Volkswagen has pulled the covers off its most potent production GTI yet – the Golf GTI EDITION 50 – during the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring, offering a tantalising glimpse into what’s to come for the iconic hot hatch ahead of its 50th anniversary in 2026.
Set to go into production in Wolfsburg at the end of 2025, the EDITION 50 will mark half a century of GTI excellence, with first deliveries expected in Q1 2026. It packs 239 kW (325 PS) and 420 Nm of torque, making it the most powerful GTI Volkswagen has ever built. Power comes from a heavily revised 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, based on the unit from the Golf GTI Clubsport, and paired with a chassis tuned for performance.
Sebastian Willmann, Head of Chassis Development at VW, calls it “our fastest and most powerful GTI to date,” noting that learnings from five decades of GTI development – especially from the Golf VII GTI Clubsport – have informed its precision-focused tuning. The result is a GTI that’s sharper, more agile, and track-ready straight out of the box.
Race Credentials
Proof of its performance came earlier this year when VW test and development driver Benjamin Leuchter lapped the infamous Nürburgring Nordschleife in just 7:46.13, the fastest time ever for a production Golf. “It’s the most precise and sporty Volkswagen I’ve ever driven,” Leuchter said.
For even more hardcore performance, an optional GTI Performance Package will be available. It includes stiffer suspension, lower ride height (20 mm lower than standard), lightweight forged wheels, Bridgestone Potenza Race semi-slicks, and a titanium Akrapovič exhaust system that saves 11 kg. Together, these upgrades take the EDITION 50’s dynamics to another level – sharper turn-in, better grip, and improved overall balance.
The visual treatment is equally distinctive. Outside, you’ll find GTI 50 badging, black mirror caps, a black roof, and a red-accented side stripe. Inside, red seat belts, tartan sport seats with Racing Green accents, and a GTI 50-branded leather sports steering wheel create a motorsport-inspired atmosphere. A seven-speed DSG with paddle shifters completes the experience.
The EDITION 50 will be offered in five colours: Pure White, Moonstone Grey, Grenadilla Black Metallic, Dark Moss Green Metallic (exclusive), and Tornado Red – the latter a GTI classic dating back to 1986.
With just over a year until the GTI’s 50th birthday, the EDITION 50 not only raises the bar for front-wheel-drive hot hatches but also serves as a bold reminder that Volkswagen’s GTI legacy is alive, well, and speeding into the future – with no compromises.
