Much anticipation followed with the launch of New Volkswagen Polo GT TDI in India. This top most variant of Polo has been flanked by motor enthusiasts as the sturdiest diesel power machine in B segment of cars. In the category of diesel hatchbacks, it is set to command its position on the highest podium. Volkswagen Polo was also introduced to Indian car market amid many speculations about its chances of success. The trend seems to become perennial with this German carmaker. Polo was loaded with a powerful engine which is passed on as a legacy to all its later and bigger siblings as well.
Pricing:
Polo is placed in a comfortable price band of Rs. 4.99 lakhs to 7.6 lakhs. Being an advanced version Polo GT TDI is priced at 8.08 lakhs (Ex showroom, Delhi)
Brand value:
Volkswagen is an established brand in international car market and hence does not need any introduction as such. It made its foray in India in year 2007 and since then has been surprising the Indian consumers with its superb German engineering and elite European class.
Engine details:
In terms of engine, Volkswagen gear up its vehicles with power packed engine. Polo is loaded with 1.2 litre 3- cylinder engine with 5 speed transmission which emanates power of 74 PS@ 4200 rpm and a max torque of 180 Nm @ 2000 rpm. With fuel economy of 17.24 kmpl (in city), it looks quite impressive in this segment.
Polo GT TDI diesel 4-cylinder engine, probably the most compelling in its class, which emits power of 103 BHP @ 4400 rpm, max torque of 250 PS @ 1500 rpm, and a fuel economy of 19.78 kmpl as certified by ARAI.
Space:
Well, these cars have ample of space for comfortable seating and enjoyable driving. While Polo has a seating capacity of 5 in its muscular frame measuring 3970* 1682* 1453 mm with a boot space of 294 ltrs, Polo GT TDI is also built on the same mould. With identical dimensions and boot space of 250 ltrs, it is more of a twin of its elder sibling.
Interiors:
Polo is a sedan and feels like one as well. Adjustable front seat, power steering, power windows and central locking with remote transmitter set in beautifully crafted interiors adds an undying appeal to it. However, the fun ride is restricted by lesser leg room in rear side of car. It has DIN audio system, lane change indicator, multi functional display panel, aluminium pedal cluster, dual tone dash board, and a nicely designed console.
Polo GT TDI is designed exclusively with jazzy instruments like climate control, remote controlled central locking, multifunction display, engine immobilizer with floating code, front and rear fog lamps, double DIN Bluetooth, steering mounted controls, chrome interior, hand brake with tilt and telescopic steering adjustments.
Exteriors:
Bearing the typical German style and European feel, Polo depicts a sturdier hatchback donned in style. Black front grille, body color door handles, brake light spoiler, sporty rear wiper, and elegant radiator are just picture perfect.
With 15 inches alloy wheels, GT branding on front grille and boot lid, Polo GT TDI fails to leave a lasting impact with its nothing-new kind of exteriors, although much more was expected! Most of the attributes are borrowed from lower versions of Polo.
Road Handling:
Polo has a turning ratio of 4.9 mtr that is perfect for city ride; ground clearance of 168 mm which gives fair amount of suspension with ABS. however, this performance gets patchy on rough trails with noisy engine acting as an irritant. Here, Polo GT TDI has nothing new to offer in terms of roads handling.
Verdict:
High on power and classy in interiors, Polo GT TDI is a bagful of old goodies offered by Polo and its earlier versions. Thus, if power interests you it is the car for you with a high price. Although directed at youth, whether it succeeds in attracting them like Polo, is yet to be seen.
