Volkswagen has revealed the new track-honed, range-topping Clubsport version of the Golf GTI to coincide with the hatchback's 50th birthday.
The new GTI Clubsport packs a significant power advantage over the standard GTI, with 296bhp on tap from its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder, and is among the most powerful front-wheel-drive cars on the market, out-punching the Ford Focus ST and nearly matching the reserves of the fearsome Honda Civic Type R.
The updated model is due in the UK later this year, priced around £42,000. It was revealed at the Nürburgring 24 Hours race in Germany, with the circuit having played a significant role in the development of the bespoke powertrain and chassis set-up.
As well as the 34bhp power boost, the Clubsport's tuned EA888 engine increases the torque output from 273lb ft in the standard car to 295lb ft, which helps to deliver a 0-62mph time of 5.6sec - just 0.2sec off that of its Honda rival. Top speed remains electronically capped at 155mph as standard, but the optional Race package increases that to 166mph.
There is no manual gearbox option, with all hot Golfs now sending drive through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, but the Clubsport remains heavily focused on driver engagement and its chassis has been reworked for agility and poise.
Changes to the GTI's MacPherson strut front and four-link rear suspension are claimed to give a more compliant ride in each of its driving modes. Adaptive dampers are available as part of an optional Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) package.
With DCC fitted, the GTI flagship also receives a revised version of its predecessor's Vehicle Dynamics Manger, which allows the driver to tailor the drivetrain, steering and damping characteristics across 15 different settings.
この記事は Autocar UK の June 05, 2024 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です ? サインイン
この記事は Autocar UK の June 05, 2024 版に掲載されています。
7 日間の Magzter GOLD 無料トライアルを開始して、何千もの厳選されたプレミアム ストーリー、9,000 以上の雑誌や新聞にアクセスしてください。
すでに購読者です? サインイン
MG 4
An EV changes your driving style - but not to the detriment of pleasure
PEUGEOT E-208
Time with our French hatch is up. Is it good riddance or au revoir?
In the hot seat
Is the best automotive job in the world actually in miniature scale? Hot Wheels' design boss assures STEPHEN DOBIE it is
Correcting the record
Autocar invented the road test back in 1928 - or did we? KEITH JONES trawls the past to find the true starting point
Road test rebooted
As the Autocar road test forges into its second century, its brief is expanding and it's returning to a familiar place. MATT SAUNDERS explains
Cyber attack
MG is back on the international stage and now trying to return to its sports car roots. MATT SAUNDERS sees if the Cyberster EV can match up to a rival from the present and a relation from the past
KIA PICANTO
As rivals fall by the wayside, Kia's popular city car gets a makeover
MASERATI GRANTURISMO
Latest coupé in a long line of Maserati GT cars hits the UK with V6 power
PORSCHE CAYENNE GTS COUPE
New V8 model gets all the goodies
TOYOTA PRIUS
Back by popular demand with a cool new look and greater driver appeal