The VW Polo GTI has been spotted on test in India. The highest spec version of the German automaker’s budget hatchback, it is expected to be launched later this year and will be offered in CKD form.
The 2015 Volkswagen Polo is powered by a 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine that produced 192bhp/320Nm of torque and is mated to a seven-speed DSG making it the most powerful car in the segment.
On the design front, the car gets modified bumpers, larger than standard alloy-wheels and of course, the famous GTI badging both in the front and rear that gives this version of the Polo its unique identity. The cabin is very similar to that of the Polo GT TSI/TDI but with additional features and most probably some sporty oriented bits like contrast coloured seat belts.
The Polo hatchback has been a major contributor to the German automaker’s volumes in the Indian market. It has tasted good success with the performance-oriented GT models so it is no surprise that they are testing the Polo GTI for the Indian market. Given our liking for sedans, it is possible that there may be a Vento GTI in the pipeline.
The car will be a niche player as it currently has no rivals in terms of performance or pricing. While fully loaded Polo GTI costs Rs 21 lakh, it is expected to be a tad bit cheaper here and is likely to be in the range of Rs 15 lakh to Rs 17 lakh.