Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer has given a hint about a new Golf GTI car that might be shown at the Nurburgring 24-hour race later this month. In a short video, a car that seems to be a new version of the Golf GTI is seen driving around the track. However, the video quality is not very clear, so it’s hard to see the car’s details.
Schäfer mentioned that a new car is coming, and they plan to reveal it at the Nurburgring race to share the premiere with fans. Apart from the reveal date of May 31, not much else is known about this new car.
From the blurry video, we can make out some slight differences in design. The new model seems to have a more aggressive front bumper with noticeable body-colored trim, highlighting the redesigned front air vents. It will be based on the recently updated eighth generation of the Golf GTI, which means it will have the updated IQ. Light LED headlights and taillights, among other features, but it won’t have a manual transmission.
While Volkswagen hasn’t confirmed anything yet, many expect this new model to be the Edition 50. Volkswagen has marked significant GTI anniversaries with special ‘Edition’ models in the past, like the GTI Clubsport 45 from early 2021. Compared to the regular GTI, this special version had a sportier exhaust, improved aerodynamics, and larger 19-inch wheels.
There’s also talk about the possibility of the new model having more power. The GTI Clubsport 45 had a power boost, with VW getting 292 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque from the engine, which is almost as much as the current Golf R. With Volkswagen increasing outputs with the facelift, the standard turbocharged 2.0-liter engine now delivers 262 hp in European markets. It’s possible that the Edition 50 will match the power of the Clubsport 45. If it does get more power, it could rival the Golf R.
This Edition 50 GTI is expected to be the last special edition before the Golf GTI becomes electric. Apart from unique exterior styling and a more powerful engine, we anticipate handling improvements and special interior details. Celebrating 50 years of the Golf is a big event, so Volkswagen might go all out when they finally reveal it on May 31.
