Two months after presenting the latest sixth generation Polo, Volkswagen has unveiled the sportiest version of the car – the new Polo GTI.
Featuring semi-automated driving as an option for the first time, the new Polo GTI retains the same 2.0-litre TSI unit as before, producing 204 hp and 320 Nm of torque.
Sports Chassis
Paired with a standard 7-speed DSG gearbox, the new Polo GTI is capable of doing the century sprint in 6.5 seconds. The car also comes with a sports chassis, tailored specially to the car, as standard. It lowers the chassis by 15 millimetres versus the regular Polo.
The main highlight of the car is the availability of IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist, used for the first time in a Polo GTI, which enables semi-automated driving.
The system can take over the steering, braking and accelerating of the new Polo GTI from 0 km/h to the control limit of Travel Assist (210 km/h).
New steering wheel to control Travel Assist
The driver can activate the system via the Travel Assist button in the redesigned, multifunctional, leather sports steering wheel.
However, the driver’s hands must remain on the steering wheel whilst using this system, meaning the driver is always responsible for the car.
Many new infotainment systems (the latest generation of MIB3.1), which are connected to various services online, ensure state-of-the-art connectivity in the new Polo GTI.
New infotainment features
Features like natural voice control, access to streaming services and a cloud-based personalisation using “Volkswagen ID” enhance the latest MIB3.1 system, depending on the equipment line.
The integration of such apps as App-Connect Wireless for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is now wireless.
The Digital Cockpit Pro impresses with a higher pixel density, an improved contrast ratio and intense colours, as well as it sheer size – the screen measures 10.25 inches or 26 centimetres diagonally.
New lights
The new Polo GTI also comes with the new IQ.Light – LED matrix. The most striking visual change to the rear of the new Polo GTI is the newly-designed LED rear lights with animated brake light and integrated dynamic indicators, which indicate a change in direction with flowing light movements.
The new, GTI-specific bumper gives the compact sports car an even more commanding and broader visual presence on the roads.
The Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS), which is integrated in the side of the bumper and controlled via the main headlights, has been redesigned and now gives an even more concise lighting effect.
The car comes with 17-inch alloy wheels as standard, but it can also be ordered with optional 18-inch alloys.
Interior
On the interior, black, red, grey and chrome are the dominant colours. The roof pillars and roof liner are always retained in the Titanium Black trim colour, which is typical of the GTI.
Red contrast stitching is also always a typical characteristic of a GTI. It adorns the multifunctional, leather sports steering wheel, which comes as standard, the gear lever trim and the seat surfaces.
The optional beats sound system, with 300 watts and six speakers, make for a captivating accoustic experience. The amplifier is located under the floor in the variable cargo area to save space. The luggage capacity of the new Polo GTI is 351 litres.
