The “GT” experience for the Volkswagen Virtus is now at a more accessible point for those who want a sportier personality for their sedan
Story: Gaurav Davare
Photography: Sanjay Raikar
If there is one word that comes to mind when we say “Volkswagen” and “GT” in the same sentence, that is performance. Basically, anything sporty or enthusiast-specific that came from Volkswagen always has a “GT” badge or, for the spiciest models, “GTI” affixed to it. While in India we may not have an all-out GTI offering, we do get the GT persona for both the Taigun SUV and the Virtus sedan to give it a bolder look.
Unfortunately for the Virtus, this treatment was a pretty niche one, limited to the 1.5-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine variants. Well, Volkswagen have heard our prayers and have rejigged their variant line-up to make the GT badge more accessible via the “GT Line” variants. We got a chance to check out all the sporty bits you get in this new persona.
While there are those who appreciate chrome on the Volkswagen Virtus, the GT treatment truly makes the sedan stand out, giving it a sportier look. It’s the same for the Virtus GT Line, the highlight here being a blacked-out treatment for the lighting, front grille, 16-inch alloy wheels, wing mirrors, door-handles, and the “Virtus” lettering at the back. You also get “GT Line” badging on the front doors and tailgate as well as a black lip spoiler.
Inside, the bolder theme continues as the upholstery is all-black (instead of a dual-tone shade) that adds to the premium ambience. The eight-inch digital driver’s display and ambient lighting get a contrasting red theme, with aluminium pedals amping up the sporty quotient, thus complementing the much loved sensible and clean cabin layout that has a certain tactile feel. The list of features is a pretty healthy one and it includes a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, automatic climate control, keyless entry, a sunroof, auto dimming inside mirror, and rain-sensing wipers.
The key component that makes the GT treatment more accessible is the 115-hp 1.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine the Volkswagen Virtus GT Line is limited to, with the option of either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. Now this may take away the hardcore GT experience, make no mistake, this 1.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine is a pretty handy unit in its own right. For starters, it sprints off the line quickly and the six-speed torque converter automatic gearbox works well with this engine in traffic scenarios without any sudden movements, making it perfect for driving around the city.
That’s not to say performance isn’t good on the highway, though, because this combination can make for a fine cruiser considering I’ve done a road trip from Kashmir to Kanyakumari with this set-up. That said, the 1.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine will feel strained under heavy load or while trying to execute quick overtakes; so, you’ll have to plan overtakes in advance.
Another big plus point with the Virtus that we know and love is its sporty handling dynamics, where the sedan is composed and comfortable without compromising on performance. The direct feedback from the steering gives a sense of confidence whether while attacking a high-speed bend or manoeuvring through tight spaces.
With a price tag of Rs 14.08 lakh for the manual and Rs 15.18 lakh for the automatic set-up (both prices ex-showroom), the Volkswagen Virtus GT Line significantly undercuts the GT Plus Sport, while retaining much of what made us love the GT treatment in the first place. Sure, you lose out on things like red badging, a sportier aero kit, red accents all over, and, of course, the more potent 150-hp 1.5-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine, but the GT Line ticks the boxes for those who want a sportier personality without needing to break the bank for it.
Also Read:
Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus 1.5 MT Test Review – Completing the Enthusiast’s Package
Volkswagen Virtus – Indulge in the Sedan-igans
