VW India invited us to sample the sporty version of the Polo, the GT TSI variant, in Goa last week. However an embargo that didn't expire until today left us with no choice but to hold back the details.
Volkswagen dealers have been sent cars for demonstration and test drive purposes, many spyshots from stockyards on the web are testimony to this.
This morning we can reveal that the VW Polo GT TSI, launching on the 29th of April, is powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged petrol engine that produces a maximum power output of 105 PS @ 5,000 RPM and a maximum torque output of 175Nm @ 1,500-4,100 RPM.
Is the 1.2-liter TSI engine on this model a turbocharged version of the three-cylinder petrol motor that VW has been selling for three years in India?
Nope. Its a whole lot different compared to the existing engine. The TSI is a four cylinder, comes with turbocharging and direct injection.
The 1.2-liter TSI unit substitutes the 1.6-liter unit which VW India retrieved from the market last year due to poor sales. To use that engine's numbers for reference, it delivers peak outputs of 103.5bhp @ 5,250rpm and 153Nm @ 3,750rpm. The 1.2-liter on the other hand produces a higher power at lower revs and a higher peak torque is available from 1,500-4,100 RPM. Power and torque are therefore easily accessible with less noise and fuel expenses. There's a heaven and hell difference to the driving experience which we'll explain in our review later in the day.
Transmission duties are carried out by a 7-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG). The 1.6-liter engine was paired to the 5-speed manual transmission, also available with the smaller petrol and diesel mills. Traction is provided by 180/60 sectioned R15 tires.
Aesthetically, the Polo GT TSI is differentiated by 'GT' and 'TSI' badges on the front and rear fascia, and a 'GT TSI' sticker on the C-Pillar. Interiors are upholstered in contrasting black and gray fabric trim. Illuminated sill plates on the front doorways and the gear selector are obvious differences on the new variant.
The Polo GT TSI has recorded a fuel efficiency of 17.2kmpl in the ARAI consumption test. Dimensionally, it is the same as the naturally aspirated Polo petrol variant.
