In early 2007 VW unveiled a design study called the GTI W12-650 which mates a Golf GTI three-door bodyshell to a bespoke mid-mounted bi-turbo W12-650 PS engine channelling drive to the rear wheels.
Not only was the GTI W12-650 the most powerful Golf ever produced by Volkswagen but it’s also the fastest.
The sprint from standstill to 62 mph takes 3.7 seconds. A potential maximum speed of 201.8 mph is made possible through a 70 mm lower ride height and the extensive use of under floor aerodynamic aids including a diffuser negating the need for a large rear wing to keep the vehicle pinned to the ground at very high speeds.
Fast forward to 2026 in anticipation of the Golf GTI’s 50th anniversary in 2026, Volkswagen has recommissioned the W12-650, updating the original white paint job to a new red color scheme. It is being showcased alongside other historic concepts to celebrate the GTI’s history.
The concept remains the most powerful Golf ever produced by Volkswagen.
Engine: 6.0-liter biturbo W12, mid-mounted behind the driver.
Output: 650 PS (641 hp) and 553 lb-ft (750 Nm) of torque.
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive via a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission.
Acceleration: 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 3.7 seconds.
Top Speed: Approximately 201–202 mph (325 km/h).
Bespoke Design Features
To accommodate the massive Bentley-sourced engine, the GOLF GTI W12-650 underwent radical structural changes.
Dimensions: Widened by 160 mm and lowered by 70 mm compared to the standard Mk5 GTI.
Cooling: A carbon-fiber roof with an integrated scoop channels air to rear-mounted radiators, supported by “floating” C-pillars that act as additional air intakes.
Wheels & Tires: Bespoke 19-inch “Detroit” style wheels wrapped in 295-profile rear tires for traction.
Interior: Retained the GTI’s signature tartan upholstery but featured a unique flat-bottomed steering wheel and Alcantara-covered dashboard.
So, if you want a little GTI history and have a need for a new car in your garage, you can take a look at the Golf Mk8.5 GTI which is on sale at RM255,990.
