Review
VW Golf GTI Clubsport
There are few letters in the automotive sector that have become as legendary as the letters “GTI”. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the GOLF GTI, VW is launching the Golf GTI Clubsport. It has become the most powerful GTI ever and this may well become a copy that is also sought after by collectors.
Engine
At the beating heart of the Clubsport we find a TSI petrol engine with four cylinders and a capacity of 1,984 cc. This engine is technically based on the engine of a Golf R. In the Golf R, the power is sent to the 4 wheels, while in the Clubsport GTI it goes to the front wheels. And the GTI Clubsport has plenty of power. The turbo engine produces 265 hp, which is 35 hp more than in a “classic” Golf GTI Performance. However, the power can be temporarily increased to 290 hp via a boost function, which saves only 10 hp compared to a Golf R. This can be done by simply fully pressing the accelerator pedal. The max. torque is also temporarily increased from 350 Nm to 380 Nm. The Clubsport goes from 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and has a generous top speed of 250 km/h.
Clubsport
The GTI Clubsport is characterized by a completely new front bumper, new side skirts, a new rear diffuser, a handsome roof spoiler and exclusive alloy wheels. Like all other GTIs, the GTI Clubsport has a sports chassis and is lowered by 15mm compared to an average Golf. In terms of transmission, you can choose between a manual version with six gears (from 34,890 euros) or a DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission with six gears (from 36,600 euros). The DSG version is also equipped with launch control as standard, ideal for when you take the Clubsport to the circuit. You can also optionally choose semi-slicks for that circuit, which you can also drive on public roads.
Interior
In the interior we find sporty and ergonomic bucket seats that feature a GTI logo and upholstery in Alcantara and fabric. The sports steering wheel is also covered in Alcantara. On the steering wheel we also find a striking red mark at the 12 o’clock position. Definitely a nice touch.
Driving experience
When you step on the tail of the Clubsport you hear a rumbling and sporty sound. This is broken by loud “sporty farts” every time you shift up. The sound is not as present as in a Golf R, but it is certainly a soundtrack that will please enthusiasts. Although it is a sporty car that you can take to the track, it has also become a car that is comfortable enough for everyday use. The interior is also a beautiful and complete interior and not a stripped-down version. You can let the DSG do the work yourself or you can also take matters into your own hands with the shift paddles behind the steering wheel. Personally, we prefer to let the DSG do the work, so we can focus more on steering.
Conclusion
The Golf GTI is and remains a real winner as an accessible sports car, whether it concerns the “Performance” or the “Clubsport”. The Clubsport has just that little bit more, not only because of the extra power, but also because of the looks. We are not immediately fans of the checked interior in a classic GTI, but the Clubsport makes up for that completely.
Johan De Haes
Test driver
