2011 Volkswagen Polo GTI

(continued from above)

Never before has such a powerful Polo come even close to its fuel efficiency. Thanks to clever downsizing of the twincharged 1.4-liter TSI engine (turbo plus supercharging) and the extremely efficient 7-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG) as standard equipment, the development team was able to reduce combined fuel consumption to 5.9 l/100 km. That is equivalent to CO2 emissions of just 139 g/km. By comparison: Its direct predecessor in terms of power - also equipped with a 177 hp 1.8-liter turbo engine - consumed 7.9 liters per 100 kilometers (equivalent to 188 g/km CO2). This means that the new car is 25 percent more fuel efficient.

The Polo GTI's Exterior

Since the first Golf GTI of the year 1976, the GTI badge has become one of the most familiar signets in the world of automotive sportiness. One of the typical visual insignias of this badge is the unmistakable front end. Here the new Polo GTI also stands out from the crowd with the two classic red trim stripes on its radiator grille.

From its role model - the larger Golf GTI - it has adopted the honeycomb structure of the air intakes in the uniquely styled front apron. Also GTI-specific are the fender flares and the rear spoiler painted in body color. Other exterior details of the Polo GTI include 17-inch alloy wheels in "Denver" design that offer a view of the red painted brake calipers, as well as a customized rear apron with a diffuser look in its lower section. Integrated on the left side are the chrome dual tailpipes of the exhaust system.

Two other features are available as options for the first time on the new Polo GTI in this model series: the electrically operated panoramic tilt/slide sunroof extending back to the B-pillars, and the completely new layout of the bi-xenon headlights. As mentioned previously, also integrated in the dual headlights were the LED daytime running lights, corner marker lights and cornering lights.

Here too the 177 hp Polo impresses with genuine GTI ambiance. This is already achieved by the standard top sport seats with their classic fabric covers in typical diamond pattern, which stylishly recall the first GTIs of the 1970s. The roof liner, roof pillar trim, grab handles and sun visors are all styled in a sporty black; a glossy black surface treatment also decorates the panels of the center console. They are coordinated with intentionally contrasting color and material accents such as brushed chrome for the air vent surrounds and chrome accents

Volkswagen Polo GTI: Review (2/2)