Volkswagen is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the iconic Golf GTI with a limited-edition model – the Edition 50 – boasting more power than any GTI before it. While its arrival in Australia remains unconfirmed, enthusiasts should prepare for a premium price tag, potentially exceeding $70,000. This could very well be the last high-performance Golf GTI before the model shifts entirely to electrification.
Performance and Pricing: A High-End Affair
The Edition 50 isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade; it’s essentially a GTI Clubsport with enhanced performance. However, to unlock its full potential – including Nürburgring-record-breaking capabilities – buyers will need to opt for the Performance Package, pushing the cost even higher. If it comes to Australia, expect a starting price just below $70,000, with the Performance Package potentially making it pricier than the Golf R.
This price point raises a question: why invest in a final combustion-engine GTI when the future is electric? The answer is simple: enthusiasts will pay a premium for exclusivity and a taste of automotive history before it disappears.
Interior Refinements: Subtle Yet Effective
The interior of the Edition 50 isn’t stripped-out or race-focused. It retains the practicality and usability expected from a Golf, with generous standard equipment. Unique touches, such as doorsill plates and ‘GTI 50’ decals on the door mirrors, add a special feel.
The steering wheel is a standout feature, especially with the optional ArtVelours suede-like covering. The bucket seats, featuring a new take on the classic ‘Clark’ tartan pattern, provide excellent support. Despite the premium price, some may find the plastic gearshift paddles and minimalist drive selector disappointing.
Under the Hood: The Most Powerful GTI Yet
The Edition 50 is powered by the latest iteration of the EA888 engine, the ‘LK3 evo4’. This turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder produces 239kW, making it the most powerful road-going GTI to date. More importantly, the increased torque (420Nm from 2000-5500rpm) delivers impressive drivability.
The Performance Package further enhances performance with lighter components, semi-slick Bridgestone tires, and a unique suspension tune. These upgrades result in a claimed 0-100km/h time of 5.3 seconds, though the lighter Performance Package model claims the same figure despite a 25kg weight reduction.
Driving Experience: Confident and Capable
Test drives with the Performance Package reveal a firm but composed ride. The adaptive damping system allows for fine-tuning, but even in Comfort mode, the ride remains noticeably firm. At speed, the car feels eerily stable, making it suitable for long distances despite its sporty nature.
The Edition 50 truly comes alive on challenging roads, thanks to its variable-ratio steering and precise handling. The digital vehicle dynamics manager optimizes stability control and differential settings for maximum agility. The optional manual gear selection mode allows for full driver control, enhancing the driving experience.
Safety and Reliability: A Volkswagen Standard
The VW Golf received a five-star ANCAP safety rating in 2022, and the Edition 50 inherits this high standard. Standard safety features include blind-spot monitoring, auto emergency braking, driver alertness monitoring, and traffic sign recognition.
Like other Volkswagens, the Edition 50 comes with a five-year unlimited-kilometer warranty. While track use may increase wear on brakes and tires, the car is expected to be as reliable as any other Golf.
Final Thoughts
The Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 is a fitting farewell to the combustion engine era for this iconic model. While its pricing may be prohibitive for many, it offers an exclusive and high-performance experience for those willing to pay the premium. It’s a reminder that even as the automotive world transitions to electric, there will always be a market for the visceral thrill of a well-engineered gasoline-powered machine.
