THE most powerful Golf GTI has been created to mark 50 years of Volkswagen’s iconic hot hatch.
Developing 325ps the Golf GTI EDITION 50 can achieve 0 to 62mph in 5.5 seconds and accelerate to 125mph in around 16.8 seconds.
Maximum speed is still to be determined but is expected to be limited to just shy of 170mph.
The model has already set one record even before the start of sales with a lap time of 7:46:13 minutes, making the anniversary model the fastest production Volkswagen on the 13.02 mile Nordschleife circuit.
“For 50 years, the GTI has stood for more than just performance, precision and driving pleasure at Volkswagen: it is a way of life that unites our fans all over the world – and an essential element of what makes us so strong as a brand,” said Thomas Schafer, CEO of the Volkswagen brand. “With the fastest and most powerful production model to date, we are celebrating half a century of GTI passion. It goes without saying that the GTI will live on in the future – without any compromises.”
Volkswagen has refined the chassis of the Golf GTI EDITION 50 with a MacPherson front axle and a four-link rear axle. Overall, the special model is 15 mm lower than the basic configuration.
For those who like it even sportier, Volkswagen offers the optional GTI Performance package with Performance chassis exclusively for the Golf GTI EDITION 50.
The Golf GTI EDITION 50 is 20 mm lower than the standard Golf and the package also includes size 235 semi-slick tyres on 19-inch wheels and a lightweight Akrapovic titanium exhaust system.
Progressive steering is fitted as standard in the Golf GTI EDITION 50 which reduces the effort required to steer when manoeuvring and parking.
The progressive steering was perfected for the new Golf GTI and the Golf GTI Clubsport and has been adapted for the Golf GTI EDITION 50 by means of new steering software.
It also comes with an electronically controlled front differential lock as standard and it the only GTI to be equipped with DCC adaptive chassis control which reacts continuously to the road surface and driving situation while taking into account steering, braking and acceleration manoeuvres.
Production is scheduled to start in Wolfsburg at the end of 2025 so that the Golf GTI EDITION 50 can be delivered to customers promptly for the start of its anniversary year from the first quarter of 2026.
The Golf GTI has the world’s largest fan base of all compact sports cars and is an icon with more than 2.5 million units built.
Golf I GTI (1976-1983) – The first GTI was a sportily tuned model from the first Golf generation and was initially produced in a limited edition of 5,000 units with an output of 110ps. The total for the first series of the Golf GTI ended up at 461,690 units – with the crowning glory coming at the end in the form of the Golf I GTI Pirelli, a special edition with an output of 112ps.
Golf II GTI (1984-1991) – Still with an output of 112ps, the Golf II GTI continued on the same path as the first generation in terms of concept and its design DNA. The Golf II was the first GTI with an optional digital speedometer with a monochrome pixel display and futuristic look.
Golf III GTI (1991-1997) – To mark the 20th GTI birthday in 1996, Volkswagen launched the first official anniversary model: with special wheel rims, red GTI lettering in the interior, a gear knob in golf ball look and checked seats as a tribute to the original GTI. As a further highlight, a turbodiesel version enhanced the GTI idea in 1996.
Golf IV GTI (1998-2003) – The fourth generation of the GTI, introduced in 1998, was modest in terms of styling and was the first and only GTI to omit the red stripe in the radiator grille, for example. The Golf IV GTI was the first Golf GTI to be offered in several equipment lines at the same time – including a particularly elegant Highline version.
Golf V GTI (2004–2008) – In September 2003, Volkswagen launched a magnificent comeback of the classic at the IAA with a concept version of the fifth Golf GTI generation. More than ever before, the acronym GTI became a synonym for compact driving dynamics with this new generation. Its hallmarks were a significantly sharper look, a radiator grille with honeycomb look, a 200ps turbocharged engine and masterful handling characteristics.
Golf VI GTI (2009-2012) – The sixth generation of the Golf GTI redefined the concept of traction thanks to an electronic differential lock. With a top speed of 150mph, this GTI featured a turbocharged engine generating 210ps and was great fun to drive. Racing legend Hans-Joachim Stuck was responsible for fine tuning the vehicle setup.
Golf VII GTI (2013-2019) – For the first time, the seventh GTI generation was launched with two power output levels. The Golf GTI was now based on the modular transverse matrix (MQB) platform. This new technical platform cut the GTI’s weight by up to 42 kg compared with its predecessor, making it even more dynamic.
Golf GTI (2020-2024, facelift 2024) – The eighth generation of the legendary GTI model series sets new standards in terms of driving dynamics and technology. With its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, precisely tuned chassis and progressive steering, to offer the perfect balance between everyday practicality and sportiness.
