Volkswagen’s Polo GTI is quite a favourite amongst hot hatch buyers, Not only is it a quick little car, but also has a decent standard specification and VW’s well-built interior. And now the local subsidiary launches a revised Polo GTI with even more to offer.
Larger engine, new transmission
There are several changes, both cosmetic and hardware, but of most interest to fans/buyers will be the power increase to 141 kW – nine over its predecessor. This increase comes from a newly developed version of the firm’s EA888 engine. This third generation four-cylinder turbopetrol displaces 1 798 cm3. Even better news for driving enthusiasts is that the new Polo GTI will be available with a seven-speed DSG transmission or a six-speed manual, but the latter only from mid-year onwards.
Max power is delivered between 4 300 and 6 200 r/min with the 6-speed manual transmission and from 5 400 to 6 200 r/min with the 7-speed DSG transmission. Variations also apply to the torque values: the DSG delivers a maximum torque of 250 N.m between 1 250 and 5 300 r/min whereas the figures for the manual gearbox version are 320 N.m between 1 450 and 4 200 r/min.
VW claims that both transmission variants accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6,7 seconds while returning 5,6 L/100 km (129 g/km CO2) in conjunction with the DSG, and 6,0 litres (139 g/km CO2) with the manual transmission.
Revised looks
Slightly wider, by half an inch, new ‘Parabolicca’ alloys wheels help to uplift the looks as well as the handling capabilities. Other new design cues include new bumpers, flared door sills, the GTI logo on the front wing and other GTI hallmarks such as the red strips in the radiator grille and headlights . The Polo GTI is also available for the first time with optional LED headlights (dipped and main beam) as well as LED daytime running lights. At the rear, the GTI roof spoiler, tail light clusters in dark red, the black grained diffuser and the chrome dual exhaust tailpipes all add to the theme.
New inside, too
The new Polo GTI’s offers a colour touchscreen infotainment with functions such as Bluetooth connectivity for mobile phone and audio streaming, a proximity sensor (other menu details are shown when hand approaches the screen). The system also has CD-player, USB port, MP-3 functionality, auxiliary and SD-card input for external audio source and 6-loudspeakers.
Keep an eye out on this site early next week for a driving impression of the new Polo GTI from editor Steve Smith who is attending the ride and drive event of the new Polo GTI today.
Price
1, 8 TSI GTI DSG R326 400
Price includes a a 3 year/45 000 km service plan, 3 year/120 000km warranty and a 12 year anti-corrosion warranty.
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