- Virtus is Volkswagen’s second model based on the MQB-A0-IN platform.
- Ranges between Rs 11.22-17.92 lakh (ex-showroom).
- Comes in four broad trims: Comfortline, Highline, Topline, and GT Plus.
- Two turbocharged engine options are available.
Volkswagen has finally launched its Virtus mid-size sedan in India, replacing the aging Vento. Being VW’s second MQB-A0-IN-based model, it is offered in four broad variants: Comfortline, Highline, Topline, and GT Plus. While the initial three trims fall under the Dynamic Line category, the latter is the sole representative of the Performance Line trim.
Here’s take a look at its variant-wise prices, and how it compares with its sibling, the Skoda Slavia: –
Volkswagen Virtus* | Skoda Slavia | Difference from Slavia |
1.0-litre TSI variants | ||
Comfortline: Rs 11.22 lakh | Active: Rs 10.99 lakh | +Rs 23,000 |
Highline: Rs 12.98 lakh (MT), Rs 14.28 lakh (AT) | Ambition: Rs 12.69 lakh (MT), Rs 13.89 lakh (AT) | + Up to Rs 39,000 |
Topline: Rs 14.42 lakh (MT), Rs 15.72 lakh (AT) | Style (w/o sunroof): Rs 13.99 lakh (MT) Style (w/ sunroof): Rs 14.39 lakh (MT), Rs 15.79 lakh (AT) | MT: +Rs 3,000 expensive, AT: Rs 7,000 more affordable |
1.5-litre TSI variants | ||
GT Plus: Rs 17.92 lakh (DSG) | Style: Rs 16.79 lakh (MT), Rs 18.39 lakh (DSG) | Rs 47,000 more affordable |
*Introductory prices
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Volkswagen Virtus – Design
Sharing its underpinnings with the Skoda Slavia, the VW has done a pretty good job to make the Virtus look different from its Czech sibling. Its fascia seems inspired by the 6th-gen Polo that is sold overseas, sporting a familiar Volkswagen grille, flanked by sharp LED projector headlamps with integrated LED DRLs. The streamlined front bumper comes with a glossy black treatment along with a chrome underlining, sweetening its overall appearance.
In profile, the character lines are neat & uncluttered, and the sedan rolls on 16-inch machine-cut alloy wheels. At the rear, a split LED taillamp setup and plentiful usage of chrome on the bumper round off the design.
Dimensions
The VW Virtus measures 4,561mm in length, 1,752mm in width, and 1,507mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 2,651mm and a boot space capacity of 521 liters. Here’s how it fares against the aging VW Vento: –
Vento | Virtus | |
Length | 4,390mm | 4,561mm |
Width | 1,699mm | 1,752mm |
Height | 1,467mm | 1,507mm |
Wheelbase | 2,553mm | 2,651mm |
Volkswagen Virtus – Interior and Features
Inside, the resemblance to the 6th-gen Polo is even more apparent, since the dashboard is identical to the hot-hatch. However, elements like an 8-inch digital driver’s display, touch-based AC control panel, the ID cars-inspired 3-spoke steering wheel, 10.1-inch infotainment system, and gear lever have been straight lifted from the Taigun SUV.
The other notable features of the sedan include dual-tone seat upholstery, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, connected car tech, an 8-speaker premium sound system, a single-pane electric sunroof, ventilated front seats, wireless smartphone charging, cooled glove box, cruise control, auto climate control, and rear AC vents.
Passenger’s safety is taken care of by up to six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill hold assist, and rear parking sensors with a camera.
Volkswagen Virtus – Engine and Gearbox Options
Powering the Volkswagen Virtus is a choice of two turbocharged petrol engine options: 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder TSI (115PS/178Nm) and 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder TSI (150PS/250Nm). While the former comes paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic, the latter only gets 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission options. The bigger displacement engine also gets cylinder deactivation tech for increased fuel economy.
Volkswagen claims that the Virtu
Color Options
Volkswagen offers the Virtus in six color options: Reflex Silver, Candy White, Wild Cherry Red, Curcuma Yellow, Rising Blue Metallic, and Carbon Steel Gery.
Competitors
In the Indian market, the Virtus goes up against the Honda City, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz, Hyundai Verna, and Skoda Slavia.