Key highlights
- The Golf GTI Edition 50 lapped the Nurburgring Nordschleife in 7 minutes and 46.13 seconds, making it Volkswagen’s fastest production model on the legendary track.
- The hot hatch outpaced the Golf R 20 Years Edition and GTI Clubsport S, proving its superior chassis tuning and performance.
- Volkswagen will officially unveil the Golf GTI Edition 50 on June 20, 2025, ahead of the Nurburgring 24 Hours race.
Volkswagen has set a new internal record at the Nurburgring Nordschleife, with the Golf GTI Edition 50 becoming the fastest production VW to lap the circuit. The upcoming special edition hot hatch, celebrating 50 years of the Golf GTI, completed the 20.8 km layout in 7 minutes and 46.13 seconds.
Record-breaking performance
The Golf GTI Edition 50 not only set a new benchmark for VW, but also outpaced the Golf R 20 Years Edition (7:47.31) and GTI Clubsport S (7:49.21). The lap was set by Volkswagen’s development and race driver Benny Leuchter, using a near-production test car equipped with an optional Performance Package.
Performance upgrades and chassis tuning
Volkswagen has fine-tuned the GTI Edition 50, ensuring maximum precision and stability on the track. The Performance Package includes:
- Lighter 19-inch forged Warmenau wheels, reducing unsprung weight.
- Bridgestone Potenza Race semi-slick tires, enhancing grip.
- Revised suspension and chassis settings, improving cornering speeds.
Under the hood, the GTI 50 is powered by VW’s 2.0L EA888 turbo-petrol engine, expected to produce around 324 hp—nearly 60 hp more than the standard Golf GTI. Power is sent to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and a mechanical limited-slip differential.
Launch timeline and availability
Volkswagen will officially unveil the new hot hatch on June 20, 2025, ahead of the Nurburgring 24 Hours race. The hot hatch will be available in global markets by 2026, likely as a limited-run model.
Our thoughts
Volkswagen has pulled off something special with the GTI Edition 50, proving that front-wheel-drive hot hatches can still dominate the track. The semi-slick tires, lightweight wheels, and chassis tweaks make it a serious performer.
Also read: Volkswagen ID.2 electric hatch might be launched in 2026