Hot new 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport previewed

VW will launch its facelifted 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport on June 1 at the Nurburgring 24 Hours.

And to build anticipation for what’s set to be the most powerful front-drive VW Golf ever, the German car-maker has released pictures of the hot hatch wearing only light camouflage.

No further details were released for the incoming flagship version of the updated Mk8.5 Golf GTI range, other than stating the GTI Clubsport will feature a “powerful drive and high-end sports suspension”.

Expect power from its 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder to be reasonable bump up on the previous Clubsport that produced 221kW – and for the turbo-four to be combined with both a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and a limited-slip differential (mechanical for the first time).

Also expect custom springs and adaptive dampers with a special setting for the Nurburgring.

Externally, it’s clear from our first glimpse that the Golf GTI Clubsport gets a new front bumper, illuminated VW logo, revised LED headlights and extra fins added to the air intakes.

A larger roof spoiler, huge revised diffuser, dual Akrapovic pipes and 19-inch wheels complete the changes. The latter can be swapped out for another set of 19-inch forged wheels that are said to weigh around 8kg each.

Inside, there’s a new sports steering wheel and a fresh infotainment system that’s said to be more intuitive and incorporates ChatGPT with the onboard assistant.

It also looks like the Golf GTI Clubsport might also gain a pair of new sports seats that could save yet more weight while providing extra support on track.

As part of the teaser, Volkswagen also announced it would compete at the Nurburgring 24 Hours with a Golf GTI Clubsport racer that will run on E20 biofuel.

The one-off racer features a wide body, huge splitter and TCR-derived rear wing. Under the bonnet the 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder is said to pump out 256kW and 450Nm of torque.

Even with the big wing, the Golf-based racer, dubbed the Clubsport 24h, can still top 270km/h, although it does weigh just 1170kg.

Its number 50, meanwhile, is said to pay tribute to the Golf hatch’s 50th anniversary.

Volkswagen will also show off three heavily modified Mk1 Golf GTI racers that will all compete at the famous German endurance race, including one with matching camouflage to the Golf GTI Clubsport teaser that’s based on a 1980 Golf GTI.

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