Credits to: Anthony Lim
Volkswagen has launched the GTI variant for its new Polo hatch; the little rocket has 178bhp, like its predecessor, though this is achieved with the use of a turbocharged and supercharged 1.4l TSI block compared to the 1.8l turbo unit on the previous one.
Effectively, this amounts to the same level of performance and fun, with the 1,194kg vehicle able to do the 0-100kmh sprint in 6.9secs and get to a top speed of 229kmh, but with a 25% improvement in fuel efficiency .
The car is equipped with a 7-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG) as standard; an electronic transverse differential lock (XDS) reduces the tendency to understeer and improves handling aspects. Like all versions of the model series, the Polo GTI also comes equipped with ESP, including Hill Climb Assist.
Safety equipment includes an airbag network that features combined head-thorax side airbags, belt tensioners, belt tension limiters plus belt warning, front head restraints designed to avoid whiplash trauma as well as Isofix points on the rear bench seat.
As for convenience, items on the kit list include electro-hydraulic power steering, central locking, bootspace lighting and tie-down eyes, driver seat height adjustment and green-tinted insulated glass.
The Polo GTI is the first Polo to come with bi-xenon headlights with cornering lights, LED daytime running lights and corner marker lights, as well as a panoramic tilt/slide sunroof. GTI-specific features include a sport seat system and 17-inch Denver alloy wheels.
