By Khulekani Dumisa

Whilst Mzansi continues its long wait for the arrival of the Golf 8, Volkswagen has revealed the all-new Golf GTI Clubsport pushing out 221 kW of power and 400 Nm of torque from its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The power is of course sent to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. No manual transmission is offered. This propels the car form 0-100 km/h in under six seconds before reaching a top speed of 250 km/h.

Upgraded performance

The new power figures are quite an upgrade from the current model which pushes out 180 kW and 370 Nm which translates to a 41 kW and 30 Nm upgrade. Impressive. It’s not all about power though as the new Clubsport gets handed a Vehicle Dynamics Manager that now integrates the control of the variable-locking front differential into the system to eliminate the understeer you would typically find in a traditional front-wheel-drive vehicle.

Looks

The new Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport sets itself apart from the “usual” GTI with reworked front-end that features a honeycomb mesh grille, restyled bumper and what appears like a more pronounced lower lip. At the back, a unique spoiler appears together with model specific oval pipes and diffuser.

The Clubsport’s suspension also sits 15 millimetres lower than a standard GTI. The vehicle is offered with standard with five-spoke 18-inch wheels whilst 19-inch design wheels are optional.

Inside, the new Clubsport is adorned with with Volkswagen’s ArtVelours fabric upholstery. Perforated leather is an option whilst red stitching appears on the steering wheel, seats, armrest and floor mats.

VW SA is yet to confirm whether the Clubsport will be making its way to Mzansi. Being a huge GTI market, we wouldn’t be surprised if the much loved iteration of the Golf range makes it here.