The world premiere of the Volkswagen Virtus took place in India today and the model will arrive in South Africa later in 2022 as the Polo sedan. See details below…

Volkswagen has revealed its updated Polo-based Virtus sedan in India. The Virtus made its first debut in Brazil in 2017 and was initially produced for South American markets. Now, the Indian-built Virtus is due to go on sale in India, effectively replacing the ageing Vento, and will be exported to no less than 25 countries. The Virtus is underpinned by the firm’s MQB A0 platform, the same that underpins the Polo, and it will be built at Volkswagen’s Chakan production facility in Pune, India.

Volkswagen Virtus is Polo Sedan for South Africa

The Virtus will go on sale in India before reaching other global markets, including South Africa.

For us here in South Africa, the Virtus will be badged as the Polo sedan and while the locally-assembled Polo hatchback recently received an update, the Virtus serves as the update for the booted Polo.

As far as design is concerned, the Virtus features familiar Volkswagen design cues with modern-looking LED headlight units with LED daytime running lights and 2 chrome accent strips that run across the width of the bonnet. The large lower bumper section is also neatly framed in chrome and also houses the fog lig units. The rear-end also features a stylised lower bumper and large light housings that give add to the perceived width of the car. With GT trim elements, the Virtus adopts a slightly more sporty approach.

The Virtus will feature Volkswagen’s latest digital technology.

As for the interior, the Virtus’ interior features a dominant horizontal design with a wrap-around effect. In addition to ventilated leather seats and electronic sunroof, the model gains Volkswagen’s 8.0-inch Digital Cockpit as well as a large 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. A wireless smartphone charger will also be offered as well as 4 USB ports for front and rear passengers. An 8-speaker sound system is standard across the range.

Safety features include up to 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control with traction control, brake assist, hill hold control, electronic differential lockand a tyre pressure monitoring system.

As for practicality, the Virtus is said to be the biggest car in its segment standing 4 561 mm long, 1 752 mm wide, 1 507 mm tall and with a generous wheelbase of 2 651 mm. Boot space is claimed at 521 litres and the rear seats are split in a 60:40 configuration for added flexibility.

What engines power the Volkswagen Virtus?

The Virtus will be offered with 2 engine choices including Volkswagen’s 1.0-litre turbopetrol engine with 85 kW and 178 Nm of torque (Dynamic Line) mated with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission as well as the range-topping 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine (Performance Line) with 110 kW and 250 Nm which will be mated with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

A spokesperson for Volkswagen South Africa has confirmed that the Virtus will come to South Africa in 2022 and will be badged as the Volkswagen Polo sedan. The exact specifications for South Africa will be confirmed closer to launch.Stay tuned!

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