Is it really 45 years ago that the nuclear hatchback graced the car scene for the first time? Indeed, and in honor of the occasion, Volkswagen is offering a special edition 2021 Golf GTI, called Clubsport 45.
This probably does not come as a surprise, as images of the pocket rocket leaked a few days ago. We have now revealed all the details of VW, and as the name suggests, this new version is based on the hotter GTI Clubsport. That means a 296-hp (221 kilowatt) version of the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder is under the hood, driving the front wheels exclusively through a seven-speed DCT. It also has the reverse front-locking differential and the upgraded Vehicle Dynamics driver, which helps push the Clubsport to 60 km / h in less than six seconds.
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As for the special Clubsport 45, it is mainly an upgrade of the Clubsport. We say primarily because VW does add an exclusive Race package that includes a sports exhaust system. The speed limit of 155 km / h is also removed, although VW does not say how fast the 45 will go flat. The Race package also includes special 19-inch Scottsdale wheels, finished in glossy black with a red finish on the lip.
The exterior, of course, wears the GTI Clubsport skin. Improvements to Clubsport 45 include a black roof and a rear spoiler which, according to VW, is a tribute to the black-frame rear glass on the original 1976 GTI. Prominent stripes with 45 decorations are found on the side benches, with 45 also added to the tailgate. At the front you will find IQ.Light LED matrix lights; to move inside, you will find a classic GTI badge with GTI letters on the backrest of the front seat. Another case of 45 appears at the bottom of the steering wheel.
Pre-sale for the Clubsport 45 starts from 1 March in selected European countries. The price starts at € 47,790 euros, but if you are wondering how much it is in US currency, do not bother. The Clubsport shows no signs of reaching US shores, a VW spokesman said Motor1.com that there are no plans to send the Clubsport 45 across the dam.