Volkswagen has updated the Polo GTI, adding technology, refreshing the looks and increasing safety to ensure it remains the benchmark in its class. Prices will be announced when it goes on sale later this year.
Exterior
The refreshed sixth-generation Polo GTI has new IQ.Light – LED matrix headlights and an illuminated radiator grille bar as standard.
It also has newly designed LED rear lights that feature dynamic indicators. The GTI-specific bumpers have also been redesigned, as has the adaptive front lighting system (AFS) which is integrated into the side of the bumper.
A red GTI logo on the radiator grille, the honeycomb-shaped ventilation grilles, and the continuous red trim strip above the LED daytime running light strip help the GTI stand out from the rest of the Polo range.
Engine
Like its predecessors, the new Polo GTI is front-wheel drive. The turbo-charged engine produces 207PS and changes gear through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG), which comes as standard.
The engine in the new Polo GTI features technology such as a dual injection system with combined direct and intake-manifold fuel injection, an engine control unit with four core processors, and an electronic valve-lift system on the inlet side.
Safety
IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist, used for the first time in a Polo GTI, enables semi-automated driving. The system can take over the steering, braking and throttle and can operate from 0 to 130mph. IQ.DRIVE uses systems such as the adaptive cruise control and lane assist, and the driver can activate it with the travel assist button on the redesigned steering wheel.