That happened quickly; the 2015 GTI Clubsport went from near-production concept to celebratory 40th anniversary model for the legendary GTI->ke223, and will see production starting in 2016.

The details are still not 100 percent clear on what the production GTI Clubsport will entail, but the fact that VW->ke94 calls the concept “near-production” is a sign that what you see at Wörthersee->ke3882 is just about what the German automaker will deliver. This means that it’ll likely include a 195 kW (261-horsepower) 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine under its hood. This would make for a 51-horsepower bump over the base GTI.

On top of the extra juice, look for a revised chassis that includes wider wheels wrapped in sticky rubber, stiffer springs and dampers, thicker antiroll bars, and a lower ride height.

This special model should also include a body kit that not only gives the GTI a sexier look, but will also increase the downforce. This kit will likely include the pieces from the concept, including the revised front bumper, side sills, a roof-edge spoiler, and a rear diffuser.

I also expect to see a good bit of reworking on the inside to make it more track-focused; maybe some sportier seats, contrasting accents, a sportier steering wheel, and maybe some exclusive gauges.

There is no mention of whether the Golf GTI Clubsport will be offered in the U.S. or not, but stay tuned for more on that.

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Why it matters

The GTI is an icon in the hot hatchback->ke304 realm. Sure, it wasn’t always what anyone would call “fast,” but it always was tick ahead of the competition in terms of performance and technology. It has stood the test of time and proven repeatedly it is worth its weight in gold to VW. Giving it a special 40th anniversary model with some extra pep in its step is well deserved and should draw in plenty of buyers.

2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport

Read our full review here.