VW Launches New Polo GTI

Volkwagen has launched its new Polo GTI which packs a whopping 147kW of power, 320 Nm of torque, sport suspension and XDS differential lock.

The Polo GTI features a very agile drive system, low unladen weight (1,355 kg), firm sports-oriented running gear that is also good for long-distance driving, assured front-wheel drive as well as an ergonomically ideal sitting position.

This is all packaged in an expressive exterior and interior design and topped off with classic GTI insignia such as the typical red stripe in the radiator grille, the GTI gear knob and Art Velour upholstered sport seats.

It is also equipped with a connected and largely digitalised cockpit which makes the Polo GTI, always offered in four-door format, the ideal compact and affordable sports car of a new generation.

New Active Info Display (optional).

The new Polo, and thus the Polo GTI too, are launching as the first Volkswagen and first Volkswagen Group models to feature a new generation of the Active Info Display. Volkswagen interface designers have systematically advanced the next generation of the Active Info Display (10.25-inch display diagonal) and have elevated its high-quality graphics (133 dpi / resolution 1,280 x 480 pixels) and functional range to new levels.

As a result, the display offers better graphic performance, higher pixel density, greater brightness and contrast, more intense colours and fewer conventional indicator lamps. Using a ‘View button’ on the multifunction steering wheel, the Polo GTI driver can now also switch between three basic layouts, easily and quickly. A view with two instrument dials, or ‘tubes’: one for the rev counter and one for the speedometer, digital view without dials or digital view without dials with supplemental information. Supplemental information can be configured via the infotainment system. In addition, the graphics and colour range of the Active Info Display have been fully adapted to each specific model.

Naturally, at the heart of every GTI is the engine. In recent times the GTI has always been powered by high torque turbocharged engines. In the case of the new Polo GTI, it is a two-litre direct-injection petrol engine with an output of 147 kW. Like the Golf GTI, the new Polo GTI will be represented in the 2.0-litre turbo class for the first time.

The 1,988 cc engine has a compression ratio of 11.65:1. The GTI unit delivers its maximum power between 4,400 and 6,000 rpm. This power plant of the third generation EA888 engine series transmits its maximum torque of 320 Nm to the front wheels at a low 1,500 rpm; this high torque figure stays constant up to a speed of 4,400 rpm – giving the GTI engine a torque curve that is hardly traditional; it features an extremely sporty torque plateau.

The new Polo GTI engine launches with a 6-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG) as standard. The Polo GTI with DSG accelerates to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds. The Polo reaches a top speed of 237 km/h. Despite its power output, the Polo GTI can be driven very economically thanks to its efficient drive technology. The combined fuel consumption of the DSG version is 5.9 l/100 km.

Other features include:

Blind spot monitor: A blind spot monitor utilises an LED symbol in the outer area of the exterior mirrors to alert the driver to vehicles located in the blind spot alongside the Polo GTI and to vehicles approaching from the rear.

Rear Traffic Alert: Rear Traffic Alert takes much of the risk out of reversing from driveways and parking spaces that are at right angles to the road. The system not only ‘recognises’ stationary or moving vehicles directly behind the Polo GTI, but also vehicles approaching from the side which are not visible to the driver.

Driver Alert System: If the Driver Alert System detects waning concentration of the driver, it outputs an audible warning for a duration of five seconds and displays a message in the instrument cluster recommending a break from driving. If the driver does not take a break within the next 15 minutes, the warning is repeated once. After an initial collision, the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System initiates a braking action – within system limits – even before the driver can react. This can reduce the severity of the accident and ideally prevent secondary collisions.

Automatic Post-Collision Braking System: The Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, which is included as standard in the new Polo GTI, can help to avoid secondary collisions or reduce their severity.

Driving Profile Selection: In the driving profile selection, the driver can choose from a total of four programs: Eco, Sport, Normal and Individual.

Park Assist: Park Assist automatically guides the Polo GTI into parallel or perpendicular parking spaces, and it can also reverse out of parallel parking spaces.

Tyre Pressure Loss Indicator: The Tyre Pressure Loss Indicator utilises the wheel speed sensors of the anti-lock brake system (ABS). In case of tyre pressure loss, the rolling radius of the affected wheel decreases, and the wheel turns faster at the same vehicle speed. This allows the system to detect insufficient air pressure, and it warns the driver.

The New Polo sells for R375 900 price (VAT and emissions tax included and comes standard with a 3 year/120 000km warranty, 3year/ 45 000km Volkswagen Service and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. Service interval is 15 000km.

It comes in Pure White, Flash Red and Deep Black Pearl Effect. In addition, the Polo can also be ordered in Reef Blue Metallic.