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#RoadTest: 2015 #Volkswagen Polo GTI Manual

When the new Volkswagen Polo GTi was launched locally back in April this year, it was only available with the 7-speed DSG transmission, but is now also available with a 6-speed manual transmission, which many Volkswagen GTi enthusiasts were waiting for, and in this article, is the subject of our road impressions.

Externally the new Polo GTi differs from the previous model with new bumpers, distinctively flared door sills, the GTI logo on the front wing and classic GTI insignia such as the red strips in the radiator grille and headlights, and the Polo GTi rides on new 17-inch ten spoke ‘Parabolicca’ alloy wheels with GTI styling, which on the press vehicle were shod with very low profile 215/40 R17 Bridgestone’s, while the spare is a space-saver situated under the boot board.

At the rear, the sporty theme continues with the GTI roof spoiler, 'Dark Red', tail light clusters, the black grained diffuser and the chrome dual exhaust tailpipes.

Additionally the Polo GTI offers the optional LED headlights as well as LED daytime running lights, for the first time.

The interior is accentuated by the classic GTI red elements, such as the leather sports steering wheel with contrasting red stitching, adapted from the Golf GTI, as is the gear lever, handbrake lever and the floor mats also have borders with red beading.

The seats are upholstered in Alcantara with leatherette inserts, and the driver and front passengers are heated. The Polo GTi front bucket seats are well shaped and offer good support in corners.

Sitting behind the wheel, the Polo has very well shaped bucket seats in front with plenty head, shoulder and legroom, while the rear seat is good for two adults, or three at a pinch, but legroom will be tight for taller folk, while the boot will accommodate 280 litres of luggage, which is about average for the class.

The instrument cluster with GTI design, black headliner and aluminium-look pedal caps, and GTi “kick-plates” continue the sporty interior.

Standard features include Hill Hold assist, XDS+ Transverse Electronic Differential Lock, Driver Alert System, Cruise Control and Automatic Post-Collision Braking System. The press vehicle however was fitted with 35 500 Rands of options which included the Sports Select, park distance control, rear view camera, climatic air conditioner, light and vision package. Panoramic sunroof and LED headlights.

For the new model, the Polo GTI's radio system has been re-conceptualised with the state-of-the-art technology. The Composition Media system with colour touch-screen offers functions such as Bluetooth connectivity for mobile phone and audio streaming and a proximity sensor. The system also has CD-player, USB port, MP3 functionality, auxiliary and SD-card input for external audio sources and 6-loudspeakers.

For the first time, Volkswagen is offering electronically adjustable dampers in the Polo GTI. These form the core technology basis of the new, optional 'Sport Select' suspension, which for the GTI is always available in conjunction with the optional 'Sport Performance Kit', sportier tuning covering a wide range of parameters, all at the push of a button. It also lowers the Polo GTi’s stance on the road by 10 mm at the front and 15 mm lower at the rear compared with the less powerful Polo derivatives. This can be adapted for use on the racetrack.

While most manufacturers are now changing to smaller engines and extracting more performance by using high output turbos, Volkswagen has chosen to fit a larger turbocharged four cylinder 16 valve direct injection petrol engine into the new Polo GTi. It delivers 141 kW of power at between 4 200 to 6 200 rpm and maximum torque of 320 Nm between 1 450 and 4 200 rpm, where in the DSG version torque is rated at 250Nm and this makes a huge difference between the two.

The high-tech 1.8 TSI engine is one of the most efficient and agile engines in its class and is said to consume just 6.8 ltrs per 100 km with a CO2 rating of 139 g/km. However over the period I had the GTi the average consumption was displayed as 8.1 ltrs per 100 kms. The tank holds 45 litres.

Initially only the 7-speed DSG transmission was available for the Polo GTi, but the six-speed manual will be the enthusiasts’ choice. While the DSG might make every day motoring an easier affair, the new manual transforms the 2015 Polo GTI into a far more involving - and exciting car to drive. The manual itself is a delight to use. Light and slick through a well-defined gate and with a light clutch pedal, there’s no problem to use in urban driving.

In sixth gear at 120 km/h on the freeways the motor revolves at 2 700 rpm, yet there’s a surprising surge of torque when you floor the accelerator that you wouldn’t get with a smaller engine.

In terms of performance, the Polo GTI is quick – very quick. From standstill, lift the rev to about 2 000 rpm,  drop the clutch and the Polo passes the 100 km/h mark in 2^nd gear in just 6.7 seconds and goes on to a top speed of 236 km/h.

The handling of the new Polo GTI has also been refined by the addition of a new steering system, while safety features include ESC, Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and the Driver Alert System.

Driving the new Polo GTI is a real pleasure with lots of power and a strong performance. The new engine is good, has a very smooth power delivery, and the acceleration is excellent, and It doesn't surge on turbo boost as some of the other hot hatches do.

In corners, the stiffer chassis makes itself evident, with far less body roll than other models in the range, while the XDS+ electronic diff applies the brake to the inside front wheel to enhance cornering, and it works very well, while the pleasure from using the manual gearbox, especially when doing the heel-toe throttle blips, is something a DSG simply cannot match. Understeer on the exit of bends is well contained, and acceleration out of the corners is smooth and safe.

On the open road, the refined ride and overtaking torque makes for sporty driving, while the chassis grip and vice-free handling make it enjoyable to explore its limits on a twisting back road. I really enjoyed my few days the new Polo GTI.

With regards to the recommended retail price, as at October 2015 the basic price for the Volkswagen Polo GTI 1.8 TSi was R313 300, add R35 500 for the options and the total price jumps up to R351 800. That includes a 3 year/45 000km Service Plan, 3 year / 120 000km warranty, a 12 year anti-corrosion warranty and service intervals are at 15 000 km. (Pricing at November 2015)