Volkswagen marks the 50th anniversary of the iconic Golf GTI with an electrifying release—the Golf GTI EDITION 50.

Unveiled at the prestigious 24-hour race at the Nürburgring, this exclusive anniversary model sets a new benchmark as the most powerful production GTI ever created.

With production commencing in Wolfsburg at the end of 2025 and deliveries scheduled for early 2026, the EDITION 50 ushers in a new era of high-performance engineering and aesthetic finesse.

Unparalleled Performance Metrics

At the heart of the EDITION 50 lies a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, an advanced evolution of the unit found in the Golf GTI Clubsport.

The output soars to a formidable 239 kW (325 PS) and delivers a peak torque of 420 Nm, outperforming both the Golf GTI Clubsport (221 kW/400 Nm) and the standard Golf GTI (195 kW/370 Nm).

This elevation in performance manifests through meticulous internal engine enhancements, allowing for exhilarating acceleration and razor-sharp responsiveness.

Track-Bred Dynamics: Nordschleife Proven

Volkswagen’s anniversary GTI recently made headlines by conquering the Nürburgring Nordschleife in an impressive 7:46.13 minutes.

Behind the wheel, professional driver and development expert Benjamin Leuchter lauded the EDITION 50 as the most intuitive and precise GTI he has piloted.

Drawing inspiration from the celebrated Golf GTI Clubsport S, the EDITION 50 showcases systematically refined handling, agility, and driver confidence.

Optional GTI Performance Package: Elevating the Standard

For the true connoisseurs of driving dynamics, the optional GTI Performance package elevates the EDITION 50 to an entirely new realm.

This package introduces a reengineered Performance chassis featuring a 20% increase in natural frequency across both axles, enhanced spring rates, and an additional 5 mm reduction in ride height—totaling 20 mm lower than the standard GTI.

Optimised suspension mounts ensure quicker response to dynamic inputs.

Further augmenting the package are Bridgestone Potenza Race semi-slick tyres (235 section) mounted on 19-inch Warmenau forged wheels.

Each tyre is 1.1 kg lighter than standard, while the rims save an additional 3 kg per unit. Complementing this lightweight focus is a titanium Akrapovič R-Performance exhaust system, shedding a further 11 kg and delivering a more aggressive acoustic signature.

Design Details That Speak Volumes

The GTI EDITION 50 is a visual ode to its motorsport heritage. Exterior accents include a bespoke GTI 50 logo on the roof spoiler and mirror caps, black tailpipe trims, black-painted roof, and exclusive trim on the door sills.

A signature side stripe with a black-to-Tornado red gradient reinforces its dynamic identity.

Inside, red seatbelts contrast beautifully with sports seats adorned in GTI check pattern and Racing Green accents.

Synthetic velour elements add richness, while the multifunction leather sports steering wheel—emblazoned with the GTI 50 logo and equipped with DSG shift paddles—anchors the driver in full control.

Looking Ahead

The EDITION 50 will be offered in five distinct exterior colours: Pure White, Moonstone Grey, Grenadilla Black Metallic, and two anniversary-exclusive shades—Dark Moss Green Metallic and the iconic Tornado Red, the latter being synonymous with Volkswagen performance since the Golf II GTI 16V era.

In sum, the Volkswagen Golf GTI EDITION 50 is not merely a car; it is a commemorative statement, a collector’s performance machine, and a refined embodiment of half a century of GTI legacy.