Volkswagen teases Polo GTI ahead of launch

Volkswagen India shared an image on its social channels that read: "Night is here. Night brings power. Are you ready?" Now, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out what they're hinting at, does it? The meanest hatch in the Polo line-up looks all set to launch soon. The GTI is right around the corner, folks!

Volkswagen sparked off the 'hot hatch' segment with the GT twins, back in 2013. A full three years later, it is bringing the big boy to the party. Ever since Fiat brought in a desi version of the Abarth Punto, rumour mills have gone into overdrive about the Polo GTI making an appearance to claim the hot hatch crown. Volkswagen officially showcased the GTI at the Auto Expo held in Delhi earlier this year and hinted at a launch around the festive season. True to its word, fast forward to November -- it's on its way here.

The GTI's party piece is its 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol motor that dishes out a healthy 190 horses. Since India is likely to get just the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, torque will be limited to 250Nm. For the record, manual variants get a healthy 320Nm, but the 0-100kmph sprint time remains identical, irrespective of transmission options, at 6.7 seconds. Big engine plus small car has always translated into big speed and big grins; this one promises to be no different. If the 235kmph top whack doesn't get you grinning, we aren't sure what will.

The hatch will be offered as a three-door only, to distinguish it from the array of standard Polos masquerading as the real deal. GTI-specific design details include a honeycomb grille with red accents that flows into the headlamps, a different set of bumpers, larger wheels (the big 18-inchers might be swapped for an India-friendly set of 16s) and a spoiler too. The insides carry a similar layout, but get a different flat-bottom steering with paddle shifters, and GTI-specific upholstery over the standard fare that include goodies like climate control and a touchscreen audio system.

The Volkswagen Polo GTI isn't going to be friendly on the wallet. It will be offered in a single trim level, with a sticker price that hovers around the Rs 20 lakh mark. Launch is expected in a couple of weeks. Stay tuned for updates.

Recommended Read: Fiat Punto Abarth vs Volkswagen GT TSI : Comparison Review

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