After a teaser sketch and recent spy shots, the updated 2021 Volkswagen Polo GTI has been revealed. Here’s a look at the changes, updates and when it’s coming to South African showrooms.

The updated Volkswagen Polo range which was revealed earlier in 2021 has gained its performance flagship. This is the 2021 Volkswagen Polo GTI and it features extensive changes inside and out, including a number of firsts for the range.

Of course, being a GTI everyone will want to know what’s under the bonnet. The good news is the rumour of more power has turned out to be true, with the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo petrol engine upgraded to punch out 152 kW and 320 Nm. Interestingly Volkswagen says the additional power doesn’t improve the performance, with the claimed 0-100 kph of 6.5 seconds and top speed of 240 kph remaining the same as before.

The 2021 Volkswagen Polo GTI gets a lowered suspension, electronic differential and VW has introduced the optional Sport Select suspension which features adaptive dampers that work in conjunction with drive select profiles. As far as transmissions are concerned, the GTI features a 7-speed DSG.

Visually, the 2021 Volkswagen Polo GTI features some updates that bring it in line with the rest of the latest Volkswagen products. There are new IQ Light LED headlights at the front, LED rear tail lights, an illuminated front grille, red trim on the bumper and GTI badges on the nose and rear. For the first time, Volkswagen has introduced dynamic turn signals.

Inside, the updated Polo GTI gets a new look dashboard trim and sees the introduction of the new 8-inch infotainment system. International customers can go for the 9.2-inch Discover Pro which has additional content. Making its debut in the Polo GTI is semi-autonomous driving tech which VW calls IQ.Drive. This tech ranges from adaptive cruise control, auto emergency braking, lane keeping assist and so on. It’s too soon to say what the SA-spec cars will feature.

When will the 2021 Volkswagen Polo GTI come to SA?

Good news as not only is the 2021 Volkswagen Polo GTI confirmed for our market, but the VW facility in Kariega (formerly Uitenhage) will continue to manufacture the entire Polo range including the GTI for local and export. As far as local sales go, Volkswagen SA has said the updated Polo GTI will hit showrooms in the first quarter of 2022.

Further Reading

2022 Volkswagen Polo confirmed for SA – all you need to know

Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI SA launch delayed