Volkswagen Polo GT TDI and GT TSI: Review

If you are looking for a hatchback, the options will easily exceed the number of fingers on your hands. However, if it’s a performance hatch you want, the list turns incredibly short. One car that does come to mind though is the Volkswagen Polo GT. And there were two - TSI and TDI - both launched last year. Now, with the Polo upgraded, newer versions of the GTs are out as well. Here’s what’s new about the Polo GT TSI and the Polo GT TDI.

Exterior styling

Like the regular Polo, changes on the Volkswagen Polo GT TSI and TDI too aren’t really that significant. The GTs too gets a redesigned bumper, fog lamps with chrome housing and a chrome highlight on the twin-slat grille. The GT logo has now been shifted from the left to the right and as opposed to the single badge on the C-pillar, the new Polo gets the GT TSI and the GT TDI decals on both the sides. Aside from the GT badge on the tail gate, the rear also gets a new black rear spoiler and ORVMs. While the Polo continues to be a good looking car one can’t help but notice that there isn’t much to differentiate the GT models from the regular ones.

Exterior Styling: 3.5

Interior & space

The overall layout of the dashboard remains the same as the regular Polo but instead of the dual tone colour scheme the Polo GT TSI and Polo GT TDI get an all black treatment. The centre console and the AC vents get piano black surrounds. Losing the beige, the cabin of the GT models don’t feel as airy as the standard Polo. The GT also gets the flat bottom steering wheel with a silver accent that gives it a sporty feel. Space for the rear passengers in the GT has been increased too, but it is still not as spacious as some other hatchbacks in the class. Both the models get aluminium pedals which are not available on the standard model while the quality of the dashboard and plastic continue to be top notch.

Interiors and space: 3

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Features & Equipment:

With respect to features and equipment, the Volkswagen’s GT range gets the works. It gets an integrated audio system with USB, AUX and Bluetooth connectivity. In terms of safety the GTs too get two airbags for the driver and the passenger as well as anti-lock braking system (ABS). The GT TSI also gets Electronic Stability Programme and Hill-hold functions as a virtue of being an automatic. The manual diesel GT TDI model, however, doesn’t. The GT variants too make do with parking sensors instead of a lot more convenient reversing camera.

Features and Equipment: 3.5

Ride and ease of driving

This is one aspect where the Polo does really well, as do the GT models. The GT TSI with the 7-speed DSG gearbox especially is an absolute bliss to drive. It performs well not just as a good automatic hatchback for your daily errands in the city but also as a performance hatch for your long drives. The GT TDI on the other hand has ample of torque thanks to which it doesn't demand too many shifts while driving through traffic. That said, the clutch is a bit heavy. Ride quality and visibility all round on both the cars remains good.

Ride and Ease of Driving: 4

Engine & performance

The Volkswagen Polo GT TSI retains the same direct injection, turbocharged 1.2-litre petrol engine and the 7-speed DSG gearbox from the earlier GT. In this trim the Polo pumps 105PS of power and 175Nm of torque. The gearbox is seamless and responds instantly to the inputs of the throttle. Slot it into Sports or shift manually and the Polo GT TSI with its easy and quick revving engine makes for a delightful drive.

The GT TDI with the new 1.5-litre engine feels even more energetic than the petrol. Despite the fact that Volkswagen has retained the same engine from the standard Polo for excise duty benefits, it pumps out an extra 15PS of power and 20Nm of torque in the GT TDI guise. However, even though the new GT TDI is more punchy to drive than the regular similarly engine diesel Polo, it does feel a little lacklustre compared to the older 1.6-litre powered TDI. As for the shifts on this manual; the 5-speed gearbox is slick with precise and short throws.

Engine and Performance: 4.5

Handling & braking

Much like the performance of the engine, the revised suspension feels surefooted too. It’s been setup well to inspire confidence round a series of bends as well as take on the undulations of the road with ease. Ample of feedback from the chassis as well as the tyres adds to the fun to drive quotient. The electronically powered steering wheel also contributes works precisely in changing direction with the drop of a hat. The front disc rear drum combination works well on both the cars and brings the car to a halt without losing its line.

Handling and Braking: 4

Price and Fuel efficiency

The Volkswagen Polo GT TSI and GT TDI are both priced at Rs 7.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). At this price, both cars find a pretty good balance between performance and price. As far as efficiency is concerned, the Polo GT TSI returns an efficiency of 17.21kmpl while its diesel counterpart is expected to return 19.91 kmpl (ARAI claimed) and taking the performance into consideration these figures are pretty impressive.

Price and Efficiency: 4  

Verdict

After spending a day with the new Polo GT TSI and the Polo GT TDI it was clear that both these cars are built for a purpose. Good build quality, a refined engine, a slick gearbox and phenomenal handling make both these cars as good as they get. The only thing going against them is the fact that there aren’t too many differentiating factors from the standard Polo and also the absence of sufficient features for a car of this price. That said, if you are looking for a performance hatchback then the GT TSI and the GT TDI are without doubt worth betting your money on.    

Verdict: 4