Key changes include revised spring and damper rates and significantly increased negative front camber, which is now around −2.0deg. This is achieved through stiffer upper suspension mounts, modified wheel carriers and uprated bushings in the lower control arms.
At the rear, the Edition 50 reintroduces a twin-attachment track rod – reminiscent of the Mk7 GTI – and new wheel carrier geometry for greater lateral stiffness and toe stability under load, particularly in fast direction changes.
VW has also recalibrated the electromechanical steering, DCC (Dynamic Chassis Control) and VDM (Vehicle Dynamics Manager) to suit the Edition 50’s more aggressive hardware set-up.
Complementing the chassis upgrades are 235/35 R19 Bridgestone Potenza Race semislick tyres, developed specifically for this car. They are 1.2kg lighter per tyre than previous-generation Potenza Races and paired with 19in forged aluminium Warmenau wheels.
The tyre and wheel combination alone is said to reduce unsprung mass by more than 2kg per corner compared with the Clubsport’s cast wheels and standard rubber – a key factor in improving steering response, says Frömmig. A further 11kg can be shed with the optional Akrapovic titanium exhaust system.
Beyond weight, the semi-slicks improve grip in both dry and wet conditions and increase sidewall stiffness for better support under load – all aimed at greater lap-time consistency and real-world drivability.