Following in the footsteps of the GTI Clubsport S and later TCR, the Edition 50 takes near Golf R levels of power and channels it through the front wheels, becoming the fastest Golf ever to lap the Nordschleife in the process. The 2.0-litre turbocharged engine's output is raised to 321bhp and 310lb-ft (420Nm) - an increase of 60bhp and 37lb-ft over the standard GTI. The anniversary model takes 5.5 seconds to reach 62mph from rest, and will reach a limited top speed of 168mph.

Volkswagen’s Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) adaptive dampers come as standard, and the ride height has been lowered by 15mm. As part of the optional GTI Performance Package, the chassis is further stiffened with higher spring rates, an additional 5mm ride height drop, new suspension mounts, and semi-slick Bridgestone Potenza tyres.

The tyres envelop 19” forged Warmenau wheels which weigh in at just 8kg each - a 1.1kg reduction over the standard rims. A further 11kg is shaved off the as yet unspecified kerb weight by the Akrapovic titanium exhaust system, which switches the standard black tips for a pair of silver outlets. We imagine that most - if not all - Edition 50 models coming to the UK will have the GTI Performance Package option box ticked.

Externally, the most powerful Golf GTI to date features a black contrasting roof, special badging on the rear wing and mirrors, and unique door sill trims. A black stripe runs from the outer grille along the side of the car, fading to red by the rear wheel arch. Two historic colours return to the range exclusively for the anniversary model - Dark Moss green metallic, and Tornado red.

 Opening the doors reveals bespoke sill plates, Edition 50 badging on the steering wheel, and red pedals. Multi-material front bucket seats feature a checked design as per tradition. The driver can make use of a customisable instrument cluster, and a 12.9” infotainment display for navigation, media playback, and adjusting the car’s DCC dampers through their 15 settings.

Production will commence in the final quarter of 2025, with deliveries beginning in 2026 to mark the half-century since the first Golf GTI hit the roads. Prices are yet to be revealed, but we expect the special model to be priced between the Golf Clubsport and R at around £48,000.