Volkswagen Unveils GTI Special Model at Nürburgring 24-Hour Race

March 24, 2025

Volkswagen Celebrates GTI World Premiere at the Nürburgring 24-Hour Race

Volkswagen has always been synonymous with performance and innovation, and the brand is once again making waves at the ADAC 24-hour race at the Nürburgring. Taking place from June 19-22, 2025, this legendary motorsport event will host over 230,000 car and racing enthusiasts, offering an unforgettable experience. The highlight of Volkswagen’s presence at this prestigious event will be the world premiere of a GTI special model, further cementing its legacy in the performance car segment.

A Special GTI for the Fans

The Nürburgring Nordschleife and the GTI badge share a rich history of speed, sportiness, and driving pleasure. As Volkswagen gears up to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Golf GTI in 2026, the brand is unveiling an exclusive GTI special model at the 2025 Nürburgring 24-hour race. This much-anticipated debut will take place in front of both media representatives and thousands of eager fans at the legendary ‘Green Hell.’

In addition to the new GTI, Volkswagen will showcase its latest performance models from the Volkswagen R division. Enthusiasts can expect to see the powerful all-wheel-drive Golf R, Golf R Variant, and the exclusive Golf R Black Edition, all of which offer unparalleled driving dynamics tailored for the demanding Nürburgring circuit.

Max Kruse Racing Takes on the Nürburgring

Volkswagen’s commitment to motorsport remains strong, as evidenced by the participation of the Max Kruse Racing team in the grueling 24-hour endurance race. This year, the team will compete with two Golf GTI Clubsport 24h cars, aiming for another class victory. One of the drivers behind the wheel will be Benjamin ‘Benny’ Leuchter, a professional touring car driver and Volkswagen development expert, ensuring a seamless connection between the brand’s production models and its motorsport endeavors.

Leuchter will be joined by a formidable team, including seven-time rallycross world champion Johan Kristoffersson and Nürburgring veterans Nico Otto and Heiko Hammel. The second Golf GTI Clubsport 24h car will feature another well-known name in motorsport—Fabian Vettel, the younger brother of four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel.

Preparing for the Ultimate Challenge

The journey to Nürburgring glory begins long before race day. Earlier this year, the Max Kruse Racing team conducted intensive winter testing in Portimão, Portugal, to fine-tune their vehicles under real racing conditions. To further prepare, the team will participate in several Nürburgring Endurance Series (NLS) races ahead of the 24-hour event. The NLS season kicks off with the ADAC Westfalenfahrt, a four-hour race that serves as a crucial test before tackling the grueling Nürburgring circuit.

Volkswagen’s Legacy in Dubai’s Performance Car Market

Dubai is home to some of the world’s most passionate car enthusiasts, and Volkswagen’s GTI models have long been a favorite among performance car lovers in the UAE. Whether it’s the legendary Golf GTI or the high-performance Golf R, these vehicles offer the perfect balance of everyday usability and track-ready thrills.

For those in Dubai looking to experience the thrill of Volkswagen’s performance lineup, the used car market presents fantastic opportunities. With high demand for sporty, well-maintained hatchbacks, finding a pre-owned Volkswagen GTI or R model in excellent condition is easier than ever. Auto Trader UAE provides a platform to explore the best deals on used Volkswagen models, ensuring enthusiasts can drive home a piece of Volkswagen’s storied performance heritage.

If you're looking for the best deals on used cars in Dubai, including Volkswagen’s iconic GTI models, visit Auto Trader UAE to explore a wide range of vehicles.

  • GET OUR APP FOR THE BEST
  • AutoTraders EXPERIENCE
Autotraders App Download