The new Polo GTI
It’s a small, pocket rocket that some have even considered to be more of a spiritual successor to the original Golf GTI due to its compact dimensions and impressive performance. So what sets this new Polo GTI apart from the standard Polo which was also recently introduced?
For starters, the GTI features sporty styling in the form of a more focused front bumper with an integrated spoiler lip, fog lights and gloss black air intakes. There is a red pin-stripe design element on the honeycomb grille which is a nod to the original GTI.
The rear also gets the GTI treatment with the inclusion of a large gloss-black roof spoiler, black diffuser, dual chrome tailpipes and the iconic GTI badge on the bootlid. One of the standout features for me though are the newly designed 18-inch Brescia alloy wheels.
Interior
I recently drove the new Polo on test and found the interior to be one of the car’s strong points. On the GTI however, the interior gets some sporty and technological touches which has elevated the experience a little bit more.
The GTI sees the inclusion of the optional Active Info Display which features on the 10.25-inch diagonal instrument cluster display. This new feature lets the driver select between three different digital instrument cluster themes, a first on a car within the Volkswagen group. I also like the optional Discover Media infotainment system which not gets satellite navigation, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, but also Apple CarPly and Android Auto.
Other elements to be found inside that are worth noting are things such as the red stitching which can be found on the leather multi-function sport steering wheel, the sports seats which are finished in Art Velour upholstery and the addition of red dashboard inserts on models finished in white, black and blue.
GTI driving experience
The launch of the Polo GTI took place in the breath-taking Western Cape, with the providing ground, as has become common, being the Franschhoek Pass. The Polo GTI gets the clever XDS front differential system which uses complicated German technology to distribute power between the front wheels depending on grip. In short, this results in 20% gain through tight corners than on the previous model. The new Polo GTI lets you push the limits through corners, giving you a good indication of what is happening up front.
It is extremely fun to drive and those questioning its performance need not worry because his new car is fitted with a 2.0-litre TSI motor developing 147kW/320Nm. It’s a car the size of the Mk4 Golf with more performance than the Mk5 Golf GTI.
The car has a six-speed DSG gearbox as well as different driving modes depending on your mood. 0-100km/h is said to be around 6.7 seconds with the aid of the aggressive launch control system, and a top speed of 237km/h.
Verdict
As mentioned, the Polo GTI is a quality product which offers impressive levels of performance and relative comfort considering its sporty appeal. It is filled with the latest tech in terms of connectivity and safety and to top it all off, the car is now built here in South Africa, which means it is R11 600 cheaper at R375 900 than the old GTI.
Granted, while the options list is long and expensive, items such as the digital instrument cluster (R8 650) is a must as well as the Sport Select system. After briefly driving the car, I can say that once again, Volkswagen is offering a quality performance product, but with a true South African touch.
