Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50 revealed for 50th anniversary

Volkswagen unveils Golf GTI Edition 50 with 325 PS, marking 50 years of GTI. Features track-tuned chassis, performance package, and Nürburgring record.

On the eve of the Golf GTI’s 50th anniversary, Volkswagen unveiled the most powerful production version of its iconic hot hatch — the Golf GTI Edition 50 — during the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring. A fitting setting for a model with racing in its blood.

Under the hood lies a reworked 2.0-litre turbocharged engine delivering 325 PS and 420 Nm of torque — a 60 PS gain over the standard GTI. The result: 0–100 km/h in 5.5 seconds and a top speed electronically limited to 270 km/h. This makes the Edition 50 not just quick, but the fastest production GTI ever built.

Drivers looking for even sharper dynamics can opt for the GTI Performance package. It includes a retuned chassis, 19-inch Warmenau forged wheels, Bridgestone Potenza Race semi-slick tyres and an Akrapovič titanium exhaust that sheds 11 kg while enhancing the soundtrack. The total weight reduction across tyres and wheels contributes to even more agile handling at high speed.

One of the highlights came from Volkswagen test driver Benny Leuchter, who set a Nürburgring lap record for a production Golf — 7 minutes and 46 seconds over the 20.8-kilometre Nordschleife.

Visually, the Edition 50 carries exclusive flourishes: GTI 50 logos on the steering wheel, sills and spoiler, Tornado Red accents and signature black trim. Inside, the sporty cabin features deep red seatbelts, classic-patterned sport seats and a multifunction steering wheel with shift paddles.

While Volkswagen has yet to confirm production numbers, the Edition 50 is set to be a limited-run model. Production begins in Wolfsburg at the end of 2025, with deliveries expected in early 2026 — just in time for the golden jubilee.

Edition 50 continues the GTI tradition of commemorative models, from the Clubsport S for the 40th to this latest milestone edition. And though the GTI's future is heading towards electrification, Volkswagen has already confirmed that an all-electric GTI is coming. For now, however, it’s all about celebrating half a century of GTI heritage — with turbocharged power and unfiltered emotion.