VW Virtus GT with Red Brake Callipers Spied on Test

To be available only with 1.5-litre engine, the VW Virtus GT trim will feature red-painted brake calipers and black-coloured trim

Unveiled recently, the VW Virtus becomes the much-awaited spiritual successor to the Vento. Essentially, the new model is a mechanical twin of the Taigun and hence, shares aplenty with the C-SUV sibling. Meanwhile, it even becomes the second MQB-A0-IN-based model in VW India’s portfolio. The similarities don’t end here as the the duo even comes with the same engine options and even the same trim nomenclature. Hence, the top-spec Virtus will feature the 1.5 TSI EVO mill and come in exclusive GT livery that will feature red-painted brake calipers among other minor visual tweaks. A fully-camouflaged test mule of the VW Virtus GT was recently spied by our friend, Shekhar Singh near Udaipur.

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VW Virtus GT Styling and Dimensions

Aesthetically, the Virtus stays true to its carmaker’s tradition of offering decidedly Teutonic designs that impress with their clean, fuss-free nature. In spite of Slavia connection, the Vento-replacement enjoys a unique distinct identity with an all-new front-end that carries slimmer headlamps, a sleeker grille and a different bumper. Similarly, even the rear-end looks a lot different with a bigger set of taillamps. The top-of-the-line GT variant will feature black trim and red brake calipers to stand out from the lesser variants. The colour options will include – Candy White, Carbin Steel Grey, Curcuma Yellow, Reflex Silver, Rising Blue Metallic and Wild Cherry Red.

It’s hardly surprising that the Skoda Slavia and the VW Virtus are exactly the same when it comes to the dimensions. What this means is that the latest offering from Volkswagen is among the longest cars in India and definitely the one with the longest wheelbase. Also, at 1752 mm, it’s pretty wide, and can easily compete with spacious models like the Honda City and the Maruti Ciaz in terms of road presence as well as cabin space.

Interior and Features

Inside, the VW Virtus looks a lot like the Taigun as both the vehicles get a pretty similar dashboard featuring a widescreen 10-inch touch-sensitive infotainment unit that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, unlike the Slavia’s two-spoke steering wheel, the Virtus features a three-spoke unit. The GT variant gets contrast red stitching on the dashboard as well as the upholstery. Another update comes in the form of the aluminum sports pedals. The equipment list of the top-spec variant includes wireless smartphone charger, 4G-powered connected car technology, 8-speaker audio system, ventilated front seats, electric sunroof, cooled glove compartment, ambient lighting, automatic headlamps, automatic wipers, TPMS, ESC, Hill-hold control, ABS with EBD and 6 airbags.

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VW Virtus GT Specs

Akin to its mechanical twins, the Virtus will be sold with two turbocharged petrol engine options. The smaller of these will be the 1.0-litre TSI three-cylinder unit that outputs a maximum of 115PS and 175Nm, while the second option will be the 1.5-litre TSI EVO four-potter churning out a maximum of 150PS of power and 250Nm of torque. The former will be available with a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque-converter automatic transmission, and the latter will be sold with a 6-speed manual as well as a 7-speed DSG ‘boc. The 1.0-litre engine will power the DynamicLine variants and the 1.5-litre mill will propel the Performance Line models. Other than locking horns with its Czech sibling, the Virtus will rival the Honda City, Maruti Ciaz and Hyundai Verna.