First official photos of Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport emerge

Since it debuted in 1974, the Volkswagen Golf has become one of the most recognizable names when it comes to performance hatchbacks. If you even enter a conversation about hot hatchbacks the Golf will always find its way into it.

Sadly, hot hatchbacks like the Golf aren’t popular in the Philippines for a variety of reasons, which is why only a limited number of brands offer a pepped-up hatchback these days. That lack of local popularity won’t stop us from envying other countries that get these cars; however, Volkswagen is set to unveil a new Golf that will have us wishing the Golf nameplate is still alive in the country.

Here’s your first look at the upcoming Golf GTI Clubsport, and to lessen some confusion over what’s faster and what’s slower, the GTI Clubsport sits in the middle of the GTI and the fastest Golf in the range, the Golf R.

Starting with the looks, the Clubsport features a new front fascia and upgraded headlights, with the prominent VW badge in the grille that lights up. At the rear, there's a large roof spoiler above new taillights and a rear fascia resembling the Golf R, but with single exhaust pipes at the corners. It also comes with new 19-inch wheels, and Warmenau forged wheels, weighing 7.7 kilograms each, are available as an option.

As for the powertrain, mechanical details and performance specs remain mostly under wraps, but VW promises that the Clubsport will be the most powerful front-wheel-drive GTI ever. It features an electronically controlled front differential lock to manage the power, while DCC adaptive chassis control is available as an option. Additionally, the Clubsport boasts a special drive mode designed specifically for Nürburgring laps, fittingly, as VW plans to debut this new hot hatch there.

Speaking of the Nürburgring, VW announced a one-off GTI Clubsport 24h race car that will produce 343 hp. This race car will debut on May 31, 2024, alongside the new Clubsport. Does the new Golf GTI Clubsport make you miss the Golf nameplate? For us, it certainly has us longing for a comeback of hot hatchbacks in the Philippines.

And while the Golf may no longer be a part of Volkswagen’s Philippine lineup, that’s not to say that the German marque doesn’t have an impressive selection of cars for you to choose from. If you’re looking for a value-packed vehicle full of European tech, why not check out our comprehensive Volkswagen car guide and get a quote for your model of choice while you’re at it?