ON THE ROAD- IAN LYNAS ON A NEW SPECIAL VW POLO GTI

Twenty five years ago the Polo joined its big brother the Golf in the GTI class and now in order to mark this anniversary Volkswagen is launching a special-edition model the Polo GTI Edition 25. The three iconic letters GTI have stirred many a driver’s heart and now this limited edition of the current 207 PS Polo GTI; has the promise of a powerful drive, but this is not the only thing that stands out about this sporty compact car: with features including sports suspension, an electronic differential lock XDS, a comprehensive range of standard equipment and some special design highlights.

Just like the Golf GTI, the Polo has a long history and a number of sporty predecessors and this special anniversary model GTI Edition 25, will be limited to 2,500. Volkswagen has a rich heritage and the Polo is one of the most iconic vehicles and this anniversary model is a way of marking this milestone. Powering this potent Polo a two-litre TSI engine offering 152 kW and the already noted 207PS and a torque of 320 Nm which propels this front-wheel drive model from rest to 100kph (62mph) in 6.5 seconds. In addition, a specially tuned sports suspension as standard; which lowers the body by 15 millimetres and, in combination with the electronic differential lock XDS, ensures the synthesis of excellent driving dynamics, improved traction and precise handling that is typical of GTI models.

Pleased to report that this addition to the Volkswagen family has the classic GTI look, with red brake calipers and trim strips, a honeycomb design on the radiator grille and chrome-plated tailpipes. There is more to the Polo GTI Edition 25; a host of other exclusive equipment features including 18-inch Adelaide alloy wheels in black glossy finish a black roof and black exterior mirrors, all of which help create its sporty look. The interior is equipped as standard with premium sport seats in perforated black-red leather finished off with stitched GTI logos, and glossy black decorative trim with red GTI lettering. Those lucky enough to get their driving hands on one will be reminded that their vehicle is one of a limited number by the “One of 2500” logo on the sill panel trim. In addition to the GTI colours Pure White, Kings Red Metallic, Reef Blue Metallic, Smoke Grey Metallic and Deep Black Pearl Effect, the Polo GTI Edition 25 is also available in Ascot Grey. Features that come as standard include IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights with Dynamic Light Assist and LED daytime running lights which ensure highly homogeneous illumination of the road. There is also the multifunction sports steering wheel in leather with paddles and the “25” logo, as well as a number of assist systems that belong to higher vehicle classes. The optional Travel Assist forms part of the IQ.DRIVE assist package and allows for partly automated driving. The instruments and Infotainment system are arranged on one visual axis, making them easy to see and operate at all times. The Infotainment system Ready2Discover is fitted as standard and boasts a high-resolution, 20-centimetre (8-inch) display, ensuring state-of-the-art connectivity. Two other systems are also optionally available.

VW limited production of the first Polo GTI to 3,000 units and it sold out fast; the next GTI version appeared several years later in 2006 and the 132 kW 180 PS Cup Edition was a real treat as it was visually based on the racing cars used in the Polo Cup. There was the fifth generation from 2010: the 1.4-litre TSI engine with turbo and supercharging proved to be a hit. The successor in 2014 was a force to be reckoned with: the brand new TSI engine which offered 141 kW 192 PS and a top speed of 236kph (147mph). The sixth Polo generation from 2021 set new standards for compact cars, based on the modular transverse matrix (MQB).

Ian Lynas