Volkswagen's most iconic model after legendary Beetle, the Golf became a performance hatchback all the way back in 1976, only two years after the nameplate was introduced. A popular model since day one, the Golf GTI inspired Volkswagen to design a higher performance version of the smaller Polo too. Although the first Polo GTi didn't arrive until 1995, the model can trace its roots back to the first-generation G40 version. Following a limited-edition introduction in the 1990s, the GTI has become a regular member of the Polo family, and 2017 brought the latest-generation hatch into the spotlight.

Launched at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, the latest Polo GTI is based on the latest, sixth-generation subcompact, also unveiled in 2017. Built on a new platform, it uses an updated design language based on the latest Golf and a redesigned interior that moves the new Polo into a higher class, closer to the premium market. More importantly, the new GTI gained a 2.0-liter engine instead of the old, 1.8-liter unit. On the flipside, if you were expecting a new Polo GTI with significantly more power, you'll probably be a bit disappointed. But more about that in the review below.

Continue reading to learn more about the upcoming Volkswagen Polo GTi.

2018 Volkswagen Polo GTI

Specifications
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  • Model: 2018 Volkswagen Polo GTI
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Pros
Cons

Exterior

Just like the standard Polo, the GTI benefits from an evolutionary restyling that's very similar to the larger Golf. The small hatchback is now more athletic and employs modern styling cues, but at the same time, it retains a familiar appearance.

The standard model's more angular fascia was enhanced by means of a larger spoiler lip and intakes with honeycomb grilles on the GTI. The higher performance hatchback also gained foglamps as standard and the usual GTI badge and red stripe on the radiator grille. The optional LED headlamps feature brand-new red stripes that act as extensions of the grille trim. The front end is rounded off by C-shaped elements in the bumper that give the Polo a more aggressive look.

Onto the sides, the GTI didn't change much compared to the standard model. Notable features include matte black sill extensions, and the new 17-inch alloy wheels finished with high-sheen and black details. For the first time ever, the Polo can be equipped with optional 18-inch rollers.

Some changes are in store around back too, starting with the thick black frame of the tailgate. This, together with the two-piece black roof spoiler are inspired by the first-generation Volkswagen Golf GTI of the 1970s. Other features that set it apart from the standard model are the black diffuser-like element, the larger twin-exhaust pipe, and the standard LED taillights. Of course, the tailgate is adorned by a "GTI" badge.

The color palette is limited to Pure White, Flash Red, and Deep Black Pearl Effect, but it also includes the brand-new Limestone Grey Metallic and Reef Blue Metallic.

Interior

As usual, the GTI's interior is heavily based on the standard model, but there's plenty to talk about here since the new Polo is brand-new on the inside. And it's quite impressive too, from the new design features to all the new technology. Sporting a simple, more angular design, the new dashboard looks high tech and seems based on larger, more premium Volkswagens. The new infotainment system, available in 6.5 or eight inches, sits right in the middle and is flanked by A/C vents and controls. The new Polo is also the first of its kind to have an all-digital instrument cluster, as well the company's second-generation Active Info Display.

Tech-wise, Volkswagen introduced a host of new gadgets that moved the Polo up the premium ladder. The hatchback now comes with Front Assist area monitoring system including City Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Monitoring as standard, while Adaptive Cruise Control is optional. ACC also offers a Stop & Go function with the dual-clutch transmission. Available features include Blind Spot Detection lane change system with Rear Traffic Alert and the semi-automated Park Assist system for exiting parking spaces.

The new Polo also sports a longer wheelbase, which translates into more legroom for both front and rear passengers. Trunk volume also grew by 25 percent, from 280 to 351 liters.

Moving over to GTI-specific items, the cabin theme revolves around black, red, and grey colors, complemented by chrome inserts. The typical red contrast stitching adds a splash of color on the steering wheel, gear shift lever, floor mats, and outer seat surfaces.

The standard steering wheel is wrapped in leather, while the sports seats have a "Clark" plaid pattern on the inner surfaces in red dark grey, and light grey stripes, paired with black squares. Those who don't fancy cloth upholstery can order the optional black leather.

The dashboard panel can be had in Deep Iron Glossy or Velvet Red, both contrasting colors to the black instrument cluster. As usual, the hatchback comes with exclusive GTI graphics in red, white, and black, as well as GTI logos on the door sills. Other standard features include white ambient lighting and a height-adjustable driver's seat.

When it comes to options, you can order the largest panoramic sunroof in this class, as well as a 300-watt sound system from Beats.

Drivetrain

The new Volkswagen Polo is available with no fewer than eight engines, including gasoline, diesel, and natural gas, but none is as potent as the GTI. But unlike the previous Polo GTI, which used a 1.8-liter four-cylinder, the new hatchback gets its juice from a slightly bigger, 2.0-liter four-banger.

The unit is rated at 200 PS (197 horsepower), which is a minor, eight PS (eight horses) increase over the previous generation. Not much of an upgrade at first glance, but the new Polo GTI is not only lighter, but also benefits from improved dynamics and a brand-new suspension. Torque is actually identical at 320 Nm (240 pound-feet).

As far as performance goes, the new GTI is just as quick as the previous model. Specifically, hitting 62 mph from a standing start takes 6.7 seconds. Top speed increased from 235 to 237 km/h (146 to 147 mph), but there's a big change you won't feel the difference.

There are changes in the transmission department too. While the outgoing model had a seven-speed DSG, the new GTI uses a six-speed DGS. A six-speed manual is also in the cards in 2018.

The standard suspension system is obviously sportier than the regular Polo, but the optional Sport Select configuration adds active dampers and a sportier setup. With this suspension, the driver can vary the characteristics of the active dampers using the four driving modes: Normal, Sport, Eco and Individual. Each enables the driver to make individual adjustments that have direct effects on vehicle handling. Along with its effects on the Sport Select suspension, the profile that is selected also modifies the steering, engine characteristic, and gearbox control.

All told, while the new GTI should be a sportier hatchback thanks to the new, adjustable suspension system, it's a bit disappointing that performance figures are unchanged.

Safety

Just like the regular Polo, the GTI can be equipped with a wide range of safety and assistance systems. First on the list is Blind Spot Monitor, which alerts the driver to vehicle located in the blind spots alongside the car and to vehicles approaching from the rear. This system also adds Rear Traffic Alert, which makes reversing out of parking spaces easier and safer. Next up is Driver Alert System, a technology that detects waning concentration of the driver and emits an audible warning for five seconds, along with displaying a message on the instrument cluster. The warning recommends a break from driving and is repeated if the car isn't stopped within the next 15 minutes.

The Polo also comes with Automatic Post-Collision Braking, which is a standard feature. This system can help avoid secondary collisions after an initial crash by braking before the driver can react. Adaptive Cruise Control and Front Assist, two already familiar systems in modern cars, are also offered. Another feature is City Emergency Braking, which comes in handy in heavy and slow traffic. It operates at speeds below 30 km/h (19 mph) and applies the breaks in an impending collision with a vehicle ahead that is moving or stationary.

Finally, there's Park Assist, which automatically guides the Polo GTI into parallel or perpendicular parking spaces, and it can also reverse out of parallel parking spaces. The system is activated by pressing a button on the centre console.

Prices

Pricing for the new-generation Polo GTI will definitely increase compared to the outgoing model, which retails from around €22,500 (around $26,850 as of September 2017) in Germany and from £19,500 (about $26,290) in the United Kingdom.

Competition

Ford Fiesta ST

Redesigned for 2018, the Fiesta ST is also an evolutionary redesign, but unlike the Polo, it has more new features to brag about. Up front, the redesigned grille reminds of the larger Focus, while the bumper is decidedly more aggressive to look at. The rear end boasts the biggest change, with the vertical taillights having been replaced by horizontal units. Unlike the Polo GTI, the Fiesta ST is also available in a two-door configuration. The two cars are radically different under the hood too, as Ford ditched the four-cylinder in favor of a three-pot. But don't let that fool you, the turbocharged, 1.5-liter unit cranks out a solid 197 horsepower and 214 pound-feet of torque, which makes the Fiesta ST just a quick as the Polo GTI from 0 to 62 mph. Top speed, on the other hand, is lower at 130 mph. Pricing is likely to start from around £19,000 in the United Kingdom.

Read our full review of the Ford Fiesta ST.

Toyota Yaris GRMN

Launched at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, the Yaris GRMN is Toyota's first high-performance hatchback and its long awaited answer to the Polo GTI and Fiesta ST. Although heavily based on the standard model deisgn-wise, the GRMN stands by means of a more complex aerodynamic package and race-inspired wheels and rear diffuser. It's not overly aggressive, but it a decent, somewhat menacing iteration of a small hatch otherwise known as a reliable A-to-B traveling device. The Japansese city car is a solid proposition performance-wise, using a supercharged, 1.8-liter four-pot rated at 212 horsepower and hitting 62 mph in 6.3 seconds. On the other hand, its cabin is nowhere near as fancy as the Polo's and lacks many of Volkswagen's latest features. For instance. Pricing should be similar, below the £20,000 mark.

Read our full review of the Toyota Yaris GRMN.

Peugeot 208 GTI

Often overlooked in favor of the more popular offerings from the German firms, the Peugeot 208 GTi is actually a traditional hot-hatch in Europe, having its roots in the 205 GTI of the 1980s. Based off the 208 that was introduced in 2012, the French hot-hatch is significantly older than the competition, but it's still appealing design-wise. While not as funky as the new Fiesta ST, the large grille with chrome inserts, the extremely short engine hood, and the sculpted sides give it a sporty character that its competitors can’t replicate. The interior isn’t bad either, with the multi-tier dashboard and the instrument cluster placed further behind the steering wheel making it stand out in any crowd. Drivetrain-wise, the 208 GTi is as potent as any proposition in this niche. Powered by a turbocharged, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, it comes with 197 horsepower and 203 pound-feet on tap. All told, it isn't as powerful as the Yaris GRMN, but it's on par with the Golf GTI and Fiesta ST. Pricing starts from £20,950 in the U.K., making the most expensive vehicle in this list.

Read our full review of the Peugeot 208 GTI.

Conclusion

Overall, the new Polo GTI is a solid hot-hatch, especially if you don't want to pay the premium to get the larger Golf GTI. It's modern and sporty on the outside and surprisingly premium on the inside, where it wins against every other offering in this niche. The bigger engine and the new suspension system are also among the strong points that come with the new hatch, but I'm rather disappointed about the power rating of VW's latest GTI. Sure, 197 horsepower is nothing to sneeze at, but the new GTI is only as powerful as most of its competitors and falls behind the new Toyota Yaris GRMN by a significant margin. More upsetting is the fact that it's almost a half-second slower. To summarize, if you want performance, you're better off with the Yaris GRMN. You should go with the Polo GTI if you're interested premium appointments and state-of-the-art technology.

References

2018 Volkswagen Polo

Read our full review on the 2018 Volkswagen Polo.

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