A Long-Awaited World Premiere

The Volkswagen "Polo," a major hit in Japan, underwent a significant minor change this summer, refreshed with Volkswagen's latest design language. However, the "GTI," its top-of-the-line, highest-performance version, continued to be sold in its previous iteration. Now, a long-awaited world premiere is set to take place at the Paris Salon, opening on October 4th.



The biggest highlight of the new Polo GTI is undoubtedly its engine. It's the 1.8 TSI, a 1.8-liter four-cylinder gasoline direct-injection turbo. While the previous model featured a 1.4 TSI engine with both a supercharger and a turbocharger, this new model increases displacement and consolidates the forced induction to a single turbo.




Nevertheless, the effect of the increased displacement is remarkable, with maximum output rising by 12 ps to 192 ps compared to the previous model. Maximum torque reaches 320 Nm. As a result, it achieves 0-100 km/h in 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 236 km/h, establishing it as a high-performance hot hatch.



This performance is only marginally less than the 220 ps "Polo R WRC" limited model, which was discontinued without official import to Japan, with a top speed difference of just 7 km/h and a 0-100 km/h acceleration time difference of 0.3 seconds. On the other hand, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are significantly lower than the Polo R WRC, making it an exceptionally environmentally friendly vehicle.



Furthermore, while the previous model was only available with a 7-speed DSG transmission, the new model also offers a 6-speed manual, demonstrating an effort to meet the needs of a wider range of users.

A Car We Eagerly Await in Japan

Turning to the chassis, a notable feature is the adoption of electronically controlled variable dampers, offered as an option for the first time in the Polo GTI, paired with the "Sport Performance Kit." This "Sport Performance Kit" also enhances the sporty character through electric power steering and adjusts throttle response for a sportier feel.



Additionally, a sound actuator alters the engine sound heard in the cabin, and in the 7-speed DSG version, the transmission automatically switches from D mode to S mode.



Moreover, it incorporates safety features standard on the newly released Polo in Japan, such as the millimetre-wave radar, pre-crash brake system, multi-collision brake system, and driver fatigue detection system, ensuring class-leading safety. The new GTI further enhances visibility and safety at night with the series' first LED headlights (high and low beams) and LED daytime running lights.



The new Polo GTI was first released in Germany in October 2014. Its European market launch is scheduled for February 2015, but there has been no announcement regarding its introduction to Japan yet. It is a model that one can only hope arrives on Japanese shores soon.

Volkswagen Polo GTI

Body Dimensions | Length 3,983 × Width 1,682 × Height 1,443 mm

Wheelbase | 2,468 mm

Vehicle Weight | 1,280 kg [1,272 kg]

Engine | 1,798cc Inline 4-cylinder DOHC Intercooled Turbo

Maximum Output | 141 kW (192 ps) / 5,400-6,200 rpm

Maximum Torque | 320 Nm / 1,400-4,200 rpm

Drivetrain | FF

Transmission | 7-speed DSG / 6-speed MT

Suspension (Front/Rear) | MacPherson Strut / Trailing Arm

Tires (Front/Rear) | 185/60R15

Brakes (Front/Rear) | Ventilated Disc / Disc

0-100 km/h Acceleration | 6.7 seconds

Top Speed | 236 km/h

Fuel Consumption (NEDC) | 5.6 ℓ/100km (approx. 17.86 km/ℓ) [6.0 ℓ/100km (approx. 16.67 km/ℓ)]

CO2 Emissions | 129 g/km [139 g/km]

Figures in brackets [] are for the 6-speed MT