GTI turned up to eleven!
This is exciting – getting behind the wheel of the 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport. Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Didn’t he already review the Golf GTI?” True (link below), but this isn’t the regular GTI; this is the Clubsport – a souped-up version with a bit more oomph, aimed squarely at those of us who want a little more spice from our hot hatches. The previous edition was the pick of the pack – let’s see if this Clubsport lives up to the hype.
The Clubsport Edge: Power & Looks
The Golf GTI Clubsport doesn’t shout its presence, but I wish it would. If I’d bought one, I’d want people to know it’s not just a GTI, it’s a CLUBSPORT! Nonetheless it looks like a handsome and reasonably mean GTI – personally I’d say visually more appealing, in fact. Under the bonnet, you get a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo engine that’s been tuned up to 300bhp (about 20bhp more than the GTI) and 400Nm of torque (plus 30NM). It’ll take you from 0-62mph in a brisk 5.6 seconds (six-tenths quicker than the GTI), with a top speed of 155mph – or 168mph with the optional Performance Pack that raises the limiter.
As for the exterior, VW has kept it tasteful but sporty. This one worse the optional 19-inch Warmenau Dark Graphite alloys, twin exhausts, a diffuser, and that signature IQ Light design. The Clubsport exudes a sense of confidence – like a GTI that’s been hitting the gym.
Interior: Familiar but Bangin’
Inside, it’s pretty much what you’d expect from a Golf – clean, functional, but with a sporty twist. The Alcantara-trimmed seats feel premium, with red accents that tie in with the GTI’s overall look. There’s plenty of tech as well: a 12.9-inch display, driver profile selection, and on this model the optional Harmon Kardon sound system with nine speakers, subwoofer and 480W output, so you can blast the bass as you rip up the back-roads.
Volkswagen hasn’t skimped on practical features either. You’ve got ambient lighting with 30 colour options, adaptive cruise control, and a full suite of safety features, including emergency braking, lane assist, and rear traffic alert. Plus, there’s a spacious 374-litre boot, so you can still lug around your weekend gear without compromising on performance.
The Drive: From Comfort to Thrills in Seconds
Let’s get to the good stuff – what’s it like to drive? To start, I flicked it into comfort mode and took a spin through a nearby village. Even in this mode, the Clubsport feels eager, like it’s itching to show off. The throttle is responsive, and you get a hint of its sporty side with just a tap of your right foot. But where’s the fun in comfort mode? Let’s switch to sport.
The moment I hit sport mode, you feel the Clubsport’s true nature. The throttle sharpens, the steering feels a bit heftier, and the car comes alive. Every input is met with eagerness. The handling is tight, with just the right amount of body movement to remind you you’re in a proper hot hatch. It’s not the smoothest ride on a B-road, with firm suspension that transmits the contours of the tarmac, but that’s part of the fun, and it’s not as harsh as hard-core hot hatches of the past.
Performance & Handling: A Bit of Naughty Fun
This car was fitted with an Akrapovic exhaust system as part of the Performance Pack, and if my experience is anything to go by, frankly it’s a must-have! It’s got a deliciously cheeky sound that’s both aggressive and rally-pop happy. The quick gear changes deliver a satisfying blip on the downshift – it’s enough to keep a grin plastered on your face. This thing loves to be pushed, and the seven-speed gearbox is quick and responsive, whether you’re flicking through the paddles (which is what you should do) or letting it do the work in sport automatic mode (which is just as quick).
Practicality: Everyday GTI with Extra Edge
Let’s be real here – most of us don’t need a Clubsport for the daily commute, but VW has done a good job of making this car liveable. You get a 360-degree camera and reversing camera for easy parking and manoeuvring, and plenty of driver aids and safety systems that make city driving straightforward and reassuring – the only thing that will get on your nerves is the feisty performance edge lurking beneath the surface constantly tugging at you to let it out. Visibility is great all around, even without a sunroof, and you’ve got enough headroom and legroom to keep passengers happy.
However, as already alluded to, if you’re mostly driving in the city, the regular GTI will be more than enough, and little more tame. The Clubsport’s firm suspension can feel a bit harsh on pothole-strewn streets, and some of the sporty features might be wasted if you’re not regularly exercising it on twisty backroads. But if you’ve got access to some great driving roads and want that extra thrill, the Clubsport absolutely justifies its price tag – around a £3k premium over the GTI at £42,155 (though with options the test car was £46,455)..
Final Thoughts: Is the Clubsport Worth It?
So, should you splash out on the 2024 Golf GTI Clubsport? For most people, the regular GTI will tick all the boxes, offering plenty of performance without stretching the budget. But if you’re someone who wants just a bit more – more power, more fun, and more of that GTI spirit, plus a harder, keener more thrilling drive – the Clubsport is the one to get.
But could there be something ever more exciting and enthralling? That R-emains to be seen! Stay tuned for my next review.
Meanwhile, let me know if you would you pick the Clubsport, or stick with the regular GTI?
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