The Volkswagen Virtus (Polo-based sedan) has made its global debut in Brazil.
Volkswagen has unveiled the Virtus (Polo-based sedan) in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The automaker has confirmed the Virtus for the South American markets and is yet to confirm the same for India. However, given that the new Polo is expected to be launched in India, expect the Virtus also to make it to the Indian shores. The mid-size sedan will replace the Vento (Polo sedan) in many other international markets as well.
Based on the MQB A0 platform, the Volkswagen Virtus looks identical to the Polo until the B-pillar. The front bumper has been distinctively styled and gets LED DRLs housed next to the fog lamps. Other bits like the single-slat front grille and headlamps are similar to the Polo. The car gets a sloping roofline and the stylish wraparound tail-lights and the design on the boot will remind you of the Areteon sedan. The interior, as expected is identical to the Polo. You get a 10.2-inch Active Info Display and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the centre console (as seen in the Polo). The infotainment system gets MirrorLink, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
The Volkswagen Virtus will be available with two engine options for the South American markets. A 1.6-litre, four-cylinder, petrol motor producing 117 HP of power and 162 Nm of torque and a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder, turbocharged petrol motor producing 128 HP of power and 200 Nm of torque. The former is mated to a 5-speed automatic gearbox while the latter gets a 6-speed automatic transmission. Back in India, it remains to be seen what engines will Volkswagen plonk on the Virtus. The sedan will rival the Honda City, Hyundai Verna and Maruti Ciaz.
Volkswagen Virtus
– The Virtus is based on the sixth-generation Polo
– It underpins the MQB A0 platform
– Sales to begin in South America in January 2018
