This Special Edition GTI Outshines the Clubsport and Golf R in Unexpected Ways | Carscoops

      The anniversary edition features a 321 hp engine and an optional Performance Pack, which includes a titanium exhaust and enhanced chassis.

      VW is marking the 50th anniversary of the GTI with the launch of the Golf GTI Edition 50.

      Every model comes with a 321 hp output, a chassis that is lowered by 15 mm, and unique upholstery.

      The optional Performance Pack provides improved dampers and lightweight wheels.

      Reaching the age of 50 often poses a decision for many: we can either indulge in indulgences like cake or commit to achieving our best shape to show that we still have what it takes. Thankfully, the Golf GTI has chosen the latter, resulting in the Edition 50, the fastest and most powerful GTI to date, which may make you reconsider opting for a Honda Civic Type R or even the Golf R.

      The highlight of this latest GTI anniversary special, which has roots going back to the 1980s, is a modified version of VW's well-known 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine produces 262 hp (265 PS) in the standard European GTI (with US versions at 242 hp / 245 PS) and increases to 297 hp (300 PS) in the GTI Clubsport. With its 321 hp (325 PS) output, the Edition 50 approaches the Golf R's performance (329 hp / 333 PS) more than the previous models.

      Torque has also risen to match the Golf R's 310 lb-ft (420 Nm), compared to the Club's 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) and the standard GTI's 273 lb-ft (370 Nm). This means the anniversary model, which maintains its front-wheel drive via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission like all new GTIs, can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 5.5 seconds. This is quicker than the Clubsport at 5.6 seconds and the standard GTI at 5.9 seconds, placing it just a tenth shy of the Honda Civic Type R, which has comparable power and torque figures in its European variant.

      Is it faster than a Golf R?

      While the all-wheel-drive Golf R does achieve a faster start time of 4.6 seconds, we would wager that the Edition 50 could surpass the approximately 100 kg (220 lbs) heavier R with sufficient distance. Data from VW indicates that it reaches 124 mph (200 km/h) 1.6 seconds quicker than the Clubsport R, suggesting that its true performance advantage becomes apparent only beyond 60 mph. As for the top speed? VW's response is somewhat vague, stating it is "probably" limited to 168 mph (270 km/h).

      The Edition 50 stands out from other GTIs with multiple unique badges, a black roof, mirror caps, tailpipe, distinctive side stripes, and a red-glazed finish on the 19-inch Queenstown alloy wheels. Customers can choose from colors like white, gray, black, and two exclusive shades, moss green and VW's classic Tornado Red. Inside, special plaid detailing adorns the sports seats, along with more Edition 50 branding on the mats, sill finishers, seats, and steering wheel.

      As the only GTI equipped with DCC adaptive dampers as standard, the Edition 50 sits 5 mm (0.2 inches) lower than its standard counterpart. It also features a tailored software tuning for both the power steering and electronically-controlled limited-slip differential, but VW emphasizes that the base Edition 50 remains a versatile all-rounder rather than a specialized track machine. To transform it into a focused performer, one must opt for the Performance Pack.

      Performance Pack is the enthusiast's choice

      Selecting the Performance Pack does not increase the power output but enhances how it's utilized. It includes two additional degrees of negative camber, 20 percent stiffer springs that lower the ride height by another 5 mm, firmer bushings, and optional 235-section Bridgestone Potenza Race semi-slick tires that help reduce understeer. These tires are also lighter by 1.1 kg (2.43 lbs) per corner compared to regular tires. The 19-inch Warmenau forged wheels taken from the Golf R save an additional 3 kg (6.6 lbs), and the Akrapovic titanium exhaust reduces weight by 11 kg, leading to a total reduction of 30 kg (66 lbs) with the Performance Pack.

      Earlier this month, Benny Leuchter drove a white Edition 50 with the Performance Pack at the Nurburgring, clocking in a lap time of 7:46.13, solidifying the new anniversary special as the fastest GTI and the quickest VW-badged production car ever. You can view the complete Nurburgring lap in the video below.

      Honda remains at the forefront

      Reg