The two most eagerly anticipated models in the Volkswagen Golf performance range have arrived: the front-wheel drive Golf GTI Clubsport and the Golf R.
The GTI Clubsport gets increased downforce, an improved chassis and a driving profile adapted for the Nürburgring, while the Golf R offers more all-round appeal than ever, with renewed 4MOTION all-wheel drive incorporating the new R-Performance torque vectoring system and the optional R-Performance package.
Both newcomers offer greater levels of focus and driver involvement. In addition, each model features a raft of equipment and driver assistance systems, including IQ.Light matrix LED headlights, keyless entry, Lane Assist and Travel Assist. Car2X is also fitted, as per the rest of the Golf range, allowing communication between Car2X-equipped cars and infrastructure, to warn road users of hazards ahead.
The new Golf GTI Clubsport
The Golf GTI Clubsport builds upon the formula offered by the 245PS Golf GTI, but dials the power output of its 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine up to 300PS and 400Nm of torque for a 0-62 mph time of just 5.6 seconds. This makes it the fastest-accelerating production Golf GTI in history. Special features include a driving mode developed for the Nürburgring, a large two-part rear spoiler, and an exclusive front bumper. The rear of the Clubsport is distinguished by oval tailpipes, rather than the GTI’s circular pipes.
The Vehicle Dynamics Manager system works in combination with all the electronically controlled running gear including the electromechanical front-axle locking differential and XDS electronic differential lock to eliminate the understeer often associated with front-wheel drive cars. This focus is complemented by a larger braking system, and can be further optimised with the addition of the optional Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) adaptive damper system.
The new Golf R
The Golf R returns as the Golf’s flagship, now with 320PS and 420Nm from its turbocharged 2.0-litre engine, equating to a top speed of 155mph (increasing to 168 mph with the optional R-Performance Pack), where permitted. The 0 to 62 mph sprint is dispatched in just 4.7 seconds – making it the fastest-accelerating Volkswagen on sale.
The powerful engine has a seven-speed DSG transmission and 4MOTION all-wheel drive. The R-Performance Torque Vectoring distributes the engine output to all four wheels and the new differential on the rear axle distributes the drive power not just between the front and rear axles, but also variably between the two rear wheel. This, working with the all-new Vehicle Dynamics Manager and XDS electromechanical differential locks, allows a higher level of agility and a reduction in understeer, which in turn contributes to even greater driver involvement and dynamics.
The performance pack adds upgraded 19-inch ‘Estoril’ alloys, a performance rear spoiler, and an increased top speed of 168mph (where permitted). The pack also adds two new driver modes; Drift and Special. Drift enables the driver to drift the new Golf R on private tracks, while Special mode that provides the setup to tackle the challenging Nürburgring.
