Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport Edition 40 Hot Hatch 2017 review | Mat Watson Reviews

TL;DR

The Golf GTI Clubsport offers unique features but faces tough competition.

Transcript

this is a new Golf GTI Club sport edition 40 and on first inspection yeah it looks really good until you find out that it's only 745b less than the equivalent Golf R which has an extra 35 horsepower an all-wheel drive right but don't write this carve just yet because depending on your point of view the club sport could actually be your ideal Perfor... Read More

Key Insights

• The Golf GTI Clubsport Edition 40 is priced close to the Golf R but offers less horsepower and lacks all-wheel drive, making it less appealing in terms of raw performance.
• Despite being front-wheel drive, the Clubsport is 100 kg lighter than the Golf R, enhancing its agility and making it more playful and responsive.
• The car features an electronically controlled limited slip differential, improving cornering by sending power to the outer wheel, though standard tires may lead to early understeer.
• The 2.0L turbocharged engine can temporarily boost from 265 to 290 horsepower, but this feature feels like a compromise to maintain the Golf R's power supremacy.
• Upgraded exterior design elements include a new bumper, larger spoiler, and rear diffuser, contributing to downforce and a sportier look, though some may find these additions excessive.
• The interior boasts Alcantara steering, a commemorative plaque, and optional hard-back bucket seats, adding to the car's premium feel.
• Despite its performance focus, the Clubsport retains the practicality and comfort expected from a Golf, with a decent boot, roomy back seats, and an excellent infotainment system.
• The Clubsport's rarity makes it more of a collector's item, appealing to those who value heritage and uniqueness over outright performance.

Questions & Answers

Q: What makes the Golf GTI Clubsport Edition 40 different from the Golf R?

The Golf GTI Clubsport Edition 40 is distinct from the Golf R in several ways. It is front-wheel drive, making it 100 kg lighter and more agile. While it lacks the all-wheel drive of the Golf R, it features an electronically controlled limited slip differential. The Clubsport's engine can temporarily boost from 265 to 290 horsepower, though this feature is time-limited and feels like a compromise in maintaining the Golf R's power supremacy.

Q: How does the temporary horsepower boost in the Clubsport work?

The temporary horsepower boost in the Golf GTI Clubsport Edition 40 allows the engine to increase from 265 to 290 horsepower when in third gear or above, and the throttle is fully engaged. This boost lasts for 10 seconds before reverting to 265 horsepower. The feature can be reactivated after a 10-second interval, but the difference in power is subtle and may not be easily noticeable during regular driving.

Q: What are the key design features of the Clubsport?

The Golf GTI Clubsport Edition 40 features several key design upgrades, including a new front bumper with large intakes for brake cooling and a unique trim for added downforce. The sides have gloss black door mirrors and decals reminiscent of the original GTI. The rear sports a larger spoiler with side skirts and a prominent diffuser, contributing to improved aerodynamics and a sportier appearance.

Q: Why might someone choose the Clubsport over the Golf R?

Someone might choose the Golf GTI Clubsport Edition 40 over the Golf R for its lighter weight and resulting agility, making it more responsive and playful. Its rarity and unique design elements may appeal to collectors and enthusiasts who value heritage and exclusivity. Additionally, the Clubsport retains the practicality and comfort of a Golf, making it a versatile choice for daily use despite its performance focus.

Q: What are the interior features of the Clubsport?

The interior of the Golf GTI Clubsport Edition 40 includes an Alcantara steering wheel, a commemorative plaque, and upgraded seats with optional hard-back buckets. These features add to the car's premium feel, enhancing the driving experience. The interior maintains the practicality expected from a Golf, with a decent boot, roomy back seats, and an excellent infotainment system, ensuring comfort and convenience for everyday use.

Q: How does the Clubsport handle compared to other hot hatches?

The Golf GTI Clubsport Edition 40 offers a balanced handling experience, with its lighter weight and electronically controlled limited slip differential enhancing agility and cornering ability. However, standard tires may lead to early understeer, which can be mitigated by optional cup tires. While it may not match the all-wheel drive grip of the Golf R or the raw performance of rivals like the Honda Civic Type R, the Clubsport provides a playful and engaging drive.

Q: What are the practical aspects of owning a Clubsport?

Owning a Golf GTI Clubsport Edition 40 comes with several practical benefits. Despite its performance focus, it offers the practicality and comfort expected from a Golf, including a spacious boot, roomy back seats, and a user-friendly infotainment system. The car is also equipped with optional adaptive dampers, ensuring a comfortable ride for daily commutes. Its rarity and unique features may also appeal to collectors and enthusiasts.

Q: Is the Clubsport a good investment for collectors?

The Golf GTI Clubsport Edition 40 could be a good investment for collectors due to its rarity and unique design elements. Its status as a limited edition model adds to its exclusivity, making it a desirable option for those who value heritage and uniqueness. While it may not offer the highest performance in its class, its distinctive features and appeal as a collector's item could make it a worthwhile investment for enthusiasts.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport Edition 40 offers a unique blend of agility and style, thanks to its lighter weight and upgraded design elements. However, its performance is overshadowed by the more powerful and similarly priced Golf R, which includes all-wheel drive.

• With a temporary horsepower boost feature, the Clubsport attempts to bridge the gap between standard GTI models and the Golf R. Despite this, the feature feels like a compromise, limiting its appeal to those seeking consistent high performance.

• The Clubsport's rarity and heritage make it a potential collector's item, appealing to enthusiasts who prioritize uniqueness. Its practical interior and comfort features ensure it remains a versatile option for daily use, despite the competitive market.