The Polo GTI has truly grown up and now South Africans, already spoiled for choice at this end of the market, can add this 'downsized Golf GTI' to their shopping lists.
There is plenty of high-tech kit to justify its R259 000 price tag, so let's start with the important bits. This Polo is motivated by the most powerful version of VW's twin-charged 1.4-litre TSI engine to date, producing 132kW at 6200rpm and 250Nm from 2000rpm.
Our correspondent from yesterday's media launch in the Western Cape, Jesse Adams, was impressed with the new motor: “These super-and-turbo-charged motors are known for their ability to eliminate turbo lag and from a stop the new Polo GTI spools up from the get-go, darts forward instantaneously and all the while that responsive DSG 'box waits in anticipation to hit the next gear in an instant.”
That seven-speed dual-clutch semi-automatic gearbox is standard on the new GTI.
Jesse continued: “It's also obvious that VW put some extra time into the relatively small capacity motor's induction system, because it's remarkably rorty for its size.
A deep note roars from the exhaust, just like big brother Golf, but sadly with out that trademark bark between gears.”
According to VW, the Polo GTI will dart from 0-100km/h in 6.9 seconds and top out at 229km/h. Fuel consumption, on the unrealistic NEDC cycle, is pegged at 5.9 litres per 100km, equating to CO2 emissions of 139g/km.
On the chassis front, the Polo GTI might lack its bigger brother's multilink rear axle, but the Polo's humble underpinnings have been given as good a makeover as possible.
In addition to the 15mm-lower ride height and stiffer shocks and springs, an improved version of VW's XDS electronic transverse diff lock was designed to reduce understeer through active brake intervention.
“The little Polo GTI's suspension system is noticeably firm, but I have no problem with that because a GTI badge on anything is licence enough for uncomfortably sporty shocks and springs.” Said Jesse.
Also aiding grip are a set of 17-inch, five-hole 'telephone dial' alloy wheels that provide the GTI's visual trademark along with a honeycomb grille with red trim strips, unique front apron, fender flares, rear spoiler and chrome dual tailpipes. Six exterior colours are available, namely Candy White, Flash Red, Black, Reflex Silver, Shadow Blue and Deep Black.
As for the cabin: “With all the soft alcantara, polished metal and glossy piano black finishes lurking within VW's new baby boomer, it's clear that the latest version has matured healthily from the previous hard plastic and tartan-seated one. In fact, this new Polo offers a very upmarket Golf GTI feel.”
It ticks most of the standard feature boxes you'd expect it to at this level, but a glaring omission is curtain airbags, which you have to pay extra for. Other options are rear park distance control and a panoramic sunroof. The Polo GTI also lacks a standard service plan.