Even though they use very similar engines, there's a huge power deficit between the 7th-generation VW Golf GTI and its kin from SEAT, the new Leon Cupra. On paper, 50 hp splits the GTI with Performance pack from the Leon 280. In fact, the Spanish car is much closer to the Golf R in terms of lap performance.
This is obviously not a mistake, but an intentional move meant to place SEAT back in the game after years of neglect and want. The Spanish hot hatch is now the undisputed leader of the FWD hot hatch pack, credited with the fastest lap time ever set there by a car of its type. Credited with using the same MQB platform and offering much the same features, the Cupra 280 could be considered the superior car.
However, Golf GTI fans aren't happy. For them, there can only be one king of hot hatches and it's got to be German!
Believed to be a special surprise planned by Volkswagen for the upcoming Worthersee GTI meet in May, the hardcore Golf could be the answer to all the model's dynamic problems. This next video shot at the Nurburgring hints not only at a more radical design, with larger wing and skirts, but also to a more powerful engine with a throatier sound.
From the way the Golf GTI seems to be pulling strong using the inside wheel, we'd say the limited slip differential is working hard under the bonnet. Despite being designed for track use, the suspension seems to be soft enough to allow for body lean, which is something Vdub owners don't want to compromise on – everyday usability.
Seeing as there's only a handful of horse between the normal GTI 230 PS and the edition 35, which has 235 hp, we'd wager that the Club Sport will be the most powerful GTI ever made. Expect anywhere between 240 and 280 PS and upwards of 350 Nm of torque.
For an insightful look at VW's answer to the SEAT Leon Cupra, check out the video by TourClips and our own spy photo gallery below that.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?
Google News