[ad_1]
The Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport debuts to give the brand an even steamier hatch. Engineers improve the engine, brakes, suspension and steering to create a vehicle that is even more exciting to drive.
Under the hood, there’s a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 296 horsepower (221 kilowatts) and 295 pound-feet (400 Newton-meters) of torque. For comparison, the standard GTI produces 242 hp (180 kW) and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm). The Clubsport comes exclusively with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. VW puts the hottest hatchback’s acceleration at 62 miles per hour (100 kilometers per hour) in under six seconds, and there is an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (250 kph).
8 Photos
Clubsport has an improved vehicle dynamics manager that now integrates variable locking front differential control into the system, in addition to optional adaptive dampers. VW claims this allows the vehicle to respond faster to even small steering inputs and eliminates understeer that you would find in a traditional front-wheel drive vehicle.
The Clubsport’s suspension sits 0.59 inches (15 millimeters) lower than a standard GTI, and there’s more positive sag on the front axle. Engineers tweak the progressive-speed power steering to have a more direct response when cornering.
If you are going to take the Clubsport to the Nürburgring Nordschleife, then there is good news because there is a driving mode called Special that is specifically for touring the Green Hell. It includes softer suspension settings than Sport mode because the ‘Ring has a wavy surface where a harder ride is not ideal.
Identifying the Clubsport is easy because it features a revised front fascia with a honeycomb mesh grille. There are body-colored wing-shaped elements at each lower corner, and the rest of the trim is matte black. The vehicle comes standard with 18-inch five-spoke wheels, but 19-inch diameter designs are optional. At the rear, there is a glossy black roof spoiler. A circular exhaust outlet exits from each side of the rear and a simulated diffuser runs between them.
Inside, the Clubsport comes standard with VW’s ArtVelours cloth upholstery, and perforated leather is an option. There are red stitching on the seats, the center armrest, the floor mats and the steering wheel.
It is currently unclear if VW intends to offer the Clubsport in the US So far, the company is only confirming the GTI and the Golf R not yet introduced for the US market for the 2022 model year. These vehicles will come from the automaker’s factory in Puebla, Mexico.
