The new Golf 8.5

Up to 333 reasons to love the evolution of the EA888.4 engine

Volkswagen recently launched the facelift of the Golf VIII, now dubbed the Golf 8.5, with significant updates for the GTI, GTI Clubsport and R versions. These new iterations promise to keep the Golf at the top of its class by offering improved performance and features. For WOT Engineering, this development is excellent news, as it means we can continue to work with the 2.0 TSI engine (codename EA888.4), already present in the first generation Golf 8.

Golf 8.5 R

The Golf 8.5 R, with its 333 bhp, remains a benchmark in the sporty compact segment. The 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, now 13 bhp more powerful than the previous version, develops 420 Nm of torque. This increase in power enables the Golf R to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds, reaching a top speed of 270 km/h with the Performance Pack. This performance makes it one of the fastest production Volkswagens in history, alongside the Arteon R Shooting Brake.

The Golf R's dynamism is further enhanced by the Torque Vectoring R-Performance system integrated into the all-wheel drive system, which also offers a Drift mode for an even sportier driving experience. The exterior design features new LED Plus headlamps framing the illuminated logo, a redesigned front bumper with gloss black aerodynamic elements, LED rear lights as standard, a black diffuser and four tailpipes.

Golf 8.5 GTI Clubsport

The Golf 8.5 GTI Clubsport is designed for fans of sporty compacts and track days. It features aerodynamically optimised bodywork with additional cooling vents, a large spoiler at the top of the tailgate and a rear diffuser. The 18-inch wheels house larger brakes for greater endurance, while the optional Akrapovic exhaust system adds extra sound intensity.

Under the bonnet, the EA888.4 2-litre turbo petrol engine continues to produce 300bhp and 400Nm of torque. Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG gearbox. The Golf GTI Clubsport can reach 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds and a top speed of 267 km/h with the Race pack. A special driving mode is also available, with settings adapted to the characteristics of the Nürburgring Nordschleife.

Golf 8.5 GTI

To celebrate 50 years of the Golf, Volkswagen has unveiled an even more powerful GTI. The new GTI, with a redesigned front end and illuminated VW logo, is fitted with new 19-inch wheels, available in forged aluminium and weighing just 8kg each.

This classic Golf GTI, facelifted earlier this year, has also seen its power output increased by 20bhp to a total of 265bhp.

The changes to the Golf 8.5 obviously don't stop at performance, and also include a completely revised infotainment system with the largest screen offered by Volkswagen, measuring 32.8 cm diagonally. Its use has been considerably improved thanks to new graphics and a new menu structure for the touchscreen.

Conclusion

The facelift of the Golf 8.5 brings significant technical and technological improvements to the GTI, GTI Clubsport and R versions. Volkswagen's decision to continue developing internal combustion engines for years to come opens up excellent prospects for WOT. In fact, we are already in a position to modify the engine calibration of these new models, which are still equipped with the Vitesco ECU. This continuity in the use of combustion engines means that we can remain at the forefront of engine optimisation, ensuring that our customers benefit from enhanced performance and an unrivalled driving experience.