VW has released new information and new photos (including the first interior shots) of the Golf GTI Clubsport, a special edition model which will go into production in 2016.

Just as it did on the Golf GTI’s 20th, 25th, 30th and 35th birthdays, VW will mark the 40th birthday of the hot hatch icon with a special model packing 265PS (261hp), making it the most powerful production GTI ever made.

Furthermore, for a short period of time, a boost function will enable the driver to further increase the power by around 10 percent.

Besides the powerful engine, which is an upgraded version of the unit from the Golf GTI Performance, the anniversary model will also feature a new aerodynamic kit and an extensively customized interior. The aero kit is said to significantly improve downforce, with the results being “first-class handling at very high speeds and breathtaking cornering speeds,” according to VW.

The kit includes a completely new front bumper with air deflector elements and a splitter, new side sills, a striking roof spoiler and a rear diffuser specially developed for the anniversary model. Other distinctive visual elements on the pre-production car showcased at Wörthersee include the “Oryx White” body color with a black contrasting roof area, a wide black trim stripe on the side area that pays homage to the 1976 Golf GTI, exclusive 19-inch “Bresica” alloy wheels and high-gloss black door mirror caps.

Inside, the VW Golf GTI Clubsport gets folding racing bucket sports seats combining Alcantara with a tartan fabric upholstery, red topstitching, gear knob in golf ball design and a black headliner. The cabin also sports new trim strips in the design “Honeycomb 40” for the instrument strip, center console and doors.

The sports steering wheel is covered with Alcantara and features the GTI emblem, red seams and 12 o’clock marking. VW says the majority of these features, including the bucket seats, will be offered on the production car next year.

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