More power for Polo GTI

VW’s revamped baby hot hatch gets 189 bhp 1.8 turbo engine and manual ’box

Volkswagen has revealed an updated Polo GTI ahead of its public debut at the Paris motor show next month and the start of UK sales early next year. The hottest model in the newly facelifted Polo line up eschews the 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine of its direct predecessor. Instead, it packs a more powerful 1.8-litre turbo four-cylinder unit from the Audi-developed ‘EA888’ engine family.

The adoption of the new engine brings an increase of 11bhp to 189bhp and an extra 56lb ft of torque, at 236lb ft.In a further change, Volkswagen now offers the Polo GTI with a standard six-speed manual gearbox.

The previous model was sold exclusively with a seven speed dual clutch gearbox, which is now optional. In line with other Polo models, the GTI offers the choice of a so-called Sport Select suspension, featuring adaptive damping control.

Volkswagen has yet to reveal the kerb weight of its new go-faster Polo, but official performance figures point to a considerable 0.7sec reduction in the 0-62mph time, at 6.7sec, along with a 5mph increase in top speed to 147mph.

The range-topping Polo GTI is differentiated from lesser Polo models by uniquely styled bumpers, red GTI badges, widened sills underneath the doors and a subtle tailgate spoiler.

Inside, it receives a sports steering wheel, unique instrument graphics and contoured sport seats similar in style to those used in the front of the larger Golf GTI.