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Just a few months after the debut of the Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk8, the German automaker has released a new Clubsport version of its venerable hot hatch. The new model adds more flavor to the existing recipe, with more power, improved dynamics, and some styling changes.
Don’t get too excited though, because this isn’t as harsh as the Mk7-based Golf GTI Clubsport S we saw in 2016. In fact, Volkswagen says that the new Golf GTI Clubsport is ranked among the first Clubsport, which also arrived in 2016 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Golf GTI, and the Clubsport S.
Also, this is not a limited edition model and according to what Volkswagen tells us, very little effort has been made to reduce the weight of the vehicle, so you still get rear seats unlike the old Clubsport S. Better to think about this a continuation of the previous Golf GTI TCR, with small gains here and there that provide a more engaging driving experience.
With that out of the way, let’s talk numbers. The new Golf GTI Clubsport uses the same EA888 evo4 engine as the regular Golf GTI, which is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. Instead of 245hp and 370Nm of torque, the Clubsport delivers 300hp and 400Nm, all of which are sent to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG gearbox.
Performance wise, you’re looking for a zero to 100 km / h time of under six seconds, along with a top speed limited to 250 km / h. Clubsport also uses an updated Vehicle Dynamics Manager that integrates Front Axle Lock Differential Control (VAQ), Electronic Differential Locks (XDS), as well as optional Electronically Controlled Shocks (DCC).
According to Volkswagen, the system is said to provide a quicker response to minute steering inputs and eliminates understeer typical of front-wheel drive vehicles. Additionally, the suspension sits 15mm lower than a standard GTI, and there’s more positive camber on the front axle and the forward-speed power steering has been tuned for more direct response when it comes to cornering.
The Clubsport has several riding modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual, and a fifth is called Special. The new mode has been adapted to the very specific track characteristics of the Nürburgring Nordschleife, which is said to be most effective at The Green Hell.
Highlights include a smoother suspension setting compared to Sport mode to better deal with the rolling nature of the track, and this allows the Clubsport to be 13 seconds faster on the track compared to its regular sibling. New brakes too, with larger discs and aluminum brake shoes: the latter reduces 600 grams at each corner.
To spot a Clubsport, look for a revised front fascia that is more aggressive, with a honeycomb mesh grille and body-colored wing-shaped air guide elements. At the rear, there is a two-part roof spoiler, along with a new design for the diffuser and oval-shaped tailpipes.
Other cues include 18-inch five-spoke alloys that come standard, with larger 19-inch wheels available as an option. Meanwhile, the side sills have been slightly widened and are accompanied by a black stripe graphic at the base of the front doors.
Inside, the Clubsport has red accent stitching on the seats, center armrest, floor mats and steering wheel; the last element features perforated leather, GTI lettering and red accents. Volkswagen’s ArtVelours fabric upholstery is also used for the seats and door inserts, and perforated leather is offered as an option for the former.
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