Volkswagen Releases Golf GTI Clubsport MK8

The fastest, most anticipated Volkswagen Golf GTI MK8 has arrived. Not only that, it lapped Germany’s Nürburgring in under seven minutes and 54 seconds. This isn’t much of a surprise, once you’ve seen what’s underneath the aggressive hatchback’s hood.

The Golf GTI Clubsport MK8 is oozing with sporting potential. The engine has been tuned to produce 298 BHP and 295 lb-ft of torque which rockets the four-door hatch to 60 MPH in under six seconds and on to a top speed that’s been limited at 155 MPH. There is no “R” variant to the latest range of Golfs yet, though VW assures it’s in the works. For now, the Clubsport can more than handle itself.

Luckily, Volkswagen fitted the Clubsport with a seven-speed DSG transmission to manage all that power. In addition to the new design language, the Clubsport GTI sits 15 mm lower than the standard car. Keeping the weight low and in-board stabilizes the Clubsport’s lean-angles in the corners, and larger brakes help the car prepare for them.

Plenty of attention is paid to the interior of the Clubsport MK8, though the biggest wow factor comes from the exterior cosmetic tweaks. Volkswagen has given the car bigger shoes (18 inch rims), a new front bumper-grille design, a two-stage rear spoiler, a prominent diffuser, and a set of oval tailpipes instead of the traditional circular ones. 

Volkswagen has not released any hard numbers on price, though it’s expected to be in the $40,000 USD range. Check back with us for more updates, and all other automotive news.