Not so long ago, the Golf 5 GTi debuted with 147kW and now, in its
seventh iteration, it develops 162kW (169kW if you spec the Performance
Pack).
Not a huge gain in roughly ten years since the five's
introduction, but then Volkswagen has never chased pure performance
glory. The GTi has always been about more than that.
The Polo you
see here develops 141kW (9kW increase) and 250Nm from its newly
developed 1.8-litre turbocharged engine. Interestingly it wears the same
engine number as its older GTi brother – EA888 – displacing 1798cc
versus the Golfs 1984cc.
Initially only available with the groups
seven-speed automatic DSG transmission with a six-speed manual to be
introduced later in 2015. Good news for three-pedal enthusiasts, because
you'll get an extra 70Nm of toque too. 320Nm to be precise.
Volkswagen
is quick to point out that the extra torque won't affect performance.
True if you're your talking straight 0-100km/h times – which by the way
the Polo GTi smashes in 6.7 seconds – however, in day-to-day conditions
that torque is sure to make a difference, especially for those living at
altitude.
Understated is the name of the game
The Polo
GTi has had a small makeover in 2015 with a subtly redesigned front
bumper. Characteristic GTi signature design elements such as the red pin
striping – which now extends into the headlight clusters – and
honeycomb grille with the prominent GTi badge, clearly distinguish this
hot GTi from lesser models in the range.
Flared wheel arches
housing new 17-inch ‘Parabolicca' alloys wrapped in a wider 215/40
section rubber, extended side sills and a 10mm/15mm front/rear drop in
ride height hint at the GTi's road hugging potential.
While around the back you'll find the requisite GTi badge, subtle black roof spoiler and chromed dual exhaust tips.
In
crisp ‘Pure White' paintwork and the above-mentioned add-ons, the Polo
GTi has a quiet air of sophistication, and while some enthusiasts might
prefer a more in-your-face presence, I reckon the balance is spot-on.
