Volkswagen Polo GT TSI review, test drive

The Polo GT TSI looks identical to its lower-powered siblings and this might be a bad thing. The only external clues are the GT badging on the front grille, GT TSI stickers on the C-pillar and, you guessed it, GT and TSI badging on the boot lid. Strangely, there is no ‘Polo’ or ‘Volkswagen’ badge anywhere on the car. 

On the inside though, there are quite a few changes. The seats now get sportier black and grey fabrics with contrast stitching, the Polo GT TSI gets the climate control system from the Vento as well as a new 2-DIN audio system that incorporates USB, Aux-in and an SD card reader on its faceplate. Sadly, sound quality isn’t all that great. Plastic quality and fit and finish are good, but not exceptional like on the bigger VW’s and space and comfort are exactly the same as you would find on a regular Polo.

In the end, the Polo GT TSI, despite its suggestive name, comes across as a premium automatic hatchback rather than a sporty one. We say this because it sacrifices a bit of body control for comfort and that’s what ultimately keeps it from being properly sporty. Also, VW should offer a manual option to please the really keen drivers.

So, while enthusiasts might be disappointed, there’s enough fun to be had for anyone looking for something more than a regular hatchback. It costs Rs 7.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).