings, an upgrade that Leuchter described as "the decisive factor" in the car's Nurburgring performance. Benny Leuchter testing the Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 Golf GTI Edition 50: Comments Benny Leuchter further stated, "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." Golf GTI Edition 50: Availability Volkswagen has announced that the Golf GTI Edition 50 will officially debut on June 20, 2025, just before the Nurburgring 24-hour race. While the full specifications have yet to be released, global deliveries are expected to begin in 2026. As a limited-run, anniversary model, it is unlikely to be available in markets like India.
India Today
5 days ago
- Automotive
- India Today
This is the fastest Volkswagen production model on the Nordschleife track
Volkswagen's upcoming hot hatch, the Golf GTI Edition 50, has made headlines even before its official launch by becoming the fastest road-legal VW to lap Germany's Nrburgring Nordschleife. Professional racing driver Benny Leuchter clocked a lap time of 07:46.13 minutes, making the upcoming special edition GTI the most capable front-wheel-drive Volkswagen on the iconic 20.8-kilometre to debut globally on June 20, 2025, during the 24-hour race weekend at the Nrburgring, the Golf GTI Edition 50 marks the 50th anniversary of the GTI nameplate, with customer deliveries expected to begin in 2026. Volkswagen says the new model represents the 'pure GTI idea' — a combination of powerful front-wheel drive, precise chassis tuning, and track-honed new Nrburgring benchmark The upcoming special edition GTI the most capable front-wheel-drive Volkswagen on the iconic 20.8-kilometre track. According to Volkswagen, the record-setting GTI was equipped with an optional performance package, featuring a specially developed performance chassis, 19-inch Bridgestone Potenza Race semi-slick tyres, and lightweight forged wheels. This setup, Leuchter said, was key to the car's ability to handle the Nrburgring's demanding corners, undulating surfaces, and high-speed sections. 'It's truly impressive how easily this Volkswagen can be moved so quickly over the Nordschleife,' said Leuchter. 'The entire set-up allows you to drive the ideal line with high precision. Even in difficult weather, the GTI remained stable across the entire track.'Historic leap in GTI performance Benny Leuchter clocked a lap time of 07:46.13 minutes. advertisementThis isn't the first time Leuchter has set records in a GTI. Back in 2016, he lapped the Nrburgring in a Golf GTI Clubsport S (310PS) in 07:49.21 minutes, and in 2022, he set a 07:47.31 record in the all-wheel-drive Golf R 20 Years. However, the Edition 50's lap, which includes the 200 meters between grandstand T13's start and finish lines, is a more holistic measure. Excluding that distance (to match prior laps), the GTI Edition 50's lap is even quicker: 07:41.27 minutes, as seen in the on-board footage.'Three years ago, I wouldn't have thought a front-wheel-drive GTI could beat the Golf R's time so decisively,' said Leuchter. 'That it happened — in less-than-ideal weather — speaks volumes about this car's potential.'A celebration of GTI legacyWhile final specs are yet to be confirmed, the Golf GTI Edition 50 is expected to be the most powerful production GTI to date. It will arrive with exclusive design elements and advanced performance upgrades to celebrate five decades of one of the world's most iconic hot its commercial release in 2026, the Edition 50 will be listed in the "Pre-Series Models" category in the Nrburgring official to Auto Today Magazine
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.
