2016 Auto Expo: Volkswagen Polo GTI Top 5 Facts

1.) Engine: Over the past few months, Indian automotive enthusiasts have got something to cheer about with the launch of the Fiat Punto Abarth and the Avventura Abarth. Volkswagen is about to bring more in that direction with the launch of the Polo GTI later this year. Powered by a 1.8-litre TSI petrol unit that makes the 180PS and 250Nm, the Polo GTI will be one of the most powerful hatchbacks in India. If these figures don’t give you an adequate perspective, picture this – it is the same petrol engine that works force on the likes of the Audi A4 and the Skoda Octavia hiding under the hood of this compact hatch. The Polo GTI employs a 7-speed DSG transmission.  

2.) Design: One of the biggest let down of the Polo GTI is its design. Apart from the 3-door design, it looks extremely identical to the regular Polo. Some vinyl stickers that flaunt the GTI badge, side skirts, and better looking bumpers would have been much appreciated. The 17-inch alloy wheels too could have sported a better design. 

3.) Unique Interiors: While much of the interiors of the regular Polo and the GT are identical, the same is not the case with the GTI. The car gets smart looking red accents on the steering wheel and the floor mats. The chequered fabric design also gives the Polo GTI a distinctive feel.  The Polo GTI also features a new touchscreen infotainment system. 

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4.) For the enthusiast: With the Polo GTI, Volkswagen intends to fill the gap between the Punto Abarth and the Mini Coopers. In fact, the Polo GTI will be one of the first entry-level hot hatches in its true essence to be launched in the Indian market. The Polo GTI is the only 3-door offering to be sold in India apart from the Mini Coopers. With the Polo GTI, Volkswagen is not looking at the playing the numbers game completely aware of the fact that it is being targeted to a very niche market. 

5.) Price: Considering the fact that it will come to India via the CBU route, the Volkswagen Polo GTI will carry a heavy sticker price. Expect it to be in the range of Rs 20 lakh. However, if Volkswagen manages to produce the engine from the factory in Chakan and increase localistaion, the Polo GTI might just be launched at an extremely competitive price.