Volkswagen India have unleashed the country’s first proper diesel hot hatchback in the form of the Polo GT TDI. The new car brings the familiar solid build quality but now has more power, torque, equipment and, before we forget, character.
It will be sold alongside the GT TSI as the oil-burning twin-sister.
The Polo GT TDI makes use of the 1.6-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine from the Vento. This means you have 105 PS at relatively revvy 4,400 rpm and a hefty 250 Nm of torque from 1,500-2,500 rpm. No complicated auto ‘boxes here; the GT TDI packs a five-speed manual! It also offers an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency figure of 19.78 km/l.
The equipment levels are along the lines of the Highline variant, and of course, similar to what you get on the GT TSI. That means you have the leather-wrapped steering wheel, gear lever and handbrake lever; aluminium pedals; a double-DIN entertainment system with USB, Aux-in, a memory card slot, Bluetooth and four speakers. Using them is made easier with the steering-mounted audio controls. Furthermore, the power steering is electric and of the speed-sensitive variety. You also get ABS standard as well as dual front airbags. To round off the package are the sharply styled 15” ‘Estrada’ alloy wheels shod with 185/60 rubber.
The Volkswagen Polo GT TDI has been launched at Rs 8.08 lakh (ex showroom, Delhi).