Here in the U.S., the name GTI is automatically associated with the top-of-the-line Volkswagen Golf because it's the only one we've ever known. Across the pond, though, there's also a Volkswagen Polo GTI, and for 2010, there's a new one.
Some 24 years after the debut of the original Polo G40, later known as the GTI, the new tiny hot hatch steps onto the stage rocking Volkswagen's 1.4-liter supercharged and turbocharged four-cylinder engine good for 178 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, available at just 2000 RPM. With a curb weight just a tick over 2600 pounds and a seven-speed, dual-clutch gearbox onboard, VW says the Polo GTI will hit 62 mph in just 6.9 seconds and top out at 142 mph, all the while getting 47 mpg on the European combined cycle and emitting just 0.49 pounds of CO2 per mile.
Differentiating the Polo GTI from a standard Polo is a new front fascia with a new honeycomb grille and horizontal red stripes, as well as a GTI badge, new headlights and optional LED running lights. Slightly bulging sills wrap around the sides to a new rear fascia with a small diffuser and dual chrome exhaust tips, finished off with a GTI badge replacing the Polo badge. A set of 17-inch wheels from the Golf GTI backed by red-painted brake calipers completes the look.
Inside, the new Polo GTI gets a flat-bottomed steering wheel with red accent stitching and manual shifting paddles, black trim and headliner, aluminum pedals and new, heavily bolstered sport seats.
The Polo GTI is expected to go on sale in Europe by summer and will likely cost significantly more than a standard Polo, though no exact pricing has been announced yet. There are no U.S. plans as the Polo isn't currently sold here.
Thanks to: Motor Trend