The seventh-gen VW Golf GTI was introduced in 2013. Its four-cylinder 2.0 TSI gasoline engine produced 217 hp and 227 with Performance Package. The horsepower numbers grew over the years and reached a remarkable 306 hp with the limited-run Clubsport S edition. This was the former record holder at the Nürnbergring for front-wheel-drive production cars. ABT decided to get even more power from the TCR version, which is more track-oriented.

The Golf GTI TCR comes standard with 286 horsepower and 335 Newton-meters (280-pound-feet of torque) but ABT has elevated the output. The tuner can adjust the engine control unit to increase the power output to 335 horsepower and 430 Nm (317 Lb-ft). This extra power reduces the sprint time to 62 mph (100 km/h), and it takes only 5.4 seconds.

The standard Golf GTI TCR can be electronically limited at 155 mph (250 km/h) or at 162 (260 kph). ABT goes a little further and allows for 164.6 mph (265 Kph). An aftermarket specialist will also include a height-adjustable suspension system and custom springs. Anti-roll bars are also included in the package.

ABT offers a 20-inch set in glossy black for the Volkswagen hot-hatch if you are not satisfied with the Golf GTI TCR’s 19- and 18-inch alloy wheel designs.

Some will be content to wait until the 2020 launch of the new VW Golf GTI. It was first spotted at the Green Hell earlier this month, and Wolfsburg residents have described it as “cool like hell.”