For petrol enthusiasts . Review on Volkswagen Polo

The polo GTI TSI has been launched in India for 9.38 Lakhs (on-road).I recently test drove and its really good. I was not able to find any cosmetic changes on the exteriors and even I was not able to find the polo badge in the rear. The only difference is the badges GTI TSI which they have added. On the interior a noticeable change is the music player and some extra button for ESP or traction control. The new seat fabric also added extra looks and comfort, but I really expect a much better one for a 10 lakhs car.The other noticeable change is the 7 Speed DSG gear box (Direct shift gear box) which we can see on other VW cars.

This is the first car of this type with such technology.The DSG offers lightning fast up shifts and excellent economy too. We can use in automatic mode and manual mode. There is no paddle shift though.

There isn't a doubt that the TSI engine features cutting-edge technology. The turbo-charged petrol motor brings direct-injection hardware for the first time to the Indian hatchback scene. It's rated for 104 BHP (@ 5, 000 rpm) and 175 Nm of torque  In comparison, the older 1.6L petrol churned out a lower 153 Nm of torque at a far higher 3, 800 rpm.

There aren't any of the excessive vibrations that the regular 3-cylinder Polo petrol suffers from. This is a far more refined engine. Slot the gear into D-mode and gently taking your foot off the brake pedal will have you coast out smoothly, with minimum throttle input. There is barely any turbo lag. Low-rpm drive-ability is good due to the engine's amazing  torque. Driving around town is a relaxed affair as the DSG keeps the rpm needle at the lowest possible level in D-mode, always choosing the highest gear for a particular speed. When you shift into S (Sport) mode, the gearbox upshifts / downshifts at a higher rpm range. Use S-mode on the open road where you need the revvs and enhanced engine braking. Of course, the S mode's affinity for higher rpm means mileage will take a hit. I really liked the S-ode since the power it delivers was amazing.

The gear box technology is very good in performance, efficiency and technology when compared to other automatic gearboxes. The company claims around 17 Kmpl and we can expect around 12 to 15 Kmpl depends upon the driving condition. There is no difference in the shocks or the driving nature of the polo. Th music player is good enough and it comes with bluetooth. The car also has automatic hill-assist which is first in this class.

The Polo was always a good looking hatchback, its clean and proportionate lines.but I expect to have day time running LED or  sporty alloy wheels. Even a dead pedal is missing. Since its a sporty edition I was expecting to have paddle shift.

Any ways this car is a good buy and worth because of the technology.

Regards,

Krishnaraj