THE GTI YOU REALLY WANT
Things are about to heat up in the hotly contested junior hot hatch market, with the introduction of the all-new Volkswagen Polo GTI early next month.
Although the sixth generation Polo made its global debut last year, it’s only now that the range-topping GTI model is being released locally – where it will go up against the Renault Clio RS and the upcoming Ford Fiesta ST.
Whereas the previous generation GTI was built in Spain, the new GTI will be built at Volkswagen’s plant in Uitenhage, and because of this, its pricing should be affected.
Co-incidentally, industry rumours are suggesting that the PGTI will be priced at R375 900. Roughly R4000 less than its predecessor. This is entirely plausible when one looks at the current pricing for the new Polo range, and if one factors in that it will be produced locally.
Riding on the Volkswagen’s highly lauded MQB-platform, the new Polo GTI will no doubt be even sportier and more grown-up than its predecessor.
Powering the new Polo GTI will be a version of the famed EA888 motor that outputs 147kw and 320nm. While the outgoing model had a 7-speed DSG, the new GTI uses a 6-speed DSG. The result is a claimed 0-100kph time of 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 237kph. Thanks to its low weight of 1,355kg, the new PGTI is also said to be far more agile and dynamically capable than its predecessor. It's also claimed to be more frugal, sipping just 5.9L/100kms.
Four colours will apparently be offered in SA: Pure White, Flash Red, Reef Blue Metallic and Deep Black Pearlescent.
Like all Polos, the GTI will be sold with a three-year/120 000 mechanical warranty and three-year/45 000km service plan.
Also worth a look: the Volkswagen Golf and the Volkswagen Touareg.
FAQ
Q: What does the Volkswagen Polo GTI cost in South Africa?
The new Volkswagen Polo GTI is rumoured to be priced at R375,900, which is roughly R4,000 less than its predecessor thanks to local production at VW's Uitenhage plant.
Q: How fast is the Volkswagen Polo GTI?
The Polo GTI sprints from 0-100kph in 6.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of 237kph, powered by a 147kW EA888 engine producing 320Nm of torque through a 6-speed DSG gearbox.
Q: Is the Volkswagen Polo GTI fuel efficient?
Yes, the Polo GTI is surprisingly frugal for a hot hatch, consuming just 5.9L/100km thanks to its lightweight 1,355kg body and efficient EA888 engine.
Q: What colours are available for the Polo GTI in South Africa?
The Polo GTI will be offered in four colours locally: Pure White, Flash Red, Reef Blue Metallic and Deep Black Pearlescent.
Q: What warranty does the Volkswagen Polo GTI come with?
Like all Polos, the GTI includes a three-year/120,000km mechanical warranty and a three-year/45,000km service plan as standard.
Should You Buy It?
Absolutely yes, the Volkswagen Polo GTI at R375,900 is the best junior hot hatch under R400,000 in South Africa. With 147kW of proper German engineering, local production keeping costs down, and the legendary GTI badge's heritage, this is the hot hatch that delivers serious thrills without breaking the bank. Sure, the Renault Clio RS might have more flair and the Ford Fiesta ST more character, but the Polo GTI strikes the perfect balance between everyday usability and weekend fun. At this price point, with that performance and VW's solid warranty package, it's a no-brainer for anyone wanting a proper hot hatch that won't leave you stranded or bankrupt.
