The Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport has made the transition from being a concept to a production model.

Created to celebrate the Golf GTI's 40th birthday, this new Clubsport version looks just about the same as the concept and packs an extra 35 PS (26 kW) compared to the regular Golf GTI Performance. This means VW's engineers were able to take the 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine to 265 PS (195 kW) and there's an overboost function which for around ten seconds boosts output to more than 290 PS (213 kW).

It can be had as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox and in this case the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) will take 6 seconds whereas with the optional DSG the sprint time drops by 0.1s. Regardless of gearbox choice, the Golf GTI Clubsport can reach a maximum speed of 155 mph (250 km/h) which is probably electronically limited. Those who are interested in fuel economy should know the manual version consumes 6.9 liters / 100 km which makes it 0.2 liters / 100 km thirstier than the DSG-equipped variant.

The car featured in the attached gallery is painted in Onyx White, but other hues will be available as well together with a contrasting black roof. Compared to the regular Golf GTI, it has gained sportier front & rear bumpers, new side sills, updated rear diffuser, bespoke 18-inch alloy wheels (optional 19-inch available) and a multi-part rear spoiler.

There's also a black trim stripe on the sides as a throwback to the original Golf GTI from 1976 and in this case it features Clubsport lettering. Other visual enhancements include dark red LED taillights, chrome-plated exhaust tips while the aforementioned rear diffuser has a glossy black look.

Stepping inside, the racing bucket seats are partially wrapped around in Alcantara and there are new trim strips on the instrument panel, center console and doors. Alcantara was also used for the sport steering wheel which is adorned with the GTI emblem, 12 o'clock marking and red seam while the new floor mats come with red edging. As a final touch, Volkswagen has installed stainless steel door sill plates with red GTI lettering.

The Golf GTI Clubsport will be officially introduced next week at the Frankfurt Motor Show.